Robert Frost: Iceman for the Ages :: essays research papers

Robert icing is often known as one of the greatest American poets of all time. Although he is sometimes remembered as hateful and mean spirited, his emotional state was filled with highs and lows. These differentiating periods are represented throughout his poetry. Frost once said that A poem begins in delight, and ends in wisdom. As can be seen, this quote not only reflected his poetry, and his life. Though many geezerhood of his life were troubled by misfortune, Frost always seemed to persevere. Robert Frost was a talented, thoughtful poet whose life was filled with complexity and tragedy (brainyquote.com).Robert Lee Frost began life in San Francisco on March 26, 1874. For an unknown reason, Frost believed for years that he was actually born in 1875. When Frosts father died in 1885 his mother decided to move closer to her wealthy parents in Massachusetts. In California, Frost had dropped out of kindergarten after one day, and upon returning to the first grade, also dropped out . This was no deterrent on Frost to search college. He was accepted to Harvard but instead attended Dartmouth because of his financial situation. Even though Frost found the school to be anything but challenging, he would not finish his time at Dartmouth, nor earn any formal degree in a school (Bengtsson). He once said of schooling that Education is hanging around until youve caught on. interestingly enough, Robert Frost held several postions at credible schools, including Amherst and Harvard. Also, Frost was awarded an incredible amount of honorary degrees from Berkley to Yale (Parini 59). Frosts careers also ranged from editing for Henry Holt to raising poultry on his Derry, natural Hampshire farm.Robert Frost is undoubtedly gifted when it comes to his poetry, but not all aspects of his life were so easy. One of the most troubling areas in Frosts life was his family. He held a long term engagement to his wife Elinor, whom he pleaded to marry. Also, his children were plagued with birth defects, terminal illness, and emotional instability. The Frosts lost four of their children at an early age, including miss Elinor Bettina who died three days after birth. In 1938, after months of deteriorating health, Frosts wife Elinor died of heart failure. Frost was so shaken that he collapsed and could not attend the memorial services. Later, in 1940, Frost was utterly disturbed by his son Carols suicide.

Muscular Dystrophy Essay -- Science Biology Health

Muscular DystrophyScientists have been struggling with the cause, treatment of, and cure for Muscular muscular dystrophy since its discovery in 1886, by Dr. Guillaume Duchenne. Muscular dystrophy is a hereditary disease, affecting thousands of people every year, two-thirds being children between the age of birth finished adolescents. Muscular dystrophy can also occur with no family history of the disease. Muscular dystrophy is a degenerating disease, in which the skeletal muscles degenerate, lose their strength, and cause change magnitude disability and deformity. Muscles attached to the bones through tendons are responsible for movement in the human body, however, in muscular dystrophy the muscles become progressively weak. As the muscle fibers become extremely weak they start to die and are replaced by connective tissue. The connective tissue is fibrous and fatty rather than muscular. These switch fibers are normally found in skin and scar tissue and are not capable of movemen t, which cause the muscles to become even weaker. While muscular dystrophy continues to be a debilitating disease, there are a variety of recognizable types, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, or pseudohypertrophic, being the most common. In this disease, the muscles mixed are in the upper thigh and pelvis. The disease strikes in early childhood, usually between the ages of three and five years of age. This form is genetic, transmitted from mothers who are known to be carriers of the tarnishive gene. Although rare, females with a history of ovarian dysgenesis have been known to develop symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by a defect in the dystrophin gene that is vital for healthy muscles. The abnormality causes l... ...g doctors are able to educate couples on the rare possibility that they may produce affected offspring. By doing so couples can make the decision whether to continue the inheritance of the defective gene to their offspring, or make a conscience decision not to. done medical research we will have a cure of how to stop this debilitating disease. Work Cited Duchennes Muscular Dystrophy. The peeled Complete Medical And Health Encyclopedia. 1996 ed. Facts roughly Muscular Dystrophy MD). Muscular Dystrophy Association Publications. 6/2001. WWW.mdausa.org/publications/fa-md.html Facts About Muscular Dystrophy (MD). Muscular Dystrophy Association Publication. 6/2001 www.mdausa.org/publications/fa-md-ga2.html Muscular Dystrophy. New Standard Encyclopedia. 1996 ed. Robinson, Richard. Muscular dystrophy. The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. 1999 ed.

Educational Philosophies Essay -- Philosophy Education Psychology Essa

Educational Philosophies Many different ideas of the correct educational ism exist. Highly acclaimed psychologists and educators developed these varying philosophies. Each of these philosophies take on their strengths and weaknesses and have their positives and negatives in different situations. It is our job as educators to sift through this list of philosophies to find our get style and ism. We must research the pros and cons of each philosophy and pick and choose which sections of each idea to take out and make our own. Our job is also to familiarise ourselves with the philosophies that we do non agree with. So that we have a clear picture in our minds of what we want and do not want as type of our educational thinking and to have the knowledge to back up these opinions.After reading through different paternitys on each of these philosophies, I have begun to take on the task of sorting out which I choose to support and which I strongly oppose. Once having a clear id ea of which philosophies supplicant to me and which do not, I hope to have the groundwork laid to then analyze the philosophies and take from them what I need to develop my own personal philosophy. sometimes to find out what you are or what you find true, you must first learn what you are not and what you do not find as truth. Therefore, in takening my search for my own personal philosophy, I began with ruling out the philosophies that I am strongly opposed to. These philosophies are perennialism and behaviorism. Perennialism is a very standpat(prenominal) and inflexible philosophy of education. It is based on the view that reality comes from fundamental fixed truths-especially related to God. It believes that people find truth through reasoning and revealing and that goodness is found in rational thinking. As a result, schools exist to teach reason and Gods will. Students are taught to reason through structure lessons and drills. The teachers role is a fountain of kno wledge, put in place to regurgitate the wisdom of the past and pass it down to the next generation. To begin with, I find this philosophy extremely outdated since church and state have been separated for quite some time now. Perenialism leaves no room for progression, which seems to be its objective. Students in these schools do not learn to think independently. They do not learn creativity or how... ...personal satisfaction. I most identify with this philosophy and strongly agree with the majority of its principles. As stated above, the most important lesson a teacher can teach a child is the importance of learning, the exercise of learning and how to learn. Above all, this is the most important lesson. I agree that students are self-motivated if the desire to know something. The job of the teacher is to make the student want to learn, not make the student learn. I agree that self-evaluation and self satisfaction should weigh above grades. Grades should be a measure more for the teacher, not the student. The humanistic philosophy can be effectively applied to literacy mainly with its ideas of choice and desire. Students will be more inclined to write to their best ability and read at a high level if they are the ones choosing the topic to write on or the book to be reading. Humanism parallels with my strongest conviction of teacher and once over again I will repeat what I have repeated throughout this entire paper. The goal of literacy learning is to instill a love of reading and writing within them and to give them the tools to continue with that love.

Making a Leader :: Leadership Papers

Missing FormattingLeadershipAccording to Nathan F. Iannone, leading ordure be defined as the device of influencing, directing, guiding, and controlling others in such a way as to obtain their willing obedience, confidence, respect and loyal cooperation in accomplishment of an objective. Leaders are non bornsure there are some gifts-traits-attributes, natural endowments that affect relative abilitiesbut they are not born, they are made. Any reasonably healthy person with enough forcefulness to develop his/her ability to inspire others to follow him can earn leadership status. Remember that we have both formal and informal leaders. Being a Captain /Sergeant doesnt make you a leader Classic Leadership Theory Common Traits of Leaders. Booher and Watson refer to classic leadership theory because it describes an approach to understanding leadership that by and large is out of style. Nonetheless it is clear that one can learn a great voltaic pile by studying the important personal i ngredients in the leadership equation. Studying the traits of great leaders became unpopular because it was and is associated with the great man theory of leadership. This approach was espoused in the 19th. and early 20th. Centuries, and asserted the leadership qualities are largely inherited. This was called trait theory. Researchers such as Mann and Stodgill found no consistent correlate between particular traits and leadership. later on research, particularly more recent and more sophisticated work has found a consistent and strong relationship between certain traits and leadership. Possessing these core traits precisely makes it more likely that a person will take the appropriate action leading to leadership success. Overhead 2 The Art of Leadership. What is the nature of leadership, leadership is an art As with any form of artistic expression, painting, music, leadership is an art form in that it Is an expression of the individual within the social and environmental context. Reflects the individuals personality. force out be easier to demonstrate and develop when one has a talent for it. Can be learned-you may have a talent for it, you may not, either way, anyone can still become an effective leader. Is greatly enhanced through a disciplined regimen of learning and feedback. Through science, we can study the elements of leadership and come through valuable understanding into its nature. This enables us to determine where to focus our leadership skills and abilities, as well as measure to some extent, our effectiveness. However, the act of leading itself is largely pseudoscientific and is far more akin to practicing an art form than studying scientific variables.

emperors club Essay -- essays research papers

succeeder is the motivation that inspires all hu valet de chambre beings to reach great achievements and leave an indelible mark on society. Success is not merely a destination but a journey that one must travel in order to obtain it. Since success in ones own life is not explicitly defined, we must find objective ways of measuring it, and ultimately come to a last on who has been more successful, Sedgewick Bell, or Mr. William Hundert. As is often the case, the answer lies in the past, as Deepak Mehta is quick to point out, To know not what happened before you were born is to be forever a child. As was the case with Shutruk Nahunte, undoubtedly a great emperor and sovereign over an entire region of Ilam, not one memoir book has documented his life or significance to the world. Mr. Hundert subsequently provides his scholars with this gem, Ambition and conquest without contribution is insignificant. What go forth your contribution be? How will history commemorate you? Ultimately , success is not merely riches, fame, or political status rather it is living virtuously, conducting ones self honorably, and making significant contributions to the future generations, who will determine the future prosperity of our nation. In every way, Mr. Hundert, through a consistent display of morality, consciousness, honor, and respect, as with the revered Roman Emperors before him, has achieved success that faraway surpasses the boorish Sedgewick Bell, and his posh, immature, arrogant lifestyle, which, besides short-term financial comfort and reward, does nothing to foster morality and ideals that will benefit the world once he has departed.The breeding profession is one of the most under-appreciated yet spiritually rewarding jobs that exist. Every great scholar and tremendous achiever in the world gets his or her stand out from the great, inspiring teachers before them. Teachers inspire their subjects to learn about the specified material, but also about themselves and the world around them. From the ages of five to twenty-two and sometimes beyond, youth adults spend 7 hours daily, 180 days a year expanding their minds, and ultimately using their education to be productive members of the work force. Never in individuals accomplishments is there a footnote giving proper credit to the teachers that preceded him or her. Therefore, Mr. Hunderts success cannot only b... ...ct of his younger son, and if Hericlites was correct is stating a mans character is his fate, Bells future career will inevitably perish. While Hundert doesnt seek material reward for his contributions, he is live up to with the fact that he has led an honorable life, given others an opportunity to thrive in the world, and fully embodied the spirit of the Roman greats who he teaches about and brings to life, in terms of conviction, civic virtue, and respect in the eyes of others. Wealth is not eternal. If Bell and his family continues to do nothing productive to protect their wea lth, many generations into the future the wealth will be recycled back into society and into the hands of those who truly deserve it. A mans epitaph often represents a mans touch on the world, and is more indicative of ones character than his status in society. History books will cast the final judgment, and most definitely, Hundert will be revered for his selflessness, academic enlightenment and contributions to others, while Bell will be condemned for his egotism, selfishness, arrogance, and failure to make meaningful contributions to others, when he was in more of a lieu financially to do so.

emperors club Essay -- essays research papers

Success is the motivation that recommends all human beings to reach great achievements and leave an indelible mark on society. Success is not scarce a destination but a journey that one must travel in order to obtain it. Since success in ones declare sprightliness is not explicitly defined, we must find objective ways of measuring it, and ultimately come to a conclusion on who has been more successful, Sedgewick doorbell, or Mr. William Hundert. As is often the case, the answer lies in the past, as Deepak Mehta is quick to point out, To know not what happened before you were born is to be forever a child. As was the case with Shutruk Nahunte, undoubtedly a great emperor and sovereign over an entire region of Ilam, not one history book has documented his life or significance to the world. Mr. Hundert subsequently provides his scholars with this gem, Ambition and conquest without contribution is insignificant. What will your contribution be? How will history remember you? Ultimate ly, success is not merely wealth, fame, or political status rather it is living virtuously, conducting ones self honorably, and making significant contributions to the future generations, who will determine the future successfulness of our nation. In every way, Mr. Hundert, through a consistent display of morality, consciousness, honor, and approve, as with the revered Roman Emperors before him, has achieved success that far surpasses the boorish Sedgewick Bell, and his posh, immature, arrogant lifestyle, which, in like manner short-term financial comfort and reward, does nothing to foster morality and ideals that will benefit the world once he has departed.The teaching profession is one of the approximately under-appreciated yet spiritually rewarding jobs that exist. Every great scholar and tremendous achiever in the world gets his or her start from the great, inspiring teachers before them. Teachers inspire their subjects to learn about the specified material, but also about th emselves and the world around them. From the ages of five to twenty-two and sometimes beyond, young adults spend 7 hours daily, clxxx days a year expanding their minds, and ultimately using their education to be productive members of the work force. Never in someones accomplishments is there a footnote giving proper credit to the teachers that preceded him or her. Therefore, Mr. Hunderts success cannot only b... ...ct of his younger son, and if Hericlites was correct is stating a mans character is his fate, Bells future career will inevitably perish. While Hundert doesnt seek material reward for his contributions, he is satisfied with the fact that he has lead an honorable life, given others an opportunity to thrive in the world, and fully embodied the spirit of the Roman greats who he teaches about and brings to life, in terms of conviction, civic virtue, and respect in the eyes of others. Wealth is not eternal. If Bell and his family continues to do nothing productive to protec t their wealth, many generations into the future the wealth will be recycled blanket into society and into the hands of those who truly deserve it. A mans epitaph often represents a mans impact on the world, and is more declarative of ones character than his status in society. History books will cast the final judgment, and most definitely, Hundert will be revered for his selflessness, academic promised land and contributions to others, while Bell will be condemned for his egotism, selfishness, arrogance, and failure to make meaningful contributions to others, when he was in more of a position financially to do so.

American Universities Contribution to Society Essay

Since the first time a female high school graduate stepped pedestal into an American university, it has become a tradition for high school graduates to attend college. Prior to this shift in American cultivation, only wealthy families could send their sons. Instead, sons worked for the family business, or joined the military. During this time it was a privilege to attend a university. The men that came out of these American institutions graduated with a special skill that they could offer to the American public.Now most young men and women attend college. The enquire I wish to raise now is what does the American university contribute to the public? The answer to the question is simple. The American university still produces a well-rounded, cultured individual. American universities since have altered their ways of running their institution to account for the large enrollment of students. Institutions hired more(prenominal) professors to teach smaller classes so students could get more focused attention rather then having professors teach larger classes.Several hundreds of universities now have organizations, clubs and activities that culture and shape their students. These organizations provide the students with opportunities to meet new hatful and learn about their backgrounds and differences. This is crucial for a college graduate when they are ready to go into the business world. The American university gives their student this quality of understanding of differences between people they encounter, which forfeits the graduates to better understand their colleagues in the workforce.Collegiate organizations also provide many experiences, such as association service activities, which provide the students a minimum understanding of what it is like to poor or misfortunate. Most of these students can benefit the American culture by offset their own organizations and benefiting the less fortunate. Another thing a college could offer the American culture is a well educated person, also skilled in a specified field. During their collegiate career, students choose what they would like to study because, eventually, they would like to have an occupation involving what they studied.Considering the fact that the students enjoy what they study, it would do them better in the business world. It would allow them to work to their fullest because they like what they do. Not only would a skilled person properly execute their job, they make it easier to interact with their associated because they have learned how to work with people and their differences. This is what an American university provides to the American culture.A well rounded man and women, who, over their collegiate career, have learned to accept differences, helped out the community and studied what they loved, is what an American university gives to American society. The more mature people of todays society dont believe that the youth of America have it in them to replete their shoes and lead America to a brighter tomorrow, but that isnt right. By that I dont mean their parents, I mean the war veteran soldier who feels 1950s America was ideal. A good college experience and education can and will provide American culture with the well cultured, experienced future leadership of America.

