Writing Samples

INFORMATIVE SPEECH

 

Hello, my name is Allison Schumacher, and I am currently a junior at IUP. Smartphones are relatively new, and it is important to understand the plethora of changes that they bring to us and to society. This will be explained through the evolution of the smartphone, how and why it has become the ultimate device, and the pros and cons of the smartphone.

 

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     Today, I will demonstrate how our society has become the smartphone-dependent population, then we will get a chance to meet Simon, the first official smartphone, we will see how the gadgets have grown as the year passed, and I will explain the pivotal point that made smartphones into the wonder that they have become, and the influences of the pros and cons that smartphones have on citizens.

 

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Those who haven’t heard of smart phones are out of touch with today’s society. But, one can never be to sure, so for those who don’t know or are confused, Merriam- Webster defines a smart phone as “a cell phone that includes additional software functions (as e-mail or an internet browser)” (Martin). Although 64% of adult Americans now own smartphones (Smith), many of us don’t even know how these devices came to be.

 

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64% own a smartphone

15% have limited options for online access other than cell phone

10% have no broadband service at home other than smartphone data plan

7% overlap of limited options for online access and not broadband service at home

 

 

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It is hard to think back to a time when the smartphone didn’t exist, but, the idea of the smart phone began back in mid- 1970s, but the idea didn’t come to life until 1992 when IBM released Simon Personal Communicator (Martin). The features included a monochrome touchscreen, a stylus, and charging base station, which the phone needed to be charged on after about 60 minutes of use (Martin).

 

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Simon was sold at a whopping $899 with a two-year agreement, and about 50,000 units were sold. Due to the lack of Internet connection, even though the phone could send and receive faxes and e-mails, it was never considered a smart phone, even though that’s exactly what it was (Martin).

 

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The next major evolution of the smart phone was in the early 2000s. “The Symbian, BlackBerry OS, Palm OS, and Windows Mobile (then known as PocketPC 2000) became increasingly popular. With capabilities such as email, fax, Web browsing, and other enterprise-centric features. (Martin)”

 

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“Between 2000 and 2006, cell phone manufacturers eagerly explored dozens of different form factors to capitalize on the new mobile functionality. Sliding and flipping keyboards, rotating displays, wafer-style phones with displays positioned above permanent, vertical keyboards, and even phones with multiple keyboards abounded. Resistive touchscreen displays found their way onto smartphones, and the popularity of the stylus was born, almost out of sheer need, as these early model smartphones were not very finger-friendly. Resistive touchscreens required pressure, unlike modern captive digitizers, and early incarnations of various mobile operating systems weren’t exactly designed with large fingers in mind.” (Martin).

 

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But the pivotal change in the smart phone world was when the iPhone was released in June 2007.

 

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“Apple’s idea of the smartphone combined powerful multimedia functions with the same email and Web browsing features as all other smartphones previously had. It had a large color display with a capacitive digitizer, and its user interface was finally finger-friendly. And unlike phones before it, the iPhone had only one button on its face – the Home button – and three around its edges, two for volume up/down and one for power/standby. Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS, was still very basic at the time, but it was the first glimpse into the new, modern mobile smartphone operating systems we know and love today.”

 

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Pocketnow.com explains, “The real context switch brought with the iPhone, though, was how websites displayed on mobile. Thanks to the WebKit browser debuted in iOS, no longer were they hacked-up, dumbed-down versions of the full desktop sites, but fully rendered, color web pages via mobile. This helped bridge the gap between the bite-sized version of the Internet consumed on earlier smartphones and the full-blown Internet experience we enjoy today.” (Martin)

 

 

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Although we can all agree that smartphones are arguably one of the greatest creations of all time, not everything about them could be considered as positive. So, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of smartphones in our lives.

 

 

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One pro is that smartphones have proven to be an excellent communication tool, especially when it comes to the work force. Employers and employees are able to exchange information faster and more efficiently then ever before, whether its through texting, e-mail, or even Facebook and Twitter (

Laverty).

 

The con to that same idea is the constant flow of communication means that employees are always connected with work. This ability to always be connected can dominate someone’s life with work, and the exhaustion of constant contact can lead to low morale, poor productivity and malaise in the workforce (

Laverty).

 

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Another pro is that smartphones have many tools that make it easy to increase our efficiency and productivity. With apps like maps, calendars, and the ability to create detailed contact lists, smartphones allow us to have all essential information literally at our fingertips (

Laverty).

 

The con to the same idea that there are so many tools and apps that are productive is the plethora of apps like social media, online games, and videos leads to endless ways to mindlessly occupy time that could’ve been spent productively (

Laverty).

 

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So, in conclusion don’t fall into the crowd of those that are mindless to how smartphones are affecting our society. Now we know the history, pivotal points and some of the pros and cons that make one educated on something that is dominating our world.

 

 

Works Cited

 

Laverty, Shea. “The Pros and Cons of Smartphones.” Small Business. Demand Media, n.d. Web. 05 Jan. 2016.

 

Martin, Taylor. “The Evolution of the Smartphone.” Pocketnow. N.p., 28 July 2014. Web. 5 Jan. 2016.

