Tuesday, 9 August 2011
Sunday, 7 August 2011
Saturday, 6 August 2011
OPM proposes new pathways to employment
The rules would create a new umbrella program called the Pathways Program, which in some ways would replace former internship and student-hiring programs, as ordered by President Obama in December.
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The government’s hiring record for recent graduates has come under criticism recently for being discouraging and frustrating to applicants, and hiring methods in general are being simplified and streamlined.
The Pathways Program is to have three parts.
The existing Presidential Management Fellows Program for those with advanced degrees, mainly but not exclusively in the public administration area, is being kept. Participants work in two-year developmental programs and afterward may be converted into career positions. Its eligibility criteria will be loosened, and its cycle will be changed to better fit academic calendars.
Similarly, a new Recent Graduates Program will provide two-year developmental assignments with the chance for conversion to career status for those who have graduated or received certificates from qualifying educational institutions or programs within the previous two years. For service members who have military obligations that extend beyond those two years, the eligibility period would be six years.
Also, a new Internship Program is being created for high school, vocational and technical, undergraduate and graduate students to expose them to potential federal careers through internships, replacing several existing programs. Agencies could convert interns who successfully complete the program to any competitive service position for which the intern is qualified.
When making selections in any of the three programs, agencies will have to give preference to veterans who apply under standard government hiring rules.
Even if participants are not placed in federal jobs, the experience could make it more likely that they would pursue federal service later in their careers, OPM said.
Visa rules change in New Zealand
There has been a change in visa rules that will affect Chinese nationals looking to take cheap flights to New Zealand.
By Southall Travel -Friday, August 05, 2011 05:11 PM
New visa rules have come into affect that will impact on Chinese people taking cheap flights to New Zealand.Designed to make the process of travelling between the countries easier, the moves - implemented by Immigration New Zealand - include a relaxation of the rules regarding what documents are needed to support a visa application and efforts to encourage multiple-journey permits into New Zealand.
In addition, Immigration New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand have launched up a shared office in Shanghai, a facility that was opened by chief executive of the latter organisation Kevin Bowler.
He notes that China is one of his country's "fastest growing visitor markets", with the number of arrivals from the Asian nation rising from 20,000 to 130,000 between 1999 and June 2011.
"The additional effort by Immigration New Zealand in China will support this increasing demand and is likely to encourage greater numbers of single-destination travellers who will want to see more and do more in New Zealand," he states.
In order to obtain a visa to enter New Zealand, Chinese travellers - as well as those from certain other countries - need to have a valid passport, proof that they have plans to leave the country and be able to show they have enough money to support themselves during their stay.
However, British citizens who are able to produce evidence of their right to live permanently in the UK are able to visit the country for up to six months without requiring a visitor visa.
Written by Ruth Norris
Mass Media Scholarships Science and Engineering Fellowships Sponsored by The American Mathematical Society, USA
Scholarships Mass Media Fellowships for Undergraduate (senior year) and Postgraduate University Students funded by AMS and AAAS, USA -2012
Study Subject(s): Natural, Physical, Health, Engineering, Computer, Social Sciences, Mathematics, Media
College Scholarships Level: Undergraduate, Postgraduate
Scholarship Provider: AMS, AAAS
Students Scholarships can be taken at: USA
Eligibility:
To apply candidates must be either:
• Undergraduates in their senior year;
• Graduate or post graduate students;
• Within one year after graduation or defense of their thesis.
A candidate’s area of study must be in the natural, physical, health, engineering, computer or social sciences, or mathematics in order to apply. Students enrolled in English, journalism, science journalism, or other non-technical fields are not eligible for these fellowships. Successful applicants will attend an orientation at AAAS headquarters at the start of the summer and a wrap-up session at the end of the summer.
-They will prepare reports on the progress of their Fellowships throughout the summer.
Scholarship for International Students: Yes
Students Scholarship Description: The American Mathematical Society (AMS) sponsors a Mass Media Fellow each summer through the Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship program organized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). It is a highly competitive program designed to improve public understanding of science and technology by placing advanced science, mathematics and engineering students in newsrooms nationwide. Fellows work with media professionals to improve their communication skills and increase their understanding of the editorial process by which events and ideas become news. The program is available to college or university students (in their senior year, or in any graduate or post graduate level) in the natural, physical, health, engineering, computer or social sciences or mathematics with outstanding written and oral communication skills and a strong interest in learning about the media. The program has supported over 500 fellows.
Undergraduate, Postgraduate Scholarship for Students Application Deadline: January 15, 2012
Further Mass Media Scholarships Science and Engineering Information and Application detail click here
http://www.ams.org/programs/ams-fellowships/media-fellow/massmediafellow
Study Subject(s): Natural, Physical, Health, Engineering, Computer, Social Sciences, Mathematics, Media
College Scholarships Level: Undergraduate, Postgraduate
Scholarship Provider: AMS, AAAS
Students Scholarships can be taken at: USA
Eligibility:
To apply candidates must be either:
• Undergraduates in their senior year;
• Graduate or post graduate students;
• Within one year after graduation or defense of their thesis.
A candidate’s area of study must be in the natural, physical, health, engineering, computer or social sciences, or mathematics in order to apply. Students enrolled in English, journalism, science journalism, or other non-technical fields are not eligible for these fellowships. Successful applicants will attend an orientation at AAAS headquarters at the start of the summer and a wrap-up session at the end of the summer.
-They will prepare reports on the progress of their Fellowships throughout the summer.
Scholarship for International Students: Yes
Students Scholarship Description: The American Mathematical Society (AMS) sponsors a Mass Media Fellow each summer through the Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship program organized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). It is a highly competitive program designed to improve public understanding of science and technology by placing advanced science, mathematics and engineering students in newsrooms nationwide. Fellows work with media professionals to improve their communication skills and increase their understanding of the editorial process by which events and ideas become news. The program is available to college or university students (in their senior year, or in any graduate or post graduate level) in the natural, physical, health, engineering, computer or social sciences or mathematics with outstanding written and oral communication skills and a strong interest in learning about the media. The program has supported over 500 fellows.
Undergraduate, Postgraduate Scholarship for Students Application Deadline: January 15, 2012
Further Mass Media Scholarships Science and Engineering Information and Application detail click here
http://www.ams.org/programs/ams-fellowships/media-fellow/massmediafellow
A Conversation With: Jeremy Whelan
By Lucy De Souza
The Ross School graduate who grew up in Sag Harbor on being a global citizen, helping underprivileged Chinese students to speak English and the need for community service.
