What Is the Interquartile Range Rule

The interquartile range rule is useful in detecting the presence of outliers. Outliers are individual values that fall outside of the overall pattern of the rest of the data. This definition is somewhat vague and subjective, so it is helpful to have a rule to help in considering if a data point truly is an outlier. The Interquartile Range Any set of data can be described by its five number summary. These five numbers, in ascending order, consist of: The minimum, or lowest value of the datasetThe first quartile Q1 - this represents a quarter of the way through the list of all the dataThe median of the data set - this represents the midpoint of the list of all of the dataThe third quartile Q3 - this represents three quarters of the way through the list of all the dataThe maximum, or highest value of the data set. These five numbers can be used to tell us quite a bit about our data. For example, the range, which is just the minimum subtracted from the maximum, is one indicator of how to spread out the data set is. Similar to the range, but less sensitive to outliers, is the interquartile range. The interquartile range is calculated in much the same way as the range. All that we do is subtract the first quartile from the third quartile: IQR Q3 – Q1. The interquartile range shows how the data is spread about the median. It is less susceptible than the range to outliers. Interquartile Rule for Outliers The interquartile range can be used to help detect outliers. All that we need to do is to is the following: Calculate the interquartile range for our dataMultiply the interquartile range (IQR) by the number 1.5Add 1.5 x (IQR) to the third quartile. Any number greater than this is a suspected outlier.Subtract 1.5 x (IQR) from the first quartile. Any number less than this is a suspected outlier. It is important to remember that this is a rule of thumb and generally holds. In general, we should follow up in our analysis. Any potential outlier obtained by this method should be examined in the context of the entire set of data. Example We will see this interquartile range rule at work with a numerical example. Suppose we have the following set of data: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 7, 8, 8, 10, 12, 17. The five number summary for this data set is minimum 1, first quartile 4, median 7, third quartile 10 and maximum 17. We may look at the data and say that 17 is an outlier. But what does our interquartile range rule say? We calculate the interquartile range to be Q3 – Q1 10 – 4 6 We now multiply by 1.5 and have 1.5 x 6 9. Nine less than the first quartile is 4 – 9 -5. No data is less than this. Nine more than the third quartile is 10 9 19. No data is greater than this. Despite the maximum value being five more than the nearest data point, the interquartile range rule shows that it should probably not be considered an outlier for this data set.

Use Of Gibbs Reflective Model ( Gibbs.1998 ) - 1688 Words

This essay uses Gibbs reflective model (Gibbs.1998), to discuss my communication with a relative of a gentleman admitted to the ward I work on. To maintain confidentiality, (Confidentiality Policy.2014), I will use the pseudo name Mr Brown. Description Mr Brown was admitted to the ward from the Emergency Admission Unit, (EMAU), with a chest infection. He also has Alzheimer disease and can no longer care for himself so he has been resident in a nursing home for the past two years. His only relative is his daughter, Miss Brown, who accompanied him to the ward. She appeared angry and upset with staff, complaining that she was unhappy with his treatment and did not want her father sat out of bed unless he was given one to one care. She argued that even though she had repeatedly told nurses on the EMAU that he had fallen at the nursing home, after being left in a chair, unattended, they ignored her and he fell again after being left alone. For several days, she harangued the doctors and nurses at every opportunity about the poor care the NHS had given her father. She continually wanted information and test results from the nursing staff and the doctors, insisting that they stop what they are doing, often during the doctors round or while nurses are giving out drugs. If there were no results, then she insisted that blood tests, x-rays and scans were done. She was very much in what would be known as the, Critical Parent mode according to Transactional Analysis. ‘CriticalShow MoreRelatedReflective Reflection1266 Words   |  6 PagesGibbs (1998) acknowledges that it is not enough just to perform a task to learn. Once something is learnt it is important to reflect upon that learning experience otherwise the learning experience may be neglected. Correspondingly with Gibbs, this piece of writing will critically evaluate key academic sources linked with reflective practice, these include models by Gibbs, Kolb and Schon. One of these reflective models will be used to provide a critical analysis of my experience on the Study SkillsRead MoreReflective Models Used by Nurses Essay891 Words   |  4 PagesReflective Practice Introduction: Reflection its self is looking into personal thoughts and actions. For nurses this would mean looking at how they performed a particular task taking into consideration their interaction with their colleagues and other members of staff, patients and in some cases relatives This then enables the nurse to assess their actions and thought processes. There are various frameworks of reflection that one could choose and the examples used