Greetings!!

Welcome and thank you for visiting my online portfolio for ENGLCOM. In this site, you will see an online portfolio of different types of essays naming: two Reflective essays, a Process Essay, a Static-Descriptive Essay, a Comparison and Contrast Essay, a Cause and Effect Essay, a Definition Essay, and an Argumentative Essay, done during my second term here in De La Salle University- Manila.


Writing is a very important aspect of people’s lives since this is one form of communicating with other people. It does not only enable you to communicate with other people that are far away but also enables you to express your thoughts and emotions through pen and paper. When you practice writing through writing activities, this drastically improves your English writing skills for the reason that I believe in a saying that says, “Practice makes perfect”.


I hope that you will enjoy what I have prepared for you. :)


~Respectively yours, englcomC39tamura <3

Thursday, December 17, 2009

“Love: The Most Wonderful Emotion”

Love is always misinterpreted as lust- a desire to love someone only because of their physical attributes and features. However, in technical terms, love is defined as any of a number of motions related to a sense of strong affection. Love is the most wonderful emotion for it can create miracles; it’s a strong emotion capable of lighting up someone’s hopes and dreams with the one they love.

Love is universal and there are a lot of ways on how to express love for a certain person. According to Chapman (n.d.), here are five general love languages expressed by most people: acts of service, giving gifts, words of appreciation, quality time and physical touch. These love languages are expressed by every individual and some of these languages are dominant from the other depending on the person. People want to show their affection by sacrificing their goals or benefits just to lift up or make another person happy. Others give gifts such as flowers, cards and chocolates, simple tokens of appreciation and admiration for the one they love. Other people prefer to verbally say that they love someone to let others know how much they love him or her, while others give caring gestures and actions. They touch the hand of the person they love or hug them when they feel down. People also give their undivided attention and quality time to the person they love: a mere gesture of just being there for them shows how much you love them.

Some people perceive love as a mere emotion of happiness and that it is your duty to love a person for they command you to. Love is not an obligation. It is perceived to be like a free flying bird travelling to different places. It is not an obligation to love a person; but for me, it is a privilege and an honor to care for that person for you adore and admire him or her. Some people make their loved ones change their attitude or physical appearances that they do not like in a partner. Some even leave their loved ones after discovering that their loved ones have a dark past. This is not love for love is not judgmental. Love means that you fully accept that person for who he or she really is because love is unconditional. Others also force themselves to love a person because they are pressured by the community. Since all their friends are having relationships, they also tend to find someone to love for themselves. Love is not a trend because it just comes to you when it really is for you. It may be now or later in the future. However, one this is for sure; it comes when you least expect it to come.

We all believe that love is present among a group of friends, loving couples such as boyfriend-girlfriend relationships and married couples, as well as among the member of the family. Each of these types is different in depth and we tend to act differently for each type. The most important and deepest among these three types is the love between couple- romantic love. Each individual will feel very happy and content with the one they love when they give out love and receive love in return. The love between friends and members of the family is another wonderful relationship to experience since we are always there for them and vice versa.
Love can make the impossible possible since it is capable of making a person live up the fullest of their dreams. Love is the most rewarding and strongest emotion for it can make or break a person. Remember that everything happens for a reason and God has a perfect time for love in your life. It will just come when you least expect that you need it the most.


Reference List:
Chapman, G.(n.d.).Five Love Languages.(n.d).Retrieved on December 02, 2009 from http://www.fivelovelanguages.com/learn.html

“Reflective Essay: Exit Level”

First of all, I lack a lot of competencies in reading and writing in English since I do not practice it frequently. However, ENGLCOM made me realize that reading and writing are very important parts of my life in order to express further what I intend to say.


After undergoing a process of learning in ENGLCOM, I realized I had an interest in writing as well as reading. Now, I can organize effectively my essays and grammar with the help of this course. I improved on my spelling, sentence organization as well as develop my way of thinking and penmanship since this course focused more on writing different kinds of essays and had strict rules on writing my essays, thus improving my writing skills a lot.


Since ENGLCOM was new to me, I expected a lot things to be done during the term such as public speaking, writing poems and essays as well as the thought of this subject to be boring and dull. Writing was indeed done throughout the course; however, other expectations such as public speaking and a lot of research were fortunately never done.


ENGLCOM is indeed a very helpful and important course for us even though business is very different from writing literature. This course made me improve a lot on my writing skills, which are important in expressing the thoughts I intend to convey. In effectively writing essays and such, ENGLCOM has helped my reach my goals in changing the way I act, full of negativity and lameness, toward reading and writing. Before, I had a hard time in constructing essays but this course assisted me in my weaknesses through teaching effective methods such as constructing a topic outline and citing sources for my essay. I am very thankful for this course because it really helped me understand a lot of things that I did not understand before when it comes to writing. That is why I will not forget this subject for the rest of my life.