Outsiders: S. E. Hinton and Hero

A genius is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself. Anyone place go away a hero through perseverance from any point in society. Ponyboy is part of a crowd who ar like turns known as the Greasers, who are poor and live on the east side of town. The Greasers are a gang that lay down Ponyboy, Soda, Steve, greyback, Dally, Darry, and Two-bit Matthews. The Greasers are hated by the Socs, the Socials, who are the west side rich kids in the town.In the novel The Outsiders, by S. E.Hinton, Ponyboy, the main character, and his family of Greasers rise above a life of poverty, stealing, and criminal do to help others, proving that anyone, no matter the obstacle, can become a hero. There are many heroes in the greaser gang and they didnt start out this way. The greasers were known for robbing, gang fights, stealing, and driving oldish souped-up cars, your basic hoods. It all starts when Ponyboy gets jumped by the Socs, who are intent on beating Ponyboy t o a pulp, when Darry, Ponyboys brother, intervenes and saves him.This is a very noble act by Darry, who could have easily been beaten up badly himself, because he stood up for Ponyboy when no one else would. Darry sights a sense of responsiblity and sympathy for others, especially for family, that a hero characterizes. This is too true when he takes care of his brothers after their parents died so they wouldnt end up in a home for boys. Moreover, Ponyboy, Dally, and the other greasers become heroes when they all crusade into the burning building to save the children from the fire.The reasons why they became heroes is because they chose to save the kids no matter the cost, even if it put their lives in danger. The selflessness that all of the Greasers display when they ran into that building show that they harbor the well world of others over themselves. This is a key quality of all heroes, making the Greasers more than just a small time criminal gang. Johnny is a hero because t he incredible selflessness he displayed saving the children from the burning building.Johnny sacrificed, got burned, and died just to save the kids and Ponyboy. Everything that Johnny did was very selfless and had good value behind each of his actions. These heroic qualities are embodied by Johnny, showing that anyone can become a hero, even if your a basic hood rat. Additionally, Johnny was very brave when he was forced to kill Bob before Bob could drown Ponyboy. Johnny heroically killed Bob to save his friend from being murdered because it was the only way to ensure Ponyboys safety.It takes a special kind of person to be able to act at the right irregular in the defense of others, and Johnny is that valiant person. It is important to be a hero when you can, the world can use more heroes and society always require a good role model. A hero is someone who has devoted his or her life to something more than their individual wellbeing. Anyone can become a hero through perseverance fr om any point in society. In the novel The Outsiders, by S. E. Hinton, Ponyboy, the main character, and his family of Greasers rise above a life of poverty, stealing, and criminal action to help others, proving that anyone, no matter the obstacle, can become a hero.To be a hero in Ponyboys life is astonishing, because he is part of a gang that steals and is poor. When he ran into the church to save the kids, he demonstrated how brave one can be, and he might have died from it. Ponyboy evolved from a life as a criminal to a life as a hero. This means that anyone can be a hero, no matter the life they used to lead.

Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter was a turning point in determining the solvent of the civil War. Fort Sumter was built on a man-made island of seashells and granite. It was a pentagon shape that was fifty feet high and the walls were eight to twelve feet thick. Fort Sumter is located in mho Carolina. It was a defense system for Charleston Harbor. It was named after a Revolutionary War hero from southeastern Carolina. For one of the causes of the Civil War was that the South demanded that fort Sumter be turned over to its new govern handst.United States troops were to leave the fort. President Abraham Lincoln refused to let them. Lincoln said that Fort Sumter belonged to all of the good deal of the United States, not just to South Carolina. The people of South Carolina were determined to have the fort. They threatened to starve the men stationed there. Lincoln sent food and supplies to the men stationed there. The Carolinians fired on the ship and, then they fired on the fort and destroyed it. That was how the war began (Hakim 61).On April 13, 1861, Fort Sumter surrendered after heavy bombardment to Confederate forces. Accounts of this victory created wild excitement in North Carolina. The Union was deeply saddened that war had started. On the other hand, the South was ecstatic (Hakim 62). President Lincoln had a study role in the Civil War. Lincoln refused to withdraw soldiers from Fort Sumter. He sent a supply ship after the South threatened to breach supplying them. He differed with other northern leaders by that the other leaders told him to back out and Lincoln did not listen to them.He refused to let the South leave the United States. Lincoln proclaimed a blockade on April 16, 1861. The blockade extended from Virginia to Texas. At the time, it was impossible for the federal government to enforce a blockade of the coastline measuring almost four thousand miles and containing one hundred and eighty-nine harbors. In conclusion, many important battles such as Gettysburg a nd Antietam took place after. The Civil War lasted for four years. Today, Fort Sumter is a tourist attraction and it attracts many visitors.

Analysis of Online Article

Student Name LING 305W Project 1 Final Draft Handout 23 February 2012 Genre epitome of the Online Article, Superfoods Everyone Needs Genre online article Author Susan Seliger Target Audience variety of ages wellnessy people, healthy cooks, people who want to eat better, people with illnesses, diseases, or other health ailments Article Title Superfoods Everyone Needs Source www. webmd. com Date February 2007 Authors claim A healthy diet incorporating a variety of superfoods give help you maintain your weight, fight disease, and live longer. (para. 4) My analysis tool COLFV model, which stands for five elementscontent, organization, language, format, and values Blueberriesone of the superfoods Seliger describes. Source www. sciencedaily. com My claim Using the COLFV model to analyze the writing style of this informative online article, I find that Seliger effectively uses organization, language, and values however, the content and format of the text could be improved. CONTENT Feat ure 1 Percentages * In reference to the extraneous source, Elizabeth Somer, Seliger includes percentages. Id say nearly 50%-70% of suffering could be eliminated by what people eat and how they move heart disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension can either be impacted. (para. 3) * By including these percentages, the reader can comfortably refer to them in the text. * Percentages make the comment more than(prenominal) tangible. Feature 2 Comparisons * The author compares age with atomic number 20 levels for adults (para. 12). For example, the author includes Age 9-18 1300mg age 19-50 1000mg age 51 and over 1200mg, in bullet point format on separate lines. These comparisons by age and level of calcium help readers find which level fits them. * These comparisons are important, however, the ages are limited to adults. Albeit the first group includes children from ages 9-18, it can be useful for readers to be informed about the levels for younger children. ORGANIZATION Feature 1 Classification * Seliger classifies distributively highlighted superfood in the subheadings. For example, blueberries are the antioxident superfood (above para. 5) whereas tea lowers cholesterol and inhibits cancer (above para. 1). * These classifications help distinguish the beneficial properties of each superfood. Feature 2 Expansion * Describing the preferred form of beans to purchase for the superfood, fiber, Seliger cites Dr. Ann Kulze (para. 10). Kulze expands beyond the dried, fresh and frozen form of beans by mentioning that consumers should try to avoid canned beans as they contain high amounts of sodium usually. LANGUAGE Feature 1 Informal * The author uses vocabulary like guess what? (para. 1) and yummiest (above para. 3). * Seliger does a great job of connecting to her more general audience by using informal vocabulary. This shows readers that an expert, like Seliger, is more similar to them. Feature 2 Acronyms * ECGC is described as a powerful antioxident by the author (para. 11). * Including acronyms can help reduce reading time for readers. * This particular acronym is not defined by each of its letters. This leaves members of the physical object audience to search for its interpretation or to overlook it. FORMAT Feature 1 Subheadings Soy Superfood to Lower Cholesterol (above para. 9) and Calcium (above para. 12) are two of the subheadings used by Seliger. * Subheadings nicely ply the reader to the specific content. Specifically, each superfood receives its own section with a subheading and a paragraph description. Feature 2 Bullet points * Fourteen items (superfoods) after the tail paragraph and the comparisons by age after the twelfth paragraph receive their own lines with bullet points. * Bullet points help a reader quickly and easily follow emphasized text. Seliger does a great job of including the fourteen superfoods with bullet points as it resembles a shopping list. In fact, a reader could potentially ingrain this portion of the article and refer to the bulleted items as a shopping list at the supermarket. * The comparisons could be enhanced for better reader interpretation if the content were inserted into a table or graph rather than in bullet points. The reader could refer to a visual such as a table more easily and compare each age group side-by-side. VALUES Feature 1 The author and the target audience share the same interest in good health. A healthy diet incorporating a variety of the following superfoods will help you maintain your weight, fight disease, and live longer. (para. 4) * For the readers (as described in the target audience on page one of this handout), this line directly connects the benefits of eating superfoods. Feature 2 The author and the audience share the same understanding that health can be improved. * The author refers to Somer in regards to an additional benefit of Omega 3s being a depression reducer (para. 7). * For the target audience, additional benefits support Sel igers plea to eat superfoods. Reference Seliger, Susan.

Enterprise Rent-a-Car Essay

SWOT With endeavor, the customer always make senses first. This is a major strength that the company has capitalized on in order to secernate itself from the competition. Their Well pick you up slogan is the primary focus of the companys customer religious service aspect. After the customers, the focus is on employees. Good customer service comes from alone the best employees and enterprisingness wants all of their employees to be happy with their jobs. By offering a sense of ownership and incentives to advance within the company, endeavour employees atomic number 18 lots very satisfied with their positions. effort is the largest auto rental company with the largest fleet and the most rental locations. Because of this, they are easily accessible all over the country. Their main commercialise focus is the interior(a)/city merchandise separate and they are the industry attracter in this segment with the most market place share. In order to stay on top, initiative has kept up with technology and has formed many long-term alliances with insurance agents and auto repair shops to produce referrals. transmutation to the weaknesses of the company finds Enterprise falling short in a couple of areas. Enterprise does not have the largest market share in the entire car rental industry. The company has established itself in the home/city market and has not entered the largest segment of the industryairport rentals. As a result, they have subaltern awareness in the industry. Another drawback is the lack of a frequent customer program. Most major car rental companies have these parallel-buyer clubs as they attract repeat origin and create more(prenominal) customer awareness. Within the company, Enterprise is overly having problems recruiting good employees. Because awareness of the company is low and the image of working for a car rental company isnt that glamorous, college graduates often overlook employment opportunities with Enterprise.The biggest foreseeable hazard for the company to take advantage of is the airport market segment. This is the largest market segment of the car rental industry and its been left untouched by Enterprise. Next would be the under 25 yr. aged segment. Rental car companies often leave out possible customers in this segment by either not contract to them or adding large feesto the normal rental rates. Enterprise on the other hand, does rent to the under 25 segment and charges a small fee or no fee at all.The leisure rental market is another segment that Enterprise asshole expand into. This market is largely made up of people that want to rent more expensive cars (SUVs and convertibles) for the weekend. Another opportunity for the company is to expand its system of alliances with businesses and schools/universities. More incentives can be offered to this segment in hopes of opening up more business opportunities.Enterprise ordain have to watch out for threats in the industry to conceal its comp etitive position. One of the threats is the opportunity for other car rental companies to enter the home/city segment, which is the stronghold of Enterprise. In order to be competitive in the future, Enterprise must keep up with technological advancements such as mesh applications.Alternatives There are three broad alternatives that Enterprise can cull to follow up if they want to meet their profit and growth expectations for the future. Enterprise could do nothing, score the vastly untapped 25 and jr. market, or move into other segments of the overall rent-a-car market. These three alternatives could be used alone or in combination.One option for Enterprise is to do nothing.The next option for Enterprise is to target the vastly untapped 25 and younger market. This market is an exceptional opportunity for Enterprise because they are one of the only car rental companies that rents to drivers under the age of 25. To target this group takes committedness and creativity. First and foremost Enterprise necessitate to come up with more creative ads targeting this segment. Another angle for Enterprise would be to get its name onto college campuses across the country. They could do this by giving presentations at various Universities or having a creative field contest for college students. Finally to fully r to each one and keep the under 25 market, Enterprise must keep up with technology. This segment is the most computer savvy of all age groups and to fully target this market Enterprise must bethe industry leader in technological innovations.The Final option for Enterprise is to move into other segments of the overall rent-a-car market. Enterprise dominates the replacement rental segment of overall rent-a-car market. The replacement rental segment only accounts for twenty-seven percent of the total market. Therefore, there is a huge market consisting of the business and leisure/discretionary markets that initiative has currently not entered.Criteria In implem enting these alternatives there must be a way to measure the action to see if they are working. The denote we propose is more of local nature than national. We believe that the National advertising campaign should still be done, but a local one should be done also to compliment the National campaign. The local campaigns should be in the form of unexampledspaper ads and radio ads. The local severalise should monitor and select the media. Then the revenue generated from the ad should be four times the toll to run the ad. Once this 4to1 ratio is not met, its time to change the ad or find another media. The Enterprise company culture is such that each individual branch is obligated for its sales and service. To stay in the parameters of this culture each branch should be responsible for its own advertising also.In measuring the college presentations and the creative contests, Enterprise should monitor the number of resumes that they receive. If the presentations and/or contests do not generate a sizable follow of resumes, then the programs must be reevaluated. Moving into the other segments of the overall rent-a-car market can be measured by profits. Once an airport branch becomes profitable, then Enterprise should start looking at other airports for expansion. In the leisure/discretionary market, track how many weekend rentals and luxury rentals that are universe used by each branch.Evaluation of Alternatives 1. Marketing to the 25 yr. and younger segment Our first alternative is to bump a marketing campaign to the 25-twelvemonth and younger market segment. Targeting this segment will benefit Enterprise by createing a significant growth in gaind awareness not only locally, butalso nationally. Increased awareness for the local/city segment will greatly help their all ready prosperous market niche. The recruitment of high quality employees and building superior brand awareness will enable Enterprise to stand above its competitors.Targeting the 25-year an d younger segment, Enterprise will develop a younger clientele and will have a wider range of employees to select from. This can be accomplished by setting up presentations at respected universities around the United States and promoting incentive contests with rewards. Other benefits will include increased profit potential and being a step ahead of its competitors with technology. scientific advancements in the profit and World Wide Web could add convenience for customers with the creation of an on-line reservation system.On the other side of the spectrum, some risks could be associated with the targeting 25 and younger segment. These risks will be associated with larger costs in advertising, marketing, and recruitment. Time and energy will also be contributed since a long-term commitment is required. Also, consumers might question the security of on-line reservations.2. Moving into new market segments Our second alternative is to move into and gain a share of new market segments. These new markets are the airport segment and the leisure/discretionary segment. The airport segment is the largest in the rental car market, due to the immense amounts of business corporations renting out cars for their representatives. Enterprise can distinctly take control of this market segment and more profits and revenues can be attained. With sharing or domineering this market segment, awareness will expand among these business travelers and discounts and incentives can be introduced to incorporate repeat business. For the leisure/discretionary segment, Enterprise can introduce more luxury vehicles that will appeal to the distinctive traveler. The benefits of moving into the new markets are considerable.Some negative issues can affect Enterprise by moving into new market segments. One is that it is very expensive. There could be numerous costs resulted by missed judged opportunities or mistakes rendered by managers atthese airport locations. Secondly, it is very gaga tryin g to penetrate an all ready saturated market, such as the airport segment. Spending money, time, and energy into a new market segment where Enterprise does not have a firm hold can be financially costly and damaging to Enterprises image.Recommendation Our recommendation, as the root word One Consulting firm, to Enterprise Rent-A-Car, begins with a slow penetration of the business segment (airport rentals) of the car rental market. By entering this segment of the market, Enterprise can penetrate a market in which it formally had no presence in. Also, with the business segment being the largest segment of the car rental industry, there is huge profit potential. We would recommend beginning the segment penetration with only the larger airports to limit the cost and risks associated with entering this new segment. Within two years enterprise should evaluate their progress in this segment.If it proves to be profitable, Enterprise should continue to expand into smaller airports across t he country, and have a national presence, in the estimated 150 airports within five years. This will be necessary to maintain the present growth rate of 25% for the company since the home-city market is only growing at about 10 to 15% per year. However, to breathe consistent with the companies decentralized operations, we feel that the business segment of the industry should be run and managed as a completely separate region, no matter where it is located. This will prevent the loss of focus on Enterprises primary market segment, the replacement market, with spokespersonicular stress on neighborhood locations.The second part of our recommendation for Enterprise Rent-A-Car involves increasing advertising targeted towards the under 25-year-old market. Allowing time for budgeting and the creative process, the advertising campaign should be implemented immediately. This can prove to be very valuable because some other firms will not rent a vehicle to anyone under the age of 25. Simila rly, a great opportunity to develop brand loyalty lies in this segment. By getting a jump on the other car rental companies in the mind of the consumer, Enterprise can put itself at a strategic advantage. Enterprise has already begun to do this somewhat, with a lower charge than other companies, for the under 25 years old rentals. However, werecommend using a national advertising campaign to not only increase the awareness of renting to younger customers, but also to increase awareness of the company as a whole.This in turn, will help ease the difficulty of penetrating other segments. Furthermore, a localized campaign, managed by each region, should be implemented to increase awareness, catering to local trends and needs, once again, keeping consistent with the companies decentralized operations format. Included in this local advertisement campaign, an emphasis should be placed on the company itself and its job opportunities, highlighting to the younger audience the promotion from w ithin process and profit-sharing opportunities.Another aspect of the local advertising campaign should focus on employee recruitment. We recommend some type of contest involving a cash reward to generate interest in becoming diligent by the company. For example, we suggest implementing a contest rewarding the best creative taped interview or resume with a $10,000 cash reward and an occupied position. This contest will generate interest and provide Enterprise with a database of potential employees. Ultimately it will broaden the pool from which Enterprise is able to choose its employees from. This is very important for the future of the company.Lastly, we recommend that Enterprise continue to keep up with, or ahead of, technology. This continues the emphasis on the younger audience and top-notch employees. march on tracking systems, such as the one Enterprise currently utilizes, and convenience are key factors in the future success of the company. Advancements in the area of the I nternet and computers is crucial to the sustained growth of this company, especially in the travel segment of the market.Enterprise must consider the financial aspect of the recommendation by Base One Consulting. If approximately 15 airports location were opened and used to judge the profitability of this segment, and an estimated 125 cars at each location (based on Exhibit 1), with the cost averaging about $20,000 per vehicle, Enterprise would be looking at an initial investment of about $37.5 million. However, the companys revenue is estimated at about $2.61 billion per year from the replacement market. The profit potential can only be estimated since airport rates very widely. Since the overall car rentalmarket generates an estimated $14.62 billion per year, and the business rentals account for about 40 percent of that figure, there is potential to penetrate an over $5.5 billion dollar market (Figures from Exhibit 2).In comparison, the costs to implement an aggressive advertising campaign, both nationally and locally, must be estimated from past advertising figures (Exhibit 2). Since Enterprise spent an estimated $22 million in advertising suffer year, and a more aggressive campaign will be implemented, we can estimate an advertising budget of about $55 million. This should cover all of the national and local advertisements. Although the advertising budget will more than double, it would only account for about 2.1% of the companys budget. This is less than the industry average of 2.8% of revenue. Overall, by implementing the recommended strategy, Enterprise would be looking at expenditures of about $92 million. Although this is almost 40% of the companys revenue for one year, many of the funds will come from long-term loans and other sources. Also, the revenues that will be realized by implementing the recommendation must be considered.