How did you find the program that allowed you to teach English to under privileged children in China?
I’m a part of this group out in San Diego called Chinese Service Learning and we were at the end of the year banquet with all of the people who worked with it and helped throughout the past year. At the banquet, I met a teacher who just happened to tell me about her going to China and teaching English for a few weeks. It’s through Tsing-Hua University in Beijing. We go into rural villages of all corners of China — from provinces in the Northwest to inner Mongolia in the Northeast and Southern provinces as well as Tibet. So I said, yeah, I want to go, let’s do it.
Why specifically were you interested in China rather than any other country?
Well I studied there for a semester before at Peking University and that’s when I first realized the passion I have for China and studying and understanding the diplomatic and government relationship between the United States and China. With that, I studied for four months and I learned political Chinese reform, U.S.-East Asia relations, Chinese ethics and the Chinese language as well as the history of China. It was so intriguing how important they are as a country in this 21st century.
Would you have ever expected going on such a unique journey or was it always something that you wanted to do?
I never grew up thinking I want to go help people in under privileged nations. The first time I did something like that was when I first got to San Diego. In a way to get involved and get active within the University of San Diego and the community, I took a role in organizing a community service trip to an orphanage twice a semester. We’d bring about 20 to 30 students and we’d have fun with them for the whole day…Then I went on a two week trip to Jamaica where we helped the community. We taught at the school, helped build a soccer field and donated laptops through another organization I was involved in called STEPS, Student Technology Exchange Program. [Later on] my professor said, hey do you want to go teach in China? I thought that was a great opportunity to not only serve fellow citizens of the world, but also as a fun, interesting opportunity to go to again.
How old were the students that you taught? What were they like?
Twelve to 15 and it was a middle school… The first class, when I got there, they were all just staring at me. They just stood there looking at me so attentively and you could tell that they had so much respect for teachers, let alone me as a foreigner. So right away they were eager and so enthusiastically wanted to learn…I know I wasn’t the best behaved middle schooler, so when I came to them I expected something similar. But they showed such subordination to me and the other teacher, Michael. They had so much respect and were very polite.
When you first began teaching, did you feel comfortable in the situation?
Well, I was under prepared. I didn’t really realize how serious it was that I was now in charge of 40 kids. And I thought, the whole trip there, oh I’m going to teach them the ABC’s. When I got there, the kids were proficient except for their spoken English. They were horrible just because they don’t habitually speak English. There is no one who speaks English around them. I was the only English speaker they ever met and a lot of the teachers have accents. They can learn the grammar very well, they can learn the vocab very well, but they don’t even know how to say the word out loud. But after the first class, the first hour, I realized here’s what I have to teach them. They already know their ABC’s, I’ll teach them other things. I felt a lot better about the situation.
Once you knew what they needed to learn, how was the day scheduled and what did you teach exactly?
It was about six to seven hours a day. Classes would start at 8:00 and we got out at 5:30, but we had some breaks in between. We would spend seven hours a day with that one class and they didn’t learn anything else but English. [We’d teach them] how to hear and how to say words. Like with their body parts, we would do Simon Says…they would get the body parts down in English and do the pronunciation correctly as well as having fun. Another thing is we would say, “How are you?” and instead of “I’m fine, thank you,” we would teach them to say “I’m awesome, I’m amazing, I’m wonderful, I’m fantastic.”
What was the hardest challenge when working with them?
The hardest challenge with working with them was the weather conditions and the conditions of the schooling room; it was hot and there were many flies around. You would try to be very positive and upbeat and flies would be attacking you all the time. They were open rooms and windows and obviously there’s no A/C or anything like that. Otherwise, the students were really energetic and really eager to learn and very few of them were shy…This one kid Tom, [instead of taking breaks] would talk with me and learn more English. We’d go over the lesson we just went over…going over the sounds and pronouncing the words correctly. He never took an actual break, he just spoke English for the whole seven hours of the teaching. It was great seeing him so motivated.
What advice do you have for people who really want go overseas and work with people who are under privileged?
Do it and don’t think twice. Be prepared that it’s not going to be like a hotel out here, it’s not going to be like Sag Harbor, but the people you [meet] will be just as spirited. The more you venture out the better I say…I think as long as you’re willing to go to a place where you’re not going to be able to sleep on a comfortable bed, you can go.
Do you have any future plans to go back to China or other places in the world?
Not currently. I’m working on hopefully getting a job that would call for me to go back to China, whether it’s in government or private sector. But I’m always looking and I’m always willing to go on a moment’s notice. Global citizen, I aspire to be.
The Sims Scholarships in Science and Technology, International Scholarships Canada
Scholarships for Full-time undergraduate students entering Year 2 of an honours program in Science, Physical Geography, Mathematics or Computing and Computer Electronics at Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada.
Study Subject(s): Science, Physical Geography, Mathematics or Computing and Computer Electronics
College Scholarships Level: honours
Scholarship Provider: Sims family
Scholarships can be taken at: Canada
Eligibility:
-Full-time undergraduate students entering Year 2 of an honours program in science, physical geography, mathematics or computing and computer electronics;
-preference given to female candidates;
-must display leadership abilities; good academic standing;
-strong consideration will be given to positive evidence of leadership and contributions to university or community life
Scholarship for International Students: No
Scholarships Description: Endowed scholarship; established by the Sims family to encourage young women to continue their studies in science and mathematics
Scholarship Application Deadline: 17 October 2011
Further The Sims Scholarships in Science and Technology Information and Application detail click here
http://www.wlu.ca/student_awards_search/story.php?id=980
Study Subject(s): Science, Physical Geography, Mathematics or Computing and Computer Electronics
College Scholarships Level: honours
Scholarship Provider: Sims family
Scholarships can be taken at: Canada
Eligibility:
-Full-time undergraduate students entering Year 2 of an honours program in science, physical geography, mathematics or computing and computer electronics;
-preference given to female candidates;
-must display leadership abilities; good academic standing;
-strong consideration will be given to positive evidence of leadership and contributions to university or community life
Scholarship for International Students: No
Scholarships Description: Endowed scholarship; established by the Sims family to encourage young women to continue their studies in science and mathematics
Scholarship Application Deadline: 17 October 2011
Further The Sims Scholarships in Science and Technology Information and Application detail click here
http://www.wlu.ca/student_awards_search/story.php?id=980
Thursday, 4 August 2011
Paid Internships in the United States
Paid Internships in the United States
Paid internships in the United States are only open to international students interested in a J-1 exchange visa training program or optional practical training (OPT)
Are you an international student currently in the United States? Are you looking for a professional internship for your optional practical training (OPT)? Whether you are an international student in the U.S. or are planning to come to the U.S. for an internship, Global Crossroad’s USA Internship Program offers you valuable hands-on experience and opportunities for professional development. Our unique and rewarding “Internship in USA Program” unites the U.S. business world with qualified interns from all over the world. The program provides international candidates with the prospect of gaining work experience with reputable U.S. companies in areas as diverse as management, hospitality, tourism, research analyst, accounting, marketing, engineering, construction, and customer services.
