MY EXPERIENCES LEARNING ENGLISH Cristopher Davila ELP Level 6 Yachay Tech, Ecuador
My Experiences Learning English Cristopher Davila Yachay Tech University
Author Note ELP Level 6-018 Fall 2016
Contents 1. Portfolio letter 2. Response essay 3. Interpretation essay 4. Argumentative Essay 5. Final research project essay 6. Thank you letter
Cristopher Davila Yachay, Urcuqui
December 8, 2016
Dear Portfolio Reader,
My name is Cristopher Davila and at the moment I am finishing English Level 6 in Yachay Tech. Throughout my student career, I have had to face many challenges that have helped me in my training as a university student. One of them was to improve my english. I have some reasons that made me learn english: One is because I really like the english language, its pronunciation. Additionally, I would like to travel to many places where this language is widely spoken. Also, it is very necessary for my career, which is software development, because the programming is done in English. On the other hand, I like to play the guitar and thanks to it, I started to learn english. When I arrived to Yachay, I had to take an english test to be located in one of the three levels that existed two years ago. This test was a little hard because the students do not have to study for it. After reviewing my exam, I was placed on level two and there I had my first English teacher in Yachay. Her name is Lydia Shatkin. At this moment, she is not in the University, but I am very grateful to her because I had a great improvement in my listening due to she is from Kansas and she speak english natively.
Soon after, the English school decided to create six levels of English, so now I am taking the last level. During this semester, I have learned several things like APA rules, grammar like past perfect, use of would, wish, etc. The most important thing that I learned in this level is how to present a very good formal essay with the correct format. Also, level 6 help me to improve my speaking and listening because we always have to speak at the beginning of class about our mood or our opinion of a specific topic. Additionally, I improve the way that I think in english with a debate that we did during this semester, expressing our thoughts about english as an international language and being able to defend a position. On the other hand, I have had a great growth on how I write an essay. I started to write 5paragraph essays in level 4, and comparing those essays with the essays that I have written in this semester, I could say that I am ready to make scientific researches. Finally, I really enjoyed having classes with all my teachers: Lydia, Jessica, Kevin, Stalyn and Mark. Thanks to all his teachings, now I really like watching videos in english, always trying to see them without subtitles to improve my listening. At this part of my life, I feel very prepared to receive classes in english, and now I will put all my effort to improve my english much more.
Gratefully,
Cristopher Alexis Davila Urresta
Response Essay How Does Our Language Shape the Way We Think? Have you ever thought that our language shapes the way we see the world or the way we live our lives? This question has been discussed for a long time. Research by Lera Boroditsky tells us that people who speak different languages indeed think differently. Lera Boroditsky is an assistant professor of psychology, neuroscience, and symbolic systems at Stanford University, and she discusses some research about this topic. Lera Boroditsky’s claim that language shapes our thoughts is accurate because of the way language controls our perception of the world. According to Lera Boroditsky (2016), most inquiries of whether and how dialect shapes thought begin with the straightforward perception that dialects vary from each other. She frequently starts by asking her students “which intellectual staff would you most prefer not to lose?” According to Lera’s research, a large portion of them pick the feeling of sight; a couple pick hearing, yet almost never do any of them suddenly say that the faculty they'd most prefer not to lose is dialect. Representations of such things as time, number, musical pitch, connection relations, profound quality, and feelings appear to rely upon how we consider space. Lera tries to describe how languages shape the way we think about space, time, etc. Boroditsky says that orientation in space and time is determined by language, which proves that language shapes our thoughts. She says that, “representations of such things as time, number, musical pitch, kinship relations, morality, and emotions have been shown to depend on how we think about space”. Then, some language speakers use spatial orientation like east to west or left to right to represent time. The purpose of Boroditsky’s research is to explain to people how languages are involved in the way that we think about or see the world. So, she is very clear in the ideas that she wants to show. Lera makes a connection between space, time, colors, and language, and tries
to present the way that language shapes our thoughts. This research is organized, and it is easy to follow the ideas that the author expresses. Language is a gift that humans have, so can it shape our thoughts, the way we see the world or simply the way that we live our lives? The answer can be controversial, but the truth is we use language to represent things like space, time, colors and objects. So, if you compared people who speak differently, you can see that their thoughts are different either in the form of pronouncing or how to express their ideas. References Boroditsky, L. (2016, April 2). How does our language shape the way we think. In Edge. Retrieved from https://www.edge.org/conversation/lera_boroditsky-howdoes-our- language-shape- the-way- we-think on September 28, 2016.