Good Country People

In the short story Good Country bulk, Flannery OConnor utilizes the characters Joy Hopewell and Manley pointer to notice how believing in nothing makes a person isolated and spiritually empty. Joy Hopewell is a well-educated, thirty-two year old atheist with an artificial leg. Joys need of belief causes her to lose all the human civility and decency she has. She even changes her name to Hulga. Flannery OConnors use of the mythological Trickster persona to facek, attract, and repulse the protagonist Joy-Hulga leads to her spiritual enlightenment. Manley Pointer through the Trickster persona seeks out the Hopewells, specifically Hulga.From the beginning the Bible salesman uses the svelte and persuasive words used by the Trickster. Pointer maneuvers himself inside when he tells Mrs. Hopewell, Lady, Ive come to speak of serious things. He continues, using her own thoughts and feelings to manipulate her, obese her, I k instantly you believe in Chrustian service and People like you dont like to fool with country people like me. The Trickster knows that Mrs. Hopewell is just being polite, but he persists, taking benefit of her desire to avoid all conflict and her love of good country people. Manley craftily gets himself invited to dinner out of sympathy.Knowing that Joy-Hulga has a heart condition, the Trickster deceives Mrs. Hopewell by telling her, I got this heart condition. I may not live long. When you know its well-nighthing wrong with you and you may not live long, well then, lady through with(predicate) deceit and smooth talking, Pointer guarantees hell spend the evening at the Hopewells home. The Trickster has found his way inside and can now focus on his heading Hulga. The Trickster has found his target and continues to use his mythological persona to attract Joy/Hulga. Pointer uses his silver tongue to convince disagreeable Hulga to accompany him on a picnic the next day.The con-artist tells Hulga, I think youre brave. I think youre real sweet and then later asks her, Dont you think some people was meant to meet on account of what all they got in common and all? Like they both think serious thoughts and all? Manley is establishing a union between Hulga and himself to make himself seem more attractive. Manley Pointer further personifies the mythological Trickster persona when he shows up the next day for their picnic in a broad-rimmed hat, and hes also described as very tall, Then suddenly he stood up, very tall, from behind a bush on the opposite embankment.Smiling, he lifted his hat which was new and wide-brimmed. These are two physical traits of the mythological Trickster persona. As they reach the barn, Pointer tricks Hulga and baits her into climbing up to the second bedight where the climax of the story occurs. The Trickster fools Hulga by acting innocently as he pointed up the ladder that led into the loft and said, Its too notional we cant go up there, implying that she cant do it because of her handicap, so s he quickly proves him wrong.Hulgas pride and feeling of superior intellect blind her from seeing that shes being duped by the Trickster. Flannery OConnor uses the Trickster persona to repulse the protagonist bring her to spiritual enlightenment. After Manley Pointer lures Hulga up into the loft of the barn, he becomes more demanding, using Hulgas feelings for him to manipulate her into fully grown him what he wants, he says, I known it, he muttered, sitting up. Youre just playing me for a sucker. The Trickster starts to show his true character more and more now that he has Hulga where he wants her. Manley manipulates Hulga into giving him her fake leg which symbolizes Hulga/Joys soul. As the Trickster takes Hulgas leg, he starts to bring her back into the light and give her a new start. You see it happening when Hulga says, When after a minute, she said in a hoarse high voice, All right, it was like surrendering to him completely.It was like losing her own life and finding it ov er again , miraculously, in his. Pointer takes Hulgas leg and leaves her there stranded in the loft to ponder her new spiritual enlightenment. Flannery OConnor uses the Trickster persona to seek, attract, and repulse the protagonist, thus bringing her new enlightenment on her life. Hulga/Joy had lost all human civility and decency in her life using her intellect as an excuse. As Hulga sits in the loft, she is finally forced to realize the error in her ways.

Metaphors by Sylvia Plath Essay

Sylvia Plath is well known for her confessional style of writing. Her poem Metaphors was written in the 1960s and expresses her self-loathing during pregnancy. Unlike many poets, Plath isnt afraid to express her inner feelings throughout her work and explore herself within her poetry. In her poem Metaphors Plath uses the I contribution to make her writing deeply personal and convey her pessimistic attitude towards her body image during pregnancy.Metaphors is written in a single stanza structure consisting of cabaret-spot lines each containing nine syllables. Nine is a recurring and significant number in the poem as metaphor and pregnancy both have nine letters and I is the ninth letter of the alphabet. It also may be an underlying reference to the nine months of gestation during pregnancy and the impact pregnancy is having on Plath. The poem is written in the form of blank verse without any regular rhyming pattern however the meter remains consistent with 9 syllables in each line. Plath pretends shockingly vivid imagery of her heavily pregnant body and child within An elephant, a ponderous house. She uses the word ponderous to create an image of her large, lumbering heavily pregnant body and house to show that she is sheltering something precious within. Plath also compares herself to the humorous image of a melon on two tendrils. This makes the reader picture a heavy, round image staggering on two frail, weak legs. The writers constant comparison to humorous, ugly objects such(prenominal) as a big loaf and a fat purse highlight the extent of her depression and self-loathing.Although Plath compares herself to a large, unattractive being, she places great value on her unborn childs life and compares it to many beautiful, valuable objects ivory fine timbers She uses comparison between the beautiful baby contained within her and her own self-image silvers new-minted in this fat purse which clearly represent the ugliness she sees in herself, concealing her pre cious child within. The writer claims to bea way where the child will thrive and grow until birth, a stage for her child to develop and grow within and a cow in calf which emphasizes the self-loathing she feels towards the intensify in her body.In the second last line on the poem, Plath says Ive eaten a bag of green apples which could be a reference to the Bible and the apples that tempted eve in the Garden of Eden and how her over-indulgence followed by painful consequences are a biblical reference to original sin. Plath compares her situation to that of Eves, she believes that she too indulged in the carnal pleasure of over-indulgence and is now facing the consequences of her actions. On a more literal level, it may also be that she has over-eaten and feels bloated as this is often common among pregnant women.Plath ponders what the dubious future holds for her in her last line Boarded the train theres no getting off. She implies that the pregnancy is too far advanced to be c oncluded and she is solely responsible for the new life within her. As the poem progresses, Plath begins to feel helpless towards the last weeks of her pregnancy, facing an uncertain future and she has no mesh over the outcome.The overall tone of Metaphors is a pessimistic one which highlights the extent of the poets self-loathing and depression. This may be related to mental health issues the fragile poet suffered from. Plaths distorted self-image combined with the love she feels for her unborn child and her uncertainty of what the future may hold for her come together to produce a beautiful, highly stimulated poem. She successfully incorporates striking yet shocking imagery to engage the reader into her deepest impressions and feelings and almost sympathise with her situation. Plath leaves us pondering what the future holds for her through her extremely heart-rending, thought provoking poem.

5 Years from Now

My inclination is to contribute my skills in creating an equitable and strife free society with the help of media. I would like to be a media entrepreneur in the next five years. After graduating, apart from worked as an IT support executive, I prepared for Civil Service Exams, and worked as volunteer for couple of NGOs which gave me exposure to various Socio-Economic issues and appriset how media preserve be used to resolve these issues. After careful contemplation, I chose media as my career path and gave up the Civils preparation. many an(prenominal) entrepreneurs have been using media innovation for social transformation.For example, Participant Media is an American film and television production come with which finances and produces socially relevant films and documentaries. Video Volunteers, an international media and human rights NGO that promotes community media to enable citizen alliance in marginalized and poor communities around the world. One World Media, ViewChange , Latin American Network of Art for social Transformation, TED (Technology Entertainment and Design) are the few examples of such successful media innovations. To shape a great idea into reality, it requires divers(a) range of skills and intimate knowledge of business.An MBA degree from SIBM with its robust pedagogy and strong industrial interface can act as a bridge between my theoretical knowledge and skills required for the industry. SIBM with more than 5000 alumni depart help me to meet the like minded and to build a symbiotic relationship for mutual benefit. The intersection point of ideas and attitudes of different people from diverse educational and cultural background at SIMB will help me to learn new ways of planning and organizing things and solving problems. I believe that my strong determination and my skills that will be streamlined by SIMB will definitely help me in achieving my goal.

Effects of Media Mass Worksheet Essay

What were the major developments in the evolution of mass media during the 20th deoxycytidine monophosphate?Communication to the mankind in the past has evolved through the 20th century through several stages as stated on the t qualified chart shown on page 27 of Chapter 1 Mass Media. It shows the evolution of mass media through different communication stages. Starting with oral/manuscript, to print and electronic and currently electronic totallyy to digitally. These different variances also determined which general universal was being r distributivelyed, the information that was being sent come on and the amount of time to receive the information. Today in the 20th century, media earth-closet be reached be the masses, commonwealth fag end access the news and media through their televisions, internet, jail cell phones, social media networks and mollify newspapers.With the recent turn to the digital age of media coverage you are able to reach wide range of viewers and they are able to access up to date news and important information in a second. This tool can be helpful in emergency situations but can also cause may conflicts in opinions and misleading information. With the digital age and social networks, it allows everyone access to speak their mind, not being just a news-anchor or report from the past and present. There are many social and blogging sites that allow you to voice anything you wish. Allowing someone to rant or rave, demonstrate fact or fiction all at their finger- tips. Although this can be accessed immediately, some information may be basis or misleading, so the general public still will need to take caution when reading news and updates. How did each development influence American culture?During each stage change through the 20th century, it had also changed the taste and preferences ofthe general public. promptly with access to a wide range of media outlets and networks, common everyday people were turning into overnight celebriti es and verity stars. The general public was able to access other prospects, parodies, and creative media outlets rather than just the few the public was limited to in the past. With the media at your fingertips it is hard to not communicate every chance you get. Checking email, having a cell phone that you can make telephone calls while traveling to help keep in stain with family also helps. This feature helped keep families closer and as a nation a tighter community to all events, rather than having to wait days or even months to receive important information.As through each development the cultures changed as described and pictured on Figure 1.2 Culture as a Skyscraper. sacking from the elite and selected few now there are many new forms of expression that can be found online through the internet. I do agree with the diagram and do see how the general public tastes have changed and even lowered, but living in the United States of America, has given each individual the just to freedom of speech and lucky for them others like what they have to say or do, which through blogging, tweeting or Facebook posts can help with popularity and a growing sensation.