 

Smith, Aaron. “U.S. Smartphone Use in 2015.” Pew Research Center Internet Science Tech RSS. Pew Research Center, 01 Apr. 2015. Web. 05 Jan. 2016.

 

 

PERSUASIVE SPEECH 

Hello everyone! My name is Allison Schumacher and I am currently a junior at IUP. Like all of you, I am a college student and believe me I understand that the college lifestyle doesn’t exactly scream healthy eating. But, I am here to open the door to a healthier lifestyle.

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“A shocking 95 percent of college students fail to eat the recommended amount of fruit and vegetables (five or more servings a day), and more than 60 percent report not getting enough physical activity (three or more days of vigorous exercise for at least 20 minutes or five or more days of moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a week)” (Spain).

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This is a serious issue that many of us don’t even realize. As current college students, we are obviously the individuals who are suffering the consequences of unhealthy eating.

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Northwestern Medicine and Northeastern Illinois University conducted research and found “the majority of college students are engaging in unhealthy behaviors that could increase their risk of cancer later on. Racial minority students could be at an even greater risk, especially African Americans and Native Americans” (Spain).

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These statistics are intense, but they are a reality. I know what some of you are thinking, that you won’t ever let yourself get to that point, or that you may eat unhealthy now, but you won’t later. What I have in response is that habits stick a lot easier than we realize. Even if you don’t think that your unhealthy eating will last long, there are still short-term effects.

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These effects include poor brain function and exercise capabilities, insulin resistance (increases risk for diabetes), weight gain, indigestion, heartburn, poor sleep and mood problems (McLaughlin).

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With all the stress that comes with being a college student, why add to it?

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I understand that a lot of this is easier said than done, and that it is hard to eat healthy with a busy college schedule, but it is possible! Young Women’s Health had a lot of very helpful dos and don’ts of eating healthy.

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Instead Of Try
Fried foods Grilled or baked foods
Refined grains (such as white bread and white rice) Whole grains (such as whole wheat bread and brown rice)
Whole milk Low-fat milk or soy milk
French fries Baked potato or sweet potato
Sweetened drinks Water or seltzer
Baked goods, ice cream, or other specialty desserts Fruit

(“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

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When living a healthier lifestyle, there are no pitfalls. The only thing that will be missed is that chocolate chip cookie or piece of greasy pizza.

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I’m not saying that you can never have cookies or pizza ever again, because then life would just be miserable.

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By making these small sacrifices and incorporating some new beneficial habits to your daily routine, you will reap the benefits. Just to name a few; you can lose weight, have a positive outlook, protect your immune system and have more energy. If you are struggling where to begin, or need someone to help you through the process, I am here to help!

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All of these are in addition to living a much longer life, and who wouldn’t want that? So, let’s make the freshman 15 something of the past!

 

PERSUASIVE ESSAY

Hello everyone! My name is Allison Schumacher and I am currently a junior at IUP. Like all of you, I am a college student and believe me I understand that the college lifestyle doesn’t exactly scream healthy eating. But, I am here to open the door to a healthier lifestyle.

“A shocking 95 percent of college students fail to eat the recommended amount of fruit and vegetables (five or more servings a day), and more than 60 percent report not getting enough physical activity (three or more days of vigorous exercise for at least 20 minutes or five or more days of moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a week)” (Spain). This is a serious issue that many of us don’t even realize. As current college students, we are obviously the individuals who are suffering the consequences of unhealthy eating. Northwestern Medicine and Northeastern Illinois University conducted research and found “the majority of college students are engaging in unhealthy behaviors that could increase their risk of cancer later on. Racial minority students could be at an even greater risk, especially African Americans and Native Americans” (Spain). These statistics are intense, but they are a reality. I know what some of you are thinking, that you won’t ever let yourself get to that point, or that you may eat unhealthy now, but you won’t later. What I have in response is that habits stick a lot easier than we realize. Even if you don’t think that your unhealthy eating will last long, there are still short-term effects. These effects include poor brain function and exercise capabilities, insulin resistance (increases risk for diabetes), weight gain, indigestion, heartburn, poor sleep and mood problems (McLaughlin). With all the stress that comes with being a college student, why add to it?

I understand that a lot of this is easier said than done, and that it is hard to eat healthy with a busy college schedule, but it is possible! Young Women’s Health had a lot of very helpful dos and don’ts of eating healthy.

Instead Of Try
Fried foods Grilled or baked foods
Refined grains (such as white bread and white rice) Whole grains (such as whole wheat bread and brown rice)
Whole milk Low-fat milk or soy milk
French fries Baked potato or sweet potato
Sweetened drinks Water or seltzer
Baked goods, ice cream, or other specialty desserts Fruit

(“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

 

Nutrition 101: The Food Groups
Food Group Benefits Nutrition Tip
Dairy & Dairy Substitutes Build strong bones Have a serving of low-fat dairy such as milk, cheese, yogurt, or pudding 3 times a day.
Carbohydrates Provide energy for muscles & brain Include grains such as rice, pasta, or bread or starchy vegetables such as potato or corn at every meal. Choose whole grain options as often as possible.
Fats Keep you feeling full Include some fat such as olive oil, guacamole, nuts, or seeds at every meal.
Fruits & Vegetables Provide vitamins and minerals for healthy skin, hair, nails, and immune system Try having at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day with a focus on different colors such as apples, carrots, eggplants, leafy greens, and bananas.
Proteins Maintain muscle Try having fish, beans, eggs, tofu, peanut butter, chicken, dairy, or lean beef at each meal.

