By Jack Turner
The US government has always been concerned about the citizens of United States. They certainly want to know that what their requirements are. Hence they keep on coming up with a list of new set of grants always. Either you are a nurse or a person who cannot hear properly, you will get the money free of cost through this kind of grants. They are free of cost and you need not pay them back to any person. The government is providing you the grant so that you can make your life happier.
However you will have to take the help of some authorized agency which will certainly guide you through the whole process of getting the grant. There are many kinds of grants which you can get. Some of them are as follows:
1. For hearing aids
Those kids or people who cannot hear properly can apply for the hearing aid grant. The maximum amount of money which you can get through this grant is $3000 which should definitely be more than sufficient.
2. For dental care
Suppose you have some dental problem. Then it is quite sure that you must have to look after your teeth. If however, you do not have the money upfront then you can get the grants for the dental care. The maximum amount which you can get through this scheme is $10000.
3. For nurses
The nurses too can be the reason to get the grant. The maximum amount of money which you can get to hire nurses is around $25000. This is certainly quite a handsome amount.
4. Doctors/hospital bills
The doctors are certainly very expensive. If you have any disease and you are finding any problem to pay their bill then you can get this kind of grants for very less amount of money. The maximum amount of money which you can get for this reason is around $50000. This will certainly be a very handful help for you.
5. For first time home buyers
If you are a first time home buyer then you can certainly get a grant from the government. The amount is also quite handsome. You will just have to apply for it and you will get around $120000 for yourself. This is certainly quite a handsome amount and you will not have to pay it back.
These are some type of grants which you will have not had to pay back to anybody. This is the main advantage which the grants have over the various loan policies.
Thousands of ordinary people receive Free US Government Grants & Money every day. Don't miss out on your share of this Free Money!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Turner
flash logo
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Free Grants Are a Big Boon to Moms Coast to Coast
By Ned Katuran
Among the first bills introduced by Barack Obama to get moms back to school was the Pell federal grant. It ensures more financial help for moms to pick up on education they missed out on and prepare for a brighter future ahead.
For single moms wanting to earn and support kids better, the grant has come as a big boon. There is talk of enhancing benefits further primarily meant for lower income groups to take advantage of higher education free of cost and get better jobs with higher pay.
First, you have to identify which college or university you want to go to. Your nearest place for a higher education could be a community college close by or a university located near you.
Once you have decided on the curriculum you want to study and the degree you aim for, you can look for financial help in the form of government grants. Compared to educational loans and high interest rates, grants from the US administration are free and you can easily avail of them.
Fill out FAFSA form
After selecting the college, fill out the FAFSA form with the necessary information. If you don't want to go to a land based college and prefer to study online to after the kids if you are a single mom, opt for Obama's Moms Return to School program. It is a government grant scholarship that encourages moms to get back to their studies and prepare for a financially secure future in the days ahead. Online degrees are the primary choices of moms coast to coast as they can study and look after their kids as well.
As there are several grants available, you need to do some research on the internet to select the one that is best suited for you. You could be a single or a full time mother, but you should choose the grant that suits you best and also makes you eligible to avail them. You are also entitled to tax benefits for your first $4000 expense under the American Opportunity Tax Credit Program.
How to get a grant can be found here. Grants4moms. Get one now. - CLICK HERE to get help.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ned_Katuran
Among the first bills introduced by Barack Obama to get moms back to school was the Pell federal grant. It ensures more financial help for moms to pick up on education they missed out on and prepare for a brighter future ahead.
For single moms wanting to earn and support kids better, the grant has come as a big boon. There is talk of enhancing benefits further primarily meant for lower income groups to take advantage of higher education free of cost and get better jobs with higher pay.
First, you have to identify which college or university you want to go to. Your nearest place for a higher education could be a community college close by or a university located near you.
Once you have decided on the curriculum you want to study and the degree you aim for, you can look for financial help in the form of government grants. Compared to educational loans and high interest rates, grants from the US administration are free and you can easily avail of them.
Fill out FAFSA form
After selecting the college, fill out the FAFSA form with the necessary information. If you don't want to go to a land based college and prefer to study online to after the kids if you are a single mom, opt for Obama's Moms Return to School program. It is a government grant scholarship that encourages moms to get back to their studies and prepare for a financially secure future in the days ahead. Online degrees are the primary choices of moms coast to coast as they can study and look after their kids as well.
As there are several grants available, you need to do some research on the internet to select the one that is best suited for you. You could be a single or a full time mother, but you should choose the grant that suits you best and also makes you eligible to avail them. You are also entitled to tax benefits for your first $4000 expense under the American Opportunity Tax Credit Program.
How to get a grant can be found here. Grants4moms. Get one now. - CLICK HERE to get help.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ned_Katuran
Financial Aid - Is the Pell Grant in Trouble?
By Marcel A Johnson
Since the economic recession struck the US, the universities have increased the number of students enrolled into the university. However, with an enormous number of students going to universities the US has never faced such a downfall in the Pell Grant scheme, which is estimated to be eighteen billion dollars.
It is almost a rule that when ever the unemployment is a peak, even those people who hadn't planned to go to college join an institution. Although the grant has been increased by 13 percent there are still a lot of people who have not received this grant. This is because as the number of students who enroll into a college increase, the number of students who are eligible for Pell grant increase too. Nevertheless, each school has a fixed amount of dollars which they can offer in form of Pell grant and the reason why some of the qualified students do not get the grant is because the institution is simply out of the money.
In order to be eligible for Pell grant, the annual household income of the family should be less than $40,000. In these tough times, there are many people who have been reduced to earning less than this amount not to mention the people who already had a limited source of income. This is the reason why the US is short of eighteen billion dollars because hundreds of thousands of families make less than $40,000. And as a result the number of children which emerge from such households who are eligible for Pell grant increase too.
Now, it is up to the government to come up with a solution to this problem and a way which would not deprive the qualified students from receiving the Pell grant just because the funds are not sufficient. It has been stated by the government that the amount of Pell grant offered to students has been planned to increase to $5500 in the upcoming year. Our best shot is to hope that this plan takes place, and once it does it would open many doors for many high school graduates. Thankfully there are other grant options available for you just in case a solution can not be found immediately.
If you're stuck and need some help finding good information for alternative aid online try using Financial-Aid-Directory.com for finding the latest information on financial aid to help you when you need it most.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcel_A_Johnson
Since the economic recession struck the US, the universities have increased the number of students enrolled into the university. However, with an enormous number of students going to universities the US has never faced such a downfall in the Pell Grant scheme, which is estimated to be eighteen billion dollars.
It is almost a rule that when ever the unemployment is a peak, even those people who hadn't planned to go to college join an institution. Although the grant has been increased by 13 percent there are still a lot of people who have not received this grant. This is because as the number of students who enroll into a college increase, the number of students who are eligible for Pell grant increase too. Nevertheless, each school has a fixed amount of dollars which they can offer in form of Pell grant and the reason why some of the qualified students do not get the grant is because the institution is simply out of the money.
In order to be eligible for Pell grant, the annual household income of the family should be less than $40,000. In these tough times, there are many people who have been reduced to earning less than this amount not to mention the people who already had a limited source of income. This is the reason why the US is short of eighteen billion dollars because hundreds of thousands of families make less than $40,000. And as a result the number of children which emerge from such households who are eligible for Pell grant increase too.
Now, it is up to the government to come up with a solution to this problem and a way which would not deprive the qualified students from receiving the Pell grant just because the funds are not sufficient. It has been stated by the government that the amount of Pell grant offered to students has been planned to increase to $5500 in the upcoming year. Our best shot is to hope that this plan takes place, and once it does it would open many doors for many high school graduates. Thankfully there are other grant options available for you just in case a solution can not be found immediately.
If you're stuck and need some help finding good information for alternative aid online try using Financial-Aid-Directory.com for finding the latest information on financial aid to help you when you need it most.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcel_A_Johnson
Federal Grants Aimed at Debt Relief For Citizens
By Michel A.
There are so many facilities provided by the government to its citizens. The federal grant is a financial help that is provided by the government. The grants given by the government is contributed by so many resources. This resource includes social organization, private institutes, and rich businessmen. They use to contribute to grants to avoid the tax returns. The main aim of these federal grants is to provide the help to any of their citizens who really need of it. There are many persons who do not have the jobs, or they have left their jobs, due to any reason. The provision of the grants is also available for those persons also. The registration for the grants is not so easy; you should have the proper reason to get this grant. There are some moms also present who do not have the good economic condition. They cannot be able to take care of their children. For these kinds of moms, there is the provision available to help them out. The moms can get the grants to continue their studies and are eligible for this grant until they could not find any job.
Every citizen who is really in need of these grants can get this easily from the government. Unfortunately, if there occurs any disaster then the government provides the grants for the affected citizens. These grants help the citizens have a belief in their government. The online service to register for this grant is available for the citizens. This makes easy for a citizen to derive benefits from it. There are physically challenged people such as lame, blind, etc., also there, who cannot work to earn. For this the government is providing the grant which helps them continue their life with more ease. The provision of these grants is especially for those citizens who are really in need of it. There are the grant facilities available for the farmers and agriculturist. This helps them to combat with a natural disaster such as floods and droughts. The grant facility is provided for the moms who are in bad economic conditions.It helps them start their studies for getting a job.
I have done a bit of research for you. These Government Grant Experts can help you get the grants you deserve by helping you get out of debt fast. You can find out if you qualify for a Government Grant for free!
Click here to fill out a short form to save your finances and get out of debt as early as this week!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michel_A.
There are so many facilities provided by the government to its citizens. The federal grant is a financial help that is provided by the government. The grants given by the government is contributed by so many resources. This resource includes social organization, private institutes, and rich businessmen. They use to contribute to grants to avoid the tax returns. The main aim of these federal grants is to provide the help to any of their citizens who really need of it. There are many persons who do not have the jobs, or they have left their jobs, due to any reason. The provision of the grants is also available for those persons also. The registration for the grants is not so easy; you should have the proper reason to get this grant. There are some moms also present who do not have the good economic condition. They cannot be able to take care of their children. For these kinds of moms, there is the provision available to help them out. The moms can get the grants to continue their studies and are eligible for this grant until they could not find any job.
Every citizen who is really in need of these grants can get this easily from the government. Unfortunately, if there occurs any disaster then the government provides the grants for the affected citizens. These grants help the citizens have a belief in their government. The online service to register for this grant is available for the citizens. This makes easy for a citizen to derive benefits from it. There are physically challenged people such as lame, blind, etc., also there, who cannot work to earn. For this the government is providing the grant which helps them continue their life with more ease. The provision of these grants is especially for those citizens who are really in need of it. There are the grant facilities available for the farmers and agriculturist. This helps them to combat with a natural disaster such as floods and droughts. The grant facility is provided for the moms who are in bad economic conditions.It helps them start their studies for getting a job.
I have done a bit of research for you. These Government Grant Experts can help you get the grants you deserve by helping you get out of debt fast. You can find out if you qualify for a Government Grant for free!
Click here to fill out a short form to save your finances and get out of debt as early as this week!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michel_A.
Grants From the Government - Are You Applying For Government Grants the Right Way Or the Wrong Way?
By Coleta Stewart
When you are hoping to win grants from the government, there is definitely a right way (and a wrong way) to go about it. While it is accurate to say that grants are essentially "free money", you should not take that term as proof that you can easily just hold out your hand and have it instantly filled with thousands of dollars from government grants. While the process of finding and applying for grants isn't difficult, it does take a little effort! Here are a few of the best ways to go about the process, along with things to avoid doing.