NCFE Level 2 Certificate for children and Young Peoples Workforce Essay

whole 11.1Observe and tape aspects of the development of a pincer or four-year-old mortal-All early old age context def ratiocination electric razorren every day age. There atomic number 18 m each different ways of doing this. Knowing what to look for is heavy most(prenominal) reachs relinquish alone observe kidskinrens development to see how they be doing in the following celestial orbits PHYSICAL-Childrens physical development is around the way that they exercise their hands, move and balance and alike arrange skills such as kicking a ball. some p set dismantle involves physical development you may be adequate to observe a electric razors physical development as they be playing e.g. a kid pushing a pushch institutionalise or a kid playing football. COMMUNICATION AND LANGUAGE- approximately nestlingren result talk as they play if they are using speech. Babies and toddlers efficacy use dust delivery or gestures to communicate with us. Childrens s peech and language is alpha to their overall development. PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL-Quite a lot of information brush aside be learnt to the highest degree these aspects of development while baby birdren are playing. Observing tikerens personal social and emotional development means looking at whether they spend a penny strong relationships and whether they applaud creation with others. Being with others is important for kidskinren. Even young babies show their happy while being with others and institute eye cont stage. social unit 11.2Identify different ceremony methods and roll in the hay wherefore they are used-We observe chelaren because we use the information we record to plan activities that are relevant for the child or change your setting in someway to reflect what you baffle learned some the children as a radical to service of process them develop. There are different ways of observing a child for example with yours eyes, your ears, or through planned ac tivities. We also record the observation in different ways, i.e.-Focused observation-A cerebrate observation is where you observe what a child is doing recording every detail, this assistants record the development of the child and when linked with the EYFS we keep identify what stage the child is at. Snaps sultry observation-A snapshot observation is where you witness a childs development with your own eyes or hear it with your ears that was non adult guide but child initiated. You lead then record it and link it with the EYFS and then you could plan an use that would financial help oneself their development in that particular area. Daily diary-In my setting a melt downaday diary record is kept of what a child has done through the day if the child was a baby it would involve what magazine their feed was, what they ate and what time they slept and for how long. It would also include what the child has shown interest in that day and what employment the child was gaind t o be involved in. This is sha bolshy with the parent on a daily or weekly basis so the parents mess see how the child is doing in the babys room. building block 11.3 maintain assessments of the development needs of a child or young person-Once I moderate observed a child, I curl up stakesing then think about what I befool learnt about the childs development, interests or needs. This is done so that settings lowlife plan activities and resources. I go forth think about what a child is doing in relation to the early years foundation stage. Confidentiality is very important, I must receive authentic that any information about the child cigarettenot be seen by people that are not working with the child or do not havereason to see it. When I observe a child it is important that I bind as objective as possible, This means really focussing on what the child is doing at the time I am watching them and analyseing to for take on what I may already know about them.pic1.4Suggest w ays the identified development needs of a child or young person deal be met in the work setting-There are to a greater extent ways a work setting suntan down be meet indentified development needs in children. They can reflect on the childs interest and views, it is important to base our ideas around what we have seen the child doing and enjoying, activities to support a childs development do not work if the child does not like them or are not interested. Providing a challenge leave behind help the child to attract progress, this means any ideas for activities must be exciting. Play is an important way of helping children to develop skills without realising it. They can also move over sure that in the work setting all planning is flexible as a child may come in and not palpate like playing or might have other ideas about what they would like to do, Also working with parents so they have consistency by doing the comparable at home as they do in nursery.UNIT 12.1Carry out acti vities with a child or young person to support their holistic development-I have carried out an activity with three children ages 8 months-1year. I first planned the activity of what I would need and do, as you can see blow, while doing the activity I done observations on all three children but focussed on my key child, this observation has also been included for you to see. later on doing my activity I then sit down down and looked at my plan and observation, I evaluated it and wrote down next step.Activity planType of activity Holistic / Sensory.Activity Exploring the prize basket.Number of children 3 think on one child.Material requisite Treasure basket, Holistic objects.ActivityI gain take three children one would be my focused child. I go outside(a) then sit them in a circle with the reassure basket and holistic objects in the middle. I give then encourage the children to explore and feel the different objects. I result also observe how they react and record it.2.2Re cord observations of the child or young persons participation in the activities-Focused observationChild A has pulled a sponge out of the treasure basket, she starts to pull it with both hands, child A then holds the sponge in her right hand and starts to shiver it about. Child A then reaches into the treasure basket with her left hand and starts to pull out the material, a staff member says whats this and child A watches the staff and copies them with the material pulling it with both hands. rating period doing my activity I done an observation on my focused child. Looking at my observation and what the child did during the activity I can see that child A likes to feel objects with her hands. Child A also learns by watching others and then copies them. My next steps for child A is to introduce sensorial activities e.g. exploring mash potato as she could feel and taste at the same time.UNIT 13.1 & 3.2 decipher the different transitions children and young people may experience- Exp lain how to give adult support for each of these transitions-Children and young people may experience different transitions such as 3.1NEW SIBLINGS-When a child or young persons parents have a new baby it could leave the older child feeling like they are not the baby anymore, they may feel green-eyed or even upset because they may not be getting as much tutelage as before, this could make the child start trouble seeking, they may start acting up e.g. duplicity or not listening. 3.2I can support a child if they are feeling this I could try explaining to the child about the imperative side to having a sibling, and would also empathise with the child explaining why they feel the way the feel. 3.1TOILET TRAINING-This could make a child feel frustrated because he/she might not be able to tell you they need the toilet on time, or they may not bed the signs. This leave behind cause the child to have an accident and may then feel embarrassed. 3.2I can support them by encouraging them to use their words to communicate to an adult. I could also use flash cards to learn the child what a toilet looks like and how to say toilet. I would extolment the child when they go to the toilet e.g. orally or using stickers, this volition encourage the child to ask to do it again to receive more praise. 3.1MOVING AWAY-This could make the child frustrated because they are being torn outside from either their favourite place or even their friends. When a child moves away they may feel lost or sca fierce, lonely or even anxious this could possibly end in depression and make the childs behaviour worse in nursery or schooltime. 3.2I would support a child or young person moving away by making the transition a happy experience, I would explain what is going to surpass and when, then try and make them at a lower placestand why it is happening. 3.1STARTING A NEW SCHOOL-When a child moves school they may start to feel sad, upset or lost that they are leaving all their friends beh ind and may not see them everyday anymore, they might not understand why they are leaving. Moving school could make the child feel nervous because they do not know anyone and pull up stakes have to make new friends, the child could feel anxious because they dont know what to expect. This could make them feel startle and not want to go to school. 3.2I can support the family in advance preparing them for the change. I can explain to the child what is going to happen so its not a larger-than-life jerk for them. I could suggest to the parent to take them to visit the new school setting so they know and blemish the surroundings they are going to.UNIT 14.1Explain how a work setting can encourage children and young peoples positive behaviour-A work setting can encourage children and young peoples positive behaviour by Following behaviour policy. Providing a simulating and challenging environment. Positive behaviour reinforced through praise and rewards. Having clear boundaries. Deve loping positive relationships. merging individual needs. Giving children choices. Having adult authority model. Listening to children and valuing their opinions. Encouraging children to resolve conflict. Following plans for individual behaviour.4.2 gift how children and young people are encouraged to engage in positive behaviour-As we are component part models, we must always express positive body and verbal language and support rules. We should be footsure and professional so that children will beget self confident and express positive behaviour. Giving verbal praise and rewards such as stickers to a childs positive behaviour will encourage them to continue this way. Rewards also go a long way in promoting positive behaviour in a child. We should always lead by example. We should use encouraging words, be approachable, understanding and show empathy in order to encourage positive behaviour. When in that respect is a good relationship between the adult and child, and the child is behaving positively, the child receives lots of good attention. This encourages them to repeat the same behaviour. In the same way, if a child is behaving in a way where they will get negative attention, they normally want to change their behaviour so they can receive positive attention again.UNIT 14.3Reflect on own role in promoting positive behaviour in children or young people-My setting has clear rules and boundaries that I will meet at all times. I will follow the behaviour policy within my setting, this will encourage positive behaviour. I would encourage the children to be kind with other people by maintaining a good environment. I will also meet the childrens needs and plan activities to meet those needs. I will set an example in myself and will always have and use positive behaviour, as I am a role model to them. I will reward the children that have showed positive behaviour through verbal or stickers to praise them. I would use encouraging words and make sure I provide a simulating environment. Also I will make them feel gum elastic and secure when being left by parents.5.1Review effectiveness of own contribution to the assessment of the developmental needs of a child or young person-By observing a child, I can see how the child is progressing. When Im observing a child I will be looking for development in the seven different areas covered in the EYFS which are P.S.E.D- Personal, Social and turned on(p) development.C.L- Communication and Language.P.D- Physical Development.L- Literacy.M- Maths.E.A.D- Expressive Art and Design.U.W- Understanding the World.Once the observation is linked with one of these areas I can then write my next steps and plan activities around that area that will ass up the childs development further.5.2Review effectiveness of own role in supporting the child or young persons development-When supporting the childs development, I will have observed the child looking at all the areas of the EYFS. I would have then linked it . After I would have wrote my next steps. This was effective because I can see what stage and in what area within the EYFS the child is at. I then planned an activity that would be challenging. This helped me to know what recourses I involve for the activity and also helped the child further their development in a fun and happy way.UNIT 15.3Identify changes that can be made to own practice in supporting child and young person development-The changes that can be made in my setting are communication skills, time keeping and working with parents. This will help support the childs development because these will help the child become more confident and have structure and routine while in the nursery this is important as a child will be unhappy and will not be able to learn if they dont have these.UNIT 21.1 mention the ordinary types of crannys-A fracture is simply a broken bone.When a bone is broken, the nerves, blood vessels and tendons around the brake will be disparaged as well. a great deal a fracture may not break the enough bone in young children as their bones are more flexible than adults. This sort of fracture is sometimes referred to as a greenstick fracture. Fractures can be one of two main types closed or open.Closed fractures- This is the most greenness type of fracture, this is where the skin around the fracture does not break. blossom forth fracture- This is where in that location is an open wound at the site of the fracture. Sometimes the bone sticks out of the wound this creates a big risk of infection. Dislocation- A dislocation is where the bone separates from a joint, this can occur easily in children. neer tug or pull on a childs arm or hand, and never pick them up by their hands or arms.1.2 & 1.3Describe how to manage a fracture or dislocation-You will ordinarily be able to tell quite easily if a child has a fracture or dislocation. In children that are older they are likely to tell you that their arm or leg hurts. Alternatively, l ook for- Swelling around the injured area. Unnatural position. Open wounds or breaks around the skin. Tenderness. acquittance of actor / Ability to move.My role is to make sure I maintain the injured part in the most comfortable position while waiting for the ambulance.UNIT 22.1Describe how to recognise and manage star injuries-A stop injury can result in Concussion, skull fracture or noetic compression. I would be able to recognise a head injury by the following signs Swelling. Bruising. Nausea. Vomiting- on more then one occasion. A bump. Severe drowsiness. Blurred vision. Fits. Bleeding from any part of the head. depart in the type of cry of a baby. Difficulty in walking or talking. Being sentinel and sweaty. Pupils of the eyes uneven in size. Aggression and irritability. Clear or blood-stained fluid from the ears or nose. Changes in behaviour. self-conceited soft spots on a babys skull.Often afterwardsward a child has had a bang to the head they might just have a bum p and feel foggy and will not need to go to the hospital. It is still important I monitor the child nigh for about six hours after the accident, and be alert for any changes for a few days. I will inform and give clear instructions to the parents about what to look for after a bang to the head and encourage them to seek medical help if they are worried. Bleeding can happen straight after the injury or a few days later, or bloodcan build up slowly. If any of the signs of a head injury occur I would rally for an ambulance and the childs parents immediately. While waiting for the ambulance I would gibe any external bleeding by applying pressure with a pad, lay the child down, if the child is unconscious act as if there is also an injury to the neck, I will also make note of the symptoms e.g. vomiting, pupil size, how long the child has been or was unconscious for. Etc.2.2 register how to manage a suspected spinal injury-Spinal injuries are unusual in young children tho can happen i f a child falls from a height.It is very important you do not move or attempt to move the child as any slight movement can cause serious damage, including paralysis. I will steady and support the neck and head, and dial 999 for an ambulance.UNIT 23.1Describe how to manage and infant and a child with foreign bodies in their eyes, ears and nose-There as many things that can get stuck in these places e.g. crayons, glitter and beads. Beads fit into these places incredibly well. When something is stuck up a childs nose or ear, if there is enough sticking out to get a tight grip on e.g. a crayon, I will gently try to ease it out I will not touch it as the result will be it becoming further stuck in. If it is not possible to ease out I would simply environ for the first aider to take the child to the closest NHS walk-in centre or minor injuries unit.3.2Describe how to recognise and manage prevalent eye injuries-Most children will manage to get foreign bodies in their eyes such as Pain t besprinkleSandEyelashesGlitterFluffThese sorts of things can easily be removed.I would sit the child down and rove on a pair of disposable gloves. I will then Gently pull down the lower eye eyelid and any remove any visible foreign bodies with either a clean wet piece of tissue or a small piece of wet netting swab. Yet if this fails to works I will pull the upper eyelid over the lower lid ad try to flush it out with tears. If it still remains in the eye I will then try to wash the eye with water by Positioning the childs head over the sink or bowl with their eye open, facing the bottom of the sink or bowl. exploitation a plastic cup try to pour water on the eye from the tear line outwards.If none of this works and the eye is still red and the child still says it is painful I will seek professional help.UNIT 24.1Describe how to recognise and manage chronic medical conditions including sickle cell anaemia, diabetes and asthma-The most common chronic health conditions you may co me into contact with are asthma, sickle cell anaemia and diabetes. Sickle Cell Anaemia is a geneti distinguishy inherited condition and is common in children of an African-Caribbean heritage. Sickle cell anaemia is a blood disorder that red blood cells become distorted and can block vessels in the body. The signs and symptoms are lack of energy and being breathless also they would look yellow in colour due to jaundice and they would be in severe pain. cracking away I would consult a doctor and my line manager I would recode these symptoms and everything else in my accident book. I would also inform the parents. Diabetes is a lifelong medical condition. Most children who have diabetes will need insulin injections. If a child has too much or not enough insulin, they are at risk of getting hypoglycaemia (hypo attack) or hyperglycaemia (hyper attack). A child going into hypo may be drowsy,pale, sweating, confused, trembling or irritable. The child needs to balance the insulin by having sugar I can give this to the child directly in the mouth or a drink of orange succus for example. Usually the child will not need any more treatment and will suffice quickly to sugars that are easily absorbed. A hyper attack is caused by lack of insulin medical help is needed, I will call for an ambulance. A child going into hyper attack may shows signs of the following Very thirsty, drowsy, passing game urine very often, have a fruity-smelling breath, vomiting, eventually become unconscious. Asthma attacks can be brought on by exercise, stress, very cold air and pollen or dust. Asthma is caused by the airways in the lungs closing up. This makes it concentrated for the child to take breaths. I would recognise this as the child wheezes and breathing in/out becomes more difficult. A child with asthma will usually use one or more inhalers to control it. They should always have their inhaler available at all times to help them deal with an attack. Often a child will use their inhale r before exercise. If an asthma attack is left untreated, a child can die. If a child is having an asthma attack I would make them comfortable. Sit them in a quiet area away from other children and seat the child in the position most comfortable to them. I will also help them to use their inhaler usually a juicy reliever. I will encourage the child to breath slowly, if the attack does not subside, then Ill call for medical help.UNIT 24.2Describe how to recognise and manage serious sudden illnesses including Meningitis and Febrile convulsions-Meningitis-In most settings children may become ill during the day. Some cases the development of a high temperature, vomiting and a rash are just parts of mild illness. However, in a few cases they can be the start to a life threatening illness. If I was worried bout the childs symptoms, I would seek medical help. Babies and young children can deteriorate very quickly. I would be able to recognise a child with meningitis by these common sympt oms Stiff neck. Reaction to light. High temperature. Headache. Bulging fontanelles in babies. Irritability. ane sign of meningitis is a rash that does not fade under pressure, I would perform the glass seek to detect whether the rash fades or not. A fever with a rash that does not fade under pressure is a medical emergency. If I suspect a child has meningitis I will call an ambulance immediately and inform the parents, while waiting for the ambulance I will stay with the child and make them feel comfortable. Febrile convulsions-I would be able to recognise a child with febrile convulsions as the child may be experiencing, loss of consciousness, a short spell of not breathing, heavy dribbling, neck and back arching, body rigid and shaking and heavy dribbling. I will perform the following to prevent the child from choking or injuring themselves I will put the child on their side making sure the airway is open, I will clear any surroundings objects, if the child is hot I would help t o cool them by opening a window or putting a fan on or I will remove some clothing, I would place the child in convalescence position, also sponge the child down and if this is their first convulsion or does not stop after three minutes then I will dial 999 for an ambulance.UNIT 25.1Describe how to recognise and treat the effects of extreme cold for an infant and a child-If body temperature drops to below 35 degrees, hypothermia will cause a slowdown in the working of the body and can lead to tissue damage and death. I will look for Low body temperature. If the child is being sluggish or unconscious.I will treat the child who is suffering the effects of extreme cold by bringing tem into a warm room or close to a warm body, I will wrap the childin a blanket or coat, I would call for an ambulance and encourage them to drink warm drinks.5.2Describe how to recognise and treat the effects of extreme heat for an infant and a child-It is easy to recognise when a child is too hot, they ma y show signs of heavy sweating, tiredness, feeling sick and generally ill, high temperature, fast breathing, febrile convulsions in babies and small children. When the body temperature is over 40 degrees this can cause heat hyperpyrexia and can result in brain damage or death. Heat exhaustion is more common in children, especially if they have been playing out in hot weather. It can be life-threatening if a baby or young child overheats. If this happens I would move the child out of the heat and give them plenty of water to drink, I would cool them by applying cool water or cool cloths, I would remove excess clothing then if there is no improvement, or if I suspect heatstroke I will call for an ambulance.UNIT 26.1Describe how to safely manage an incident involving electricity-If there is an incident where a child has been in contact with electricity, the priority is to isolate the source. If possible I will switch the power off at the mains or master switch. If this is not possible I could get a wooden broom or chair and push the child well away from the electric source. I do not want to rush in to get hold of the child this will result in me also being injured.6.2Describe first aid treatments or electric spite incidents-Exposure to electricity can stop the heat. If this is the case then I will start rudiment Airway. Breathing.Circulation, and call for an ambulance.The places where the electricity has entered and left the body may have prunes that need first aid treatment of lots of cool water. But I will only give this after the power source has been switched off or the child has been safely removed.7.1Describe how to recognise the severity of contracts and scalds to an infant and a child and respond accordingly-There are three factors that affect the severity of a burn or scald Size, witch it usually described as a percentage. The palm of the hand is about 1% of the body skin. Location, a burn to the face, feet, hands or genitals are more serious. De pth. fire occur when the skin is exposed to heat or chemicals, for example fire, sunburn, friction, acid, bleach or garden chemicals. Scalds happen when the skin is exposed to hot fluids, for example boiling water, steam or hot fat. Burns and scalds are usually divided into three categories depending on how much damage they cause to the skin and underlying tissues. First-degree or minor burns are superficial and affect only the outer layer of the skin, making it red and sore. Second-degree or partial thickness burns extend below the surface of the skin. The skin looks raw and blisters form. Third-degree or full thickness burns damage the entire layer of the skin and underlying tissues to affect nerves, muscle and fat. The skin looks pale and waxy. First-degree burns can be recognized by slight extrusion and redness. In second-degree burns, the skin looks red raw and blisters will appear. Black or waxy skin indicates a third-degree burn and that the burn is serious. Serious burns ca n cause shock. A scald in the mouth or throat, may cause swelling and make breathing difficult. Scalds are caused by liquids e.g. water or hot drinks. Burns can be caused by fire, electricity, the sun, chemicals or very hot materials such as metals.UNIT 27.2Describe how to treat burns and scalds to an infant and a child-I would seek medical attention for any child with a burn that is Causing serious pain. On the face or hands. A chemical or electrical burn. Deep or blistering. Accompanied by inhaling smoke or fumes. No larger than a postage stamp.First-degree burns can be treated at home and usually heal in seven to ten days. Second- and third-degree burns are much more serious and demand medical attention as there is a risk of infection and shock developing. I would act immediately to a child who has a burn or scald I would cool the burn with cold water- preferably under gently running water, for at least 10 minutes. I will remove any clothing that is not stuck to the burn. I wou ld cover the burn with a sterile or clean dressing, or even a clean plastic bag this will keep the air out of the burn. If there is any burn or scald on a baby or young child I will call an ambulance straight away.8.1Describe how poisons enter the body-Poisons can entre the body by being swallowed for example cleaning fluids, tablets. Also be being breathed in by fumes and dust. Or it can entre the body through the skin e.g. fluids, powders. Here are some common examples of items that can be venomous Cleaning fluids can burn the mouth and digestive system when took if in unlocked cupboard. Sleeping tablets from unattended handbag can make a child unconsciousness and possibly result in death. Poison ivy plants can cause severe irritation and blistering to the skin.UNIT 28.2Describe how to recognise and treat an infant and a child affected by common poisonous substances, including plants-Each poisonous substance will have a different effect on a childs body, depending on what the pois on is and how it has entered the body. When I find a child who I suspect has been poisoned I will look around for evidence like Open drug containers. Open chemical containers. Unusual smells on childs breath. Unusual smells, such as gas fumes.I would recognise if a child has been poisoned as they may show signs of Vomiting. Pain. Burns around the mouth. Blisters or swelling. drowsiness or unconsciousness. Severe rash or itching of the skin.I would treat the child by dialling 999 for an ambulance, I would try to find out what the child has taken, how much and when or what they have been in contact with and I will give my evidence to medical help. If the child is unconscious, I will check the airway and put the child in the recovery position. If the child has been poisoned by a poisonous plant I will rinse the skin under running water.8.3Identify sources of information that provide procedures for treating those affected by poisonous substances-UNIT 29.1Describe how to recognise the severity of bites and stings to an infant and a child and respond accordingly-It is important I recognise when medical intervention is needed and make sure the child gets it. Most bites and stings are quite minor and just need cleaning or stings removing and reassurance. The most dangerous reaction achild would get from a sting or bite is if they are allergic to the sting or bite. Allergic reactions can develop very quickly. I would look for Difficulty in breathing. Severe swelling at the site. Swelling of the face. Redness and raised rash.If a child had this type of reaction I would call for an ambulance immediately and inform there parents.Bites are usually easy to recognise. If a child has been bite I may see teeth marks or puncture wounds. Any cuts will usually be jagged. The bites also usually will have bruising with them, so I would see that the area is red and it may be slightly swollen. If I see the bite is badly bleeding or the child is seriously injured I will control the bleeding and call for an ambulance. But if the bite is not that serious I will wash the area thoroughly and apply a cold arrangement to the area to ease the swelling. I will also apply a dressing if there are breaks in the skin. I would recognise an Insect stings as the area would be red and may have mild swelling. Also the child would be complaining that it is painful and itchy. I would move the child away from any further risks of stings. I would check the area that has been stung and remove any sting by scrapping away from the area with my fingernail or card for example. I will wash the area well with max and water and apply a cold pack to reduce any swelling and ease the pain.Support the assessment of children and young peopleUsing the assessment frameworkAvoidingBiasMaintaining confidentiality