for this workRead MoreAdolescent and Predictable and Unpredictable Elenents of This Transition and Associated Life-Stage1065 Words   |  5 Pagesprofessionals we must discover the nature that is offered to us by responding and using reflective thoughts to enhance the important aspects in society (Lauder et al 2004). And qualified nurses, acknowledge and understanding is essential for their practice to remain current, continuous improvement in reflecting on our thoughts, and what we do becomes Habitual to our practice (usher et al 2008). It is a necessity for nurses to use critical thinking as it helps gather relevant information to assist practitionersRead MoreThe Importance Of Nursing Patients With Multi Resistant Organisms ( Mros )1269 Words   |  6 PagesThe purpose of this essay is to reflect on the importance of demonstrating nursing care with patients requiring standard and contact precautions using a model of reflection. Reflection is the process in which learners engage to recap ture, notice and re-evaluate their experience, to work with their experience and to turn it into learning (Boud et al, 1993). The skill of reflection is essential to the development of clinical knowledge and ability which allows the learner to consider personal and professionalRead MoreReflection on a Brain Injury Clinic1348 Words   |  6 PagesReflective Piece. Reflection refers to the process of learning from experience. In order to learn effectively we need to address our experiences and tailor them to our needs. Spalding (1998) stated that reflection has three main learning phases. The learning opportunity, the gathering and analysis stage and the changed perspective. Boyd et al (1985) suggest reflection to be an: ‘...important human activity whereby people recapture their experiences, consider them and evaluate them . ReflectionRead MoreImportance Of Reflection1482 Words   |  6 Pagescontinuous learning as well as personal and professional development. This can include the process of reflective writing as a means of capturing the thought and experiences (Ghaye,1998). A significant relationship is found between reflective writing and academic learning, as one can identify the need for self-development, critical review, awareness of individual functions and decisions. Reflective writing is valuable for students to identify their role when working with others (Anne Sen, 2010). 1Read MoreReflective Practices and Health Care Essay1318 Words   |  6 PagesIn recent years, reflection and reflective practice have become well-known term with in the health care arena. They are words that have been debated and discussed with in the health care setting (Tony and Sue 2006). Reflective practice is essential for nurses, as nurses are responsible for providing care to the best of their ability to patients and their families (NMC, 2008). Reid (1993) states reflection is a process of reviewing an experience of practice in order to describe, analyse, evaluateRead MoreCritical Incident1756 Words   |  8 Pagesthat effective communication is key to patient health outcomes and language has influence on effective communication. . There are various reflective models written by various theorists and they include: Atkins and Murphy (1993) Stephen (1993) Johns (1988) Gibbs (1988) For this critical incident the model I have chosen to use is Gibbs (1988) reflective model as a guide because it is more understandable and will reflects more clearly on this critical incident. It is widely known that experienceRead MoreReflection on Nursing Handover2240 Words   |  9 Pageschanged to protect indentity. Reflective writing is considered a key component of portfolio assessment because it provides evidence of skills development and increasing clinical competence (Smith 2005). What is reflection? Reflection is defined by Wilkinson (1996) as an active process whereby the professional gains an understanding of how historical, social, cultural, cognitive and personal experiences have contributed to professional knowledge and practice. Reflective practice can take place in-actionRead MoreReflection Of Reflection And Reflective Practice1584 Words   |  7 Pagesdemonstrate my understanding of reflection and reflective practice. Reflection means that we learn by thinking about our experiences and seeing them in a different way. (Dewey, 1938) suggested that, ‘we learn by doing and realising what came of what we did’. Nurses experience physical, hands on, during their roles, but unless they search for the knowledge that comes from realising what came of what they did, then practice standards will deteriorate. Reflective practice is vital for nurses, responsible

Dependency on Computer free essay sample

Lots of people accept the most invention that is computer. While people didn’t need to computers in the days of old, nowadays computers are used almost everywhere. The life without computer is impossible for people. Not only computer but, also internet. We are so much dependent on computers. Although PCs make many things esaier for us, there are some evidence that depending on computers brings negative results. Supporters of dependence on computers a good thing say that we can learn easily information about whatever we want, find a friend who live to other cities, and work from home on computers. We know that science and teconology will be more developed, our life can easier use computers. However, such an argument completely ignores that fact that people will be more dependence on computers each passing days. Computers makes us lazy and passive. Before computers, we