text:
41% of applicants who have terrible candidate experiences (rating them one out of five stars) say they’ll take their loyalty and money elsewhere. But for candidates with five-star experiences, 64% say they’ll definitely increase their relationship with the employer—even if they didn’t end up getting the job.

As illuminating as that statistic is, it’s just one of hundreds of intriguing and often surprising facts available in the 2016 North American Candidate Experience Research Report compiled by the Talent Board. A nonprofit research organization, the Talent Board gives out the CandE Awards (short for candidate experience, of course) and has conducted similar research for six straight years, unlocking major insights into the ways both candidates and employers view the hiring process.

For the report, they interviewed 240 companies and over 183,000 candidates to learn how candidate experiences are evolving from both sides of the table—here are five key takeaways and suggestions that stood out from reviewing their findings.

1. CANDIDATES WANT A “PROGRESS BAR,” BUT MANY AREN’T GIVEN ACCESS TO REGULAR STATUS UPDATES

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Ever used Domino’s pizza tracker? It’s a marvel of modern marketing and technology that tells you exactly where your pizza is in the cooking and delivery process—and customers eat it up. Consumers love detailed tracking and status updates, whether it’s for an incoming pizza or the arrival of a friend in an Uber—and today’s candidates are no different.

According to the Talent Board’s research, job seekers want (and increasingly expect) insight into two areas: how far along they are with the application as they’re completing it, and status updates as they go through the hiring process. In a sense, this all relates back to receiving regular feedback, which statistics reveal as one of the most important aspects of the candidate experience.

“Candidates want to understand their progress,” says the Talent Board’s report. “When customers shop online, they have insight into how many steps are left before they complete their purchase. Candidates deserve a similar experience.”

Yet many employers still fall short: Though 52% of candidates with five-star experiences were given an application progress indicator, only 4% of overall candidates say they were given a link to check their status after applying.

Clearly, providing regular updates improves the candidate experience, and recruiters should let candidates know where they stand frequently, whether through tracking technology or simply by increasing touch points.

2. CANDIDATES AREN’T USING THEIR PHONES TO APPLY TO JOBS, BUT THEY ARE SEARCHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES ON MOBILE

According to the Talent Board’s data, mobile continues to be one of the biggest areas for new TA investment. 79% of surveyed employers allow candidates to apply to jobs via mobile, according to the 2016 report—an increase of 18% in just a year—and many more have plans to enable mobile applications imminently.

However, the data also reveals that most candidates aren’t actually using their phones or tablets to apply for jobs. Though that number has gone up a tiny bit in recent years, just 12% of candidates applied on mobile devices in 2016.

That said, many candidates perform their initial research on their phones, then move to laptops or desktops to complete the actual application. For example, of the one billion job searches performed each month, 60% are done on mobile. When candidates have their resumes pre-saved on sites like LinkedIn, they can then take advantage of streamlined (even one-button) application processes as soon as they find an open position.

Simply put, recruiters should make sure their job listings are mobile-friendly and invest in building up an application process which doesn’t require access to a desktop computer.

3. POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE CANDIDATE EXPERIENCES GET AMPLIFIED QUICKLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Recruiters already know that a bad candidate experience can quickly turn into a triple whammy: a lost candidate, a lost customer, and a missed opportunity for referrals.

But there’s another problem: As Virgin Media learned, the hit you take from a single negative candidate experience could become millions of dollars when you factor in the friends and family that they share their experience with.

First, the bad news: The data shows that social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience.

These upset candidates often use social media the same way disgruntled consumers do:

_“How many of you have used social media to garner customer service action instead of growing old waiting on the customer service phone trees? [...] The same is true for job seekers… Those negative experiences not only potentially impact the employment brand and direct revenue... but also diminish [recruiters’] ability to attract sought-after talent and the referral networks that come with them.”_

Fortunately, there’s also good news: According to the report, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with “inner circles” more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

In other words, bad experiences can cost your company on a large scale through social media proliferation—but you can also turn that perception around quickly by taking immediate steps to rectify the situation.

4. RESPECTING THE CANDIDATE’S TIME IS REALLY, REALLY (REALLY) IMPORTANT

When it comes to candidates voluntarily withdrawing from the application process, it’s all about time—wasting it, that is. The longer you drag the process out, the more likely the candidate is to become frustrated and lose interest in the position.