Fedex Annual Report 2012

to persist ahead, we go beyond FedEx annual Report 2012 I wIll puzzle out both Fedex experIence outstandIng. The Purple annunciate When the going gets tough, FedEx shows the spirit and determination that switch always set us a unwrap. FY12 was a stratum of ch ei in that locationnges marked by stinting and political disruptions and staffging offset around the globe. To stay ahead, we go beyond in the way we manage our business, deliver the quality service our guests expect and acquire solutions for a more than(prenominal) sustainable cosmea. A good or acceptable experience doesnt rails it for us.We contend a end to deliver outstanding FedEx experiences, a shipment we c any the Purple Promise. Our aggroup members around the world add up to a powerful expediency for FedEx. One that goes beyond the quotidian to achieve the supererogatoryordinary. When We go beyond, our customers and communities thrive. each year we honor the crush of the best of our team membe rs with the Purple Promise Chairmans Award. Meet three of the recipients, from left Joe Reedy, supervisor, Fedex Custom Critical Megan hershberger, supervisor, Fedex Custom Critical William davis, customer advocate representative, Fedex TechConnect. o to fedex. com/annualreport2012 to fill their stories. 1 to stay ahead, we lead the way Three things that differentiate FedEx our people, our schema and our rivet ne twainrks bequeath al abject us to achieve this culture. STRATegiC diSCiPline How a business responds during canvassing time is a true measure of its resilience and a test of its strategy. In a mercurial commercialiseplace, employ FedEx team members turned in a world-class proceeding death monetary year. Their dynamic, make grow approach to some pretty stiff headwinds defines FedEx at its best.Our long-term strategies ar working, and we commit we provide amend our competitive position and our pecuniary motion over the next several age, as a result. To do so, we must take advantage of our scale to improve our efficiency. And second, we must go forward nimble and responsive to our customers. We try to manage the critical balance between the devil every day. In this regard, our flexibility kept FedEx moneymaking during the 2008-2009 recession, and we emerged ironlikeer. In the same vein, we recognize many residual ch tout ensembleenges ar ongoing and require us to mesh a lean and flexible organization. completely companies, including FedEx, face many rising bells they can non directly control, be it wellness c are or energy. This, in turn, requires relentless focus on quality, which has been embedded in our culture since our runner day of operations. Utilizing our Quality Driven Management system, we are confident we can hack cost maculation simultaneously up(p) service levels. To Our Shareowners, FedEx showed real grit in FY12. We committed to a strong public presentation, and we delivered no small feat, given the yea rs challenges.Our internet per share convince magnitude 40 part, and annual grosss exceeded $42 billion, a 9 percent increase, in spite of political gridlock in the United States, monetary turmoil in Europe, a slowing Asian economy and volatile raise prices. Despite these issues, we managed and amend give outs crossways all of our tape transport businesses, allowing us to hold back enhancing the function and technology that make our customers more successful and more procreative. FedEx underfur had a stellar year, delivering 18. 4 percent run margins and bill for more than fractional of FedEx direct(a) profit.Online shipments spurred commemorate pecks. More than one quarter of our FedEx earth lanes are now faster in terms of point system times than the competition, boosting service and customer satisfaction to unprecedented levels. As a result, including FedEx SmartPost, our overall U. S. ground parcel-market share has change magnitude to nearly 30 percent , doubling over the utmost(a) decade. The rapid transformation of FedEx transport, which basically reinvented the LTL payload industry a little more than a year ago, is paying off with a strong eturn to profit cogency. tax tax enhancements grew 8 percent year over year. Offering both priority and economy service options and industry-leading overfly times halt made FedEx despatch a market share leader, and customers are delighted by our LTL value proposition. Global un veritablety, a slowdown of Asia exports and weakness in the technology sector challenged FedEx verbalize in FY12. Although U. S. internal and world(prenominal) priority bundle volumes were down, pass improvements helped FedEx elicit maintain profit top executive.Were taking advantage of the flexibility weve built into our system to distich our capacity to the necessary weve speed the retirement of older, less cost- good aircraft and are replacing them with more fuel- good planes and we are taking so me some other actions to increase FedEx prove margins in the future, despite the low- egress environment. 2 FoCuSed neTWoRkS Our customers expectations and needs evolve constantly, and so must we. The Roman statesman Marcus Aurelius summed it up best nary(prenominal)hing happens without change. Thats why our operating companies relentlessly adjust their networks to meet traffic flows and levels.Each network is separate so it can optimize its business without compromise. Hence our competitive advantage of speed and flexibility FedEx posit, FedEx grease and FedEx Freight are superior networks with industry-leading service levels. Superior networks translate into superior solutions for customers. Thats real value. consent as an example the globular rise of online buying, now growing at three to four times the rate of retail sales growth overall. For FedEx, that means more deliveries, whether a output is secured or returned. Its the perfect fuel for growth, internationally an d in the United States.Retailers want a range of merchant marine options that satisfies their customers diverse expectations for cost and service. In the U. S. we offer demonstrate service, customized ground home delivery, and FedEx SmartPost, our most inexpensive transit option. The low cost of FedEx SmartPost allows retailers to offer free exaltation as a marketing tactic. In fact, consumers Were guardianship our eye on the ball loWering costs and improving our efficiency for continued success. chose the free-shipping option for half of holiday ecommerce transactions last November and December, according to omS meat, a firm that analyzes online commerce. As noned earlier, our QDM philosophy and methods are built on the proven premise that high quality put downs costs, improves service levels, and bring ups the customer experience. Its a three-legged stool that agrees our long-term growth strategies. We apply QDM principles to our sustainability decisivenesss, just as w e do to our business decisions, because its good business and good for the planet. The FedEx Express vehicle fleet is ahead of plan to be 20 percent more fuel efficient by 2020 than it was in 2005.To support our air fleet modernization program, we have tardily agreed to leveraging superfluous Boeing 767 aircraft that are substantially more fuel efficient than the aircraft they volition replace. In FY12, we invested about $4 billion in capital expenditures, about half associate to modernizing our air fleet. We think such initiatives are an integral part of this years No. 6 ranking on fortunes Worlds Most Admired Companies list and No. 7 on the Reputation Institutes list of the most socially responsible companies in the United States.FedEx provides the efficient access that businesses of all sizings need to succeed, build prosperous communities and raise living measurings worldwide. proficient ask a British mother who redesigned a simple handbag. In just three geezerhood this FedEx customer turned her product into a $3. 3 gazillion global business called Cambridge Satchel Company. Or call down to the founder of OtterBox, a company that makes protective cases for mobile devices. Thanks to the mastery of global supply range of mountainss, he grew his business from $5 million to almost $169 million in just three years, while creating more than 500 jobs in his hometown of Fort Collins, Colo.We believe we can continue to improve FedExs financial performance in fiscal year 2013 and beyond taild on the strategy and initiatives discussed above. But we read our achievements deposit on the trust of our customers, shareowners, and team members and we will continue to earn their confidence by conducting our business with integrity, dependability, and commitment every day, every transaction. Thats our Purple Promise. Sincerely, WoRld-ClASS SoluTionS Growth in the U. S. and Europe is moderate, but there are positive signs worldwide because of the strength of em erging markets.Countries such as China, India, Mexico and Brazil are quick becoming consumers as well as producers, driving increased demand. The long-term future for global job remains solid, and we are committed to providing solutions for businesses large and small to lay outively compete in this primal market. occupation express will continue to grow long term as the integration of the worlds economies generate more small shipments moving directly from the point of production to the end user. Thats why the unique capabilities of our Boeing 777Fs are a distinct advantage for us.Their long range and nonstop capabilities provide shippers more time to process shipments each day. Con rate of flowly, air consignment shipping is becoming more episodic. High-value technology products make up a large portion of this market these days, and more of these goods are being shipped as part of large upstart product launches. As a consequence, it often takes a large fleet of wide-body ai rcraft like ours to quickly flex capacity up and down. If a customer asks us to add extra flights, FedEx can do it better than our competitors because we have the largest all-cargo fleet in the world.These make outs are reinforced by ameliorate production scheduling, reliability, and logistics breeding systems. Better visibility into supply chains allows greater use of ocean ecstasy to ship customers commodity freight, a distinct advantage given higher(prenominal) fuel prices. As a result, weve been expanding our FedEx Trade Networks capabilities. Since 2008, weve opened 47 freight-forwarding offices worldwide to help businesses range of mountains their markets via ocean or air. Its a pigment part of our strategy to provide customers with the world-class solutions they need to compete.Despite the slowdown in Europe last year, our business there continues to grow. To better serve customers, FedEx Express is opening stations across Europe. Weve also recently completed acquisiti ons of transportation companies in Poland, France, and Brazil to provide customers in those markets with better domestic service and improved access to global markets. innovATion AT WoRk As we grow, we know we must continue to bring together the world responsibly. It starts with the Purple Promise, which FedEx team members deliver millions of times a day worldwide I will make every FedEx experience outstanding. If the Purple Promise is our soreness, Quality Driven Management (QDM) represents our hands its how we do things at FedEx. Frederick W. Smith Chairman, President and CEO MORE fedex. com/annualreport2012 3 to stay ahead, we change the endorse As the speed of global change accelerates, the difference between leaders and followers is defined by one word agility. We not only have the ability to quickly react to changing economic conditions and customer needs, but also the agility to anticipate and effect change. FedEx is redefining our industry as we continually regulate a nd refine our focused networks to gain speed and efficiency.When we change the game, our customers win. ACCeleRATing ACCeSS gAining SPeed FedEx Express is the largest all-cargo airline in the world and the largest express transportation company. Our long-range Boeing 777F aircraft directly link global markets, speeding customers shipments door-to-door. In the last two years, weve improved global access by completing acquisitions in India, Mexico, Poland, France and Brazil. To accommodate evolving customer needs, the global offices of FedEx Trade Networks offer end-to-end shipping operate, including air and ocean freight forwarding supported by customs brokerage.FedEx flat coat continues to delight customers by shortening transit times throughout the U. S. and Canada. Businesses can reach more locations faster than with any other ground carrier. Convenient FedEx stain home delivery and FedEx SmartPost function support the growing consumer trend to buy online, which grew by double digits in each of the last two years. In the United States, Cyber Monday online sales rose 22 percent, to $1. 25 billion last year the largest online shop day ever, boosting holiday shipping volumes to record levels.CuSToMeRS ARe in The FAST lAne thanks to a dedicated Fedex ground team that continually fine-tunes the ground network, much like a race car, to conjure speed, safety and reliability. From left kimberly Whigham, managing director, vehicle Maintenance Jeff grimm, managing director, linehaul Planning brian neal, manager, Safety Process Management Steve griffin, vice president, linehaul full-bodied Sturges, senior manager, linehaul engineering. go to fedex. com/annualreport2012 to read their story. 4 ShiFTing geARS innovATing SoluTionSFedEx Freight is the first carrier to offer less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping customers two choices priority and economy. In an industry where most shipments are processed manually, were automating much of the shipping process, improving c ustomers productivity and earning their loyalty. Weve also made it much easier and faster for shippers to classify freight with Freight Central, our contented online resource for LTL shippers. Combined with industry-leading transit times, these changes have made FedEx Freight a market leader in the U. S. LTL industry, a $31 billion market in 2011.FedEx Services transforms our superior technology and delivery services into shipping and business solutions for customers. Their choices are based on whats most important to them today. Thats why our portfolio includes air and ocean freight forwarding solutions to complement our express and air cargo services. Meanwhile, at FedEx stake locations, we installed 8,000 pieces of printing equipment in the last two years. The technology can deliver a variety of signage and over-sized prints for customers ranging from big-box retailers with manifold locations to large corporations to small businesses. uperior netWorks deliver game-changing cus tomer solutions. MORE fedex. com/annualreport2012 5 to stay ahead, we do whats reform A passion for quality drives FedEx team members worldwide. Our culture of continuous improvement embraces change and drives innovation. In turn, we enhance the lives of our customers and their communities so that our customers remain among the most satisfied and loyal in the industry. Whether its the transportation services we provide, the breeding technology we support or the sustainable solutions we implement, when we do the right thing, we earn their trust.QuAliTy dRiven MAnAgeMenT is how we successfully respond to the pressures of todays business environment. In a recent improvement effort, weve cut missed and damaged shipments, demonstrating our commitment to service excellence and saving millions of dollars. Global teams also worked on behalf of customers to continue improving the customs clearance process. More accurate clearance documentation, technology improvements and better collabo ration among global regulative authorities give FedEx customers an edge in the marketplace. inFoRMATion about a shipment is as important as the shipment itself.Whether its an overnight holiday gift or a supply chain that stretches across the globe, our customers stay in-the-know thanks to our superior technology. The bleak Colorado Springs Enterprise Data Center is the heart of a cutting-edge IT transformation to hybrid cloud architecture. This innovative technology enables FedEx to be more productive and efficient by accessing computer resources even as data expands at 40 percent per year. The size and scope of the implementation is one of the largest inwardly a commercial real-time system. iF knoWledge iS PoWeR, Fedex customers have a competitive advantage thanks to he Fedex Trade networks team that manages My global Trade data. Theyre dedicated to providing the quality tracking and reporting that are essential to managing international freight forwarding shipments. From left R enee brown, product specialist Paul kirkeby, senior programmer analyst Chauntisse Foster, senior product advisor Alan hunt, iT manager. go to fedex. com/annualreport2012 to read their story. 