did lots of thing such as go to the park, visit to friends but now we don’t do that we want to stay at home with our computers. Argues that computers today have become an inseparable part of our lives, making a difference not just at the work place, but also in our personal lives. Written in 2005; 1,634 words; 7 sources; Paper Summary: This paper is about how society has changed due to technology and how much humans depend on technology and what a big part of our lives it is. It discusses how the technological revolution has changed the way we function and looks at our dependency on technology in our day-to-day lives. From the Paper: Only a few years ago we were not able to pick up the phone and call our neighbors without the operators assistance. Parents would have to send telegrams to there children at college to go to the central post office to receive their long-distance phone call. But today is much different. We have come a long way with our new technological advancements. We have gone far beyond just being able to direct dial any country in the world. Going a day without cellular phones, fax machines, computers, and satellites would pose a great challenge. Society has quickly moved into the information age. The information age is a time in which the internet has provided us with endless amounts of information. With the Internet, we have instant access to information, people and an array of services. The internet is almost becoming a necessity in our lives. The personal computer is a necessity in many peoples lives. The dependence on computers is growing and the question is, are we too dependent on our computers and the internet? Advantages of Computer Networks Following are some of the advantages of computer networks. * File Sharing: The major advantage of a computer network is that is allows file sharing and remote file access. A person sitting at one workstation of a network can easily see the files present on the other workstation, provided he is authorized to do so. It saves the time which is wasted in copying a file from one system to another, by using a storage device. In addition to that, many people can access or update the information stored in a database, making it up-to-date and accurate. * Resource Sharing: Resource sharing is also an important benefit of a computer network. For example, if there are four people in a family, each having their own computer, they will require four modems (for the Internet connection) and four printers, if they want to use the resources at the same time. A computer network, on the other hand, provides a cheaper alternative by the provision of resource sharing. In this way, all the four computers can be interconnected, using a network, and just one modem and printer can efficiently provide the services to all four members. The facility of shared folders can also be availed by family members. * Increased Storage Capacity: As there is more than one computer on a network which can easily share files, the issue of storage capacity gets resolved to a great extent. A standalone computer might fall short of storage memory, but when many computers are on a network, memory of different computers can be used in such case. One can also design a storage server on the network in order to have a huge storage capacity. * Increased Cost Efficiency: There are many softwares available in the market which are costly and take time for installation. Computer networks resolve this issue as the software can be stored or installed on a system or a server and can be used by the different workstations. Disadvantages of Computer Networks Following are some of the major disadvantages of computer networks. * Security Issues: One of the major drawbacks of computer networks is the security issues involved. If a computer is a standalone, physical access becomes necessary for any kind of data theft. However, if a computer is on a network, a computer hacker can get unauthorized access by using different tools. In case of big organizations, various network security softwares are used to prevent the theft of any confidential and classified data. * Rapid Spread of Computer Viruses: If any computer system in a network gets affected by computer virus, there is a possible threat of other systems getting affected too. Viruses get spread on a network easily because of the interconnectivity of workstations. Such spread can be dangerous if the computers have important database which can get corrupted by the virus. * Expensive Set Up: The initial set up cost of a computer network can be high depending on the number of computers to be connected. Costly devices like routers, switches, hubs, etc. , can add up to the bills of a person trying to install a computer network. He will also have to buy NICs (Network Interface Cards) for each of the workstations, in case they are not inbuilt. * Dependency on the Main File Server: In case the main File Server of a computer network breaks down, the system becomes useless. In case of big networks, the File Server should be a powerful computer, which often makes it expensive. A person should get well acquainted with the advantages and disadvantages of computer networks, before setting one up for his personal or office use. A knowledge of the pros and cons of computer networks can help him in designing a useful system for himself. By Swapnil Srivastava 1. - Is dependence on computers a good thing? - Every organisation today, let it be big or small is more or less dependent on computers. In other words, say it like this We have become techie! . I