In the report, “respect for candidate time” and “length of overall time” were the two most commonly cited reasons for candidate withdrawal. And among candidates with one-star overall experiences, 19% felt their time was not respected during interviews and other appointments.

Most meaningfully of all, 99% of candidates with five-star experiences said they did not have problems with recruiters disrespecting their personal time.

In short, though recruiters already know respecting candidates’ time is important, the data shows it could actually be the single biggest difference between a positive and negative experience.

5. YOU PROBABLY AREN’T PROVIDING ENOUGH EMPLOYEE TESTIMONIALS

Here’s one area that most recruiters and TA teams can easily improve on: providing actual employee testimonials in your career sites and posts.

You probably know that employee-based content is incredibly valuable to candidates—and that employee referrals are now the number one source of quality hires. In fact, the report reveals that candidates now value the words and opinions of existing employees more than they did even just a year or two ago.

Career sites are still the most valuable source for job information, says the data, but modern, Internet-savvy candidates are increasingly wary of taking employer-based information at face value.

“Candidates no longer want to go directly to the source to discover information about the company and the job,” says the report. “They want to hear from existing employees and peers.”

But employers can also improve their own career sites, job descriptions, and employer branding by incorporating authentic employee content. For the report, candidates were asked what types of job and marketing content they considered most valuable. Employee testimonials landed right near the top at 36%, a 3% increase since 2014; meanwhile, 35% called out salary and compensation, 5% less than two years ago.

Taken together, these five takeaways paint a clear picture: By keeping candidates updated on their progress, respecting their time, and giving your existing employees an authentic spotlight, you can make huge, impactful improvements to your candidate experience.

* image by clement127

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question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the article say about what devices candidates use to search and apply for jobs?

answer: According to the Talent Board, candidates search for (i.e. find) jobs on their phones and complete their applications via laptops/desktops.

answer: According to the Talent Board's research, most candidates don't use their phones to apply for jobs. However, many candidates perform their initial research on their phones, then move to laptops or desktops to complete the actual application. 79% of surveyed employers allow candidates to apply to jobs via mobile.

answer: According to the article, the majority of candidates aren't using their phones to apply for jobs, but many of them use their phones to perform the initial research, and then move to laptops or desktops to complete the application.

answer: According to the Talent Board's research, most candidates don't use their phones to apply for jobs. However, many candidates perform their initial research on their phones, then move to laptops or desktops to complete the actual application.

answer: The data reveals that mobile continues to be one of the biggest areas for new TA investment. While 79% of survey participants said they allow candidates to apply to jobs via mobile, it was found that only 12% of the candidates viewed those tools as having applications to the sites and platforms.  Additionally, the article states that though 12% of candidates apply on mobile devices in 2016, many perform their initial research on their phones and move to laptops or desktop ahead of downloading applications.

answer: The data reveals that mobile continues to be one of the biggest areas for new TA investment. The article states that though 12% of candidates apply on mobile devices in 2016, many perform their initial research on their phones and move to laptops or desktop ahead of downloading applications. Candidates are also found to share their positive experiences with 'inner circles' and on social media more than 81% of the time.

answer: According to the article, the majority of candidates aren't using their phones to apply for jobs, but many of them use their phones to perform the initial research.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the story say about social media sharing of positive and negative experiences?

answer: According to the Talent Board's data, social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience. However, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with "inner circles" more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

answer: Social media is a powerful tool to share both positive and negative experiences. On the negative side, when a candidate has a bad experience with a company, they share it on social media. This can cost the company a lot of money and lost customers. On the positive side, candidates are more likely to share positive experiences on social media.

text: The answer would benefit from additional statistics.

refinement: According to the Talent Board's data, social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience. However, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with "inner circles" more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

answer: That negative experiences can land employers in a nasty mess through social media proliferation, but that employers and recruiters can also turn that negativity around by taking immediate steps to rectify the situation.

answer: Candidates share their positive experiences with what they consider inner circles more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

text: Only answers part of the question

refinement: According to the Talent Board's data, social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience. However, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with "inner circles" more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

answer: According to the Talent Board's data, social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience. However, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with "inner circles" more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

answer: According to the Data, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences with their inner circles, and some might go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media. On the other hand negative experiences will cost the companies through social media proliferation.