Here's How Most People Apply For A Government Grant The Wrong Way
1. They apply for grants that they are not eligible for.
One thing to definitely avoid is wasting your time with grants that don't apply to you. If you simply browse a listing of thousands of grants, you will waste a lot of time looking through many of which you won't even qualify for!
2. Not checking for and meeting the deadline.
Also, be sure to check for deadlines and don't miss them. While you are at it, make sure that you apply for government cash grants as quickly as possible- many of them are "first come, first serve" and when they're gone...they're gone!
3. Becoming a victim of scammers.
Finally, be wary of scams that pretend to be grants but are actually just looking to "phish" your personal information. If you are trying to win grants from the government and you encounter shady stuff like claims that they can't send you a check and need your bank account information, that's a big red flag.
How To Find And Apply For A Government Grant The Right Way
1. Use trusted resources to narrow your search and avoid wasting valuable time.
One of the first things that you will find is that there are thousands upon thousands of government grants out there, from both the federal government as well as individual states. So, you should find a way to get to the grants that apply to you quickly and easily. You can use websites to do this (such as Dollar Grants or Federal Grant Source) or find a book or other website with a listing, though that may require a lot of time to find what applies to you.
2. Pay attention to the details and selection criteria.
Also, you need to pay careful attention to the criteria for the grant, as well as the application process. It may sound silly, but you would be surprised at how many people apply for grants that they do not actually qualify for or make mistakes by not following the instructions for the grant!
3. Don't go it alone. Get help when needed.
Finally, get some help to make sure that your application is top-notch. Just because it's "free money" doesn't mean you shouldn't work to make sure that you get it! If you have to apply or write a letter, get tips from a grant website or from a friend in order to ensure that you put your best foot forward.
It is not nearly as difficult to get grants from the government as you may have thought, though! The key is to put just a little effort in, follow the tips here, and you will be able to receive some of that money that goes out each year! Now, which way do you want to apply for government grants?
Want to know the right way to find, apply and get approved for grants from the government? Visit my site at http://www.grantsfromthegovernmenthelp.com and discover the best way to get your hands on some free money.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Coleta_Stewart
When you are hoping to win grants from the government, there is definitely a right way (and a wrong way) to go about it. While it is accurate to say that grants are essentially "free money", you should not take that term as proof that you can easily just hold out your hand and have it instantly filled with thousands of dollars from government grants. While the process of finding and applying for grants isn't difficult, it does take a little effort! Here are a few of the best ways to go about the process, along with things to avoid doing.
Here's How Most People Apply For A Government Grant The Wrong Way
1. They apply for grants that they are not eligible for.
One thing to definitely avoid is wasting your time with grants that don't apply to you. If you simply browse a listing of thousands of grants, you will waste a lot of time looking through many of which you won't even qualify for!
2. Not checking for and meeting the deadline.
Also, be sure to check for deadlines and don't miss them. While you are at it, make sure that you apply for government cash grants as quickly as possible- many of them are "first come, first serve" and when they're gone...they're gone!
3. Becoming a victim of scammers.
Finally, be wary of scams that pretend to be grants but are actually just looking to "phish" your personal information. If you are trying to win grants from the government and you encounter shady stuff like claims that they can't send you a check and need your bank account information, that's a big red flag.
How To Find And Apply For A Government Grant The Right Way
1. Use trusted resources to narrow your search and avoid wasting valuable time.
One of the first things that you will find is that there are thousands upon thousands of government grants out there, from both the federal government as well as individual states. So, you should find a way to get to the grants that apply to you quickly and easily. You can use websites to do this (such as Dollar Grants or Federal Grant Source) or find a book or other website with a listing, though that may require a lot of time to find what applies to you.
2. Pay attention to the details and selection criteria.
Also, you need to pay careful attention to the criteria for the grant, as well as the application process. It may sound silly, but you would be surprised at how many people apply for grants that they do not actually qualify for or make mistakes by not following the instructions for the grant!
3. Don't go it alone. Get help when needed.
Finally, get some help to make sure that your application is top-notch. Just because it's "free money" doesn't mean you shouldn't work to make sure that you get it! If you have to apply or write a letter, get tips from a grant website or from a friend in order to ensure that you put your best foot forward.
It is not nearly as difficult to get grants from the government as you may have thought, though! The key is to put just a little effort in, follow the tips here, and you will be able to receive some of that money that goes out each year! Now, which way do you want to apply for government grants?
Want to know the right way to find, apply and get approved for grants from the government? Visit my site at http://www.grantsfromthegovernmenthelp.com and discover the best way to get your hands on some free money.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Coleta_Stewart
Pell Grant - Government's Go Back to School Program Grants
By Eun Kim
Having a good educational background can give you a million opportunities. One of the best educational programs nowadays is the Pell grant program. It is a post-secondary federal grant program that has been sponsored by the education department of the United States. This program has been named after one of their senators, Senator Claiborne Pell. This grant is also best known by most people as the Basic Educational Opportunity Grant Program. This kind of program helps people who do not have enough money to sustain their education. And just like any other free scholarship grants, the Pell Grant also have some requirements and qualifications in order for you to avail or continue availing the said program. These requirements were made to ensure that only those deserving persons are given the grant, and also for the foundation to be able to sustain and fund more people in the future.
Basically, the most basic requirement for the Pell grant is that you must truly financially unstable. This kind of program is only given to a person that does not have a budget for him or her to have access to good education or a college degree. Another thing to consider is your citizenship. Since this grant is given and funded by the federal government of the United States, one of their requirements is for you to be an American Citizen. You can be either be a permanent resident or other eligible classification of non-citizen. For security and other valid purposes, you are also required to have a valid social security number for you to be able to apply in this kind of program.
One of the most important requirements in being a scholar or having a free educational program is to have a satisfactory academic progress. Since most grants do not require students to pay back what the government has given, it is of course your responsibility to show to the government that indeed you are qualified and right for the grant. In order for you to show your appreciation for the free education that you are enjoying, it is your job to have good grades at all time. Getting good grades also enables you to continue enjoying the free education that has been given to you previously. You must also be registered to selective services that are applicable to male that are between 18 years old to 25 years old. You also need to be certified by signing a FAFSA that you will use the money they gave you strictly for educational purposes and you must also sign another FAFSA that means you are not in default of any federal student loan and that you are not in debt of any aid that is granted into you. It is very easy to follow all the rules and regulations that have been set by the committee, and in return you will be able to continue and pursue your dreams.
If you want to know more about this Pell grant, you can easily search the internet for more information. If you follow their rules and have their requirements there would be no problem. You can also search the net for their contacts and where you can apply for their free educational program.
==>>Here is the best resource for Scholarships For Single Moms just click here to get your education started. Go to: http://www.govt-grants.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eun_Kim
Having a good educational background can give you a million opportunities. One of the best educational programs nowadays is the Pell grant program. It is a post-secondary federal grant program that has been sponsored by the education department of the United States. This program has been named after one of their senators, Senator Claiborne Pell. This grant is also best known by most people as the Basic Educational Opportunity Grant Program. This kind of program helps people who do not have enough money to sustain their education. And just like any other free scholarship grants, the Pell Grant also have some requirements and qualifications in order for you to avail or continue availing the said program. These requirements were made to ensure that only those deserving persons are given the grant, and also for the foundation to be able to sustain and fund more people in the future.
Basically, the most basic requirement for the Pell grant is that you must truly financially unstable. This kind of program is only given to a person that does not have a budget for him or her to have access to good education or a college degree. Another thing to consider is your citizenship. Since this grant is given and funded by the federal government of the United States, one of their requirements is for you to be an American Citizen. You can be either be a permanent resident or other eligible classification of non-citizen. For security and other valid purposes, you are also required to have a valid social security number for you to be able to apply in this kind of program.
One of the most important requirements in being a scholar or having a free educational program is to have a satisfactory academic progress. Since most grants do not require students to pay back what the government has given, it is of course your responsibility to show to the government that indeed you are qualified and right for the grant. In order for you to show your appreciation for the free education that you are enjoying, it is your job to have good grades at all time. Getting good grades also enables you to continue enjoying the free education that has been given to you previously. You must also be registered to selective services that are applicable to male that are between 18 years old to 25 years old. You also need to be certified by signing a FAFSA that you will use the money they gave you strictly for educational purposes and you must also sign another FAFSA that means you are not in default of any federal student loan and that you are not in debt of any aid that is granted into you. It is very easy to follow all the rules and regulations that have been set by the committee, and in return you will be able to continue and pursue your dreams.
If you want to know more about this Pell grant, you can easily search the internet for more information. If you follow their rules and have their requirements there would be no problem. You can also search the net for their contacts and where you can apply for their free educational program.
==>>Here is the best resource for Scholarships For Single Moms just click here to get your education started. Go to: http://www.govt-grants.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eun_Kim
How a State Grant Saved My Life
By Erin Grant
Picture this: you are young, fresh out of high school, the world is your oyster - er, make that your sea scallop. (Oysters are remarkably expensive.) Your parents sit you down and explain to you that, honey, there just isn't enough money to get your sister the braces she needs, as well as pay for your college education. You don't have enough time to earn the money to pay for tuition. What do you do?
If you didn't guess, that person was me, and it seems as though history is repeating itself. Due to the steady decline of the economy, I can no longer afford to pay for my son's college education, and I had lost days of sleep, dreading the conversation I was about to have with him. I'm not sure how my son reacted the way he did - perhaps a product of perfect parenting, I don't know - but he told me to relax; he had it all figured out.
Months ago, and apparently with keen foresight, my son had applied online for a government grant. He applied for a state grant, knowing his chances would be high of receiving money from the government to pay for his education. Boy, did he manage to calm me down. His application had gone through and the state government was about to give him a heap of money for his education.
So, how did a state grant save my life? Well, when my parents had the same conversation with me years ago, I decided not to go back to school. I got a manual labour job that paid well, but had me working 6 days a week doing hard labour. I tried to save up to go back to school, but the call of the money was too strong and I never ended up going back to school.
When we had kids, my worst fear was that they wouldn't receive adequate education and would wind up in the same situation as I had been in, at an extremely young age. I couldn't, for the life of me, imagine my 17-year-old waking up at 5 a.m. only to assemble parts in some sort of assembly line.
I was constantly stressed about one of our kids having this same Fate, and I constantly expressed these worries to both my spouse and my children. When they were young into their teenage years, I took on a second job. My fears had gotten the best of me and I decided that no money was enough money, and picked up an overnight shift 3 times a week.
I nearly died. A middle-aged person is not supposed to be working that often, no matter what the cause. I, however, did not realize this and kept pushing myself. Everyone was worried for me. I was tired all the time, irritable, and still stressed.
My son telling me to relax was the first and only thing that helped me to realize how over-exerted I was. I felt I could rest a bit easier now that I not only knew that my son definitely wanted to attend college, but that it was definitely paid for.
Since my, ahem, "recovery" I've looked into some statistics about tuition and government grants. It seems that I am not the only parent who is more than concerned about their children's' education opportunities, and who are concerned about how they can provide their kids with as many opportunities as possible. I bet that applying for a state grant could save more lives than just my own.
Erin @ State Grants
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erin_Grant
Picture this: you are young, fresh out of high school, the world is your oyster - er, make that your sea scallop. (Oysters are remarkably expensive.) Your parents sit you down and explain to you that, honey, there just isn't enough money to get your sister the braces she needs, as well as pay for your college education. You don't have enough time to earn the money to pay for tuition. What do you do?