Requirements/Highlights
• Minimum commitment of 12 months
• Fluent in spoken and written English
• Eligible to apply for J1 visa
• High work and personal ethics and the willingness to work hard
• This is a J-1 exchange program, so it is only available to international students
• Foreign students currently in the United States may join our program in their OPT period
• Must have either related work experience and/or educational background in your field of interest
• A valuable training opportunity (a non-paying position)
India's foreign office to get youth boost | TwoCircles.net
New Delhi : In a pioneering initiative, India's external affairs ministry is set to open its doors to young scholars for an internship programme that will enable it to tide over manpower crunch in the short run and help augment much-needed research capacity in the formulation of foreign policy.
"The internship programme will provide an opportunity for the officers of the ministry to interact with young thinking minds with brilliant academic record from reputed institutions," the external affairs ministry said here Wednesday while advertising the programme.
It promises to be a win-win arrangement. "Ideas from budding scholars will prove to be of importance to the practitioners of diplomacy in the ministry," the ministry said.
"At the same time, it will provide the interns with an excellent opportunity to familiarise themselves with the process of the foreign policy formulation in government of India," the ministry said.
The programme, valid for a maximum period of six months, will be open to all Indian citizens with at least a degree in humanities. The interns will be attached to a territorial division of the ministry and will be required to present a report or paper at the end of their internship to the Head of Division.
Interns will be carefully scrutinized by a selection committee and will be accepted after a security clearance.
With India's global footprints expanding and New Delhi increasingly being seen as an emerging global power, the workload on the Indian diplomatic corps has grown manifold.
However, the ministry continues to reel under a serious manpower crunch as there is limited quota for fresh recruitment every year. The young interns will provide the much-needed logistics and research support with niche areas like climate change and energy security becoming increasingly important in global negotiations.
India has one of the smallest foreign office with less than 700 diplomats posted in over 120 missions across the globe and at the headquarters in New Delhi. Two years ago, the cabinet had approved the creation of 30 new posts each year over the next decade.
"The internship programme will provide an opportunity for the officers of the ministry to interact with young thinking minds with brilliant academic record from reputed institutions," the external affairs ministry said here Wednesday while advertising the programme.
It promises to be a win-win arrangement. "Ideas from budding scholars will prove to be of importance to the practitioners of diplomacy in the ministry," the ministry said.
"At the same time, it will provide the interns with an excellent opportunity to familiarise themselves with the process of the foreign policy formulation in government of India," the ministry said.
The programme, valid for a maximum period of six months, will be open to all Indian citizens with at least a degree in humanities. The interns will be attached to a territorial division of the ministry and will be required to present a report or paper at the end of their internship to the Head of Division.
Interns will be carefully scrutinized by a selection committee and will be accepted after a security clearance.
With India's global footprints expanding and New Delhi increasingly being seen as an emerging global power, the workload on the Indian diplomatic corps has grown manifold.
However, the ministry continues to reel under a serious manpower crunch as there is limited quota for fresh recruitment every year. The young interns will provide the much-needed logistics and research support with niche areas like climate change and energy security becoming increasingly important in global negotiations.
India has one of the smallest foreign office with less than 700 diplomats posted in over 120 missions across the globe and at the headquarters in New Delhi. Two years ago, the cabinet had approved the creation of 30 new posts each year over the next decade.
Meaning of the Idiom : hair of the dog
Quote
1. Quote - guess what the slang means.
“This is the trick I told you about last night. Hair of the dog. Let’s just call it that.”
- Jeff after a night of drinking with Jason.
- Jeff after a night of drinking with Jason.
2. Video - Watch the video before learning the definition.
Definition: what made you sick will make you better
3. Use - Learn how the slang is used.
After a night of extreme alcohol consumption, you will not feel well. You may have a hangover. A little more alcohol can sometimes help you feel better. So what made you sick also cures you, just like the story of the hair of the dog.
There is no dog involved in this hangover cure. Of course, Jason doesn’t know that when Jeff tells him some hair of the dog will make him feel better. He finds a dog, and just when he is about to eat some hair, Ella saves him by explaining that hair of the dog just means more alcohol in the morning.
Do you have a favorite hangover cure? Or does hair of the dog work for you?
Examples
1. Examples - Hear some example sentences.
“It looks like you drank too much last night, why don’t you try some hair of the dog.”
“I don’t get hangovers. I just need to save some alcohol for the morning. A little hair of the dog tomorrow and I’ll be just fine.”
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
Considering a Term in Australia? No Worries, Mate!
Beyond kangaroos, koalas and Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, the largest island in the world offers a host of activities and experiences to satisfy even the most discerning adventure-seeking, study abroad student. Imagine ending a day of study by swimming with sharks, climbing the Sydney Bridge or visiting prison settlements in Tasmania – a study abroad in Australia is anything but ordinary!
The number of international students at Australian universities grew by 15.5 per cent over the last year according to IDP Education Australia, Australia’s leading international education and development organization. Its latest statistical report, International Students at Australian Universities, shows that 174,641 international students were enrolled in Australian universities this semester, representing 20.3 per cent of the total university student population.
If that’s not enough incentive, private colleges in Australia have recently been given the green light to offer associate degrees. About 12 universities offer 50 different varieties of the two-year program common among US community colleges.
Ranked as the sixth largest country in the world, Australia is approximately the same size as mainland USA and 50 per cent larger than Europe. It has the lowest population density however with only two people per square kilometer.