answer: According to the report, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences on social media. There are also bad statistics about employers not respecting the candidates' time.

text: This does not adequately answer the question

refinement: According to the Talent Board's data, social media sharing might mean the hit is even worse than that. Candidates share their negative experiences 34% of the time on social media, broadcasting the gory details to a gigantic audience. However, candidates are even more likely to share their positive experiences. They share them with "inner circles" more than 81% of the time, and go online to tell positive candidate stories about 51% of the time via social media.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the article say about the importance of respecting the candidate's time?

answer: According to the Talent Board's research, respecting the candidate's time is important. The longer you drag the process out, the more likely the candidate is to become frustrated and lose interest in the position. The report also says that candidates no longer want to go directly to the source to discover information about the company and the job. They want to hear from existing employees and peers.

text: Replace irrelevant information with additional coverage of the question.

refinement: According to the Talent Board's research, respecting the candidate's time is important. The longer you drag the process out, the more likely the candidate is to become frustrated and lose interest in the position. Among candidates with one-star overall experiences, 19% felt their time was not respected during interviews and other appointments. Most meaningfully of all, 99% of candidates with five-star experiences said they did not have problems with recruiters disrespecting their personal time.

answer: The majority of those surveyed believe that respecting a candidate's time is important. The Talent Board's research shows that those with five-star experiences were far more likely to meet with recruiters whose time was respected. It is also listed as the second most common reason for withdrawing from job applications.

text: This sentence doesn't make a lot of sense

refinement: The majority of those surveyed believe that respecting a candidate's time is important. It is also listed as the second most common reason for withdrawing from job applications.

text: This doesn't adequately answer the question.

refinement: The longer you drag the process out, the more likely the candidate is to become frustrated and lose interest in the position. Among candidates with one-star overall experiences, 19% felt their time was not respected during interviews and other appointments. Most meaningfully of all, 99% of candidates with five-star experiences said they did not have problems with recruiters disrespecting their personal time.

answer:
The importance of respecting the candidate's time is directly tied to the withdrawal statistic. Longer time means more withdrawal. Another issue with respecting the time of the candidates is rushing them with interview appointments.

In the report, "respect for the candidate time" and "length of overall time" were the two most commonly cited reasons by those who withdrew from the application process. Among candidates with one star overall aptitude, 19% felt that the time their was not respected during interviews and other appointments. Candidates perceive that employers care less about their time as a result.

text: This issue did not appear in the article

refinement:
The importance of respecting the candidate's time is directly tied to the withdrawal statistic. Longer time means more withdrawal.

In the report, "respect for the candidate time" and "length of overall time" were the two most commonly cited reasons by those who withdrew from the application process. Among candidates with one star overall aptitude, 19% felt that the time their was not respected during interviews and other appointments. Candidates perceive that employers care less about their time as a result.

answer: The Talent Board's data shows that the longer you drag the process out, the more likely the candidate is to become frustrated and lose interest in the position. The report listed "respect for candidate time" and "length of overall time" as the two most commonly cited reasons for candidate withdrawal. 99% of candidates with five-star experiences said they did not have problems with recruiters disrespecting their personal time.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the article say about the unemployment rate in the USA?

answer: No answer.

answer: No answer

answer: No answer

answer: No answer

answer: No answer

answer: No answer


split: train

text:
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Stem Cells are the future of Modern Medicine with the potential to manage a variety of lifestyles and chronic diseases

Advancells is one of the pioneers to recognize the unlimited potential of stem cells for therapeutic applications as a safe, risk-free and effective alternative to conventional medicine.

Customised therapies based on individual needs to address a variety of ailments

Media & Awards

Why choose Stem Cell Therapy?

Our Advancells Therapy works on the principle of “THE RIGHT QUALITY OF CELLS IN THE RIGHT QUANTITY, AT THE RIGHT PLACE”.

At ADVANCELLS, we have identified various rich and safely accessible stem cell niche in our body, such as Bone Marrow, Adipose Tissue and others, for an effective stem cell therapy based on the 3R potential of stem cells to REPAIR, REGENERATE, AND REJUVENATE.

With our GMP-grade compliant world-class lab facility and technical expertise, we have come up with a variety of stem cells based products, multipotent stem cells isolated from various tissue sources, and other services that have been highly acknowledged by renowned multi-specialty hospitals. Using regenerative therapies like PRP & Stem Cells, Advancells has successfully provided therapeutic solutions to more than 8000 patients worldwide.