Interpretation Essay Itsukushima Shrine One of the most important structures in Miyojima is the Itsukushima Shrine. During the time of Taira-no-Kiyomori, it turned into a position of love for the Heike faction the principle sanctuary building was developed. Indeed, even after the fall of the Heike family, the way of life of the Heian Period was warmly acknowledged by the Genji group and the hallowed place kept on encountering a steady and prosperous time. The principle place of worship was harmed by flame in 1207 and 1223, and in spite of the fact that rebuilding was done, it is trusted that with every reclamation, the size of the hallowed place was changed. In spite of the fact that there was a period when it fell into demolish, when Mori Motonari won the Battle of Itsukushima in 1555, under his control the hallowed place recovered the respect it had before and by and by its greatness was reestablished. Other important structure is the Five-storied Pagoda (Goju-no-to) that was originally constructed in 1407, and it was restored in 1533. The primary god cherished here is the Buddha of Medicine, joined by the Buddhist holy people Fugen and Monju. The pagoda in general was built in Japanese style as prove by the elaborate tops of the railing posts and also in the position of the rafters. Be that as it may, Chinese impact can likewise be seen in such parts as the highest point of the wooden columns supporting the overhang, and in the tails of the rafters. This structure is said to be one of just five cases in Japan. It opposes flat swaying brought about by quakes and storms. The pagoda is 27.6 meters high and its roof is secured with layers of Japanese cypress bark shingles. When real repair work was completed in 1945, the structure was reestablished to its unique style by covering it with red finish. The inside of the pagoda is enriched with favorable themes painted on the roof. Be that as it may, it is not open to the general population.
References Itsukushima Shrine. (n.d.). Retrieved November 08, 2016, from http://visit-miyajimajapan.com/en/culture-and-heritage/spiritual-heritage-temples-shrines/sanctuaireitsukushima.html
Toyokuni Shrine (Senjokaku) / Goju-no-to. (n.d.). Retrieved November 08, 2016, from http://visitmiyajima-japan.com/en/culture-and-heritage/spiritual-heritage-temples-shrines/goju-no-tosenjokaku.html
Final Research Essay Advantages of Desktop Computers Over Laptop Computers In many cases, when we want to buy a computer we cannot decide which computer to buy. Which computer should you buy if you are an employee or if you are a student or if you are a common person? There are some things to consider in a computer such as power, price, upgrade capacity, etc. Laptops long ago overcome desktops in sales, and tablets and cell phones are taking a real piece of the overall technological industry from laptops. The inclination is obviously towards smaller, lighter, and more compact computing. However, there are some great motivations to stay with a major box that sits on or below your work area. Desktop computers have many advantages, such as more power and better upgrade capacity that make them the best option for most users. Why is a desktop PC superior to a laptop? The reasons are numerous. One of them is productivity. A desktop machine with an NVidia GeForce 9800GT video card, Intel Core i7 4GHz processor, two terabytes of Hard Disk, and 24 gigabytes of RAM is not a special design, although very costly. Also, this is not the top specifications a desktop PC can reach. A laptop with similar specifications would cost astronomical amounts of cash. What is more, laptops regularly have rather poor displays, which is a drawback for designers. Obviously, there exist Apple portable PCs with retina displays, but once again, they cost the same, or are much more than an intense desktop PC with an IPS-framework 27 inches’ screen. Thus, the principal preferred standpoint of desktop PCs is the harmony between their computing and processing capacities and their cost. Another advantage of a desktop PC is the upgrade option. Overall, every three years, a once capable equipment gets to be out of date. New operation systems, regularly expanding prerequisites for a wide range of programming, games, realistic graphic programs, and different utilities require higher figuring capacities. A desktop PC is comprised of modules: video card,
processor, RAM, HDD, motherboard, etc. Each of these modules can be effortlessly changed; when you require another video card, you purchase a more up-to-date model and introduce it into your desktop; on the off chance that you have insignificant tech learning, you can even do it all alone. A similar alludes to different modules. Laptops are far behind desktops with regards to the assortment of redesign choices. Once again, redesigning a desktop PC is less expensive. Also, expanding the capacity of your RAM or including new PCI cards and IDE disks requires a bigger motherboard and more number of slots for extension. In a desktop PC, it is simple as the size of the motherboard does not matter much. In a laptop, the motherboard is fitted into settled structure or chassis. Hence it restricts the size of the motherboard as the laptops should be smaller and thinner which prompts to the constraining of space to fit in new memory drives in them. On the other hand, memory