have often heard people using antediluvian(old-fashioned, out-of-date) for organisations/people not having the knowledge on computers operation. Computer is an efficient mean connecting you to the world, it is fast, and moreover you dont have to be necessarily at the work position to carry out your work. Its good that we are searching for efficient means for carrying out our work but still there is one question that peeps into mind Is dependence on computers a good thing? Dependence makes us impeach or incapable of doing things on our own thats why we need independence . In the similar manner totally depending on computer is not a good thing . We should use but not depend upon it . If we depend on them at some point of time we might end up at nothing but sitting idle as it is a machine and might breakdown so it very much advised that we must not depend on them altogether but make use of them. Dependence on anything at all is not a good idea if one sacrifices the ability to think for oneself. It is always advisable to use a range of strategies to manage ones life. Having said that, Im wondering what you mean by dependence. Its hard to imagine anyone not being able to live without computers. It is a fact that in todays world computers open up ones life to a broader and deeper range of information and knowledge than has previously been available to ordinary people. To not avail oneself of using a computer would be a shame. It is the technology of today: the increase ones independence. I love them and I would miss them if notavailable but it wouldnt be the end of the world This technology was developed to make things easier for us. However, too much dependence on computers is not a good thing for the following reasons: 1) because these things make our lives easier, being too dependent on them makes us not use our minds that often anymore; 2) because these are machines, there is a possibility of them bogging down and if they do, just think of how you would feel if you rely on them for almost everything and get this. dont you notice that when you are rushing some work on the computer, thats when it chooses to function slowly or even not to function well? t happened to me and my classmates in the wake of the cram sessions to finish our projects and theses in college, and many other times. Our theory is the computer catches our brainwaves so that when we panic, it acts like its also under a lot of stress; 3) how do you feel after working (or playing) in front of the computer for hours? drained right? because these things emit kind of waves (im not sure if they are called radioactive waves) which are not good for th e eyes and make us really tired you would think they zap us of our energy. Well yes, these thingamajigs make our lives a breeze. Thanks to the countless people who have contributed to the development of computers. And its hard to imagine life without them. But then, we should interact with people more than these machines. Forging relationships with real people will give you lasting happiness and contentment. Dont make a true friend or girl/boyfriend out of these machines. Computers are just to make things easier and faster. We are using the technology for a better life. I cant imagine a world without computers now. We are more than dependent on computer. It has become part and parcel of our lives. Whether it is bad or good, we cant stop depending on it. Dependency On Computer Since their invention, people far and wide have become increasingly dependent on computers. Computers have found their way into just about every aspect of our lives, and in most cases, they make things easier for us. They allow us to work from home, socialize with our friends and family who live too far away to visit, and they provide an ever-welcome stress relief when we come home from school or work and just want to have some fun. But as we increasingly rely on computers to get through the day, the question begs to be asked: have we become too dependent on computers? However, its still important to maintain a life outside of the cyber world; a life spent attached to a computer screen isnt a real life. When a computer becomes the central point of a persons life, they undergo a change in behaviour; they become lazy and develop anti-social tendencies, and, in some severe cases, simply cannot function without a computer. Its a common thing to see with children who have been allowed to spend too much time on the computer, watching TV, or playing video games: when it comes time to walk away, they throw temper tantrums. But its not just a matter of behavioural changes when a person cant tear themselves away from the screen long enough to take part in any other activity, it can take a toll on their comfort and health. They may experience weight gain, strained eyes, and headaches, among other unpleasant side-effects. However, it can also be argued that this is not the fault of the computer, but rather the fault of the person. Perhaps the most convincing argument, however, is the issue of safety. Aside from the issue of sharing personal information such as full names and addresses, there is also the bigger issue of stolen personal information. As our dependence on computers grows, so does our comfort level with them, and we are more likely to save personal information to our computer. While it would be nice to think that it is always perfectly safe to do so, the

OCP Plan Measure