If you didn't guess, that person was me, and it seems as though history is repeating itself. Due to the steady decline of the economy, I can no longer afford to pay for my son's college education, and I had lost days of sleep, dreading the conversation I was about to have with him. I'm not sure how my son reacted the way he did - perhaps a product of perfect parenting, I don't know - but he told me to relax; he had it all figured out.
Months ago, and apparently with keen foresight, my son had applied online for a government grant. He applied for a state grant, knowing his chances would be high of receiving money from the government to pay for his education. Boy, did he manage to calm me down. His application had gone through and the state government was about to give him a heap of money for his education.
So, how did a state grant save my life? Well, when my parents had the same conversation with me years ago, I decided not to go back to school. I got a manual labour job that paid well, but had me working 6 days a week doing hard labour. I tried to save up to go back to school, but the call of the money was too strong and I never ended up going back to school.
When we had kids, my worst fear was that they wouldn't receive adequate education and would wind up in the same situation as I had been in, at an extremely young age. I couldn't, for the life of me, imagine my 17-year-old waking up at 5 a.m. only to assemble parts in some sort of assembly line.
I was constantly stressed about one of our kids having this same Fate, and I constantly expressed these worries to both my spouse and my children. When they were young into their teenage years, I took on a second job. My fears had gotten the best of me and I decided that no money was enough money, and picked up an overnight shift 3 times a week.
I nearly died. A middle-aged person is not supposed to be working that often, no matter what the cause. I, however, did not realize this and kept pushing myself. Everyone was worried for me. I was tired all the time, irritable, and still stressed.
My son telling me to relax was the first and only thing that helped me to realize how over-exerted I was. I felt I could rest a bit easier now that I not only knew that my son definitely wanted to attend college, but that it was definitely paid for.
Since my, ahem, "recovery" I've looked into some statistics about tuition and government grants. It seems that I am not the only parent who is more than concerned about their children's' education opportunities, and who are concerned about how they can provide their kids with as many opportunities as possible. I bet that applying for a state grant could save more lives than just my own.
Erin @ State Grants
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erin_Grant
Federal Small Business Loans
By Darryl Noble
There are a number federal small business loans from the US government available to the entrepreneur. Who the loans serve and their purpose change depending on the loan product, but the government does want to see small businesses grow. Small businesses employ more people than large businesses and is strong growing trend. Additionally, as more people lose their jobs and can no longer find comparable work, many will turn to starting their own business.
The SBA has a number of loan products available for the entrepreneur. Sadly, start-ups may have trouble getting approved, but once established a business should be able to pursue them without problem. Federal government small business loans start with the SBA Community Express loan. This a low document loan with quick approval, but the lending amounts are lower. The primary SBA loan program is the 7(a) Loan which has a high maximum lending amount. One works with a bank to get a loan guarantee from the SBA. The loan requirements are rigid and turn around time can be long. Many banks will simply approve a loan if one looks like they will get approved, rather than wait for SBA acceptance. The SBA also has loan products for construction, bonding, exporting, community development, and revolving lines of credit.
However, the SBA is not the only small business loan available from the federal government. The USDA has a loan program available to businesses in rural areas. Then the government also helps community development organizations lending money. HUD gives money to community groups that they can lend to small businesses. Other agencies do the same, provide seed money to community groups to loan to small businesses. The idea is that this money keep revolving, and the government only has to seed once.
Also, the government provides grants to numerous small business centers. These centers help entrepreneurs get financing from local lenders or they can tap the government resources. This is a cost effective way the US government gets small businesses started and keeps them growing.
Knowledge Is Power, Information Is Money: The real entrepreneurs, the movers and shakers of this world, do not have time to read ever tidbit of financial information. Getting the main point quickly and concisely is what they need. That is why there is this truthful Business Grant, Minority Overview telling it like it is about minority grants. Or there is specific minority business information. Learn about what is happening with Native American business and what business opportunities may be available to the astute entrepreneur.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darryl_Noble
There are a number federal small business loans from the US government available to the entrepreneur. Who the loans serve and their purpose change depending on the loan product, but the government does want to see small businesses grow. Small businesses employ more people than large businesses and is strong growing trend. Additionally, as more people lose their jobs and can no longer find comparable work, many will turn to starting their own business.
The SBA has a number of loan products available for the entrepreneur. Sadly, start-ups may have trouble getting approved, but once established a business should be able to pursue them without problem. Federal government small business loans start with the SBA Community Express loan. This a low document loan with quick approval, but the lending amounts are lower. The primary SBA loan program is the 7(a) Loan which has a high maximum lending amount. One works with a bank to get a loan guarantee from the SBA. The loan requirements are rigid and turn around time can be long. Many banks will simply approve a loan if one looks like they will get approved, rather than wait for SBA acceptance. The SBA also has loan products for construction, bonding, exporting, community development, and revolving lines of credit.
However, the SBA is not the only small business loan available from the federal government. The USDA has a loan program available to businesses in rural areas. Then the government also helps community development organizations lending money. HUD gives money to community groups that they can lend to small businesses. Other agencies do the same, provide seed money to community groups to loan to small businesses. The idea is that this money keep revolving, and the government only has to seed once.
Also, the government provides grants to numerous small business centers. These centers help entrepreneurs get financing from local lenders or they can tap the government resources. This is a cost effective way the US government gets small businesses started and keeps them growing.
Knowledge Is Power, Information Is Money: The real entrepreneurs, the movers and shakers of this world, do not have time to read ever tidbit of financial information. Getting the main point quickly and concisely is what they need. That is why there is this truthful Business Grant, Minority Overview telling it like it is about minority grants. Or there is specific minority business information. Learn about what is happening with Native American business and what business opportunities may be available to the astute entrepreneur.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darryl_Noble
Small Business Loan Rate Options
By Darryl Noble
A good small business loan rate is found in the many options available for entrepreneurs. Should a business be minority or women owned then that improves the options available. Commercial lending rates vary but typically not by much when compared to home or private lending. Because commercial loans are reviewed heavily before approval and secured very well, the rates stay close to the prime lending rate.
The Small Business Administration has a number of loan products available to assist small business. Starting with the SBA Microloan which are loans given through SBA intermediaries with lending amounts under $35,000. The small business loan rate is around 8% and is tied to the Treasury lending rate plus 7.5% or 8.5% (depending if the loan is above or under $10,000). The SBA's primary lending instrument is a loan guarantee product called the SBA 7(a) loan with a maximum guaranteed amount of $1.5 million. Lending is done through an approved bank, the SBA guarantees the loan and the rate is tied to the prime lending rate. 7 (a) loans over $50,000 have a rate maximum of prime plus 2.75% (2.25% if the term is under seven years).
There are community development organizations that lend to small businesses. They exist to create and grow small businesses as small business brings revenue to a community and creates jobs. Their credit standards are not as rigid as formal banking institutions and they are very open to women and minority owned businesses. Typically their small business loan rate is around 4.25%-8.75% interest. Their maximum lending amounts are relatively low being around $50,000-$100,000, but they will have lending arrangements with banks to help with larger loans. These community organizations are distributed throughout the US and serve both urban and rural areas.
Examples of community organization low interest rates include Accion in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Accion offers rates of 2% to 7% depending on risk and has a maximum loan of $150,000. In Tulsa, Oklahoma the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) utilizes SBA products and likes to tout the SBA 504 where they can offer a fixed 4.7% for a ten-year term. The SBA 504 is used for mortgage financing for acquisition and/or renovation of capital assets (land, building, equipment) and it has loan maximum of $4 million. In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania the Harrisburg Regional Chamber has the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC). The CREDC has a small business loan below market rate at 4.25% and a maximum amount of $200,000.
These are just a few quick examples of community organizations throughout the country lending to small businesses. As seen sometimes they can beat conventional commercial lending and even the SBA small business loan rate.
Only the strong survive has been a business mantra since the invention of capitalism. Get stronger by getting smarter with more business knowledge. Visit and read what is available in a minority business loan. Continue on your way to business dominance by reading about the truth about minority business grants. There are no shortcuts in business, just rewards hard won with hard work.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darryl_Noble
A good small business loan rate is found in the many options available for entrepreneurs. Should a business be minority or women owned then that improves the options available. Commercial lending rates vary but typically not by much when compared to home or private lending. Because commercial loans are reviewed heavily before approval and secured very well, the rates stay close to the prime lending rate.
The Small Business Administration has a number of loan products available to assist small business. Starting with the SBA Microloan which are loans given through SBA intermediaries with lending amounts under $35,000. The small business loan rate is around 8% and is tied to the Treasury lending rate plus 7.5% or 8.5% (depending if the loan is above or under $10,000). The SBA's primary lending instrument is a loan guarantee product called the SBA 7(a) loan with a maximum guaranteed amount of $1.5 million. Lending is done through an approved bank, the SBA guarantees the loan and the rate is tied to the prime lending rate. 7 (a) loans over $50,000 have a rate maximum of prime plus 2.75% (2.25% if the term is under seven years).
There are community development organizations that lend to small businesses. They exist to create and grow small businesses as small business brings revenue to a community and creates jobs. Their credit standards are not as rigid as formal banking institutions and they are very open to women and minority owned businesses. Typically their small business loan rate is around 4.25%-8.75% interest. Their maximum lending amounts are relatively low being around $50,000-$100,000, but they will have lending arrangements with banks to help with larger loans. These community organizations are distributed throughout the US and serve both urban and rural areas.
Examples of community organization low interest rates include Accion in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Accion offers rates of 2% to 7% depending on risk and has a maximum loan of $150,000. In Tulsa, Oklahoma the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) utilizes SBA products and likes to tout the SBA 504 where they can offer a fixed 4.7% for a ten-year term. The SBA 504 is used for mortgage financing for acquisition and/or renovation of capital assets (land, building, equipment) and it has loan maximum of $4 million. In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania the Harrisburg Regional Chamber has the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC). The CREDC has a small business loan below market rate at 4.25% and a maximum amount of $200,000.
These are just a few quick examples of community organizations throughout the country lending to small businesses. As seen sometimes they can beat conventional commercial lending and even the SBA small business loan rate.
Only the strong survive has been a business mantra since the invention of capitalism. Get stronger by getting smarter with more business knowledge. Visit and read what is available in a minority business loan. Continue on your way to business dominance by reading about the truth about minority business grants. There are no shortcuts in business, just rewards hard won with hard work.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darryl_Noble
Is it a Good Time to Get a Commercial Investment Property Loan?
By J. Buchholtz
Making a commercial property investment is always an interesting decision to make. It's not good buying a commercial property when there is a recession in progress and it's not a good time to buy when the economy is booming and the cost of commercial properties are going sky-high. Buying a commercial property at 'just the right time' maximises profitability and capital gains and seems to be at the cusp of a rise. The question is, how do you know where this cusp is?
How do you know where this cusp actually happens often depends on experience, judgement and good business information. To get this experience will cost you one way or another but if you do your learning right it won't break the bank and you will make enough incrementally to keep investing and gaining the buying experience as you increase your commercial investment portfolio.
It will always be a great help if you have a good business network in your area of interest so you have local information about what is planned for your area. Once you know that a development is being considered or talked about you are in in a better position to be an early beneficiary of the project. This does not mean you ever get involved in insider trading or anything illegal but with a bit of imagination you will be able to 'see' spin-off's from any new development and position yourself, your property portfolio or other commercial interests accordingly.
It's not a good time to buy commercial property during a downturn in the economy or in a recession because not many people want to start a business when the economy is bad. Getting a good rent paying tenant is too risky a business if they may have trouble making enough money to pay the rent. If it is a start-up business then the risks are even higher.