and hard drive are the only component that can be changed in a laptop. The rest of the components are either built-in or not removable or the laptop is not designed to work with an updated version of a component. A need to update something besides the hard drive and memory more often requires another laptop. Comfort is another favorable position that desktop PCs have. Any desktop PC is a completely adaptable machine: loudspeakers, keyboards, pads, screens, and other equipment can be obtained in light of the individual inclinations of the client. In the meantime, when a client purchases a laptop, they need to accept everything "as is", dealing with the imperfections of the acquired device. Bret (2016) states the following: The laptop's miniature size can make its use less comfortable and physically taxing. The keyboard and trackpad orientation of netbooks can vary significantly; the result of this being the built-in keyboards of the netbook tend to be anywhere between 92% and 95% of the typically laptop keyboard. As manufacturers approach their netbook keyboard and
trackpad designs with more variance than with normal laptops and standard keyboards, it is particularly important to type on the netbooks for ergonomic reasons. The desktop computer's design has evolved to ease the comfort of users. Its display is at eye level, and the keyboard allows for proper positioning of your back, arms, and wrists. These are important concerns, especially when you use your computer for long periods of time.
Cost is another point for desktop PCs. A laptop has a keyboard, screen, processor, all the memory and hard disks and everything installed into a compact unit. This requires utilization of unique and top technology which in the long run reflects in its cost. On the off-chance that you as of now have a screen or keyboard, you may purchase a desktop PC with different peripherals and save a great deal of money. This is impossible in the event that you purchase a laptop. You need to buy the entire set. Hence you can purchase a desktop PC for a generally lesser cost than a laptop. On the other hand, desktop computers cost less than an identical laptop. Although in general costs have declined, the difference in price still exists to a great extent due to the higher cost of laptop displays and the additional cost of microtechnology. Although laptops are convenient, they are more inclined to accidents and mishandling than desktops. (Bret, 2016) Most computer lovers love to play videogames and work with great graphic quality which is more realistic and to have the best software on their systems. To have better impacts, you have to append something called a graphic card on to your PC's motherboard. The greater quantity of graphic cards, the better is the quality of visual effects. Laptops cannot support more than maybe a couple graphic cards; some may not have a provision for including them. In such cases playing a videogame on a laptop will just remain a departed dream. On the other hand, a desktop PC can be modified according your needs and include any number of graphic cards to appreciate the videogames and design with the best quality option. The Intel website states that if you appreciate
the remote portability of a laptop to remain connected and rapidly explore your most favorite’s sizes, the Intel-inspired Ultrabook (Laptop) may be the new type of laptop that fits your life onthe-go. What is more, for people who appreciate a near theater-quality experience while watching their most loved HD movies, the all-in-one desktop computer is a decent alternative. According to a study by Powers and Potenza (1996), 94% of the subjects reported regular or routine use of desktop computers. Therefore, regardless of the needs of people, desktop computers will be a better option because they have greater advantages than laptops in terms of processing power and ease of upgrading. Portability these days is a sort of a sacred thing for all the world. Having the capacity to go anyplace and stay in contact with all the world no matter where population are. Cell phones, tablets, and particularly laptops can be viewed as impeccable cases of versatile innovations. A customary laptop is an innovative device, permitting its proprietor to work and have some good times anyplace. Modern portable PCs are effective and valuable machines. Desktop computers are extensive in size and have a separate screen. While it is possible to take a desktop from bedroom to living room, it is uncomfortable and not the best option for transportability. They are designed to be used in a unique place and not moved around much, if by any means. Laptops are exceptionally convenient because of their reduced size. They were designed to be taken from place to place, either in a backpack or a suitcase or simple in a laptop carrying case. They are awesome for onthe-go use. Nonetheless, considering this, a stationary desktop PC is still superior to even the best of laptops, despite the fact that it is tremendous, it takes a great deal of space, has a loads of cords and wires associated with it, and you cannot put it in your bag. Being able to check email, chat online, write papers and play computer games at whatever time, anyplace might be worth surrendering force and usefulness. This is especially valid in the event that you use your PC essentially to check