Australia’s population, its climate and the fact that it is the driest continent on Earth make it a fabulous study abroad destination, year round. This continent is fringed with over 7,000 beaches just waiting to be enjoyed. In the Australian winter you can combine your studies with skiing in the southern states one day and a dive into the balmy waters of the Great Barrier Reef the next. These conditions make beach living, outdoor barbecues, and a huge variety of sports a total way of life. Aussies truly believe life is for living so your schedule outside of classroom time will definitely be full.
The seasons in Australia are the reverse of the northern hemisphere, so make sure you’re applying at the right time. You should also have a good idea of the climate for your destination before you pack your bags with the wrong gear. The summer months are December to February, which are warm to hot and suitable for lightweight clothes. For the winter months running from June to August, warmer clothes plus a jacket or light coat are advisable. Only some tropical areas are suitable for lightweight clothing all year round.
Study abroad students will need a valid passport or similar certificate of identification. Everyone, except travelers with Australian or New Zealand passports require a visa or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) to enter.
There are a variety of programs with itineraries that can include extensive field experience or hands-on learning opportunities. Many short courses are travel based, allowing students to see many of Australia’s sites while studying one specific topic. Imagine a morning in the classroom and then after lunch everyone gathers their gear for a short mountain bike or rock climbing trip in the outback.
Don’t worry about falling behind on your education plans as there are many coordinators in Australia to assist you with transferring your credits to your home university. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore a variety of topics such as, Australian Aboriginal Studies, Australia Tourism, International Business and Tropical Marine Ecology.
Whether you choose to study abroad for a semester, a year, your full undergrad, some Master’s courses or complete an internship, Australia has a course for you. Study in Australia, learn some local customs and sample the bush tucker.
The number of international students at Australian universities grew by 15.5 per cent over the last year according to IDP Education Australia, Australia’s leading international education and development organization. Its latest statistical report, International Students at Australian Universities, shows that 174,641 international students were enrolled in Australian universities this semester, representing 20.3 per cent of the total university student population.
If that’s not enough incentive, private colleges in Australia have recently been given the green light to offer associate degrees. About 12 universities offer 50 different varieties of the two-year program common among US community colleges.
Ranked as the sixth largest country in the world, Australia is approximately the same size as mainland USA and 50 per cent larger than Europe. It has the lowest population density however with only two people per square kilometer.
Australia’s population, its climate and the fact that it is the driest continent on Earth make it a fabulous study abroad destination, year round. This continent is fringed with over 7,000 beaches just waiting to be enjoyed. In the Australian winter you can combine your studies with skiing in the southern states one day and a dive into the balmy waters of the Great Barrier Reef the next. These conditions make beach living, outdoor barbecues, and a huge variety of sports a total way of life. Aussies truly believe life is for living so your schedule outside of classroom time will definitely be full.
The seasons in Australia are the reverse of the northern hemisphere, so make sure you’re applying at the right time. You should also have a good idea of the climate for your destination before you pack your bags with the wrong gear. The summer months are December to February, which are warm to hot and suitable for lightweight clothes. For the winter months running from June to August, warmer clothes plus a jacket or light coat are advisable. Only some tropical areas are suitable for lightweight clothing all year round.
Study abroad students will need a valid passport or similar certificate of identification. Everyone, except travelers with Australian or New Zealand passports require a visa or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) to enter.
There are a variety of programs with itineraries that can include extensive field experience or hands-on learning opportunities. Many short courses are travel based, allowing students to see many of Australia’s sites while studying one specific topic. Imagine a morning in the classroom and then after lunch everyone gathers their gear for a short mountain bike or rock climbing trip in the outback.
Don’t worry about falling behind on your education plans as there are many coordinators in Australia to assist you with transferring your credits to your home university. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore a variety of topics such as, Australian Aboriginal Studies, Australia Tourism, International Business and Tropical Marine Ecology.
Whether you choose to study abroad for a semester, a year, your full undergrad, some Master’s courses or complete an internship, Australia has a course for you. Study in Australia, learn some local customs and sample the bush tucker.
Know Why IELTS Test is Essential For Applicants Seeking Immigration Or to Study Abroad?
Speak to a person contemplating immigration or study overseas and ask them to point out one required step in the entire screening process that they would like to skip. Most of them are bound to answer that they would prefer to escape the IELTS test, if possible. This is because IELTS test not only adds on additional expenses to their immigration procedure but also requires them to devote a good amount of time for the preparation of the test. In immigration to certain destinations and under some specific programs, like Australia General skilled migration program, the immigration programs require that both the principal applicant and their spouse appear for the IELTS test as well. While this makes the Immigration process more expensive and tougher, what applicants do not realize is the fact that IELTS test is only for their benefit. Read further and find out how?
Is it unfair?
There are applicants who excel in the occupational field of their specialisation and find it unfair that the decision on their immigration application is not dependent on their occupational excellence alone but also on their language skills. This is based on the observation that others who might have not achieved the same level of occupational excellence as theirs but have fluency in the English language are granted the immigration visa easily.
Students planning to study overseas have the same concerns. In their opinion, the deciding factor for course and university selection should be the marks scored by them at their school or university level and IELTS puts them at a disadvantage to others who have better language skills.
Importance of IELTS test
So why has the IELTS test become such an integral part of the immigration applications for almost all Immigration destinations and programs? And why are the applicants made to undergo the strenuous IELTS preparation process and spend huge amount of funds in undergoing these tests? More importantly, what we need to think about is, why is it that no options are provided for applicants who are unable to qualify through this test?
Earlier system of assessing English language skills
The reason is that English language skills have always been a key selection criterion under the points based system, from the very start. In the past the Immigration officers used to take one-to-one interview to judge the English language skills of the applicant and decide how many points they would like to credit to the applicant.
But this kind of system created animosities and unfair situations, for both Visa processing office and immigration applicants. There are several reasons why this system of evaluation of language skills of the applicants is replaced by the IELTS test.
Firstly, the immigration processing delays soared high as the visa officers must take all interviews on an individual basis to take the decision about each of the applicant. When seen in context of queues of thousands of applicants, this meant years of additional processing delays. Secondly, this made the language skills assessment highly subjective as it was based on understanding of the visa officer conducting the interview.
Also, in conducting such one to one interviews, the Immigrant applicant could not be tested for all key areas of language proficiency, that includes Understanding, Reading, speaking and listening.
Introduction of IELTS
Need was therefore felt for an objective test that was internationally acceptable, standardised benchmark and assessment tool. Standardisation was very important so as to provide equal opportunity to all applicants. Thus, IELTS became an integral part of the immigration process and applications, especially for skilled professionals, independent immigration, General skilled Migrant and in some cases Green card visa applications as well. IELTS test is thereby based on evaluating applicant’s skills in all four components of the language, including speaking, listening, understanding and reading.