On the other hand, it can also be the best time to pick up commercial properties at basement level fire sale prices. This works well if you have a considerable percentage invested in the property and whatever money you borrow against it will not leave too big a dent in the bank account if you don't get a rent paying tenant immediately. If you can afford the mortgage and aren't financially geared dependent on finding a tenant you could be 'sitting pretty'. Buying at a time when there is plenty of properties on the market can give you the buyer a lot of leverage and you could pick up a really good deal.
Is December 2009 a good time to take out a commercial investment property loan? The answer to this depends on trusting your commercial real estate company advisor if you have one. Whichever way s/he advises, the ultimate decision has to be yours and you are where the 'buck' begins and 'ends'.
Personally, I wouldn't be venturing into highly leveraged commercial property right now simply because the world is not yet far enough away from financial catastrophe for my liking; but I'm one of these people who like to be embedded in a rock face, surrounded by a wide moat with a very heavy drawbridge across.
If you are thinking of investing in commercial real estate then there are some things you will need to know first http://www.commercial-real-estate-companies.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J._Buchholtz
Making a commercial property investment is always an interesting decision to make. It's not good buying a commercial property when there is a recession in progress and it's not a good time to buy when the economy is booming and the cost of commercial properties are going sky-high. Buying a commercial property at 'just the right time' maximises profitability and capital gains and seems to be at the cusp of a rise. The question is, how do you know where this cusp is?
How do you know where this cusp actually happens often depends on experience, judgement and good business information. To get this experience will cost you one way or another but if you do your learning right it won't break the bank and you will make enough incrementally to keep investing and gaining the buying experience as you increase your commercial investment portfolio.
It will always be a great help if you have a good business network in your area of interest so you have local information about what is planned for your area. Once you know that a development is being considered or talked about you are in in a better position to be an early beneficiary of the project. This does not mean you ever get involved in insider trading or anything illegal but with a bit of imagination you will be able to 'see' spin-off's from any new development and position yourself, your property portfolio or other commercial interests accordingly.
It's not a good time to buy commercial property during a downturn in the economy or in a recession because not many people want to start a business when the economy is bad. Getting a good rent paying tenant is too risky a business if they may have trouble making enough money to pay the rent. If it is a start-up business then the risks are even higher.
On the other hand, it can also be the best time to pick up commercial properties at basement level fire sale prices. This works well if you have a considerable percentage invested in the property and whatever money you borrow against it will not leave too big a dent in the bank account if you don't get a rent paying tenant immediately. If you can afford the mortgage and aren't financially geared dependent on finding a tenant you could be 'sitting pretty'. Buying at a time when there is plenty of properties on the market can give you the buyer a lot of leverage and you could pick up a really good deal.
Is December 2009 a good time to take out a commercial investment property loan? The answer to this depends on trusting your commercial real estate company advisor if you have one. Whichever way s/he advises, the ultimate decision has to be yours and you are where the 'buck' begins and 'ends'.
Personally, I wouldn't be venturing into highly leveraged commercial property right now simply because the world is not yet far enough away from financial catastrophe for my liking; but I'm one of these people who like to be embedded in a rock face, surrounded by a wide moat with a very heavy drawbridge across.
If you are thinking of investing in commercial real estate then there are some things you will need to know first http://www.commercial-real-estate-companies.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J._Buchholtz
Friday, December 25, 2009
Make Use of Small Business Loans!
By Rudra D
Businessmen often have a tough time with money. Since the business requirements cannot be predicted, you should keep yourself prepared to face any kind of situation. If you lack funds, you can explore other options. It is humanly not possible to have the desired amount at any given point of time. If you fall in this bracket, you can make use of online small business loan.
There are two ways to avail a loan. Either you can approach a traditional lender or look online. The traditional method of availing funds is very time consuming. To start with you will have to spot a lender who offers such loans. Then you will be required to provide documents as desired by the lender. They will take some time to verify the documents. You will have to be prepared to wait for some time.
However, with the online option, the process of availing funds is simplified. Herein, you just need to log on to the relevant website. Then you can browse through various sites. There are innumerable options online. You can choose from a host of loans. You need not spend a lot of time availing these kinds of funds. From within the comfort of your home, you can avail the funds.
You may either need a small or large amount of money for business needs. You have the choice to choose from different types of funds. Looking for small business proliferation? No time to wait for an approved small business loan? You can take refuge in online small business finance!
Yes, these types of finances have been simplified to suit the short term needs. These kinds of finances are offered on the basis of your business plan. If you are ready with a business plan, you can fulfil them through these kinds of funds. The online lenders offer you a range of funds. They will guide you at every step. You are saved from the hassle of looking for funds when you apply for them online. In turn, you will also end up saving thousands of pounds with the competitive online funds. You don't have anything to lose - not even your precious time because availing these kinds of finances is just a matter of a minute! Yes, it's that easy and simple.
You can utilise the funds for any of your business needs. There is no restriction on the usage of funds. Be it buying a machinery, tools, equipments, investment - you can fulfill them all through finances.
Rudra D, Ezine Author
For more information:
Cheapest Loan
Urgent Unsecured Cash
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rudra_D
Businessmen often have a tough time with money. Since the business requirements cannot be predicted, you should keep yourself prepared to face any kind of situation. If you lack funds, you can explore other options. It is humanly not possible to have the desired amount at any given point of time. If you fall in this bracket, you can make use of online small business loan.
There are two ways to avail a loan. Either you can approach a traditional lender or look online. The traditional method of availing funds is very time consuming. To start with you will have to spot a lender who offers such loans. Then you will be required to provide documents as desired by the lender. They will take some time to verify the documents. You will have to be prepared to wait for some time.
However, with the online option, the process of availing funds is simplified. Herein, you just need to log on to the relevant website. Then you can browse through various sites. There are innumerable options online. You can choose from a host of loans. You need not spend a lot of time availing these kinds of funds. From within the comfort of your home, you can avail the funds.
You may either need a small or large amount of money for business needs. You have the choice to choose from different types of funds. Looking for small business proliferation? No time to wait for an approved small business loan? You can take refuge in online small business finance!
Yes, these types of finances have been simplified to suit the short term needs. These kinds of finances are offered on the basis of your business plan. If you are ready with a business plan, you can fulfil them through these kinds of funds. The online lenders offer you a range of funds. They will guide you at every step. You are saved from the hassle of looking for funds when you apply for them online. In turn, you will also end up saving thousands of pounds with the competitive online funds. You don't have anything to lose - not even your precious time because availing these kinds of finances is just a matter of a minute! Yes, it's that easy and simple.
You can utilise the funds for any of your business needs. There is no restriction on the usage of funds. Be it buying a machinery, tools, equipments, investment - you can fulfill them all through finances.
Rudra D, Ezine Author
For more information:
Cheapest Loan
Urgent Unsecured Cash
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rudra_D
Government Grants to Start a Business - Are You Eligible?
By Brock Travis
The particular source for government grants to start a business is raised through the taxed funds, and is uniformly distributed among the people, local states and various setups, to create roles, stimulate economy, aid state programs as well as to enhance taxable folk. Indeed, it's a way of investment for any country.
Personally, it is quiet beneficiary to the business owners, who are eligible to avail the government grants to start a business. Irrespective of your capital amount, either $10000 or $1000000, ensure to obtain the benefits of this kind of grants and loans for small business. Knowing how and where to apply may provide distinct gain, as you can simply proceed. Each grant is given under certain category, like for business, entrepreneurs, inventors, students, veterans, minorities, youth services, unwaged and based totally on the communities.
Generally, grants to start a business are awarded to some explicit project or purpose, which meets the terms and conditions of the particular grant. The guidelines and regulations for govt grants maybe are far more rigid than the loans. Although, the government grants needn't be repaid to the government, if your business is not up to the mark of the standards, you may be asked to repay the grant amount.
When you search for the grants to start a business programs in the usa, you'll straight away get around 3,000 results, for various business. Therefore, it is wise to cut down your search, according to your need. If your business comes under the little scale business, then search accordingly. General usage of the term grants will fetch you other grants that are not at all related to business. When you go for complicated search, or scan thru the current opportunities, you may come across some wonderful matching government grants, so as to mix with your abilities and experience in your business.
Never mistake government grants to start a business to be the one for the government and disregard the state grants. The states specially offer grants to business and you can easily find them thru Google, if your keyword search is for grants with the name of the particular state. Along with it you'll also obtain galore details on loans grants, assistance programs meant for business entrepreneurs, which are fantastically handy to you, in the course of business.
Click here to find put how to apply for government grants to start a business.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brock_Travis
The particular source for government grants to start a business is raised through the taxed funds, and is uniformly distributed among the people, local states and various setups, to create roles, stimulate economy, aid state programs as well as to enhance taxable folk. Indeed, it's a way of investment for any country.
Personally, it is quiet beneficiary to the business owners, who are eligible to avail the government grants to start a business. Irrespective of your capital amount, either $10000 or $1000000, ensure to obtain the benefits of this kind of grants and loans for small business. Knowing how and where to apply may provide distinct gain, as you can simply proceed. Each grant is given under certain category, like for business, entrepreneurs, inventors, students, veterans, minorities, youth services, unwaged and based totally on the communities.
Generally, grants to start a business are awarded to some explicit project or purpose, which meets the terms and conditions of the particular grant. The guidelines and regulations for govt grants maybe are far more rigid than the loans. Although, the government grants needn't be repaid to the government, if your business is not up to the mark of the standards, you may be asked to repay the grant amount.
When you search for the grants to start a business programs in the usa, you'll straight away get around 3,000 results, for various business. Therefore, it is wise to cut down your search, according to your need. If your business comes under the little scale business, then search accordingly. General usage of the term grants will fetch you other grants that are not at all related to business. When you go for complicated search, or scan thru the current opportunities, you may come across some wonderful matching government grants, so as to mix with your abilities and experience in your business.
Never mistake government grants to start a business to be the one for the government and disregard the state grants. The states specially offer grants to business and you can easily find them thru Google, if your keyword search is for grants with the name of the particular state. Along with it you'll also obtain galore details on loans grants, assistance programs meant for business entrepreneurs, which are fantastically handy to you, in the course of business.
Click here to find put how to apply for government grants to start a business.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brock_Travis
Small Business Loans and Grants From State and City Governments
By H M Brown
Thank god for the small business person. You are the kind of person who drives our economy to success. If you are looking for a small business loan, you are an entrepreneur and I thank you. There are many obvious sources for small business loans, and some not so obvious sources. The federal government loan programs out there I'm sure you've heard of. I'll give you a couple ideas you may not have thought of.
State governments have economic development programs which may have many millions of dollars to strategically spend in their attempt to encourage job growth and economic improvement at the regional level. This kind of money can be either at low interest or zero percent interest, or surprisingly, you may be able to get money which doesn't even require repayment. The better the terms you are hoping for, the better your business plan needs to be, and the more new jobs you need to promise to create. That's what they really want to hear. "New jobs!" This is the secret to getting state funding for your business.
If you can create new jobs you can get help from state and even city governments. Cities more often will not have cold cash to loan you, but will be able to offer infrastructure improvements to entice you to move you business, and hence economic growth and tax revenue to their city. When I say city, I mean the legal word, not the size of the town. Often small to medium sized towns are more hungry for growth and even a town of 10,000 or so will be in a position to offer free sewer, road work, and utility improvement assistance. You may be able to negotiate for free advertisements from local media outlets to get the initial kick start awareness campaign some businesses need. States, cities, and towns are some of the most overlooked sources for small business loans and financing out there. Make sure to consider every possible angle so you can get the best kind of financial assistance for your business. Good financing is one critical component of business success.