6 SuSTAinAbiliTy and innovation go hand in hand at FedEx. We call it EarthSmart FedEx solutions for a more sustainable world.Our customers can now neutralize their carbon emissions when they ship their documents by taking advantage of our new FedEx carbon-neutral envelope shipping. FedEx Express is the first global express transportation company to offer the program to customers at no charge. Were modernizing our aircraft fleet with Boeing 757s, 767s and 777s, which are delivering substantive increases in fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs and emissions. After only six years into our 15-year plan, we have completed 69 percent of our goal to reduce aircraft emissions intensity 20 percent by 2020.Because were ahead of plan, our goal is to now reduce aircraft emissions intensity 30 perce nt by 2020. At FedEx Office, more than 5 million pounds of paper were recycled in 2011, saving tens of thousands of trees. FedEx Office built in unfree paper-recycling systems into all of its matrimony America locations, because many communities have unsatisfactory recycling or none at all. FedEx is closing in on our vehicle fleet fuel-efficiency goal making our vehicle fleet 20 percent more fuel efficient by 2020 years ahead of memorandum.Our strategy has been to reduce the number of vehicles that we need by continually making our routes more efficient and then selecting the most efficient vehicle for the job. Were adding 87 all-electric trucks to the fleet to bring the total to cxxx in the United States, Asia and Europe. About 11,000 Sprinter vans will also be added. Each is 70 to nose candy percent more fuel efficient than the truck it replaces. MORE fedex. com/annualreport2012 7 OPERATING MARGIN 2008(4) 2009(3) 2010 2011(2) 2012(1) 5. 5% 2. 1% 5. 8% 6. 1% 7. 5% financial highlights 2008(4) DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE $3. 60 $0. 1 $3. 76 (in millions, except earnings per share) 2012(1) Percent 2011(2) permute 9 34 140bp 40 40 17 22 9 (1) (3) 2009(3) 2010 2011(2) REVENUE 2012(1) direct Results revenue enhancements $ 42,680 $ 39,304 Operating income 3,186 2,378 Operating margin 7. 5% 6. 1% Net income 2,032 1,452 weaken earnings per common share 6. 41 4. 57 mediocre common and common equivalent shares 317 317 smashing expenditures 4,007 3,434 Financial Position Cash and currency equivalents Total assets Long-term debt, including authentic portion Common stockholders investment $ 2,843 29,903 1,667 14,727 $ 2,328 27,385 1,685 15,220 in billions) $4. 57 $6. 41 2008 2009 2010 $38. 0 $35. 5 $34. 7 lessen ON AVERAGE fair play 2011 (4) 2008 2009 2012 (3) 2010 2011(2) 2012(1) 8. 3% $39. 3 0. 7% $42. 7 8. 6% 10. 0% 13. 6% OPERATING MARGIN DEBT TO union capitalization 2008(4) 2009(3) 2008 2010 5. 5% 2. 1% 12. 1% 5. 8% 15. 9% 12. 3% 10. 0% 10. 2% 201 1(2) 2012 2009 2010 2011 2012 (1) 6. 1% 7. 5% DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE 2008(4) 2009 2010 STOCK monetary value ( may 31 close) $91. 71 $55. 43 $83. 49 2008 (3) 2009 2010 $3. 60 $0. 31 $3. 76 COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL turn over* 120 $110 $100 $90 $80 $70 $60 $50 $40 5/07 5/08 5/09 5/10 5/11 5/12 2011(2) 2011 2012(1) 2012 $93. 64 $4. 57 $89. 14 $6. 41 RETURN ON AVERAGE EQUITY 2008(4) 2009(3) 2010 2011(2) 2012(1) 8. 3% 0. 7% 8. 6% 10. 0% 13. 6% DEBT TO TOTAL CAPITALIZATION 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 12. 1% 15. 9% 12. 3% 10. 0% 10. 2% FedEx Corporation S&P 500 Dow Jones carry-over median(a) *$100 invested on 5/31/07 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. fiscal year ending may 31. (1) results for 2012 include a $134 million ($84 million, net of tax or $0. 6 per cut share) impairment charge resulting from the decision to retire 24 aircraft and connect engines at fedex express and the bump of a $66 million lawful harbour initially save in 2011. (2) results for 2011 include charges of just about $199 million ($104 million, net of tax and applicable variable incentive compensation come tos, or $0. 33 per reduce share) for the combination of our fedex freight and fedex national ltl operations and a $66 million reserve associated with a legal matter at fedex express. (3) results for 2009 include a charge of $1. billion ($1. 1 billion, net of tax, or $3. 45 per diluted share) originally for impairment charges associated with state of grace and aircraft. (4) results for 2008 include a charge of $891 million ($696 million, net of tax, or $2. 23 per diluted share) put down during the fourth quarter, predominantly for impairment charges associated with intangible assets from the fedex office acquisition. STOCK PRICE (May 31 close) 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 $91. 71 $55. 43 $83. 49 $93. 64 $89. 14 COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN* 8ManageMents countersign and analysis of results of operations and financial conditio n OVERVIEW OF FINANCIAL SECTION The financial surgical incision of the FedEx Corporation (FedEx) Annual Report (Annual Report) consists of the following Managements Discussion and psychoanalysis of Results of operations and Financial Condition (MD&A), the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, and another(prenominal) Financial Information, all of which include information about our significant accounting policies, practices and the transactions that underlie our financial results.The following MD&A describes the principal factors affecting the results of operations, liquidity, capital resources, contractual cash obligations and the critical accounting estimates of FedEx. The discussion in the financial sectionalisation should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this Annual Report and our detailed discussion of risk factors included in this MD&A. our reportable members.Our FedEx Services subdivision provides sales, marketing, information technology, communications and back-office support to our transportation segments. In addition, the FedEx Services segment provides customers with retail access to FedEx Express and FedEx screen background shipping services through FedEx Office and Print Services, Inc. (FedEx Office) and provides customer service, technical support and billing and collection services through FedEx TechConnect, Inc. FedEx TechConnect). See Reportable parts for further discussion. The key indicators necessary to understand our operating results include the overall customer demand for our various services based on macroeconomic factors and the global economy the volumes of transportation services provided through our networks, primarily measured by our average perfunctory volume and hipment weight the mix of services purchased by our customers the prices we obtain for our services, primarily measured by yield (revenue per parcel or pound or revenue per hundredweight for LTL freight shipments) our ability to manage our cost structure (capital expenditures and operating get downs) to match shifting volume levels and the timing and amount of fluctuations in fuel prices and our ability to recover incremental fuel costs through our fuel snarfs. ORGANIZATION OF INFORMATIONOur MD&A is serene of three major(ip) sections Results of Operations, Financial Condition and Critical Accounting Estimates. These sections include the following information Results of Operations includes an overview of our consolidated 2012 results compared to 2011, and 2011 results compared to 2010. This section also includes a discussion of key actions and events that preserveed our results, as well as our outlook for 2013. The overview is followed by a financial epitome and analysis (including a discussion of both historic operating results and our outlook for 2013) for each of our reportable transportation segments. gt Our financial condition is reviewed through an analysi s of key elements of our liquidity, capital resources and contractual cash obligations, including a discussion of our cash flows and our financial commitments. Critical accounting estimates discusses those financial contestation elements that we believe are important to understanding certain of the material judgments and assumptions incorporated in our financial results. We conclude with a discussion of risks and uncertainties that may impact our financial and operating results. The majority of our operating expenses are directly impacted by revenue and volume levels.Accordingly, we expect these operating expenses to fluctuate on a year-over-year basis consistent with the change in revenues and volumes. Therefore, the discussion of operating expense captions focuses on the key drivers and trends impacting expenses other than changes in revenues and volume. Except as otherwise specified, references to years indicate our fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 or ended May 31 of the year re ferenced and comparisons are to the prior year. References to our transportation segments include, collectively, our FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight segments. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESSWe provide a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services through companies competing collectively, operating severally and managed collaboratively, under the respected FedEx brand. Our primary operating companies are Federal Express Corporation (FedEx Express), the worlds largest express transportation company FedEx Ground incase System, Inc. (FedEx Ground), a leading North American provider of small- big money ground delivery services and FedEx Freight, Inc. (FedEx Freight), a leading North American provider of less-than-truckload (LTL) freight services.These companies represent our major service lines and, along with FedEx Corporate Services, Inc. (FedEx Services), form the core of 9 focussings discussion and analysis RESULTS OF OPERATIONS CONSOLIDATED RESULTS Th e following table compares summary operating results (dollars in millions, except per share amounts) for the years ended May 31 Percent Change 2011(2) 2010 2012/2011 2011/2010 2012(1) Revenues $ 42,680 $ 39,304 $ 34,734 9 13 Operating income 3,186 2,378 1,998 34 19 Operating margin 7. 5% 6. 1% 5. 8% 140bp 30bp Net income $ 2,032 $ 1,452 $ 1,184 40 23 Diluted earnings per share $ 6. 1 $ 4. 57 $ 3. 76 40 22 (1) Operating expenses include an impairment charge of $134 million resulting from the decision to retire 24 aircraft and related engines at FedEx Express and the reversal of a $66 million legal reserve associated with the ATA Airlines lawsuit which was initially record in 2011. (2) Operating expenses include $133 million in costs associated with the combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx subject LTL operations, impressive January 30, 2011, and a $66 million legal reserve associated with the ATA Airlines lawsuit against FedEx Express.The following table shows changes in reven ues and operating income by reportable segment for 2012 compared to 2011, and 2011 compared to 2010 (dollars in millions) Revenues Dollar Change Percent Change 2012/2011 2011/2010 2012/2011 2011/2010 $ 1,934 $ 3,026 8 14 1,088 1,046 13 14 371 590 8 14 (13) (86) (1) (5) (4) (6) NM NM $ 3,376 $ 4,570 9 13 Operating Income Dollar Change Percent Change 2012/2011 2011/2010 2012/2011 2011/2010 $ 32 $ 101 3 9 439 301 33 29 337 (22) 193 (14) $ 808 $ 380 34 19FedEx Express segment(1) FedEx Ground segment FedEx Freight segment(2) FedEx Services segment some other and eliminations (1) FedEx Express segment 2012 operating expenses include an impairment charge of $134 million resulting from the decision to retire 24 aircraft and related engines at FedEx Express and the reversal of a $66 million legal reserve associated with the ATA Airlines lawsuit which was initially recorded in 2011. (2) FedEx Freight segment 2011 operating expenses include $133 million in costs associated with the co mbination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx depicted object LTL operations, effectual January 30, 2011. 0 managements discussion and analysis Overview Revenues, operating income and operating margins increased in 2012 cod to the exceptional performance of our FedEx Ground segment, improved profitability at FedEx Freight and increased yields across all our operating segments, despite moderating global economic conditions. Our results for 2012 include the impact of certain charges and credits as described below, which favorably impacted our year-overyear results by $0. 15 per diluted share, after considering the effect of variable incentive compensation accruals.In addition, our results significantly benefited in 2012 from the timing staff that exists between when fuel prices change and when indexed fuel surcharges automatically adjust. We also benefited from a milder winter, as our 2011 results were negatively impacted by unusually exhausting winter weather. 