IELTS is thereby also made an important requirement for students who opt to study overseas to majority of popular destinations, like Canada, Australia, UK, USA and New Zealand. Language is clearly one key area that can and does create difficult situations, especially when applicants do not have English as their primary language and have never had exposure to international language accents.
For students who are not very fluent in the language, it can literally turn out to be a nightmare as they land in a course and university where they cannot understand the instructions and are unable to communicate with teachers and rest of the peer group. Add to that, the expenses of staying away from home along with expensive overseas education.
The IELTS test thereby gives an opportunity to all such immigrants to avert any such difficult situation and check on their language skill levels, before they select the course and university for studying abroad. Most of the international educational institutions offer Language development courses for international students, who are not very fluent with the language. The students can first take such foundation and language developments courses for specified period and then they are permitted to take admission into the course of their choice.
So, IELTS test is an objective English language assessment tool that is internationally acceptable by Government and immigration educational institutions agencies alike. It has therefore become an essential part of the Immigration visa process and for study overseas applicants. Hence, an applicant is advised to prepare well, if they wish to earn some points by scoring well in various test modules. Seeking advice from an immigration expert is a wise decision to give a direction to your IELTS preparation as well as your immigration process, in general.
Is it unfair?
There are applicants who excel in the occupational field of their specialisation and find it unfair that the decision on their immigration application is not dependent on their occupational excellence alone but also on their language skills. This is based on the observation that others who might have not achieved the same level of occupational excellence as theirs but have fluency in the English language are granted the immigration visa easily.
Students planning to study overseas have the same concerns. In their opinion, the deciding factor for course and university selection should be the marks scored by them at their school or university level and IELTS puts them at a disadvantage to others who have better language skills.
Importance of IELTS test
So why has the IELTS test become such an integral part of the immigration applications for almost all Immigration destinations and programs? And why are the applicants made to undergo the strenuous IELTS preparation process and spend huge amount of funds in undergoing these tests? More importantly, what we need to think about is, why is it that no options are provided for applicants who are unable to qualify through this test?
Earlier system of assessing English language skills
The reason is that English language skills have always been a key selection criterion under the points based system, from the very start. In the past the Immigration officers used to take one-to-one interview to judge the English language skills of the applicant and decide how many points they would like to credit to the applicant.
But this kind of system created animosities and unfair situations, for both Visa processing office and immigration applicants. There are several reasons why this system of evaluation of language skills of the applicants is replaced by the IELTS test.
Firstly, the immigration processing delays soared high as the visa officers must take all interviews on an individual basis to take the decision about each of the applicant. When seen in context of queues of thousands of applicants, this meant years of additional processing delays. Secondly, this made the language skills assessment highly subjective as it was based on understanding of the visa officer conducting the interview.
Also, in conducting such one to one interviews, the Immigrant applicant could not be tested for all key areas of language proficiency, that includes Understanding, Reading, speaking and listening.
Introduction of IELTS
Need was therefore felt for an objective test that was internationally acceptable, standardised benchmark and assessment tool. Standardisation was very important so as to provide equal opportunity to all applicants. Thus, IELTS became an integral part of the immigration process and applications, especially for skilled professionals, independent immigration, General skilled Migrant and in some cases Green card visa applications as well. IELTS test is thereby based on evaluating applicant’s skills in all four components of the language, including speaking, listening, understanding and reading.
IELTS is thereby also made an important requirement for students who opt to study overseas to majority of popular destinations, like Canada, Australia, UK, USA and New Zealand. Language is clearly one key area that can and does create difficult situations, especially when applicants do not have English as their primary language and have never had exposure to international language accents.
For students who are not very fluent in the language, it can literally turn out to be a nightmare as they land in a course and university where they cannot understand the instructions and are unable to communicate with teachers and rest of the peer group. Add to that, the expenses of staying away from home along with expensive overseas education.
The IELTS test thereby gives an opportunity to all such immigrants to avert any such difficult situation and check on their language skill levels, before they select the course and university for studying abroad. Most of the international educational institutions offer Language development courses for international students, who are not very fluent with the language. The students can first take such foundation and language developments courses for specified period and then they are permitted to take admission into the course of their choice.
So, IELTS test is an objective English language assessment tool that is internationally acceptable by Government and immigration educational institutions agencies alike. It has therefore become an essential part of the Immigration visa process and for study overseas applicants. Hence, an applicant is advised to prepare well, if they wish to earn some points by scoring well in various test modules. Seeking advice from an immigration expert is a wise decision to give a direction to your IELTS preparation as well as your immigration process, in general.
Top Twenty Questions About the IELTS Exam
1. What level of English do I need to take IELTS?
⇒ IELTS can provide a test result for all candidates from beginner to very advanced. Remember, however, that the examination is pitched at intermediate level and above.
2. How often can I sit IELTS?
⇒ There is no limit to the number of times you may sit IELTS.
3. How often is IELTS available?
⇒ There are no set dates for IELTS. Most test centres offer the test at least once a month and busy centres may conduct more sessions at peak time of the year.
4. Where is IELTS available?
⇒ There are over 250 approved test centres in over 105 different countries. Contact UCLES, the British Council or IDP Education Australia for an up-to-date list of centres.
5. Do I receive a certificate?
⇒ No. You will receive a Test Report Form (TRF) from the centre where you sat the test showing your band score in each part of the test.
6. How long is a test score valid?
⇒ As with all language proficiency tests, a result has a maximum ‘shelf life’ of approximately 2 years. To be valid after 2 years, an IELTS TRF should be accompanied by evidence that you have maintained your level of English through your studies or effective use of the language.
7. What score do I need to get into university?
⇒ This depends upon the institution to which you are applying. While some will accept you at Band 5, most universities require a minimum of 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 6 in each sub-test. Some courses with a heavy emphasis on language may ask for a higher score. You should seek advice form the Faculty or University to which you are applying.
8. Do I need to pass each paper to pass IELTS?
⇒ There is no actual ‘pass mark’ for IELTS. You will receive a TRF which shows your performance on the 9 band scale in each of the four modules. The four scores are then combined to produce your overall band score. There are no IELTS certificates – just this form.