"Abortion: Murder”

Abortion nowadays has become a frequent practice for teenagers who have undergone premarital sex to alleviate the problems and burdens of having a baby. According to the American Heritage Dictionary (n.d.), abortion terminates the pregnancy by removing the baby within the uterus of the mother, thus causing the baby’s death. Abortion was practiced for a very long time with the use of herbal medicine, sharpened tools designed for abortion, physical trauma and surgical methods. Although some believe that it is the right of the mother to decide the destiny and fate of their child, abortion is still considered as immoral and illegal because it is a form of murder by taking the life of the baby with medical practices, all human beings have the right to live and it is the responsibility of the mother not to get pregnant.

First of all, abortion is a form of murder because you are taking the life of the baby without their consent. Any form of killing is still considered as murder since they involve taking the life of another human being. There are no exemptions for cases like these and any act of intentional murder should be punishable bylaw. Even though it is still not developed into mature human beings, a fertilized ovum is still a human being. God gave us he blessing of life and we have no right to end it as it just started.

Second, all human beings have the right to live. According to William Thomas (n.d.), whatever the stage the babies might be in, whether in the fertilized stage or in the zygote stage, they still possess life as well as rights as every human being is against the teachings and beliefs of the Catholic Church as well as most of the other religions. It is immoral to kill innocent children and unfair to not let them have the chance to lead normal lives. And we should not also abuse the power and capacity of women to produce life because abortion can permit more occurrences of premarital and unsafe sex.

Lastly, it is the responsibility of the mother to avoid getting pregnant. Teenage women should think first before they act so they will not have regrets in the future. Blaming the child for their misery is not a valid reason since the child does not have the option to choose to be born. Teenager should have the proper morals and values and should be the one to blame for the conception of the child. It is not the baby’s fault for being conceived; it is the parent who did not act accordingly to what they are expected to do. The mother has the decision to choose not to get pregnant by using contraceptives or just simple prevention from engaging in sexual intercourse.

Abortion should not be legalized since it is not a desirable planning method to use. It is a form of murder since you are taking the life of another against their wishes, and thus should be also punishable by law just like the rest of the crimes committed by others. Babies have the right to live since they are human beings as well. It is the responsibility of the mother to not get pregnant since they are expected to think before they engage themselves in unacceptable acts such as premarital sex. Abortion therefore should be an unforgivable practice to the eyes of people as well as God Himself.



Reference List:

American Heritage Dictionary (n.d.), Definition of Abortion. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2009 from http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entry/abortion

Thomas, W. (n.d.) Debate: Abortion. (n.d.). Retrieved December 7, 2009 from http://www.objectivistcenter.org/ct-824-Debate_Abortion.aspx

“Cause and Effect Essay: Causes of Obesity in Children”

Obesity is known as the event of having an excessively high amount of body fat or adipose tissue in relation to body mass. (NRC, n.d.; Stunkard, n.d.) Individuals with a Body Mass Index of 30 or more are said to be obese because BMI is a common measure of expressing the relationship of weight-to-height. BMI is also a mathematical formula in which a person’s body weight in kilograms (Kg.) is divided by the square of the individual’s height in meters. (NRC, 2008) Obesity is caused by the following factors: dietary habits, physical inactivity, and depression along with other emotional problems.


One of the main causes of obesity in children is the children’s dietary habits. Nowadays, children tend to prefer consuming fast food meals, junk foods and drinks containing a lot of sugar rather than eating healthy and hearty meals. These kinds of food tend to be high in fat and calories and also low in other nutrients that cause children to gain extra pounds. According to Ferry, Jr. (2009), eating when not hungry, watching T.V or doing homework while eating are patterns and behaviors of children that is associated with obesity.


Another reason behind obesity in children is their physical inactivity. Children today are slowly translating to a very sedentary lifestyle due to the increasing popularity of T.V watching, computer browsing as well as playing video games. Children spend more time in watching T.V, which encourages more snacking than engaging in regular physical exercise. There are limited Physical Education classes in school nowadays and busy parents, who fear about their children’s safety, hinder their children from participating in school activities and engage in sports. (Ferry, Jr., 2009)


The last cause of obesity in children is depression along with other emotional problems. Depression can make a person eat to ease the pain they are feeling, causes a person to stay indoors and refrain from engaging in physical sports or even converse with other individuals. People with emotional problems tend to be pressured by their friends, family or other external forces. This limits a person’s capabilities and mood to exercise.