H. M. Brown is a long time professional in the lending industry. If you are looking for a small business loan and want a friend on your side, feel free to visit http://www.usa-lending.com/small_business_loan.htm. We care about you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=H_M_Brown
Thank god for the small business person. You are the kind of person who drives our economy to success. If you are looking for a small business loan, you are an entrepreneur and I thank you. There are many obvious sources for small business loans, and some not so obvious sources. The federal government loan programs out there I'm sure you've heard of. I'll give you a couple ideas you may not have thought of.
State governments have economic development programs which may have many millions of dollars to strategically spend in their attempt to encourage job growth and economic improvement at the regional level. This kind of money can be either at low interest or zero percent interest, or surprisingly, you may be able to get money which doesn't even require repayment. The better the terms you are hoping for, the better your business plan needs to be, and the more new jobs you need to promise to create. That's what they really want to hear. "New jobs!" This is the secret to getting state funding for your business.
If you can create new jobs you can get help from state and even city governments. Cities more often will not have cold cash to loan you, but will be able to offer infrastructure improvements to entice you to move you business, and hence economic growth and tax revenue to their city. When I say city, I mean the legal word, not the size of the town. Often small to medium sized towns are more hungry for growth and even a town of 10,000 or so will be in a position to offer free sewer, road work, and utility improvement assistance. You may be able to negotiate for free advertisements from local media outlets to get the initial kick start awareness campaign some businesses need. States, cities, and towns are some of the most overlooked sources for small business loans and financing out there. Make sure to consider every possible angle so you can get the best kind of financial assistance for your business. Good financing is one critical component of business success.
H. M. Brown is a long time professional in the lending industry. If you are looking for a small business loan and want a friend on your side, feel free to visit http://www.usa-lending.com/small_business_loan.htm. We care about you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=H_M_Brown
Teaching and Learning Modern Foreign Languages in the United Kingdom - Limitations
By Cynthia Frey
IV. 1. Cultural and political limitations
"David Beckham's decision to learn Spanish now he has signed to play for Real Madrid next season should help fire children's interest in learning the language at school, a minister said today. The schools minister Stephen Twigg said Spain was England's number one tourist destination and Spanish the second most important European language for business (...) He will be a very useful representative to young people about how it can be cool to learn Spanish."
Even though the Government fails to promote languages using traditional political strategies, they certainly do think of alternative techniques, such as using one of their most eminent role models as a representative abroad, namely David Beckham, a professional football player. Pupils, and mostly boys, who are one of the target groups as far as raising achievement is concerned, are interested in football for the vast majority. Using a famous sport's figure to give a positive idea of language is indeed a clever turn!
As the minister says, Spanish has recently gained an increased interest, as it is a very common holiday destination for many British people. However, France is still a traditional place to spend holidays, and the impact of this on linguistic skills is yet to be found.
The language that suffers the most from student disaffection is German, which many comprehensive schools do not offer any longer. School Z, for instance is phasing out the tuition of German, and only Years 9, 10 and 11 are still learning this language. Business companies have expressed their concern about German, as it is still placed in priority for business use. According to the Report of the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, published in November 2004, 46% of Britain's non English speaking markets are in Germany, 45% are in France, 31% in Netherlands and 27% are in Spain. According to the same source, the top three languages causing barriers in efficient business trade are French, German and Spanish, which are the three main languages offered within British schools. Unfortunately, businesses then hire natives of the foreign language needed who are also fluent in English, to help them work with prospective European partners. The lack of proficiency shown by British people in Modern Foreign Languages is a hindrance to business, which to some extent is detrimental to the United Kingdom's economy. There also seems to be some kind of stigma linked to languages.
"Learning other languages gives us insight into the people, cultures and traditions of other countries, and helps us to understand our own language and culture. Drawing on skills and expertise of those who speak community languages will promote citizenship and complement the Government's broader work on the promotion of social cohesion" (Dfes: 2002: 12)
Although the United Kingdom has had a tradition of promoting their own culture around the world and has been involved in a huge number of other national communities, transmitting their ethos to the countries of the Empire and then the Commonwealth, the reciprocity of this cultural enrichment has appeared to be a complex process. Today, the United Kingdom is part of the European Union, but the number of Eurosceptics in the country is not decreasing. British newspapers, mainly the tabloids, participate in displaying a negative perception of the European Union. Many British people are unaware of the implications, the organisation, the institutions and the policies of the European Union. Ignorance leads to lack of interest, for the vast majority of the population. It is often claimed that Britons have few cultural links with Europe, and that they feel closer to the group of countries sometimes referred to as the 'Anglosphere'. This community consists of English speaking countries such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Canada and the United States. They share a common language and similar values, due to common historical links, that is to say most of these countries were once part of the British Empire. Moreover, although the British do not want to leave the European Union, recent polls have shown that the British population was against the introduction of the Euro and the European Constitution. As long as the United Kingdom does not feel that they genuinely belong to continental Europe, the poor attitude toward language learning is unlikely to change.
Mixed messages exist amongst the population in the United Kingdom concerning the perception of languages. Pupils in secondary schools do not show great enthusiasm for this school subject, as recent figures published in the Times Educational Supplement show: "in some cases dropout rates from GCSE language courses are extremely high - from 50% to 90%"(tes.co.uk). Pupils often do not see the point in learning a foreign language. English is spoken all around the world as a first, second or third language. Many countries use one language in their everyday life, but English is their official language. In holiday resorts, everything is made to accommodate tourists. Tour operators employ English speaking staff to avoid any difficulties for their customers.
However, a recent survey published by the Centre for Information on Language Teaching suggested that "over 75% of the general population think that a foreign language is important; and this figure increases to 90% amongst the 15 to 34 year olds". If this figure is accurate, this means that pupils in Year 10 should, in their vast majority, choose a Modern Foreign Language as an option for their GCSE, which is not the case. At the beginning of Year 10, pupils are 15 years old. The Centre for Information on Language Teaching wants to promote languages in the United Kingdom, and the interpretation of these statistical figures appears to be very optimistic.
Modern Foreign Languages are not the easiest subject in the curriculum for pupils. When it is time for them to decide which option to select for their exams, they have the choice between art, drama, physical education, double manufacturing, cookery and textiles. In larger schools they might also have media, business studies, and as it is a requirement, Modern Foreign Languages are offered. Pupils cannot help but wonder in which subjects they will gain an A* to C, which is the pass rate. It is a very difficult choice to make for a 14 year old teenager.
Often, the attitude about languages that surrounds them is not very encouraging. It is a challenging and very academic subject. Pupils also do not get language support from families. For generations, their families did not have to learn a language. Or, they were not very good at it because of the failure in the educational system in teaching Modern Foreign Languages adequately when schools turned into comprehensive schools.
The way English has been taught for decades has not made it easy for pupils to access a foreign language. Before the Literacy Hour was introduced at Key Stage 2, pupils were no longer taught grammar. Therefore, their Literacy Level was often quite low. Although languages can help tremendously to improve Literacy skills, pupils often feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of new grammatical knowledge they have to acquire. In School X, pupils in Year 10 and 11 left primary school before the English Key Stage 2 Strategy and the Literacy hour were introduced, or they had only been taught under the newly enforced system for a year. When I started teaching them, they did not know what a verb or a subject was, whether in English or in a Foreign Language. They were unable to identify nouns in a sentence. I taught German to some classes and French to other groups, and producing accurate sentences was completely impossible for the pupils. They could not identify any of their errors.
The difference with the pupils who started secondary school in the past three years is very impressive and significant. The knowledge acquired in primary school facilitates their understanding in languages, and Modern Foreign Languages lessons consolidate the learning previously acquired. This is a very good example of the cross-curricular benefits that pupils can obtain from learning a language. This also shows that the initiative made by the Government to amend the way English was taught has had a beneficial impact in several ways, as it has improved pupils' skills in English grammar and this proficiency has facilitated the learning of Modern Foreign Languages.
Lower achievers cannot always overcome these difficulties in Modern Foreign Languages. During the first few weeks I taught at school X, pupils had to be sent to detention systematically for not producing homework. The Head of Foreign Languages, who had about twenty years of experience in teaching, explained that generally pupils in the United Kingdom have a very negative attitude towards homework, and that if it was not clearly specified that there would be appropriate sanctions if a piece of homework was not produced, pupils would not complete the activity set. To try to counteract these difficulties, various techniques are used by schools. Most schools require that parents sign a home-school agreement which states the responsibility of parents and pupils for their learning. It is not only a teacher's responsibility to make sure pupils produce the work expected, as parents are required to be as supportive as possible. This agreement also stresses parents' responsibility for their child's behaviour in lessons. The home-school agreement is designed to involve parents in their child's education as much as possible. However, this agreement endorses the lack of motivation on the part of the pupils, and so homework is perceived as a sanction rather than a requisite for steady progress.
The National Curriculum for Languages, in its Programme of Study, highlights the importance of training pupils in becoming independent learners, as does the National Key Stage 3 Strategy. In spite of this, pupils in school Z, are provided with a homework timetable to help them in organising their working time. Pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 are given one piece of homework a fortnight for French when they are taught four lessons in two weeks. This homework should take up to thirty minutes to be completed. It seems that pupils are still not much challenged by this schedule of work.
IV. 2. Structural limitations
In the United Kingdom, a culture of competition and achievement is bred within society, but more specifically within schools. Pupils are encouraged to take part in sports fixtures, in drama production to represent the school in the area, or in talent shows.
This competitive spirit is also rendered in the numerous tests pupils take. Although the infamous "eleven plus" exam was officially suppressed with the birth of comprehensive schools in the 1960s, the current labour Government is considering introducing a new assessment at the end of Key Stage 2. This would have implications for Modern Foreign Languages to some extent. Although languages are not a compulsory feature yet in primary school, prior attainments are taken into account as soon as a child starts secondary school. The assessment that the Government wishes to set up implies that pupils leaving primary school with good results will be more likely to go on the rolls of schools that are on top of the list in the league table. Consequently, it can divide schools into categories, as was the case before the existence of comprehensive schools.
The figures analysed earlier show that the dropout rate in languages is already quite high, and it is even more so in schools which are towards the bottom of league table. "Allowing schoolchildren to drop languages at age 14 is reinforcing an existing class divide, warns a report from national education bodies. Schools with more pupils on free school meals are making languages optional. (...) In some, albeit isolated, cases dropout was extremely high. One school reported 40% of pupils in Year 11 not studying a language (last year's option choices), rising to 90% for Year 10 (this year's). This school also reported knock-on effects in Key Stage 3, with curriculum time being reduced for lower ability groups." Indeed, the United Kingdom seems to move back towards an elitist educational system and this is not the only fact that leads to this conclusion.
Although legally the existence of an examination at the end of primary school should not be relevant to pupils' enrolment in secondary school, selection still exists under cover of a different name. The Government appears to tolerate 10% of selection. In 1995, David Blunkett, made it extremely clear in his famous speech at the Labour party conference "read my lips: no selection". Some grammar schools have high expectations of the potential candidates which will be part of their Year 7 pupils, and do not want to rely entirely on the assessments made by primary schools, and therefore have entry tests. Within the catchment area, they choose the local elite of children which will help them carry on to gain the excellent results at GCSE the school aims at, which are largely above national average results. Unfortunately, even some comprehensive schools use the same technique to hand-pick the best from the average pupils. This is known by British society and largely accepted, as many parents wish the best for their children.