9. How long does it take to get an IELTS result?
⇒ You will receive your result within two weeks of sitting the test. The result will come from the centre where you sat the test.
10. If I reach a satisfactory level in one part of the test but not in other parts, do I have to sit the whole test again?
⇒ Yes. You have to sit all four Modules each time you sit IELTS. Your score on all parts of the test will be recorded on each TRF.
11. How long does it take to go from one Band level to the next?
⇒ This depends on your personal circumstances – your motivation to learn, your exposure to English and the amount of time you spend studying.
12. Do I have to study at an English language school before I take IELTS?
⇒ No. However, it is important to be familiar with the types of questions you will meet in the test. Spending time in an IELTS preparation class with other students will certainly be helpful because IELTS differs from other English examinations.
13. Do I have to sit all parts of the test on the same day?
⇒ The Listening, Reading and Writing modules are taken on the same day. The Speaking test is usually on this day but may be held up to two days later – at the discretion of the centre.
14. Is IELTS available on computer?
⇒ A computerised version of IELTS – known as CBIELTS – will be available at some centres for the Listening and Reading tests. You can choose whether to take the Writing test on screen or on paper. However, you will always be able to take the pen and paper version of the test at all centres.
15. What age must I be to sit IELTS?
⇒ IELTS is not recommended for candidates under the age of 16.
16. Is there a difference between an Academic and a General Training IELTS score?
⇒ Yes. The Academic module is designed to assess whether you are ready to study in an English language medium at undergraduate or postgraduate level. A General Training score cannot be used for entry to a university as the emphasis of GT is on basic survival skills in a broad social and educational context. The results are not interchangeable.
17. Which module should I sit if I want to emigrate to Australia or New Zealand?
⇒ You should sit the General Training module. A score of 5.5 is generally required.
18. How many times will I hear the Listening module?
⇒ There are four sections to the Listening module and you will hear each part ONCE only.
19. Will I be penalised if I cannot spell a word properly in the Listening test?
⇒ Poor spelling and grammar in your answers will be penalised though minor misspellings are overlooked. Both British and American spelling is accepted, however.
20. Is there a choice of questions in the Writing Test?
⇒ No. There will be one Task 1 question and one Task 2 question. You must answer both questions in the time allowed.
Where to Find Online Jobs For College Students
Most college students find themselves working part-time to pay for expenses such as books, lab fees, meals, and everyday expenses. Traditionally, the best jobs have been either on-campus jobs such as tutoring and helping out others, or working off-campus at restaurants and other establishments. The problem with off-campus jobs is they are typically evening and weekend jobs, and pretty labor intensive, which leaves you very tired.
What if you could work at home (or in your dorm), work your own hours, and make just as much or more money? Well heck yea! That sounds good doesn’t it! A lot of students these days turn to the internet for a way to make a few extra dollars, however there is SOOO much HYPE out there it’s hard to determine what’s legitimate and what’s a scam. The fact is that most are SCAMS, or ridiculously expensive to get into, and not very practical.
So where do you find online jobs for college students that are practical?
First, let’s realize that any viable online job will require some effort on your part, and there is no such thing as something for nothing. You are not going to “get rich quick”. If you see something that says you will make gobs of cash overnight, don’t fall for it. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Here is a list of practical online jobs where you can make some real money, listed in order of income potential.
#1 – Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate Marketing is great from the standpoint that you can start in this business for next to nothing (You need an internet connection and a computer), and the income potential is only limited by YOU. What you need to succeed in this business is a good work ethic, a plan, and a little Internet Marketing training. You can find a plan, FREE training, and all the resources you will need at the bottom of this page, but you will need to supply the desire to succeed. You can easily find yourself generating plenty of extra cash, and a way to pay off those student loans as well!
#2 – Writing Articles
Articles are in high demand on the internet, and there are plenty companies and marketers that will pay you for quality articles. We are talking 300-500 word articles in most cases. You can find business in forums, online ads, and places like AssociatedContent.com and Elance.com. Top writers make upwards of $5000/month, but keep in mind they’ve been doing it awhile. If you can write quality articles and you are consistent you can probably pull in $1000-$2000 per month after you get going in it.
#3 – Paid Surveys
Yes, you can make money doing online surveys. No, it’s not going to make you rich. Finding the right survey companies and participating in focus groups is the key. You will find a lot of products that claim to have the best resources for finding quality survey companies, but it’s been my experience that you can pretty much find them on your own by doing some research online. Check out forums and blogs related to paid surveys. You can probably pull in $1000/month if you do your homework and at least 3-5 surveys a day.
Conclusion
My personal recommendation out of the list above is #1. The reason being, that you can put in the same amount of work as #2 and #3 and have residual income flowing in from your work. It’s working smart in my opinion. Additionally, the income you can make is virtually unlimited. You can start small, get some cash flowing, and then start generating multiple streams of income.
No matter what your decision, good luck, and I applaud your hard work getting a higher education. Knowledge is power!
What if you could work at home (or in your dorm), work your own hours, and make just as much or more money? Well heck yea! That sounds good doesn’t it! A lot of students these days turn to the internet for a way to make a few extra dollars, however there is SOOO much HYPE out there it’s hard to determine what’s legitimate and what’s a scam. The fact is that most are SCAMS, or ridiculously expensive to get into, and not very practical.
So where do you find online jobs for college students that are practical?
First, let’s realize that any viable online job will require some effort on your part, and there is no such thing as something for nothing. You are not going to “get rich quick”. If you see something that says you will make gobs of cash overnight, don’t fall for it. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Here is a list of practical online jobs where you can make some real money, listed in order of income potential.
#1 – Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate Marketing is great from the standpoint that you can start in this business for next to nothing (You need an internet connection and a computer), and the income potential is only limited by YOU. What you need to succeed in this business is a good work ethic, a plan, and a little Internet Marketing training. You can find a plan, FREE training, and all the resources you will need at the bottom of this page, but you will need to supply the desire to succeed. You can easily find yourself generating plenty of extra cash, and a way to pay off those student loans as well!
#2 – Writing Articles
Articles are in high demand on the internet, and there are plenty companies and marketers that will pay you for quality articles. We are talking 300-500 word articles in most cases. You can find business in forums, online ads, and places like AssociatedContent.com and Elance.com. Top writers make upwards of $5000/month, but keep in mind they’ve been doing it awhile. If you can write quality articles and you are consistent you can probably pull in $1000-$2000 per month after you get going in it.