So, if you are looking for Stem Cell Therapies and associated products, ADVANCELLS should be your choice of therapeutic destination.

Why Advancells is the Right Choice for You?

Advancells is focused on providing you with the best quality, right from the start till the end. All our products and procedures are certified by third party approved institutes for unbiased authenticity.

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We are equipped with our own state-of-the-art GMP compliant laboratory, with a priority on quality research and development.

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We are teamed up with medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals who are experts in the domain of regenerative therapies.

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Patient are provided with third party-authorized authentic certificates of Cell Quality based on viability and research done by our stem cell experts.

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As a pioneer in stem cell research and development, we have defined customized protocols for each indication to achieve effective treatment outcomes.

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With the best quality of stem cells and products, Advancells has successfully helped over 8000 patients from all over the world with a variety of disorders.

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Several patients approach us from different corners of the world, and hence we focus on cutting-edge technology for specific therapeutic approaches.

Our Stem Cell Success Stories

“Leo had speech delays and did not achieve defined  milestones. Leo has better understanding now, he listens and follows commands. He also has improved food swallowing. ”

4.6 years, Autism

“I was suffering from Type 1 Diabetes and was on high dose of insulin. It has been 3 months now since I got my stem cell therapy and there is a 40% less insulin dependency”.

JASMINE NAM

38 years, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

“I have experienced marvelous improvement in my condition. I could have morning erection and there was 70% improvement in quality of erection. It’s a steady progress till now”.

MR. L.N.

34 Years, Erectile Dysfunction

What Our Patients Have To Say!

Latest News about Regenerative Therapies and Stem Cell Research

Space Station turns into Stem Cell Lab

Space is a long way to go to learn about human tissues, yet researchers have their gazes trained at the stars. Earlier this year, a team of researchers from the University of Zurich (UZH) sent 250 test tubes of carefully prepped human stem cells to the U.S. National...

Stem Cells Can Repair Parkinson’s-Damaged Circuits In Mouse Brains

The mature brain is infamously bad at repairing itself following damage like that caused by trauma or strokes, or from degenerative diseases like Parkinson. Stem cells, which are endlessly adaptable, have offered the promise of better neural repair. But the brain’s...

Can stem cells treat Covid-19? There’s hope

As each day passes and the number of Covid-19 cases continue to rise, billions across the world are paying for a vaccine or even a treatment for the deadly virus. While scientists and researchers across the world are working on various treatment options to battle...

How the intestine heals itself

The human intestine has the powerful ability to renew itself and recover from damage. Intestinal stem cells (ISCs), lodged in pockets of tissue called crypts, generate the cells that continuously repopulate the intestinal lining. Even the stem cells themselves have a...

Coronavirus: critically ill Chinese patient saved by stem cell therapy

A 65-year-old Chinese woman who fell seriously ill after being infected with the coronavirus made a startling recovery after being given stem cell therapy, according to a new study by Chinese scientists. The patient had been fighting for her life in the intensive care...

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Upload your reports today for a free online consultation

"Advancells is a strong advocate of greater transparency in medical procedures in general and Stem Cells Procedures in particular. As a part of our effort of bringing transparent procedures to our clients, we provide each client a Third Party Certificate (from an internationally accredited lab) for the cell count and viability of the cells that we are able to process from the autologous cell source of the patient. To view the sample copy of the certificate  "click here"

By Advancells. Copyright 2020. All Rights Reserved. All images and content used in this site are original. Any attempt to copy will come under criminal jurisdiction.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the text say about Covid-19?

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus around the world right now. Since it's a virus, scientists can't get rid of it using vaccines, but they are trying to find an effective treatment. It is estimated that more than 230 billion people have been infected by the virus so far.

text: The answer is almost completely wrong, claiming that vaccination isn't a method to combat Covid-19 and claiming 230 billion (!) people are infected despite the article not giving any number and the world population in 2021 being ~8 billion.

refinement: The article is about stem cells, and Covid-19 is listed as a case the company ADVANCELLS considers. One coronavirus case involves a 65-year-old Chinese woman who made an exceptional recovery after being given stem cell therapy.