email and finish schoolwork. If so, you probably do not need to bother with the enhanced capacities and the expanded force of a desktop PC. Then again, in the event that you are a film student or an appetent gamer, you might need to run with a desktop PC, unless you have the nonessential money to buy a top of the line laptops. (England.edu, n.d) Desktop and laptop computers have advantages and disadvantages. Some of the advantages of desktop computers are more power and more features, they are less expensive to upgrade than laptops, and they have larger monitors. Laptops, however, are not left behind. They have some advantages compared with desktop computers such as more portability, which means that you can use them anywhere. Productivity, upgrade capacity, comfort, cost, and graphic quality are some of features that makes desktop computers the best option. At last, the ultimate choice relies on upon what your necessities are. While all of features mentioned before may make it look as though Desktop PCs are the best general choice, if portability is the major need of yours, the laptop is almost the best choice. There are a few limitations to consider, but they are not excessively significant for general users. However, if you want to save your money and portability is not in your needs, a desktop is likely the best decision, particularly if cost is important. Desktop computers are ideal options for graphic intensive gaming, utilization of architectural design applications, and for the people who want to have the alternative of upgrading more easily. Be that as it may, they are also really fine for the basic computer users who simply need email and Internet.
References Laptop vs Desktop Computers. (n.d.). Retrieved October 22, 2016, from http://www.england.edu/book-store/laptop-vs-desktop-computer/
Bret, V. (2016, February 15). Should I buy a laptop or desktop? Retrieved October 22, 2016, from Tech Store, https://kb.wisc.edu/showroom/page.php?id=3044
Laptop vs. Desktop: A Lifestyle Choice. Retrieved October 22, 2016, from Intel, http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/tech-tips-and-tricks/laptop-vs-desktop-which-isright-for-you.html
Powers, D. & Potenza, M. (1996, June). Comparability of Testing Using Laptop and Desktop Computers, p. 3. Retrieved November 15, 2016.
Argumentative Essay What level of government censorship is acceptable, or if governments should not be allowed to censor under any conditions? Censorship is practiced in many countries, but in different ways. Some countries censor “hate speech�, but it has different meanings depending on the country. Censorship is used for political reasons, religious reasons or public decency. In this essay, I am going to state some reasons to say that governments have to reduce some conditions of censorship and why I agree with censorship. One thing that governments consider censoring is hate speech. So, what is hate speech? The answer is different depending on the country. Some countries consider hate speech when you use bad words, and other countries consider hate speech when you insult or denigrate some people. It is important that governments censor this kind of things, because some people use hate speech to make groups feel bad like gays, lesbians, etc., and it is not good. In this case, I agree with censoring hate speech. On the other hand, governments try to protect the integrity of the person, but there are some cases that I think governments should not censor. It is the case of the news. When we are watching news and they are presenting people that have committed a crime, a government may decide to hide the identity of those people to protect their integrity. It is not a good idea, because if those people are free, how can we identify them? We could be next to them and we would not know. So, for this reason government should quit censorship in this case. Now, another thing is that the Internet has a lot of information, and in some cases it is bad information such as pornography. Governments should give more importance to that because there is not good control for pornography. It means that any people can enter adult websites including
children. It is known that pornography changes the way that children think, and this affects in their studies. Governments can improve this by putting some control security on that websites. It is known that censorship is controlled by governments and for that they do not want people who talk “bad� about the government. It is not good to censor some writings that indicate the disagreement of the people with the government. That is the case of Ecuador, and I think people have rights, and one of them is free expression. So, if someone wants to share what they think, the government should not censor it. Censorship has good and bad uses that I explained before. It is useful to protect the integrity of the people and to control information, and in some cases governments should remove the censorship, for example in the identity of criminals and the free expression of people. So, I agree with censorship but governments should reduce some conditions of censorship to have a better lifestyle.
Thank you for taking the time to read my experiences learning english. I hope you enjoyed reading it, and I hope this can motivate you to learn more about this wonderful language.
Sincerely,
Cristopher Davila