In order to achieve the success while sustaining the change in the organisation, it is necessary to develop the effective measurement strategy which addresses basic approaches and measures that need improvement.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on OCP Plan: Measure specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More While focusing on the measurement plan, leaders become able to analyse the current progress regarding the change promotion and address any issues and barriers in a timely manner with the help of the proposed reaction plan. From this point, the main focus is on measuring effectiveness of the change integration, customer satisfaction levels, employee satisfaction levels, training effectiveness, and profitability. Key indicators and reaction triggers are determined to conclude what aspects of the plan need to be changed. The key objectives in measuring effectiveness of the change integration are the focus on analysing how cha nge integration meets the industry’s needs and stakeholders’ needs and how change integration can respond to the corporate purpose. Customer satisfaction is one more important factor which should be measured in order to understand the customers, suppliers, and regulators’ readiness for change according to the developed plan and with the focus on the milestone completion. The other important aspect is the factor of employee satisfaction which should be monitored in order to create the positive environment for cooperation and sustaining the organisational change. The main purpose to measure the training effectiveness is the necessity to understand how training can contribute to promoting the change and what approaches should be used to improve the current strategy. The final important category to be examined with the help of the plan is the return on capital investment and profitability.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we ca n help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is important to conclude about the role of change while focusing on shifts in sales rates, customer satisfaction levels, and warranty rates. Key Indicator Description Owner Measurement Method Frequency Reaction Trigger Reaction Plan Stakeholder’s Response Change Integration Strategic Management Team Surveys Monthly Negative response Change the implementation strategy; revise objectives Acceptance Test Results Answers to FAQs Customer Satisfaction Marketing Team Surveys FAQs Monthly Negative on-time milestone completion Conduct analysis Answers to FAQs Employee Satisfaction HR Manager FAQs Monthly Decrease in satisfaction Develop strategies to cope with change Time spent on development Quality and production rates Training Effectiveness Training Team Checklists Reports Monthly Low quality rates and exam scores Improve training program ROI Profit Return on Capital Investment Profitability Cost C ontroller Accounts Reports Quarterly Low profits Conduct financial analysis From this perspective, measurement methods, key indicators, frequency, and reaction triggers should be regularly monitored by specialists to control the change in the organisation. Measuring results of the change integration with the focus on the stakeholders’ response, it is possible to become ready to changing and improving the implementation strategy according to observed results. Focusing on customer satisfaction, it is important to analyse survey pilots’ results and monitor the customers’ acceptance of change in order to propose further improvements while determining how customers are aware of the organisational shift and associated changes. It is possible to monitor the employee satisfaction while collecting their answers to FAQs, analysing attrition and absenteeism, and proposing strategies to cope with the change. Furthermore, training effectiveness can be measured with refere nces to monitoring time, quality, and production rates in addition to succession rates and exam scores. Profitability associated with the implanted change should be monitored with the focus on changes in rates and numbers connected with ROI, assets, fixed and variable costs, and profits. This report on OCP Plan: Measure was written and submitted by user Kali Kirk to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Learn to Tell Time in German

Learn to Tell Time in German Telling time in German requires knowing three basic ingredients: the numbers from 1 to 59, the German words for to and after, and the fractions quarter and half (past). Heres How: Learn or review the German numbers from 1-59.An hour is divided up like a pie into quarters (viertel) and halves (halb).For half past, you say halb and the next hour. Halb acht 7:30, i.e., half (way to) eight.After is nach. Es ist zehn nach zwei 2:10 (Its ten after two).For quarter past, you say Viertel nach: Viertel nach neun 9:15.To or before is vor (FOR). Viertel vor zwei 1:45. Zehn vor elf 10:50.English oclock is Uhr in German. Es ist fà ¼nf Uhr 5:00 (five oclock).For precise times, you say Uhr between the hour and the minutes: zehn Uhr zwà ¶lf 10:12.For many common situations (timetables, TV guides), Germans use 24-hour (military) time.Add 12 to a pm time to get the 24-hour form: 2 pm 12 14.00 (vierzehn Uhr).To express 24-hour time, be precise: zwanzig Uhr neun 20.09 8:09 pm.Practice your German time-telling skills with every clock or schedule you see. Tips: Make sure you know your German numbers well. Watch out for eins. With time its ein Uhr (1:00).Accept the fact that there are different ways of telling time in different cultures, none of which is better or worse than the others.Remember that understanding the time is usually more important than being able to say it.