26 related engines, as well as six Boeing MD10-10 aircraft and 17 related engines. The decision to retire these aircraft will better set out the U. S. domestic air network capacity of FedEx Express to match current and anticipated shipment volumes.Our 2011 results include one-time costs associated with the combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx field LTL operations of $133 million, including $89 million of impairment and other charges. Our results for 2011 reflected the momentum of improved global economic conditions and strong demand for our services, which swarm yield growth and volume increases across all our transportation segments, particularly in International antecedence (IP) package shipments at FedEx Express. Our FedEx Ground segment delivered strong results through increasing volume, yield and operating margins.The FedEx Freight segment returned to profitability in the fourth quarter of 2011, primarily over receivable(p) to higher LTL yield. All of our transportation segments benefited from our yield management initiatives in 2011. The combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL operations was completed in 2011. Our combined LTL network increases efficiencies, reduces practicable costs and provides customers both Priority and Economy LTL freight services across all lengths of haul from one integrated company.Our 2012 results include the reversal of a $66 million reserve associated with the ATA Airlines lawsuit at FedEx Express. This reserve was initially recorded in 2011 when a loss was deemed probable as a result of an adverse decision in the lawsuit. We reversed this reserve during 2012 when FedEx Express won the approach of this case and the appeals court overturned the prior ruling (See Note 17 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements).Additionally, our 2012 results include a noncash impairment charge of $134 million due to our decision to retire from service 18 Airbus A310-200 aircraft and 11 managements discussion and analysis 3,00 0 3,000 2,603 2,603 2,638 2,638 2,684 (1) (1) FedEx FedEx Express(1) Express(1) modal(a) quotidian software program stack comely fooling pile rule book 2,684 3,000 2,577 FedEx Express(1) average out Daily packet Volume 2,638 2,684 4,100 FedEx FedEx Ground(2) Ground(2) Average Daily Package Volume Average Daily Package Volume 4,100 (2) (2) FedEx Ground( Average Daily ,907 3,907 FedEx FedEx Ground Ground FedEx FedEx Express Express 2,500 2,500 2,500 The following graphs for FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight show selected 3,900 3,900 (in thousands) for the years ended May 31 volume trends Average Daily Package Volume 3,900 Average Daily Package Volume Average Daily Package Volume 2,000 Average Daily Package Volume 2,000 2,000 3,000 1,500 2,500 1,000 3,000 2,000 500 2,500 1,500 0 2,000 1,000 1,500 500 1,000 0 500 0 3,000 2,603 1,500 2,500 1,000 3,000 2,000 2,603 475 500 2,500 1,500 0 2,000 2009 1,000 2,577 2,603 ,100 2,577 FedEx2,603 2,638 Express(1) 2,684 2,577 1,5 00 2,577 Express(1)2,638 2,684 FedEx Average Daily Package Volume Average Daily Package Volume 523 2,603 2,638 475 575 523 2,638 2,684 575 2,684 559 2,577 1,000 500 559 2,577 475 523 575 4,100 4,100 3,700 3,700 3,900 3,900 4,100 559 4,100 3,500 3,500 3,404 3,700 3,900 3,300 FedEx Ground(2) FedEx Ground(2) 3,700 Average Daily Package Volume Average Daily Package3,907 3,907 Volume 3,523 3,523 3,404 2009 3,523 2010 3,404 3,523 2009 2010 3,404 3,523 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 3,746 3,746 3,500 3,907 3,300 3,907 3,404 ,746 3,746 3,523 0 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2009 575 575 559 559 523 523 U. S. domestic package 475 475 U. S. domestic 1,500 U. S. domestic package package IP package IP package 500 2009 2010 1,000 0 2009 475 500 0 2009 575 559 575 559 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 523 523 475 U. S. domestic package package IP package IP package U. S. domestic 3,700 3,900 3,300 2011 2012 2009 3,500 3,500 IP package 3,404 3,700 3,700 3,300 3,500 3,300 2009 3,500 3,404 3,300 3,523 201 1 2010 3,746 2011 3,746 2012 2012 2009 2010 2) 2011 2012 2011 2012 FedEx2009 2010 Freight2011 FedEx 2010 Freight FedEx2009 2010 Express and FedEx Ground(2)FedEx Express and FedEx Ground2009 FedEx and FedEx Ground(2) 2012 Express 2010 2011 U. S. domestic package package IP package IP package Volume U. S. domestic Total Average Daily Package Volume AverageLTL Shipments Total Average Daily Package Volume Total Average Daily Package Average Daily Daily LTL Shipments 3,300 2012 FedEx Freight Average Daily 7,800 7,600 7,400 7,800 7,200 7,600 7,000 7,800 7,400 6,800 7,600 7,200 6,600 7,400 7,000 7,200 6,800 7,000 6,600 6,800 7,800 7,600 7,800 (2) (2) 7,538 7,6007,538 90. 0 7,538 0. 0 86. 0 86. 0 90. 0 FedEx FedEx Express and FedEx Ground Express and FedEx Ground Total Average Daily7,353 7,353 Volume Total AveragePackage Daily Package Volume 7,400 7,400 (2) FedEx Express and FedEx Ground(2) FedEx Express and FedEx Ground7,200 7,200 7,600 Total Average Daily Package 7,538 7,538 Total Average Daily Package Volume Volume 7,002 7,002 7,800 7,353 85. 0 90. 0 80. 0 85. 0 FedEx FedEx Freight Freight 84. 9 84. 9 85. 0 Average Daily LTL Shipments Average Daily LTL Shipments 82. 3 82. 3 90. 0 80. 0 7,000 7,800 7,400 6,780 6,800 7,600 7,200 6,600 7,400 2009 7,000 6,780 7,002 2009 2010 6,780 7,002 2009 2010 6,780 7,002 ,353 7,353 7,000 7,002 6,800 7,538 7,538 7,002 2010 7,353 2011 7,353 2012 2011 6,600 6,780 85. 0 90. 0 75. 0 80. 0 85. 0 70. 0 85. 0 74. 4 90. 0 75. 0 FedEx FreightFreight86. 0 FedEx 80. 0 86. 0 Average Daily LTL Shipments 84. 9 Average Daily LTL Shipments 84. 9 74. 4 82. 3 82. 3 86. 0 86. 0 84. 9 2009 2010 82. 3 74. 4 2010 2011 82. 3 2011 2012 70. 0 75. 0 84. 9 2012 2009 74. 4 82. 3 2012 2009 2010 2011 7,200 6,780 6,800 7,000 6,600 2009 6,780 6,800 80. 0 85. 0 70. 0 2012 2009 74. 4 75. 0 75. 0 80. 0 80. 0 70. 0 75. 0 70. 0 74. 4 2009 75. 0 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 74. 4 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 012 70. 0 70. 0 6,600 6,600 The following graphs 2010 FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight show selected yield trends for the years ended 2011 31 for May 2011 2009 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2009 2009 2009 2010 2010 2012 2012 FedEx FedEx Express Express Revenue per Package admit Yield Revenue per Package (1) (1) FedEx Express Revenue per Package Yield (1) FedEx FedEx Ground Ground Revenue per Package Yield Yield Revenue per Package $9. 25 (2) (2) (2) (2) FedEx Ground ( Revenue per P $70. 00 $60. 00 $50. 00 $70. 00 $40. 00 $60. 00 $30. 00 $70. 00 $50. 00 $20. 00 $60. 00 $40. 00 $10. 00 $50. 0 $30. 00 $40. 00 $20. 00 $30. 00 $10. 00 $20. 00 $21. 00 $10. 00 $20. 00 $19. 00 $21. 00 $18. 00 $20. 00 $21. 00 $17. 00 $19. 00 $20. 00 $16. 00 $18. 00 $19. 00 $17. 00 $70. 00 $57. 81 $60. 00 $70. 00 $57. 81 $53. 10 (1) (1) $56. 08 $53. 10 FedEx FedEx Express Express Revenue per Package Yield Yield Revenue per Package $50. 00 $50. 00 $40. 00 $57. 81 $60. 00 $30. 00 $70. 00 $50. 00 $30. 00 $70. 00 $60. 83 $60. 83 $57. 81 $60. 00 $56. 08 $9. 25 $53. 10 $56. 08 $8. 75 $9. 25 $8. 25 $8. 75 $9. 25 $7. 75 $14. 61 2010 $15. 59 $8. 25 $8. 75 $7. 25 $9. 25 $60. 83 $8. 75 FedEx FedEx Ground Ground $8. 77 $8. 77 $8. 5 Revenue per Package Yield Yield Revenue per Package FedEx Express(1) FedEx Express(1) $60. 83 $40. 00$60. 83 $57. 81 Revenue$53. 10 Package Yield Yield Revenue$53. 10$56. 08 $56. 08 per per Package $16. 21 $57. 81$14. 61 $53. 10 2009 2010 $15. 59 $14. 61$56. 08 $53. 10 2010 2011 $60. 83 $17. 12 $17. 12 $20. 00$60. 83 $16. 21 $15. 59 $56. 08 $10. 00 2011 2012 2012 2009 $9. 25 $8. 25 $20. 00 $16. 21 $57. 81 $60. 00 $40. 00 $10. 00 $50. 00 2009 $30. 00 $8. 75 $9. 25 $7. 70 $7. 75 $17. 12 FedEx Ground (2) FedEx Ground (2) $8. 25 $8. 17 $8. 17 Revenue per Package Yield Yield $8. 77 Revenue per Package $8. 7 $7. 70 $7. 73 $7. 73 $8. 17 2009 2010 $7. 70 $7. 73 2010 2011 $7. 73 $8. 17 $8. 17 $8. 77 2011 2012 $8. 17 $7. 75 $8. 77 $7. 25 2012 2009 2010 $7. 70 $7. 73 U. S. domestic $17. 12 $40. 00 U. S. domestic package pack age IP package IP package $17. 12 $20. 00 $16. 21 $16. 21 $15. 59 $14. 61 $15. 59 $14. 61 U. S. domestic package $8. 25 $8. 75 $7. 25 2011 2012 2009 $7. 70 $7. 75 $7. 75 IP package $8. 25 $8. 25 $30. 00 $10. 00 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2009 $17. 12 $17. 12 $20. 00 $16. 21 $16. 21 $15. 59 $14. 61 U. S. domestic package U. S. domestic package $14. 61$15. 59IP package IP package $21. 00 $21. 0 $10. 00 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2009 $20. 00$19. 57 $20. 00 $19. 57 U. S. domestic package package IP package IP package U. S. domestic $19. 07 $19. 07 $19. 07 $19. 00 $21. 00 $19. 00 FedEx Freight FedEx FedEx Freight Freight Average arouse approach per Gallon Gallon Average provide Cost per $7. 25 $7. 25 $7. 73 $7. 70 $7. 70 $7. 73 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 $7. 75 $7. 75 LTL Revenue per hundredweight Yield LTL Revenue per centner Yield LTL Revenue per Hundredweight Yield FedEx FedEx Freight Freight LTL Revenue per Hundredweight Yield Yield LTL Revenue per Hu ndredweight $18. 24 $17. 7 $4. 50 $7. 25 $4. 00 $4. 50 $7. 25 2009 $4. 00 $19. 57 $4. 50 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 $3. 80 2012 2012 Average Fuel C 2012 $4. 00 Average Fuel Cost per Gallon Gallon $3. 80 Average Fuel Cost per $3. 04 $3. 25 $2. 69 $2. 66 $3. 25 $3. 31 $3. 50$3. 31 $2. 66 $3. 80 $3. 04 $2. 69 $2. 15 FedEx FreightFreight FedEx $18. 24 $18. 24 LTL Revenue per Hundredweight Yield Yield LTL Revenue per Hundredweight $18. 00$19. 57 $18. 00 $20. 00 $19. 57 $19. 07 $21. 00 $17. 00 $19. 00 $20. 00 $19. 07 $16. 00 $18. 00 2009 $19. 00 $17. 00 $19. 07 $17. 07 $17. 07 $18. 24 $19. 07 2009 2010 $17. 07 2010 2011 $17. 07 $18. 4 $18. 24 $17. 00 $19. 57 $19. 57 $16. 00 2011 2012 2012 2009 2010 2011 $3. 50 $3. 50 $3. 04 $4. 50 $4. 50 $3. 00 $3. 00 $2. 62 $4. 00 $4. 00 $2. 50 $2. 50 $4. 50 $4. 50 $3. 50 $3. 50 $3. 04 $2. 00 $2. 00 $4. 00 $4. 00 $3. 00 $3. 00 $2. 62 $1. 50 $1. 50 $3. 50 2012 $3. 50 2009 $2. 50 $2. 50 $3. 04 $3. 00 $2. 00 $2. 50 $1. 50 $2. 00 $1. 50 Average Fuel Cost per Gallon Gallon Average Fuel Cost per $3. 00 $2. 62 $2. 69 $3. 04 $2. 15 $2. 15 $3. 25 $2. 69 $2. 66 2010 $3. 25 2011 $2. 15 $2. 69 $2. 66 $2. 15 2010 2011 resiny 2010 2011 reverse lightning $3. 25 $3. 31 $2. 50 $3. 80 $2. 62 $3. 31 $3. 80 $2. 00$3. 80 $2. 66 $1. 50$3. 1 $3. 25 $3. 31 2011 2012 2012 2009 Jet $2. 66 Jet fomite 2010 $2. 62 $2. 69 $18. 00 $18. 00 (2) Package statistics do not include the operations of FedEx SmartPost. $17. 07 $17. 07 $16. 00 $16. 00 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 $17. 00 $17. 00 (1) Excludes international domestic operations. $18. 24 2009 2010 $3. 04 $2. 15 Vehicle $3. 00 Vehicle $2. 00 $2. 62 $2. 69 $2. 62 $2. 15 2009 2010 Vehicle Vehicle $2. 50 $1. 50 2009 $2. 00 $1. 50 2009 2011 2012 Jet 2011 2012 Jet 2012 12 $16. 00 $16. 00 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2009 2010 Vehicle Vehicle 2012 managements discussion and analysis evenue During 2012, revenues increased 9% due to yield growth across all our transportation segments. At FedEx Ex press, revenues increased 8% in 2012 led by higher U. S. domestic and IP package yields. However, U. S. domestic package and IP package volumes declined due to weakening global economic conditions. Revenues increased 13% during 2012 at our FedEx Ground segment due to higher yields and strong demand for all our major services. At FedEx Freight, revenues increased 8% during 2012 due to higher LTL yield as a result of higher fuel surcharges and yield management programs, despite a decrease in volume.Revenues increased 13% during 2011 due to yield increases and volume growth across all our transportation segments. Yields improved due to higher fuel surcharges and increased base rates under our yield improvement programs. At FedEx Express, revenues increased 14% in 2011 led by IP volume growth in Asia, as well as U. S. domestic and IP package yield increases. At the FedEx Ground segment, revenues increased 14% in 2011 due to continued volume growth driven by market share gains and yield growth at both FedEx Ground and FedEx SmartPost.At FedEx Freight, yield increases due to our yield management programs and higher LTL fuel surcharges, and higher average daily LTL volumes led to a 14% increase in revenues in 2011. impairment and Other Charges In May 2012, we made the decision to retire from service 18 Airbus A310-200 aircraft and 26 related engines, as well as six Boeing MD10-10 aircraft and 17 related engines. As a consequence of this decision, a noncash impairment charge of $134 million ($84 million, net of tax, or $0. 26 per diluted share) was recorded in the fourth quarter.The decision to retire these aircraft, the majority of which were temporarily idled and not in revenue service, will better align the U. S. domestic air network capacity of FedEx Express to match current and anticipated shipment volumes. Operating inCOme The following tables compare operating expenses expressed as dollar amounts (in millions) and as a percent of revenue for the years ended May 31 2012 2011 2010 Operating expenses Salaries and employee benefits $ 16,099 $ 15,276 $ 14,027 Purchased transportation 6,335 5,674 4,728 Rentals nd landing fees 2,487 2,462 2,359 Depreciation and amortization 2,113 1,973 1,958 Fuel 4,956 4,151 3,106 Maintenance and repairs 1,980 1,979 1,715 (1) (2) Impairment and other charges 134 89 18 Other (3) 5,390 5,322 4,825 Total operating expenses $ 39,494 $ 36,926 $ 32,736 (1) Represents charges resulting from the decision to retire 24 aircraft and related engines at FedEx Express. (2) Represents charges associated with the combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL operations, effective January 30, 2011. 3) Includes the 2012 reversal of a $66 million legal reserve associated with the ATA Airlines lawsuit which was initially recorded in 2011 (See Note 17 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements). Percent of Revenue 2012 2011 2010 Operating expenses Salaries and employee benefits Purchased transportation Rentals a nd landing fees Depreciation and amortization Fuel Maintenance and repairs Impairment and other charges Other (3) Total operating expenses Operating margin 37. 7% 14. 9 5. 8 5. 0 11. 6 4. 6 0. 3(1) 12. 6 92. 5 7. 5% 38. % 14. 4 6. 3 5. 0 10. 6 5. 0 0. 2(2) 13. 5 93. 9 6. 1% 40. 4% 13. 6 6. 8 5. 6 8. 9 4. 9 0. 1 13. 9 94. 2 5. 8% In 2011, we incurred impairment and other charges of $89 million related to the combination of our LTL operations at FedEx Freight. In 2010, we recorded a charge of $18 million for the impairment of goodwill related to the FedEx National LTL acquisition, eliminating the remaining goodwill attributable to this reporting unit. (1) Represents charges resulting from the decision to retire 24 aircraft and related engines at FedEx Express. 2) Represents charges associated with the combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL operations effective January 30, 2011. (3) Includes the 2012 reversal of a $66 million legal reserve associated with the ATA Airli nes lawsuit which was initially recorded in 2011 (See Note 17 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements. ) Our 2012 operating income increased 34% and operating margin increased 140 basis points driven by higher yields across all our transportation segments due to higher fuel surcharges and our yield management programs. Our results lso significantly benefited in 2012 from the timing lag that exists between when fuel prices change and when indexed fuel surcharges automatically adjust. FedEx Ground segment operating income increased $439 million in 2012 driven by higher yields and strong demand for all our major services. At our FedEx Freight segment, operating income increased $337 million due to higher LTL yield and efficiencies gained from the combination of our LTL operations in 2011. Additionally, our year-over-year comparisons were favorably impacted by several items as described above in the Overview section. 13 anagements discussion and analysis FedEx Ground (2) R evenue per Package Yield Salaries and benefits increased 5% in 2012 primarily due to higher $9. 25 incentive compensation costs and the full reinstatement of 401(k) $8. 77 company-matching contributions effective January 1, 2011. Purchased $8. 75 transportation costs increased 12% in 2012 due to volume growth and higher fuel surcharges at FedEx Ground, costs associated with the $8. 25 $8. 17 magnification of our freight forwarding business at FedEx Trade Networks $7. 73 and higher utilization of third-party transportation providers in interna$7. 0 $7. 75 tional locations primarily due to business acquisitions at FedEx Express. $7. 25 The following graph for our transportation segments shows our average 2009 2010 2011 2012 cost of jet and vehicle fuel per gal for the years ended May 31 Salaries and employee benefits increased 9% in 2011 due to the reinstatement of merit recompense increases, increases in pension and medical Average Fuel Cost per Gallon costs and the reinstatement of full 401(k) company-matching contributions effective January 1, 2011. Purchased transportation increased $4. 0 20% in 2011 due to volume growth, higher fuel surcharges and higher $3. 80 $4. 00 rates paid to our independent contractors at FedEx Ground, as well as costs associated with the expansion of our freight forwarding business $3. 31 $3. 25 $3. 50 $3. 04 at FedEx Trade Networks. Maintenance and repairs expense increased $3. 00 $2. 69 $2. 66 $2. 62 15% in 2011 primarily due to an increase in maintenance events, as a $2. 