However, in some less prosperous households in deprived areas, this competitive ethos is not found. Parents are more likely to lack a culture of self achievement and do not transmit these values to their children. Pupils are sent to comprehensive schools, where the expectations are lower, and it is in this kind of environment that the entitlement to languages at Key Stage 4 is at risk, as shown by the previous figures. To assess whether a school is within the boundaries of a less fortunate area, statisticians use the landmark of free school meals, which are only provided to families who live under the poverty threshold. Donald McLeod's article on the TES website illustrates this concern: "In 2003, 70% of schools with more than 10% of pupils on free school meals had made languages optional, as opposed to 31% of the rest. Some 67% schools with half or fewer of their pupils gaining 5 A* to C's at the GCSE had made languages optional, whereas only 38% of schools with higher attaining pupils had done so."
Pupils in comprehensive schools are set targets in all their subjects. They are set end of year targets, end of Key Stage 3, and GCSE target grades. Besides, in school Z, the Modern Foreign Languages department sets targets for pupils' levels of achievement for each half term.
Pupils after a few weeks in Year 7 take their CATS tests. The latter consists in a series of papers to assess their logic, Literacy and Numeracy skills. These tests are then used to provide predicted levels of achievement in Maths, English and Science. They are also used in some schools to set children in groups according to their ability, even in subjects like Modern Foreign Languages which are not directly related to these tests, although it seems to be assumed that a correlation can be drawn.
Then, in Year 9, they have SATS, in English, Maths and Science. Their performance is recorded but also used for further predicted grades and thanks to educational software provided by the Government like the 'Autumn package' or the 'Panda package', an estimate for their GCSE grades is made.
In Modern Foreign Languages, pupils sit end of year exams and end of unit tests in the four basic skills (reading, listening, writing and speaking) every half term. This is a common assessment pattern used in many schools in the United Kingdom. "While the amount of time and money soaked up in the process is an absolute scandal, the effect on our children and their view of what education is about is even more of a worry. Repetitive coaching, training and practice, along with a regime of mocks, trial tests and non-statutory pilots have put children on a treadmill of non-stop scrutiny. They're the most tested children in the developed world and, as a consequence, subjected to intolerable pressure - and we wring our hands when they seem to lose interest and motivation, leaving education earlier than their European counterparts."(education.guardian.co.uk). Indeed, it is fair to wonder whether pupils still can enjoy their time at school for the mere pleasure of learning something new and different. According to the same article, there is no evidence that the number of exams improves pupils' performances.
Besides, teachers have to deliver 21 hour long lessons a week and have four periods dedicated to planning. However, these periods can also be used by the school to cover lessons when colleagues are absent. The numerous assessments imply further time pressure for teachers into delivering the curriculum and to get pupils thoroughly prepared. It also generates a loss in the time dedicated to planning, as most of the non contact time is taken up by marking various assessments.
School management evaluates the instruction provided by teachers according to the results that pupils receive in the various tests. Teachers are themselves set targets by their line manager, who is usually their Head of Department. These can be related to pupils' performances at examinations. In the United Kingdom, teachers are not civil servants and their capability is related to pupils' achievement; all of this is directly linked to their opportunities to be promoted and to evolve professionally.
IV.3. Limited resources
In the United Kingdom, comprehensive schools are mainly funded by grants provided the Local Education Authorities which themselves are subsidised by the Government. The way budgets are dispatched between schools depends largely on the system in place for allocating money, which varies according to the Local Education Authorities. Some factors which are taken into account are the number of pupils on roll in the school, the size of the Sixth Form, and the achievement of the school in terms of exam results.
In Local Education Authority A, the main parameter which determines the financial resources offered is the number of pupils following the post 16 curriculum. School Z is within the administration of this Authority. There are about 180 pupils in their Sixth Form. The money available does not enable the Head Teacher to improve the school according to his development plans. The Modern Foreign Languages has had the opportunity of acquiring new resources even if the department exam results are far below the national results; in 2005, only 9% of the pupils gained a grade A* to C in their GCSE exams. However, the budget is dispatched in order to make progress in the areas which need it the most. Although other departments also need to expand their resources, Modern Foreign Languages appeared to be a priority. The Head Teacher's decision shows a deep interest for this area, which can only be praised considering the latest governmental choices, which relegate languages to an inferior position within the curriculum as it has become a mere entitlement. By making this decision of allocating an increased budget to Modern Foreign Languages, the Head Teacher of school Z makes a statement about his views on the subject. Additionally, the school tries to obtain additional funding by making a bid to gain a specialist status in engineering.
Schools in the United Kingdom have the opportunity to be granted further financial support by becoming specialist schools in varied fields such as sports, art, technology, information technology, business, or languages. Specialist languages schools, whilst making their bid, develop their department in order to show the existing resources and competences, and then, once the status is approved, they can expand the specific area, but also manage to bring general improvements to the school. For instance, Specialist Language School W managed to hire three Modern Foreign Languages assistants and each member of the department was provided with a laptop computer. The classrooms which had been recently refurbished were equipped with delta projectors, and a computer suite was built to fit their needs in Information and Communication Technology.
Their status, however, implies that Languages are compulsory for all pupils at Key Stage 4, and that pupils learn two languages at Key Stage 3. The department consists of eleven members of staff, and offers French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Latin. Two new positions have been created since they successfully made their bid two years ago. Their achievement target for GCSE Modern Foreign Languages is 80% of pupils obtaining an A* to C grade. The school is located in a rather affluent area and the local community is extremely supportive.
In the Times Educational Supplement, 11 March 2005 issue, the efforts made by the Government to multiply the number of Specialist Languages are put forward: "Mr Twigg will announce today that the Government will spend £30m on increasing the number of specialist languages schools to 400 over the next five years. They will receive an extra £30,000 each year to help them to work with other schools. Schools with languages as their first or second specialism will get an additional £30 per pupil".
It appears that the way schools are subsidised is directly linked with the potential developments of each school, and that unfortunately in some cases, it is increasingly difficult for a school to escape from the vicious circle of the impossibility to expand further. Schools suffer from lack of money, test results do not improve, which places the school at the bottom of the league table, and therefore the school is not attractive to prospective pupils, which implies that the school does not benefit from additional help because the number of pupils on roll in the sixth form does not increase.
Staffing is another issue that undermines Modern Foreign Languages departments. Indeed, there are not enough languages teachers in the United Kingdom at the present time, and the current numbers of pupils taking up languages in post 16 education does not show any sign a potential growth. Universities face numerous closures of languages faculties due to very few applicants. As an incentive, the Government offers the students starting a Post Graduate Certificate of Education a £6,000 grant. And the loans of these students are written off. After Newly Qualified Teachers complete successfully their first year, and obtain their full teaching status, they benefit from a 'Golden Hello', which is a £ 4,000 allowance.
In Northern England, schools are so short staffed in Modern Foreign Languages that further incentives have been thought of to attract new staff. In April 2005, the French magazine Marianne published an article explaining that Hull University offered to train Modern Foreign Languages teachers in three and a half months and give them a 5700 € allowance to do so. As part of their training they spend a few weeks in France. One cannot help but wonder about the quality of the training received in such a short time frame, and whether the knowledge of the newly qualified teachers will be adequate enough to enable them to be efficient classroom practitioners.
Stephen Twigg, school standards minister, announced in 2005 plans to work towards the deficit in languages teaching staff, which now also need to be trained for primary school teaching, as it is part of the Government's new strategies for Languages. "More than £100 million is to be rushed into schools to help primary children learn foreign languages and halt the subject's worrying decline in secondaries" (TES, 2005: 1). On the other hand, as the numbers of pupils learning a language at Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5 has been on a steady decline since the implementation of the Government initiative to change languages to an entitlement, that is to say an option for GCSE rather than a foundation subject, the number of members of staff Modern Foreign Languages departments has decreased.
Cynthia Frey, Masters in English Language, Literature and Culture, and PGCE educational adviser in Egypt, Head of French Department, Teacher of French and German.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cynthia_Frey
IV. 1. Cultural and political limitations
"David Beckham's decision to learn Spanish now he has signed to play for Real Madrid next season should help fire children's interest in learning the language at school, a minister said today. The schools minister Stephen Twigg said Spain was England's number one tourist destination and Spanish the second most important European language for business (...) He will be a very useful representative to young people about how it can be cool to learn Spanish."
Even though the Government fails to promote languages using traditional political strategies, they certainly do think of alternative techniques, such as using one of their most eminent role models as a representative abroad, namely David Beckham, a professional football player. Pupils, and mostly boys, who are one of the target groups as far as raising achievement is concerned, are interested in football for the vast majority. Using a famous sport's figure to give a positive idea of language is indeed a clever turn!
As the minister says, Spanish has recently gained an increased interest, as it is a very common holiday destination for many British people. However, France is still a traditional place to spend holidays, and the impact of this on linguistic skills is yet to be found.
The language that suffers the most from student disaffection is German, which many comprehensive schools do not offer any longer. School Z, for instance is phasing out the tuition of German, and only Years 9, 10 and 11 are still learning this language. Business companies have expressed their concern about German, as it is still placed in priority for business use. According to the Report of the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, published in November 2004, 46% of Britain's non English speaking markets are in Germany, 45% are in France, 31% in Netherlands and 27% are in Spain. According to the same source, the top three languages causing barriers in efficient business trade are French, German and Spanish, which are the three main languages offered within British schools. Unfortunately, businesses then hire natives of the foreign language needed who are also fluent in English, to help them work with prospective European partners. The lack of proficiency shown by British people in Modern Foreign Languages is a hindrance to business, which to some extent is detrimental to the United Kingdom's economy. There also seems to be some kind of stigma linked to languages.
"Learning other languages gives us insight into the people, cultures and traditions of other countries, and helps us to understand our own language and culture. Drawing on skills and expertise of those who speak community languages will promote citizenship and complement the Government's broader work on the promotion of social cohesion" (Dfes: 2002: 12)
Although the United Kingdom has had a tradition of promoting their own culture around the world and has been involved in a huge number of other national communities, transmitting their ethos to the countries of the Empire and then the Commonwealth, the reciprocity of this cultural enrichment has appeared to be a complex process. Today, the United Kingdom is part of the European Union, but the number of Eurosceptics in the country is not decreasing. British newspapers, mainly the tabloids, participate in displaying a negative perception of the European Union. Many British people are unaware of the implications, the organisation, the institutions and the policies of the European Union. Ignorance leads to lack of interest, for the vast majority of the population. It is often claimed that Britons have few cultural links with Europe, and that they feel closer to the group of countries sometimes referred to as the 'Anglosphere'. This community consists of English speaking countries such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Canada and the United States. They share a common language and similar values, due to common historical links, that is to say most of these countries were once part of the British Empire. Moreover, although the British do not want to leave the European Union, recent polls have shown that the British population was against the introduction of the Euro and the European Constitution. As long as the United Kingdom does not feel that they genuinely belong to continental Europe, the poor attitude toward language learning is unlikely to change.
Mixed messages exist amongst the population in the United Kingdom concerning the perception of languages. Pupils in secondary schools do not show great enthusiasm for this school subject, as recent figures published in the Times Educational Supplement show: "in some cases dropout rates from GCSE language courses are extremely high - from 50% to 90%"(tes.co.uk). Pupils often do not see the point in learning a foreign language. English is spoken all around the world as a first, second or third language. Many countries use one language in their everyday life, but English is their official language. In holiday resorts, everything is made to accommodate tourists. Tour operators employ English speaking staff to avoid any difficulties for their customers.
However, a recent survey published by the Centre for Information on Language Teaching suggested that "over 75% of the general population think that a foreign language is important; and this figure increases to 90% amongst the 15 to 34 year olds". If this figure is accurate, this means that pupils in Year 10 should, in their vast majority, choose a Modern Foreign Language as an option for their GCSE, which is not the case. At the beginning of Year 10, pupils are 15 years old. The Centre for Information on Language Teaching wants to promote languages in the United Kingdom, and the interpretation of these statistical figures appears to be very optimistic.