#3 – Paid Surveys
Yes, you can make money doing online surveys. No, it’s not going to make you rich. Finding the right survey companies and participating in focus groups is the key. You will find a lot of products that claim to have the best resources for finding quality survey companies, but it’s been my experience that you can pretty much find them on your own by doing some research online. Check out forums and blogs related to paid surveys. You can probably pull in $1000/month if you do your homework and at least 3-5 surveys a day.
Conclusion
My personal recommendation out of the list above is #1. The reason being, that you can put in the same amount of work as #2 and #3 and have residual income flowing in from your work. It’s working smart in my opinion. Additionally, the income you can make is virtually unlimited. You can start small, get some cash flowing, and then start generating multiple streams of income.
No matter what your decision, good luck, and I applaud your hard work getting a higher education. Knowledge is power!
Tuesday, 2 August 2011
14 Free and Simple Digital Media Tools
With so many free (or inexpensive) useful tech tools out there, editing video, audio, or photos doesn’t have to cost a fortune – or leave you with a headache. If your digital media needs are simple, your tools can be simple, too.
We rounded up the best ones for your consideration.
AUDIO EDITING
Audacity: A simple, yet very effective, open-source multi-track audio editing software. You can import audio files, chop them up, fade them in and out, or use more advanced editing features, then export the entire project as an MP3 or WAV file. Audacity can be used with Windows, Mac, and Linux, is compatible with a variety of audio file formats, and can even convert analog audio to digital.
Wavosaur: Although it only works on Windows operating systems and is barely half a megabyte in size, Wavosaur still has some pretty advanced features, like cross-fade loops, vocal removal, batch processing, and more.
Ardour: Only designed for Mac and Linux, but crammed full of advanced features, this one might be a bit more complex to navigate. Called a “digital audio workstation” suitable for professionals, users can record, mix, and edit their audio cost-free – and consult the support feature if they get stuck.
WavePad: Another full-featured audio editor full of effects like echo, amplify, or text-to-speech and voice-changer functions. It’s also compatible with the full range of audio and music file formats. The free version is only available for Macs, however.
PHOTO EDITING
Pixlr: Very popular and user-friendly, Pixlr lets you upload photos from your computer and edit them right in your browser. There are no downloads necessary, unless you want to grab and edit screenshots using Pixlr Grabber. For simple, one-click edits, try Pixlr Express; for “retro vintage” effects, visit Pixlr-o-matic.
Picasa: Google’s photo editing tool, Picasa is a free download, runs on every operating system, and allows any number of simple editing and organizing features. Reduce redeye, crop, retouch, make a slideshow, and batch upload, or share photos using Picasa Web Albums.
Picnik: Edit photos online with this browser-based software; no downloads required here, either. Picnik, like Pixlr, has a lively, upbeat interface and offers access to special effects as well as simple edits like cropping and color retouching. For more advanced features, users can upgrade to the Premium version for a small fee per month.
VIDEO EDITING
MovieMaker: The Microsoft version of Apple’s iMovie, MovieMaker is a simple video editing software for Windows that turns photos and video clips into polished digital movies, using special effects, transitions, captions, sharing features, and more.
Cinefx: An open-source digital media player and editor, Cinefx is compatible on both Windows and Mac operating systems and lets users navigate simple, yet professional, video editing features and add a bunch of special effects.
MovieStorm: If you want to create 3D animated movies, this is the free download for you. MovieStorm’s goal is to make 3D animation accessible to teachers and students, businesses, and amateur filmmakers, so it’s easy to use, but full of high-quality, industry-standard features.
StoryBoard Pro: Designed specifically for students and teachers by Bill Bierden, an Apple Distinguished Educator, StoryBoard Pro allows users to plan ahead for their video projects. Although it’s not exactly about importing video footage and editing (it’s more of a precursor to that), students can enter shot descriptions, planned lengths, and editing order, create and print storyboards, and upload a variety of media to illustrate each shot.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOWS
PhotoStory: A free, Windows-only audio slide show software that allows users to upload photos and audio and add captions, narration, and transitions to make a smooth multimedia piece. When it’s done, it’s exportable as a Windows Media Video (WMV) file.
Animoto: A very simple video or photo slide show software that’s excellent for beginners. It can automatically sync up with Facebook, Flickr, Photobucket, SmugMug, and Picasa albums and allows users to upload music or select from Animoto’s audio archive. Only the Lite version is free, however, which means that users can only create 30-second slide shows. Still, upgrading to Plus is only $5 a month or $30 a year.
PhotoPeach: Also very simple – perhaps even simpler – PhotoPeach offers users the ability to upload and arrange photos, add music and captions, and share on Facebook, Twitter, or a blog.
We rounded up the best ones for your consideration.
AUDIO EDITING
Audacity: A simple, yet very effective, open-source multi-track audio editing software. You can import audio files, chop them up, fade them in and out, or use more advanced editing features, then export the entire project as an MP3 or WAV file. Audacity can be used with Windows, Mac, and Linux, is compatible with a variety of audio file formats, and can even convert analog audio to digital.
Wavosaur: Although it only works on Windows operating systems and is barely half a megabyte in size, Wavosaur still has some pretty advanced features, like cross-fade loops, vocal removal, batch processing, and more.
Ardour: Only designed for Mac and Linux, but crammed full of advanced features, this one might be a bit more complex to navigate. Called a “digital audio workstation” suitable for professionals, users can record, mix, and edit their audio cost-free – and consult the support feature if they get stuck.
WavePad: Another full-featured audio editor full of effects like echo, amplify, or text-to-speech and voice-changer functions. It’s also compatible with the full range of audio and music file formats. The free version is only available for Macs, however.
PHOTO EDITING
Pixlr
Picasa: Google’s photo editing tool, Picasa is a free download, runs on every operating system, and allows any number of simple editing and organizing features. Reduce redeye, crop, retouch, make a slideshow, and batch upload, or share photos using Picasa Web Albums.
Picnik: Edit photos online with this browser-based software; no downloads required here, either. Picnik, like Pixlr, has a lively, upbeat interface and offers access to special effects as well as simple edits like cropping and color retouching. For more advanced features, users can upgrade to the Premium version for a small fee per month.
VIDEO EDITING
MovieMaker: The Microsoft version of Apple’s iMovie, MovieMaker is a simple video editing software for Windows that turns photos and video clips into polished digital movies, using special effects, transitions, captions, sharing features, and more.