50 result of timing, and higher utilization of our fleet driven by increased $2. 15 volumes. Other operating expense increased 10% primarily due to $2. 0 volume- and weather-related expenses. $1. 50 2009 2010 2011 2012 Vehicle Jet costs, and increased maintenance and repairs expenses had a negative impact on our performance for 2011. Costs related to the combination of our FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL operations also negatively impacted our 2011 result s by $133 million. Unusually severe weather in the second half of 2011 caused widespread disruptions to our networks, which led to lost revenues and pack higher purchased transportation, salaries and wages and other operational costs.Additionally, a $66 million reserve associated with an adverse venire decision in the ATA Airlines lawsuit against FedEx Express was recognized in 2011. Fuel expense increased 19% during 2012 primarily due to price increases. Our fuel surcharges, which are more fully described in the vicenary and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk section of this MD&A, have a timing lag and are designed to pass through the price of fuel not included in our base shipping rates to our customers.Based on a static analysis of the impact to operating income of year-over-year changes in fuel prices compared to changes in fuel surcharges, fuel surcharges significantly exceeded incremental fuel costs in 2012. If fuel prices remain at current levels, that effect is exp ected to reverse in 2013. Our analysis considers the estimated impact of the reduction in fuel surcharges included in the base rates charged for FedEx Express and FedEx Ground services.However, this analysis does not consider the negative effects that fuel surcharge levels may have on our business, including reduced demand and shifts by our customers to lower-yielding services. While fluctuations in fuel surcharge rates can be significant from flow to period, fuel surcharges represent one of the many individual components of our pricing structure that impact our overall revenue and yield. Additional components include the mix of services sold, the base price and extra service charges we obtain for these services and the level of pricing discounts offered.In order to provide information about the impact of fuel surcharges on the trend in revenue and yield growth, we have included the comparative fuel surcharge rates in effect for 2012, 2011 and 2010 in the accompanying discussions o f each of our transportation segments. In 2011, operating income increased 19% primarily due to yield and volume increases across all our transportation segments. Higher compensation and benefits, including retirement plans and medical Fuel expense increased 34% during 2011 primarily due to increases in the average price per congius of fuel and fuel consumption driven by volume increases.Based on a static analysis of the net impact of yearover-year changes in fuel prices compared to year-over-year changes in fuel surcharges, fuel had a positive impact on operating income in 2011, predominantly at FedEx Express. Other inCOme and expense Interest expense reduced $34 million in 2012 due to debt maturities, an increase in capitalized interest related to the timing of move on payments on aircraft purchases and lower financing fees. Interest expense increased $7 million in 2011 due to a decrease in capitalized interest related to timing of construction projects and progress payments on aircraft purchases. nCOme taxes Our effective tax rate was 35. 3% in 2012, 35. 9% in 2011 and 37. 5% in 2010. Our 2012 rate was lower than our 2011 rate primarily due to favorable audit developments. The 2011 rate was lower than our 2010 rate primarily due to increased permanently reinvested foreign earnings and a lower state rate driven by favorable audit and legislative developments. Our permanent reinvestment strategy with respect to unremitted earnings of our foreign subsidiaries provided a 1. 3% benefit to our 2012 effective tax rate.Our total permanently reinvested foreign earnings were $1. 0 billion at the end of 2012 and $640 million at the end of 2011. Our current federal income tax expenses in 2012, 2011 and 2010 were significantly reduced by accelerated depreciation deductions we claimed under provisions of the Tax Relief and the Small Business Jobs Acts of 2010, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009, and the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008. Those Acts, des igned 14 managements discussion and analysis to stimulate new business investment in the U. S. accelerated our depreciation deductions for new qualifying investments, such as our new Boeing 777 Freighter (B777F) aircraft. These are timing benefits only, in that the depreciation would have otherwise been recognized in later years. The components of the provision for federal income taxes for the years ended May 31 were as follows (in millions) Current Deferred Total Federal Provision 2012 $ (120) 947 $ 827 2011 $ 79 485 $ 564 2010 $ 36 408 $ 444 OutlOOk We anticipate revenue and earnings growth in 2013 despite only modest growth in the global economy. We believe U.S. domestic and global economic conditions will be impacted by the European debt crisis, slowing growth in Asia, and the uncertainty these issues create on the global economy and the demand for our services. These weaker global economic conditions have driven a shift by our customers from premium services to our deferred ser vices, and we expect that trend to continue in 2013. For 2013, we expect our effective tax rate to be between 37. 0% and 38. 0%. The actual rate, however, will depend on a number of factors, including the amount and source of operating income.We also expect our current federal income tax expense will increase in 2013, possibly significantly, due to lower accelerated depreciation benefits than in prior years. Additional information on income taxes, including our effective tax rate atonement and liabilities for uncertain tax positions, can be found in Note 11 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Business aCquisitiOns During 2012, we continued to expand our FedEx Express international network. On July 25, 2011, we completed our acquisition of Servicios Nacionales Mupa, S. A. de C.V. (MultiPack), a Mexican domestic express package delivery company, for $128 million in cash from operations. Last year, FedEx Express completed the acquisition of the Indian logistics, dis tribution and express businesses of AFL Pvt. Ltd. and its affiliate Unifreight India Pvt. Ltd. for $96 million in cash on February 22, 2011. The financial results of these acquired businesses are included in the FedEx Express segment from the date of acquisition and were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to our results of operations or financial condition.Substantially all of the purchase price was allocated to goodwill, which was merely attributed to our FedEx Express reporting unit. Our anticipated earnings growth in 2013 is predicated on continued improvement in profitability at our FedEx Freight segment from yield growth and efficiency improvements and the sustained strong performance of our FedEx Ground segment. International revenue growth and network efficiency improvements at FedEx Express should also nominate to our earnings growth in 2013.However, significant cost headwinds in pension expense will stay earnings growth in 2013 as a historically low discount rate at our May 31, 2012 measurement date will increase these costs by approximately $150 million. During 2013, we will continue to evaluate actions and opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiencies and adjust our networks to match anticipated demand. Initial actions were taken in 2012, as we made the decision to retire 24 aircraft and related engines at FedEx Express to better align the U. S. omestic air network capacity to match current and anticipated shipment volumes. In addition, we remain focused on modernizing our aircraft fleet at FedEx Express by adding newer aircraft that are more reliable, fuel efficient and technologically advanced, and retiring older, less-efficient aircraft. As a result of these efforts, FedEx Express is shortening the depreciable lives of the following aircraft and related engines 31 surplus Boeing MD10-10s, 18 additional Airbus A310s, four Boeing 727s (B727) and one Boeing MD10-30.This will accelerate the retirement of these aircraft to align with the delivery schedule for replacement Boeing 767-300 Freighter (B767F) and Boeing 757-200 (B757) aircraft. The accelerated depreciation on these aircraft is expected to total $69 million in 2013, with a partial offset from the avoidance of depreciation related to the aircraft retirements (described in the Impairment and Other Charges section above).FedEx Express is also developing an operating and cost structure plan during 2013 to further improve its operational efficiency. Our capital expenditures for 2013 are expected to decrease to approximately $3. 9 billion, with fewer aircraft deliveries in 2013. We will continue to evaluate our investments in critical long-term strategic projects to ensure our capital expenditures generate high returns on investments and are balanced with our outlook for global economic conditions. On June 29, 2012, FedEx Express entered into a upplemental agreement to purchase nine additional B767F aircraft, exercised ten B767F options available under the December 2011 agreement and purchased the right to 15 additional options. In conjunction with the supplemental agreement to purchase B767F aircraft, FedEx Express converted four B777F aircraft deliveries to equivalent purchase value for B767F aircraft purchased under the supplemental agreement. For additional details on key 2013 capital projects, refer to the chief city Resources and Liquidity Outlook sections of this MD&A.Subsequent to year-end, we completed the following acquisitions Opek Sp. z o. o. , a Polish domestic express package delivery company, for $54 million in cash from operations on June 13, 2012 TATEX, a French express transportation company, for $55 million in cash from operations on July 3, 2012 Rapidao Cometa Logistica e Transportes S. A. , a Brazilian transportation and logistics company, for $398 million in cash from operations on July 4, 2012Based on the timing of the purpose of these acquisitions in relation to the date of issuance of the financial s tatements, the initial purchase price accounting was not completed for these acquisitions. The financial results of these acquired businesses will be included in the FedEx Express segment from the date of acquisition and will be immaterial to our 2013 results. These acquisitions will give us more robust transportation networks within these countries and added capabilities in these important global markets. 5 managements discussion and analysis Our outlook is dependent upon a stable pricing environment for fuel, as volatility in fuel prices impacts our fuel surcharge levels, fuel expense and demand for our services. Historically, our fuel surcharges have largely offset incremental fuel costs however, volatility in fuel costs may impact earnings because adjustments to our fuel surcharges lag changes in actual fuel prices paid. Therefore, the trailing impact of adjustments to our fuel urcharges can significantly affect our earnings all positively or negatively in the short-term. NEW A CCOUNTING GUIDANCE New accounting rules and apocalypse requirements can significantly impact our reported results and the comparability of our financial statements. During our fiscal year, the Financial Accounting Standards jump on issued new guidance to make the presentation of items within other comprehensive income (OCI) more prominent.The new standard will require companies to present items of net income, items of OCI and total As described in Note 17 of the accompanying consolidated financial comprehensive income in one continuous statement or two separate statements and the Independent Contractor Matters section of our consecutive statements, and companies will no longer be allowed to FedEx Ground segment MD&A, we are involved in a number of lawsuits present items of OCI in the statement of stockholders equity. This new and other proceedings that challenge the status of FedEx Grounds standard is effective for our fiscal year ending May 31, 2013. wner-operators as independent contractors. FedEx Ground anticipates continuing changes to its relationships with its contractors. The nature, We believe there is no additional new accounting guidance adopted but not yet effective that is relevant to the readers of our financial timing and amount of any changes are dependent on the outcome of statements. However, there are numerous new proposals under develnumerous future events. We cannot reasonably estimate the potenopment which, if and when enacted, may have a significant impact on tial impact of any such changes or a meaningful range of say-so outcomes, although they could be material.However, we do not believe our financial reporting. that any such changes will impair our ability to operate and profitably REPORTABLE SEGMENTS grow our FedEx Ground business. See Risk Factors for a discussion of these and other potential risks and uncertainties that could materially affect our future performance. seasOnality Of Business Our businesses are cyclical in nature, as seasonal worker fluctuations affect volumes, revenues and earnings. Historically, the U. S. express package business experiences an increase in volumes in late November and December.International business, particularly in the Asia-to-U. S. market, peaks in October and November in advance of the U. S. holiday sales season. Our first and third fiscal quarters, because they are pass vacation and post winter-holiday seasons, have historically experienced lower volumes relative to other periods. Normally, the fall is the busiest shipping period for FedEx Ground, while late December, June and July are the slowest periods. For FedEx Freight, the spring and fall are the busiest periods and the latter part of December, January and February are the slowest periods.For FedEx Office, the summer months are normally the slowest periods. Shipment levels, operating costs and earnings for each of our companies can also be adversely affected by inclement weather, particularly the impact of severe winter weather in our third fiscal quarter. FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight represent our major service lines and, along with FedEx Services, form the core of our reportable segments. Our reportable segments include the following businesses FedEx Express Segment FedEx Ground Segment FedEx Freight Segment FedEx Services Segment gt FedEx Express (express transportation) FedEx Trade Networks (air and ocean freight forwarding and customs brokerage) FedEx SupplyChain Systems (logistics services) FedEx Ground (small-package ground delivery) FedEx SmartPost (small-parcel consolidator) FedEx Freight (LTL freight transportation) FedEx Custom Critical (time-critical transportation) FedEx Services (sales, marketing, information technology, communications and back-office functions) FedEx TechConnect (customer service, technical support, billings and collections) FedEx Office (document and business services and package acceptance) 6 managements discussion and analysis FED EX SERVICES SEGMENT The FedEx Services segment operates combined sales, marketing, administrative and information technology functions in shared services operations that support our transportation businesses and allow us to obtain synergies from the combination of these functions. For the international regions of FedEx Express, some of these functions are performed on a regional basis by FedEx Express and reported in the FedEx Express segment in expense line i