Modern Foreign Languages are not the easiest subject in the curriculum for pupils. When it is time for them to decide which option to select for their exams, they have the choice between art, drama, physical education, double manufacturing, cookery and textiles. In larger schools they might also have media, business studies, and as it is a requirement, Modern Foreign Languages are offered. Pupils cannot help but wonder in which subjects they will gain an A* to C, which is the pass rate. It is a very difficult choice to make for a 14 year old teenager.
Often, the attitude about languages that surrounds them is not very encouraging. It is a challenging and very academic subject. Pupils also do not get language support from families. For generations, their families did not have to learn a language. Or, they were not very good at it because of the failure in the educational system in teaching Modern Foreign Languages adequately when schools turned into comprehensive schools.
The way English has been taught for decades has not made it easy for pupils to access a foreign language. Before the Literacy Hour was introduced at Key Stage 2, pupils were no longer taught grammar. Therefore, their Literacy Level was often quite low. Although languages can help tremendously to improve Literacy skills, pupils often feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of new grammatical knowledge they have to acquire. In School X, pupils in Year 10 and 11 left primary school before the English Key Stage 2 Strategy and the Literacy hour were introduced, or they had only been taught under the newly enforced system for a year. When I started teaching them, they did not know what a verb or a subject was, whether in English or in a Foreign Language. They were unable to identify nouns in a sentence. I taught German to some classes and French to other groups, and producing accurate sentences was completely impossible for the pupils. They could not identify any of their errors.
The difference with the pupils who started secondary school in the past three years is very impressive and significant. The knowledge acquired in primary school facilitates their understanding in languages, and Modern Foreign Languages lessons consolidate the learning previously acquired. This is a very good example of the cross-curricular benefits that pupils can obtain from learning a language. This also shows that the initiative made by the Government to amend the way English was taught has had a beneficial impact in several ways, as it has improved pupils' skills in English grammar and this proficiency has facilitated the learning of Modern Foreign Languages.
Lower achievers cannot always overcome these difficulties in Modern Foreign Languages. During the first few weeks I taught at school X, pupils had to be sent to detention systematically for not producing homework. The Head of Foreign Languages, who had about twenty years of experience in teaching, explained that generally pupils in the United Kingdom have a very negative attitude towards homework, and that if it was not clearly specified that there would be appropriate sanctions if a piece of homework was not produced, pupils would not complete the activity set. To try to counteract these difficulties, various techniques are used by schools. Most schools require that parents sign a home-school agreement which states the responsibility of parents and pupils for their learning. It is not only a teacher's responsibility to make sure pupils produce the work expected, as parents are required to be as supportive as possible. This agreement also stresses parents' responsibility for their child's behaviour in lessons. The home-school agreement is designed to involve parents in their child's education as much as possible. However, this agreement endorses the lack of motivation on the part of the pupils, and so homework is perceived as a sanction rather than a requisite for steady progress.
The National Curriculum for Languages, in its Programme of Study, highlights the importance of training pupils in becoming independent learners, as does the National Key Stage 3 Strategy. In spite of this, pupils in school Z, are provided with a homework timetable to help them in organising their working time. Pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 are given one piece of homework a fortnight for French when they are taught four lessons in two weeks. This homework should take up to thirty minutes to be completed. It seems that pupils are still not much challenged by this schedule of work.
IV. 2. Structural limitations
In the United Kingdom, a culture of competition and achievement is bred within society, but more specifically within schools. Pupils are encouraged to take part in sports fixtures, in drama production to represent the school in the area, or in talent shows.
This competitive spirit is also rendered in the numerous tests pupils take. Although the infamous "eleven plus" exam was officially suppressed with the birth of comprehensive schools in the 1960s, the current labour Government is considering introducing a new assessment at the end of Key Stage 2. This would have implications for Modern Foreign Languages to some extent. Although languages are not a compulsory feature yet in primary school, prior attainments are taken into account as soon as a child starts secondary school. The assessment that the Government wishes to set up implies that pupils leaving primary school with good results will be more likely to go on the rolls of schools that are on top of the list in the league table. Consequently, it can divide schools into categories, as was the case before the existence of comprehensive schools.
The figures analysed earlier show that the dropout rate in languages is already quite high, and it is even more so in schools which are towards the bottom of league table. "Allowing schoolchildren to drop languages at age 14 is reinforcing an existing class divide, warns a report from national education bodies. Schools with more pupils on free school meals are making languages optional. (...) In some, albeit isolated, cases dropout was extremely high. One school reported 40% of pupils in Year 11 not studying a language (last year's option choices), rising to 90% for Year 10 (this year's). This school also reported knock-on effects in Key Stage 3, with curriculum time being reduced for lower ability groups." Indeed, the United Kingdom seems to move back towards an elitist educational system and this is not the only fact that leads to this conclusion.
Although legally the existence of an examination at the end of primary school should not be relevant to pupils' enrolment in secondary school, selection still exists under cover of a different name. The Government appears to tolerate 10% of selection. In 1995, David Blunkett, made it extremely clear in his famous speech at the Labour party conference "read my lips: no selection". Some grammar schools have high expectations of the potential candidates which will be part of their Year 7 pupils, and do not want to rely entirely on the assessments made by primary schools, and therefore have entry tests. Within the catchment area, they choose the local elite of children which will help them carry on to gain the excellent results at GCSE the school aims at, which are largely above national average results. Unfortunately, even some comprehensive schools use the same technique to hand-pick the best from the average pupils. This is known by British society and largely accepted, as many parents wish the best for their children.
However, in some less prosperous households in deprived areas, this competitive ethos is not found. Parents are more likely to lack a culture of self achievement and do not transmit these values to their children. Pupils are sent to comprehensive schools, where the expectations are lower, and it is in this kind of environment that the entitlement to languages at Key Stage 4 is at risk, as shown by the previous figures. To assess whether a school is within the boundaries of a less fortunate area, statisticians use the landmark of free school meals, which are only provided to families who live under the poverty threshold. Donald McLeod's article on the TES website illustrates this concern: "In 2003, 70% of schools with more than 10% of pupils on free school meals had made languages optional, as opposed to 31% of the rest. Some 67% schools with half or fewer of their pupils gaining 5 A* to C's at the GCSE had made languages optional, whereas only 38% of schools with higher attaining pupils had done so."
Pupils in comprehensive schools are set targets in all their subjects. They are set end of year targets, end of Key Stage 3, and GCSE target grades. Besides, in school Z, the Modern Foreign Languages department sets targets for pupils' levels of achievement for each half term.
Pupils after a few weeks in Year 7 take their CATS tests. The latter consists in a series of papers to assess their logic, Literacy and Numeracy skills. These tests are then used to provide predicted levels of achievement in Maths, English and Science. They are also used in some schools to set children in groups according to their ability, even in subjects like Modern Foreign Languages which are not directly related to these tests, although it seems to be assumed that a correlation can be drawn.
Then, in Year 9, they have SATS, in English, Maths and Science. Their performance is recorded but also used for further predicted grades and thanks to educational software provided by the Government like the 'Autumn package' or the 'Panda package', an estimate for their GCSE grades is made.
In Modern Foreign Languages, pupils sit end of year exams and end of unit tests in the four basic skills (reading, listening, writing and speaking) every half term. This is a common assessment pattern used in many schools in the United Kingdom. "While the amount of time and money soaked up in the process is an absolute scandal, the effect on our children and their view of what education is about is even more of a worry. Repetitive coaching, training and practice, along with a regime of mocks, trial tests and non-statutory pilots have put children on a treadmill of non-stop scrutiny. They're the most tested children in the developed world and, as a consequence, subjected to intolerable pressure - and we wring our hands when they seem to lose interest and motivation, leaving education earlier than their European counterparts."(education.guardian.co.uk). Indeed, it is fair to wonder whether pupils still can enjoy their time at school for the mere pleasure of learning something new and different. According to the same article, there is no evidence that the number of exams improves pupils' performances.
Besides, teachers have to deliver 21 hour long lessons a week and have four periods dedicated to planning. However, these periods can also be used by the school to cover lessons when colleagues are absent. The numerous assessments imply further time pressure for teachers into delivering the curriculum and to get pupils thoroughly prepared. It also generates a loss in the time dedicated to planning, as most of the non contact time is taken up by marking various assessments.
School management evaluates the instruction provided by teachers according to the results that pupils receive in the various tests. Teachers are themselves set targets by their line manager, who is usually their Head of Department. These can be related to pupils' performances at examinations. In the United Kingdom, teachers are not civil servants and their capability is related to pupils' achievement; all of this is directly linked to their opportunities to be promoted and to evolve professionally.
IV.3. Limited resources
In the United Kingdom, comprehensive schools are mainly funded by grants provided the Local Education Authorities which themselves are subsidised by the Government. The way budgets are dispatched between schools depends largely on the system in place for allocating money, which varies according to the Local Education Authorities. Some factors which are taken into account are the number of pupils on roll in the school, the size of the Sixth Form, and the achievement of the school in terms of exam results.
In Local Education Authority A, the main parameter which determines the financial resources offered is the number of pupils following the post 16 curriculum. School Z is within the administration of this Authority. There are about 180 pupils in their Sixth Form. The money available does not enable the Head Teacher to improve the school according to his development plans. The Modern Foreign Languages has had the opportunity of acquiring new resources even if the department exam results are far below the national results; in 2005, only 9% of the pupils gained a grade A* to C in their GCSE exams. However, the budget is dispatched in order to make progress in the areas which need it the most. Although other departments also need to expand their resources, Modern Foreign Languages appeared to be a priority. The Head Teacher's decision shows a deep interest for this area, which can only be praised considering the latest governmental choices, which relegate languages to an inferior position within the curriculum as it has become a mere entitlement. By making this decision of allocating an increased budget to Modern Foreign Languages, the Head Teacher of school Z makes a statement about his views on the subject. Additionally, the school tries to obtain additional funding by making a bid to gain a specialist status in engineering.
Schools in the United Kingdom have the opportunity to be granted further financial support by becoming specialist schools in varied fields such as sports, art, technology, information technology, business, or languages. Specialist languages schools, whilst making their bid, develop their department in order to show the existing resources and competences, and then, once the status is approved, they can expand the specific area, but also manage to bring general improvements to the school. For instance, Specialist Language School W managed to hire three Modern Foreign Languages assistants and each member of the department was provided with a laptop computer. The classrooms which had been recently refurbished were equipped with delta projectors, and a computer suite was built to fit their needs in Information and Communication Technology.
Their status, however, implies that Languages are compulsory for all pupils at Key Stage 4, and that pupils learn two languages at Key Stage 3. The department consists of eleven members of staff, and offers French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Latin. Two new positions have been created since they successfully made their bid two years ago. Their achievement target for GCSE Modern Foreign Languages is 80% of pupils obtaining an A* to C grade. The school is located in a rather affluent area and the local community is extremely supportive.
In the Times Educational Supplement, 11 March 2005 issue, the efforts made by the Government to multiply the number of Specialist Languages are put forward: "Mr Twigg will announce today that the Government will spend £30m on increasing the number of specialist languages schools to 400 over the next five years. They will receive an extra £30,000 each year to help them to work with other schools. Schools with languages as their first or second specialism will get an additional £30 per pupil".