Due to these causes – dietary habits, physical inactivity and depression along with other emotional problems – occurrence of obesity in children is greatly increasing. However, there are ways to manage obesity in children. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (2008), parents of children at risk can start a weight-management program, and change eating habits such as eating slowly or developing a routine of consumption. Parents can also plain meals and make better food selection, control portions and make children consume less calories. They can also encourage children to increase their physical activity by walking or engaging in sports. There are just some ways to manage obesity; however, constant practice of these simple ways can prevent children from being part of the population of obese citizens.




Reference List:

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (May 2008). Facts for Families: Obesity in Children. Retrieved November 23, 2009 from http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/Obesity_in_children_and_teens

Ferry, R. (n.d.). Obesity in Children Causes. Retrieved November 23, 2009 from http://www.emedicinehealth.com/obesity_in_children/page2_em.htm#Obesity%20Children%20Causes

“Comparison and Contrast Essay: High School vs. College Life”

High school, as well as college is just another part in everyone’s lives. Almost everyone go through such a transition between two very diverse and different worlds. These diverse worlds can be compared and contrasted by everyone; however, not all are aware of the possible similarities and differences between them. The purpose of this essay is to compare the students’ high school and college life in terms of the level of academic responsibilities, time schedule, as well as the culture practiced by each student.

First of all, high school is the first step to a higher level or learning. This place equips us with the proper knowledge needed in order to survive college and other higher levels of learning. The topics being taught in high school are generalized in basic Math, Science, English, Filipino, and many other subjects. The students are more relaxed and their responsibilities are not that complicated and heavy in a sense that there are fewer requirements and their due dates are not immediate. Compared to the time schedule of college students, a high school pupil’s schedule is much more fixed because the standard call time is at 7:30a.m. and end at 5:00p.m. Students are much more immature and need guidance in order to lead fulfilling lives. They study inside a single classroom everyday; thus having little freedom.

College, on the other hand, is a different story. The subjects a student will learn and discuss are much more specific since you finally chose a career path you will take in the future. College students are older and their workload is much more complex and heavier. They have more responsibilities to carry in college because the curriculum is much more specific and complicated because detailed topics are being discussed regarding your chosen career path. In contrast with the fixed regular schedule of high school students, college students’ time schedules are very flexible because they have to choose their own desired time schedule. These students are much more outgoing and independent compared to high school students. The culture of college students is much more diverse because there is a huge number of students inside a college; each student has their own nationality, college students live in different locations from all over the country and cultures from high school are brought into college by the students.

People can really see the distinctive difference these two phases in life; however, there are also some similarities you will carry on during your transition into college lives. Friends from your high school will always be there for you especially when you keep a constant connection between them. Studying habits such as cramming for a test or homework, creating during a test or copying another student’s homework, breaking the rules and disciplinary sanctions are still evident in both high school and college.

We all know that everyone goes through high school and college. We can compare that college is much more challenging and complex than high school. This is a higher level of learning, thus, requiring more time, effort as well as devotion to studies. Even though college is very tiring at times, I still believe that college is much more enjoyable and exciting. To have that kind of freedom in your schedule is very rewarding; however, proper judgment is a must since we are all mature students now.

“Static-Descriptive Essay: Visiting Enchanted Kingdom Once Again”

A theme park can bring out the inner child in a particular person once they ride one of the attractions of that marvelous place. All stress is alleviated as we see the visiting people smile, laugh and play. I remembered a ride we once rode that really enticed my and my fellow buddies; the Rio Grande Rapids. I woke up and realized that I was dreaming about revisiting Enchanted Kingdom once more.


It was a chilly morning that day on September 3, 2009 when I woke up early, excited to go on an adventure with my closest college block mate friends. As I packed my things for the trip in my sturdy brown bag, I thought of bringing the most essential things so that I will have a blast later on. At the time of our meeting, as I was going to the meeting place by car at Lorenzo’s house, Denise See, my talkative Chinese friend, called me over the phone to ask what I was currently wearing. I was wondering why they literally shouted when they found out that I was not wearing green or white that day. I was shocked to know that all the boys as well as Mandz Zabat, my sweet and friendly block mate, were wearing green that day; while all the girls who will join us were wearing white. They did not plan anything before that date at all that is why I found it very amusing and funny. We rode excitedly in Jannyn Sioson and Lorenzo Reyes’ cars since we were too many to fit in one car. It was exciting for me because we were divided into boys and girls during our trip from SLEX to Enchanted Kingdom. We talked about the boy’s funny events and experiences during class as well as teasing other friends with their crushes in the block. Mandz Zabat and Dara Ang, our lovely and funny friend, were singing loudly at the back of the car as we all talked about our personal lives before entering college.