(“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

These helpful hints are a great kick-off to eating healthy…except if you have a meal plan. As a student I have also had the experience of dining halls, and their lack of variety and nutrition can be discouraging, especially when dining hours are limited and you are hungry in your dorm. Young Women’s Health gave these great snacks to keep in your dorm.

Keep your room stocked with healthy snacks you can grab when you’re hungry, such as:

  • Brown rice cakes
  • Canned fruit in natural juices
  • Crackers (whole grain)
  • Energy (or protein) bars
  • Fresh fruit
  • Granola bars
  • High fiber cereal
  • Nuts (unsalted)
  • Oatmeal (packets)
  • Pita bread (whole wheat)
  • Popcorn (try the single-serving bag)
  • Pudding
  • Soup
  • Trail Mix
  • Tuna fish

If you have a fridge, try:

  • Baby carrots, broccoli florets, grape tomatoes, celery
  • Hummus
  • String cheese
  • Yogurt and smoothies
  • Water, flavored seltzer waters, and low-fat milk

(“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

In the past year, I have made the change to working out regularly, and eating healthy and I am a huge advocate for the lifestyle. Although not everyone will go home and completely change their eating habits, try and keep these five healthy eating tips in mind.

Top 5 Healthy Eating Tips:

  1. Make Time for Meals: Eating 3 meals per day plus snacks will give you energy that will last all day and keep your metabolism active. Keeping to a regular schedule will help you fit these meals in, especially breakfast. For healthy portable snacks, packing fruit, nuts or a granola bar helps when you’re on the go.
  2. Balance Your Meals: Eating healthy meals that contain foods from at least 3 different food groups will help to ensure that you get all the nutrition you need to stay healthy. Be sure to eat different combinations of grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and healthy fats throughout the day.
  3. Don’t Forget Dairy: Your bones still need calcium to stay strong. Dairy foods and alternatives such as soymilk provide protein and vitamin D, as well as calcium.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is important for healthy skin and organs. Drink water even if you’re not thirsty. Waiting until you are thirsty to have fluids means you are already partially dehydrated. Pack a bottle of water in your backpack or gym bag.
  5. Choose Appropriate Portions: Food portions in restaurants or takeout places are often more than one serving size and they’re getting bigger and bigger. You may not realize how much food you’re actually eating. When you’re at a restaurant, plan on taking half of your meal home or spilt an entrée with a friend. When eating at a dining hall, take smaller portions to start. You can always go back for more if you’re still hungry. (“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

 

Now that we have covered half the battle that is eating healthy, it’s time to move on to easy exercise habits! I personally began a program called Kayla Itsines Bikini Body Guide, which is available, online for free! Her workouts consist of three days of resistance training, three days of Low Intensity Steady State training (walking on treadmill for 45 min.) and one day of stretching! This may not apply to everyone, but I also had to search for a workout plan that worked for my schedule and my lifestyle, and you can too! Young Women’s Healthy also made a list of five ways to incorporate fitness into your life.

Top 5 Ways to Include Fitness in College Life:

  1. Walk or bike to class: Be active on the way to class instead of taking the bus or car.
  2. Join an intramural sport: This is a fun way to meet new people and fit in exercise, too.
  3. Go for a walk with friends: Stay fit and catch up with friends at the same time. Instead of taking a shortcut back to your dorm, take the scenic route and get in a little extra exercise.
  4. Take a fitness class as a course: This is a good way to include fitness into your routine and earn credit. Consider weight lifting or dancing.
  5. Check out your college gym: Most colleges have a gym or fitness center that offers free or reduced price memberships. They may also offer classes such as yoga, spinning, kickboxing, and dancing.

(“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.”)

 

When living a healthier lifestyle, there are no pitfalls. The only thing that will be missed is that chocolate chip cookie or piece of greasy pizza. I’m not saying that you can never have cookies or pizza ever again, because then life would just be miserable. By making these small sacrifices and incorporating some new beneficial habits to your daily routine, you will reap the benefits. Just to name a few; you can lose weight, have a positive outlook, protect your immune system and have more energy. All of these are in addition to living a much longer life, and who wouldn’t want that? So, let’s make the freshman 15 something of the past!

 

 

Works Cited

“College Health: Eating and Fitness 101.” Center for Young Women’s Health. Center for Young Women’s Health, 25 June 2015. Web. 22 Dec. 2015.

 

McLaughlin, August. “Short Term Effects of Bad Eating Habits.” Healthy Eating. Demand Media, n.d. Web. 22 Dec. 2015.

 

Spain, Erin. “News.” College Kids Need to Change Unhealthy Ways: Northwestern University. Northwestern University, 16 May 2014. Web. 22 Dec. 2015.

 

 

 

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