It appears that the way schools are subsidised is directly linked with the potential developments of each school, and that unfortunately in some cases, it is increasingly difficult for a school to escape from the vicious circle of the impossibility to expand further. Schools suffer from lack of money, test results do not improve, which places the school at the bottom of the league table, and therefore the school is not attractive to prospective pupils, which implies that the school does not benefit from additional help because the number of pupils on roll in the sixth form does not increase.
Staffing is another issue that undermines Modern Foreign Languages departments. Indeed, there are not enough languages teachers in the United Kingdom at the present time, and the current numbers of pupils taking up languages in post 16 education does not show any sign a potential growth. Universities face numerous closures of languages faculties due to very few applicants. As an incentive, the Government offers the students starting a Post Graduate Certificate of Education a £6,000 grant. And the loans of these students are written off. After Newly Qualified Teachers complete successfully their first year, and obtain their full teaching status, they benefit from a 'Golden Hello', which is a £ 4,000 allowance.
In Northern England, schools are so short staffed in Modern Foreign Languages that further incentives have been thought of to attract new staff. In April 2005, the French magazine Marianne published an article explaining that Hull University offered to train Modern Foreign Languages teachers in three and a half months and give them a 5700 € allowance to do so. As part of their training they spend a few weeks in France. One cannot help but wonder about the quality of the training received in such a short time frame, and whether the knowledge of the newly qualified teachers will be adequate enough to enable them to be efficient classroom practitioners.
Stephen Twigg, school standards minister, announced in 2005 plans to work towards the deficit in languages teaching staff, which now also need to be trained for primary school teaching, as it is part of the Government's new strategies for Languages. "More than £100 million is to be rushed into schools to help primary children learn foreign languages and halt the subject's worrying decline in secondaries" (TES, 2005: 1). On the other hand, as the numbers of pupils learning a language at Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5 has been on a steady decline since the implementation of the Government initiative to change languages to an entitlement, that is to say an option for GCSE rather than a foundation subject, the number of members of staff Modern Foreign Languages departments has decreased.
Cynthia Frey, Masters in English Language, Literature and Culture, and PGCE educational adviser in Egypt, Head of French Department, Teacher of French and German.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cynthia_Frey
Sunday, September 27, 2009
How to Find Legitimate Cash Advance Loans Online: By Scot Johns
If astonishing costs are interrupting your technique of life, then you really need to refresh your financial status by preparing some instant and trouble free cash. Since there are n numbers of financial institutions and banks that offer glorious financial facilities to resolve your money hassles, you can simply manage to order desired cash to suit your needs.
When it comes to get a solution for any emergency requirement, you can get the great help form instant cash advance loans, as these loans provide you with preferred money inside few mins. These loans can cover costs such as doctor's bills, car repairs, vacation package booking and many other emergency costs.
Usually, folks prefer to take the loan from any famous banker but they get pissed off due to the time consuming loan processing system of these banks. If you are one of those people who are pissed off because of the unavailability of instant loan process, then just go for instant cash advance loans and experience the ultimate and smart financial services. These loans are a great way to get desired loan without banging your head on lengthy documentation and approval processes.
With instant cash advance loans, every borrower can manage to arrange acceptable money without making any delay. In reality, when you sign up for these loans with a reliable and famous bank you not only get financial support but also earn good credit points toward repair your credit report. Since these loans bear high risk, all banks charge a high interest rate on such loans ; however you can get reasonable and inexpensive rates by doing a through market research and interest rate research.
The IR for instant cash advance loans also comes at reasonable and reasonable costs which makes the repayment simpler. Therefore analyze the monetary trends of the market and try to make your loan deal cheaper. In truth, this market research can be made less time consuming and convenient thru online tools ; these online tools not only help you in finding out a fair loan offer but also make application and approval process less complicated.
If you are really curious about low rates, then apply with any online bank, as it will help you in researching and recognizing the best loan deal with low rates. With such online banks, it is also feasible to approve the cash inside seconds, as they follow a high-tech modus operandi to make the money easily accessible.
in truth, instant pay-day loans have gave the opportunity to address every emergency requirement at ease. Likely, this is the rationale why everyday more and more borrowers are signing up for these loans to resolve their financial issues. Fundamentally, these cash advance loans are short duration loans but if in any case, the borrower faces any inaptness, she can extend the due date as specified by the requirement.
However in such cases the borrower will be liable to pay some extra fee, as it will affect the flow of cash in the entire money market. Sometimes, the fee charged for subscribing this perquisite does not include rate of interest but in every situation you can be be assured that it will not put any extra burden on your pocket.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/how-to-find-legitimate-cash-advance-loans-online-1275850.html
When it comes to get a solution for any emergency requirement, you can get the great help form instant cash advance loans, as these loans provide you with preferred money inside few mins. These loans can cover costs such as doctor's bills, car repairs, vacation package booking and many other emergency costs.
Usually, folks prefer to take the loan from any famous banker but they get pissed off due to the time consuming loan processing system of these banks. If you are one of those people who are pissed off because of the unavailability of instant loan process, then just go for instant cash advance loans and experience the ultimate and smart financial services. These loans are a great way to get desired loan without banging your head on lengthy documentation and approval processes.
With instant cash advance loans, every borrower can manage to arrange acceptable money without making any delay. In reality, when you sign up for these loans with a reliable and famous bank you not only get financial support but also earn good credit points toward repair your credit report. Since these loans bear high risk, all banks charge a high interest rate on such loans ; however you can get reasonable and inexpensive rates by doing a through market research and interest rate research.
The IR for instant cash advance loans also comes at reasonable and reasonable costs which makes the repayment simpler. Therefore analyze the monetary trends of the market and try to make your loan deal cheaper. In truth, this market research can be made less time consuming and convenient thru online tools ; these online tools not only help you in finding out a fair loan offer but also make application and approval process less complicated.
If you are really curious about low rates, then apply with any online bank, as it will help you in researching and recognizing the best loan deal with low rates. With such online banks, it is also feasible to approve the cash inside seconds, as they follow a high-tech modus operandi to make the money easily accessible.
in truth, instant pay-day loans have gave the opportunity to address every emergency requirement at ease. Likely, this is the rationale why everyday more and more borrowers are signing up for these loans to resolve their financial issues. Fundamentally, these cash advance loans are short duration loans but if in any case, the borrower faces any inaptness, she can extend the due date as specified by the requirement.
However in such cases the borrower will be liable to pay some extra fee, as it will affect the flow of cash in the entire money market. Sometimes, the fee charged for subscribing this perquisite does not include rate of interest but in every situation you can be be assured that it will not put any extra burden on your pocket.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/how-to-find-legitimate-cash-advance-loans-online-1275850.html
Monday, August 17, 2009
Cheap Payday Loans: fast assistance to those in need: By Leonard Adams
Many a times, when your financial capability is not able to suffice your important needs, you badly look for other external options to raise adequate money. For that purpose you definitely choose loans as a viable option but the interest rates generally pull you back. But now you really need not worry about interest rates. The interest rates on cheap payday loans are low and affordable. Now you can easily sort your urgent financial needs and shun your financial worries by opting for this apt solution.
Anyone can apply for these payday loans. Those facing credit problems like arrears, late payments, missed payments, IVA, CCJs etc. can apply in hassle free way. Your bad credit records will not bother you anymore.
The amount advanced through these loans can be grabbed for meeting various small and day to day financial needs. You can pay off your credit card dues, bank overdraft expenses and car repairs. Such expenses can be easily met.
Cheap payday loans offer small cash assistance of $100-$1500. The term of repayment is short which varies from 2-4 weeks. The interest rates are low and affordable so that you can repay the borrowed amount conveniently.
In order to be eligible you just need to fulfill simple criteria which require you to be:-
• 18 years of age
• having a valid bank account
• Must be holding a regular employment earning minimum of $1000.
Applying online is the most convenient way to apply for these loans. You can easily look around for a low rate deal and clinch it. You can apply in a hassle free way without wasting your time on time consuming formalities.
Getting funds is easy and you can procure the finances within 24 hours. Well its really quick because there is no paperwork, no credit check and no faxing formality is needed. You can get fast funds very easily.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/loans-articles/cheap-payday-loans-fast-assistance-to-those-in-need-1133281.html
Anyone can apply for these payday loans. Those facing credit problems like arrears, late payments, missed payments, IVA, CCJs etc. can apply in hassle free way. Your bad credit records will not bother you anymore.
The amount advanced through these loans can be grabbed for meeting various small and day to day financial needs. You can pay off your credit card dues, bank overdraft expenses and car repairs. Such expenses can be easily met.
Cheap payday loans offer small cash assistance of $100-$1500. The term of repayment is short which varies from 2-4 weeks. The interest rates are low and affordable so that you can repay the borrowed amount conveniently.
In order to be eligible you just need to fulfill simple criteria which require you to be:-
• 18 years of age
• having a valid bank account
• Must be holding a regular employment earning minimum of $1000.
Applying online is the most convenient way to apply for these loans. You can easily look around for a low rate deal and clinch it. You can apply in a hassle free way without wasting your time on time consuming formalities.
Getting funds is easy and you can procure the finances within 24 hours. Well its really quick because there is no paperwork, no credit check and no faxing formality is needed. You can get fast funds very easily.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/loans-articles/cheap-payday-loans-fast-assistance-to-those-in-need-1133281.html
Payroll Loans No Fax- Specialized Loans without any Faxing: By Alan Cruzs
The payroll loans no fax are the comfortable loans for all the borrowers. These loans may be acquired by the borrowers for any of their needs which arise uncertainly. These are the specialized loans which may be availed without any faxing. This means that the lenders offer these loans to you without any kind of faxing requirements. You may have these loans simply by filling form over internet.
The lenders issue these loans to the borrowers who need money before their payday. The borrowers may get easy cash before their next payday so that they may fulfill all of their needs easily without any postponement. They can get enough cash with these loans so as to fulfill their needs quickly. They even don’t need to go for other options along with these loans.
The payroll loans no fax may be acquired by you without faxing any paper to the lender. You need not worry about such complexities in these loans. You are just asked to go online and apply for these loans there only. For this, you are to fill the online form and then send that to the lender for approval. The lender will approve the loan and give you money directly without asking you to go to him for collecting money. Thus, it is much easy to get money through these loans using the internet.
With the help of these loans, you may fulfill your all types of needs which are to be fulfilled quickly. You may have these loans so fast that there is no need to postpone your needs for these loans. Thus, you can have these loans for fulfilling any of your urgent needs. Further, you may get small amount of funds even without offering any collateral. Thus, your needs are fulfilled more conveniently with these loans.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/loans-articles/payroll-loans-no-fax-specialized-loans-without-any-faxing-1133276.html
The lenders issue these loans to the borrowers who need money before their payday. The borrowers may get easy cash before their next payday so that they may fulfill all of their needs easily without any postponement. They can get enough cash with these loans so as to fulfill their needs quickly. They even don’t need to go for other options along with these loans.
The payroll loans no fax may be acquired by you without faxing any paper to the lender. You need not worry about such complexities in these loans. You are just asked to go online and apply for these loans there only. For this, you are to fill the online form and then send that to the lender for approval. The lender will approve the loan and give you money directly without asking you to go to him for collecting money. Thus, it is much easy to get money through these loans using the internet.
With the help of these loans, you may fulfill your all types of needs which are to be fulfilled quickly. You may have these loans so fast that there is no need to postpone your needs for these loans. Thus, you can have these loans for fulfilling any of your urgent needs. Further, you may get small amount of funds even without offering any collateral. Thus, your needs are fulfilled more conveniently with these loans.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/loans-articles/payroll-loans-no-fax-specialized-loans-without-any-faxing-1133276.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)