After arriving at the famous theme park, we got more excited than ever as we took pictures of the entrance gate, and their mascot that was waving at us. Even though we have been to Enchanted Kingdom before, the feeling was different when we were with our college buddies. We felt the sense of responsibility rising among us since our parents did not accompany us anymore unlike when were in our younger years. We chose to ride all the possible rides at sight to maximize our enjoyment, since Enchanted Kingdom is jam-packed with a lot of thrilling as well as relaxing rides for all ages. We rode “Anchors Away” first because it was the closest ride from where we were then went straight to the Ferris wheel. I felt anxious as we lined up to ride the Ferris wheel since I dislike this ride the most because I was afraid of heights. We checked around the corner to visit our all-time favorite ride; however, it saddened us to discover that the “Space Shuttle” is under maintenance. Since the “Space Shuttle” is not functioning, we continuously rode the “Rio Grande Rapids”, facing the long lines of people who also wanted to ride it as well, and we also endured the Philippines’ hot climate. The wait was worth it for we received cherished memories and funny moments as we got wet during the ride.


The day ended as the beautiful moon shone up above in the sky along with brilliant glittering stars. The breeze stroked my skin and I felt a sudden chill down my spine; however, Mike embraced me and I felt comfortable, the feeling that will always be in my mind as I think of my friends. I observed that all the visitors were lining up and getting ready to go home after a tiresome day. They all looked tired but happy at the same time, reminiscing about what they did that day. The group and I were tired as well; however, we cannot contain ourselves from the happiness we had after that unforgettable day.


In that wonderful theme park, my friends and I always rode the “Rio Grande Rapids” because it was a thrilling and unique ride. The experience strengthened further our bonds as close friends. I learned that friends will always be there for you during good, and most especially during bad times when you think that all is lost. The memory continues to play in my mind as I reminisce my visit to Enchanted Kingdom once again.

“Process Essay: How to Relieve Stress”

According to Maluniu (2009), Stress is a biological term used for consequences of the failure to respond correctly to emotional or physical threats to a person. Maluniu (2009) states that stress is everywhere. Let us discuss more about its origins, symptoms as well as the steps or ways on how to relieve it and of becomes harmful when it exceeds the limit of the individual.

As said by CliffsNotes.com (n.d.), the origins of stress may vary depending on the individual; however, there are usual causes of stress such as: Frustration when an individual is hindered from their desired goal; Aggression of an enemy causing an attack to the individual’s physical or emotional well-being; Life changes of the individual such as: the death of a loved one, tragic accident or being fired from work. Conflict between friends, family or colleagues inside the workplace as well as the lack of control and uncertainty of their daily activities or workplace are other causes of stress.

A person is stressed whenever these short or long-term symptoms are evident: dry mouth, cold skin, cold hands and feet, increased sweating, rapid breathing, faster heartbeat, nausea, tense muscles, insomnia, change in appetite, aches as well as pain. (Twilight Bridge, n.d.) Whenever a person is stressed, here are the effects this person feels: bad judgment of decisions, reduced enjoyment in work, low mental energy for thinking, mood changes such as: restlessness, frustration, feeling ill, confusion, talking too fast or too loud, neglecting personal appearances, fidgeting, twitching, nail biting, grinding their teeth, drumming of their fingers and pacing.

Stress is unavoidable with everyone. According to Maluniu and Wholefitness.com (n.d.), since we cannot totally stop stress, there are at least ways to alleviate or relieve stress: Take deep breaths to prevent stress from taking over your mind and body. This is the most immediate defense against stress. Next, communicate to a friend to get stress out of your chest. You could just laugh about it since there is a saying that laughter is the best medicine. Another way to relieve stress is by getting physically fit and being confident about you because your health and appearance is another cause of stress. By being fit, you tend to soothe your mind and body. Being organized is another way of relieving stress since stress also arises from the feeling of being overwhelmed by your daily activities. Also say “no” whenever you do not feel like you will enjoy what you are about to do. Next, be thankful for your blessings instead of sulking around and thinking of the things you do not have or what you did not achieve. Lastly, you have to meditate and soothe your senses with a relaxing spa treatment or massage.

You cannot avoid stress but you can still just relieve or lessen it. The above-mentioned steps or ways do not require you to follow them in a consistent or chronological order. You can just follow only the steps that are effective for you.



Reference List:
CliffsNotes.com. The Origins of Stress. (n.d.). Retrieved November 4, 2009 from http://www.cliffsnotes.com/WileyCDA/CliffsReviewTopic/topicArticleId-25438,articleId-25372.html

Maluniu. (n.d.). How to Relieve Stress. (2009). Retrieved November 4, 2009 from http://www.wikihow.com/Relieve-Stress

TwilightBridge.com. Symptoms of Stress. (n.d.). Retrieved November 4, 2009 from http://www.twilightbridge.com/stress/complete/4symptomsofstress.htm

Wholefitness.com. (n.d.) How to Relieve Stress. (n.d.). Retrieved November 4, 2009 from http://www.wholefitness.com/relievestress.html