Cinefx: An open-source digital media player and editor, Cinefx is compatible on both Windows and Mac operating systems and lets users navigate simple, yet professional, video editing features and add a bunch of special effects.
MovieStorm: If you want to create 3D animated movies, this is the free download for you. MovieStorm’s goal is to make 3D animation accessible to teachers and students, businesses, and amateur filmmakers, so it’s easy to use, but full of high-quality, industry-standard features.
StoryBoard Pro: Designed specifically for students and teachers by Bill Bierden, an Apple Distinguished Educator, StoryBoard Pro allows users to plan ahead for their video projects. Although it’s not exactly about importing video footage and editing (it’s more of a precursor to that), students can enter shot descriptions, planned lengths, and editing order, create and print storyboards, and upload a variety of media to illustrate each shot.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOWS
PhotoStory: A free, Windows-only audio slide show software that allows users to upload photos and audio and add captions, narration, and transitions to make a smooth multimedia piece. When it’s done, it’s exportable as a Windows Media Video (WMV) file.
Animoto: A very simple video or photo slide show software that’s excellent for beginners. It can automatically sync up with Facebook, Flickr, Photobucket, SmugMug, and Picasa albums and allows users to upload music or select from Animoto’s audio archive. Only the Lite version is free, however, which means that users can only create 30-second slide shows. Still, upgrading to Plus is only $5 a month or $30 a year.
PhotoPeach: Also very simple – perhaps even simpler – PhotoPeach offers users the ability to upload and arrange photos, add music and captions, and share on Facebook, Twitter, or a blog.
Paid internships in hotel management for international students.
Dear Hotel Management Students,
International Hotel Management Internship program (Singapore) provides college students with Guaranteed Paid Internship (6-9 months) placement in premier hospitality internships in Singapore. You control the entire placement process, as you work with a Perfect Studies Coordinator as they assist in revising your resume, before scheduling interviews with our large network of hospitality companies. There are many aspects to a hospitality and tourism internship, such as: operation management, event planning, marketing, and customer service. If you have ever thought of working at a hotel, resort, or conference center, a hospitality internship is right for you. We have arranged the International Hotel Management Internship Program for the students who wish to complete their Intern in Singapore.
Criteria:
1. This applies to students who are doing their Degree/Diploma in university or the college which are running the hotel management programmes and provide the internship locally.
2. They must be studying in one of the MOM listed universities (Refer the attachment).
Benefits for Student:
1. Intern Money of SGD 350/450 Per Month (1 SGD = 37 INR approx)
2. FREE Accommodation
3. Airfare
4. Option to get regular with your Employer
International Hotel Management Internship program (Singapore) provides college students with Guaranteed Paid Internship (6-9 months) placement in premier hospitality internships in Singapore. You control the entire placement process, as you work with a Perfect Studies Coordinator as they assist in revising your resume, before scheduling interviews with our large network of hospitality companies. There are many aspects to a hospitality and tourism internship, such as: operation management, event planning, marketing, and customer service. If you have ever thought of working at a hotel, resort, or conference center, a hospitality internship is right for you. We have arranged the International Hotel Management Internship Program for the students who wish to complete their Intern in Singapore.
Criteria:
1. This applies to students who are doing their Degree/Diploma in university or the college which are running the hotel management programmes and provide the internship locally.
2. They must be studying in one of the MOM listed universities (Refer the attachment).
Benefits for Student:
1. Intern Money of SGD 350/450 Per Month (1 SGD = 37 INR approx)
2. FREE Accommodation
3. Airfare
4. Option to get regular with your Employer
IELTS test in Australia – July 2011 (General Training)
Below are the Writing topics and Speaking questions from the recent General Training IELTS exam in Australia (thanks to the contributor K).
Writing test
Writing task 1 (a letter)
You have moved to another city to do a short term course. Write a letter to invite a friend to do the course with you. Please say
- why you want your friend to join the course,
- what the benefits of this course are,
- how joining the course will help your friend.
Writing Task 2 (an essay)
Many historic buildings are being destroyed or damaged. What are the reasons for this? What should be done to preserve these buildings?
Speaking test
Interview
- What is your full name?
- What should I call you?
- Do you work or study?
- Do you enjoy your work?
- Would you like to change this job?
- Do you like your name?
- Who gives a name to a baby in your culture?
- Describe the naming ceremony in your culture.
IELTS test in Australia – July 2011 (General Training)
Below are the Writing topics and Speaking questions from the recent General Training IELTS exam in Australia (thanks to the contributor K).
Writing test
Writing task 1 (a letter)
You have moved to another city to do a short term course. Write a letter to invite a friend to do the course with you. Please say
- why you want your friend to join the course,
- what the benefits of this course are,
- how joining the course will help your friend.
Writing Task 2 (an essay)
Many historic buildings are being destroyed or damaged. What are the reasons for this? What should be done to preserve these buildings?
Speaking test
Interview
- What is your full name?
- What should I call you?
- Do you work or study?
- Do you enjoy your work?
- Would you like to change this job?
- Do you like your name?
- Who gives a name to a baby in your culture?
- Describe the naming ceremony in your culture.
IELTS common mistakes
This type of work attracts a greater % of men than women. (incorrect)
This type of work attracts a greater percentage of men than women. (correct)
Many old people believe that kids have too much freedom nowadays. (incorrect)
Many old people believe that children have too much freedom nowadays. (correct)
Register means using the right word in the right context. For formal essay writing, you must use a formal register. This means you should not use informal language.
You should not use:
• informal vocabulary: kids; ok; bucks; heaps. You should use a more formal equivalent instead: children; all right or acceptable; money; many or a great deal.
• symbols on their own in place of words: %; $; &; @. You should write the words in full: percent; money; and; at.
Note that % and $ should only be used with numerals. For smaller amounts we write $50 (not 50 dollars) and 75% (not 75 percent). The noun form of percent is percentage.
• abbreviations: m; yrs; kgs; no. You should write these words in full: million; years; kilos/kilograms; number.
• all capital letters: NOWADAYS PEOPLE THINK THAT ... You should use capital letters only when appropriate: Nowadays people think that...
Look at the following examples:
Companies waste heaps of bucks on advertising.
Companies waste a great deal of money on advertising.
In 1986 the % rose to 67.5.
In 1986 the percentage rose to 67.5.
Between the yrs 2001 and 2005, over 2m people died.
Between the years 2001 and 2005, over 2 million people died.
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