Spirituality In Sport Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Spirituality In Sport - Essay Example We take for granted our present identity, the one that our surroundings (parents, family) have given us. But the quest for spirituality helps us discover our true identity and instills hope and faith in us (Russel, 2006). The Divine path unites us with our true identity after we decide to delve in the realm of spirituality. All religions are based on spirituality and no matter how modern we may get, we always want to know our religion’s teachings for matters of our interest, though we might not abide by the religious teachings. These matters can be our passions like music and sports. It is interesting to find out what religion has to say about sports and if there is any linkage between spirituality and sports. Something which is spiritual, touches us deeply from within, gives us peace and motivation to go on. All the successful athletes went for their passion because they found contentment and peace in the sport of their choice. It is difficult to perceive a relationship betwe en sports and spirituality (though it exists for sure), because violence, aggression and anger is seen in sportsmen while they are battling to win the game. As per a renowned psychologist, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (who happens to be a chess player as well), sports let us be in a state of ‘flow’. This is an active state where a sportsman is just focused on the game and does not heed his surroundings. This flow state is an active state because both our mental and physical energies are devoted to just one thing: the game. Also, we are so engrossed in sports that during playing, all our worldly worries seem to drift away and we find an escape from daily tensions and stress. Other activities such as watching television are passive because they do not require one to be directly involved and concentrate solely on one thing (Taylor, 2002, Spring). Athletes drift into a passionate trance, where they relax and find serenity as sports soothe the nerves, no matter how strenuous they might be. Flow is very much similar to the dharana state of yoga which literally means concentration. The similarity is justified; because sports require 100% concentration otherwise one slipping can make you lose. Once in a state of flow, there are chances that it might deepen and the sportsman moves into a state very much similar to dhiyana (meditation state of yoga) and all of a sudden, the player’s performance improves so much that he can turn the game around. But in dhyana (referred to as the Zone by sportsmen), everything slows down so that the player is better able to think and then charge at the opponents. The zone is a transient phase and only the most professional and expert sportsmen are able to fall in it and give their best shot (Taylor, 2002, Spring). Sometimes, extraordinary and phenomenal things tend to happen that leave a mark in the minds of the spectators who are totally awed after experiencing a great feat, when players are in the state of dhyana; for ins tance runners feel as if they are airborne, light and highly energized during ‘tipping’ (dhyana-like state). Some sportsmen also claim that during such a phase, they can see through their bodies. These are psychic experiences and the players manage to give commendable performance during them; but there are chances that a lot of people will question the validity of these experiences. But only a genuine sportsman can verify whether these experiences are really spiritual or make-believe. After dhyana, sportsmen sometimes enter into samadhi (state of union with the divine), where they feel extremely elated: hence we can conclude that sports are a spiritual practice as it corresponds to the three states of yoga dharana, dhyana and samadhi (Taylor, 2002,

Feminist criticism of Erin Brokovich Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Feminist criticism of Erin Brokovich - Essay Example ance of the woman, Erin Brockovich, whose reliance on her sex appeal lands her in a mess until she finds her mission as a legal assistant espousing the cause of a small community ravaged by pollution from PG&E’s plant. The film is considered one of the most progressive movies of recent decades. However, despite much ado about its being a feminist film, it also resorts to the objectification of woman for male viewing pleasure. Erin Brockovich, an unemployed single mother of three, is on a losing streak that leads to a dismissed lawsuit against a rich doctor. She had hoped to cash in on the lawsuit but loses on it because of her brash and indecorous outbursts in court. Playing on her lawyer’s sense of guilt, she succeeds in browbeating him to employ her. The highlight of her past has been a reign as Miss Wichita. She has remained blinded by the easy, cheap triumphs her beauty got her. Married and divorced twice, she struggles to raise her three children. Without a man to lean on or even a job to support her, life has seemed headed for disaster. She wears tight, short, cleavage-enhancing costumes that indicate her crass, low-class taste. Her trashy clothes and earthy manners are abrasive to co-workers, as illustrated by the dialogue between her employer and herself. They gradually learn to tolerate her when she begins to investigate a suspicious case involving the Pacific Gas & Electric Company. She discovers that residents in the area are being poisoned by toxic hexavalent chromium that the company is dumping and that the company is trying quietly to buy out the contaminated land. She perseveres, to find herself in the middle of one of the biggest class action lawsuits in American history. Julia Roberts portrays a fiercely independent modern American woman with gusto, pathos and humour. Other characters are secondary, and her constant presence and indomitable spirit relegate even the facts of the real-life case to the background. The film avoids standard