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus. As each day passes and the number of Covid-19 cases continue to rise, billions across the world are paying for a vaccine or even a treatment for the deadly virus. While scientists and researchers across the world are working on various treatment options to battle Covid-19, there is hope that stem cells can treat Covid-19.

text: The answer omits the case discussed under the coronavirus heading (which is the general name of the viruses Covid-19 is a part of.)

refinement: Covid-19 is a deadly virus. As each day passes and the number of Covid-19 cases continue to rise, billions across the world are paying for a vaccine or even a treatment for the deadly virus. While scientists and researchers across the world are working on various treatment options to battle Covid-19, there is hope that stem cells can treat Covid-19. One coronavirus case involves a 65-year-old Chinese woman who made an exceptional recovery after being given stem cell therapy.

text: "The number of Covid-19 cases" is not plural.

refinement: Covid-19 is a deadly virus. As each day passes and the number of Covid-19 cases continues to rise, billions across the world are paying for a vaccine or even a treatment for the deadly virus. While scientists and researchers across the world are working on various treatment options to battle Covid-19, there is hope that stem cells can treat Covid-19. One coronavirus case involves a 65-year-old Chinese woman who made an exceptional recovery after being given stem cell therapy.

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus that is spreading across the globe. As of 2020, billions of people are searching for a vaccine or treatment for the virus. However, scientists and researchers are yet to find a treatment.

text: The answer omits the case discussed under the coronavirus heading (which is the general name of the viruses Covid-19 is a part of.) It also should mention that the article is about stem cells.

refinement: Covid-19 is a deadly virus that is spreading across the globe. As of 2020, billions of people are searching for a vaccine or treatment for the virus. However, scientists and researchers are yet to find a treatment, and stem cells might help. One coronavirus case involves a 65-year-old Chinese woman who made an exceptional recovery after being given stem cell therapy.

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus that is spreading across the globe. As of 2020, billions of people are searching for a vaccine or treatment for the virus. However, scientists and researchers are yet to find a treatment.

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus causing billions in the world to pay for a vaccine or a treatment. However, scientists and researchers are working on various treatment options for the virus. As each day passes, the number of cases of the virus increases, so does the hope of a cure.

answer: Covid-19 is a deadly virus around the world right now. Since it's a virus, scientists can't get rid of it using vaccines, but they are trying to find an effective treatment. It is estimated that more than 230 billion people have been infected by the virus so far.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

Summarize the things stem cell therapy can treat.

answer: The article mentions functional improvements in some conditions. Patients are reporting complex changes.

text: The article contains some cases where stem cells were helpful. The answer should mention those.

refinement: The article mentions functional improvements in some conditions. Patients are reporting complex changes. The cases mentioned are autism, type 1 diabetes, and erectile dysfunction.

answer: Stem cells can help patients with speech delays, autism, and Type 1 Diabetes. Erectile Dysfunction can be treated with stem cells, as well. Coronavirus can be treated with stem cells.

text: The article never claims that coronavirus is treated with stem cells.

refinement: Stem cells can help patients with speech delays, autism, and Type 1 Diabetes. Erectile Dysfunction can be treated with stem cells, as well.

answer: Stem cells can treat a variety of illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction, autism, and speech delays. The article mentions functional improvements in some conditions. Patients are reporting complex changes.

answer: A variety of ailments: Autism, Type 1 Diabetes, Erectile dysfunction, Parkinson's Disease, and Coronavirus.

answer: The article claims that Advancells Therapy works on the principle of "the right quality of cells in the right quantity, at the right place." Advancells has identified various rich and safely accessible stem cell niches in the body, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, etc. These stem cells can be used to repair, regenerate, and rejuvenate. They can be used for a variety of disorders, including autism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction, etc.

text: Everything except the last sentence is irrelevant.

refinement: They can be used for a variety of disorders, including autism, type 1 diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction, etc.

answer: Stem cells are being used to treat a variety of ailments: Autism, Type 1 Diabetes, Erectile dysfunction, Parkinson's Disease, and Coronavirus.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

Summarize everything relating to labs.

answer: The Advancells lab was equipped with a nursery, genetic and stem cells laboratory, and systems for sterilizing biological materials. They also have their own state-of-the-art, GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and developments.

text: The following section is made-up: "The Advancells lab was equipped with a nursery, genetic and stem cells laboratory, and systems for sterilizing biological materials."

refinement: The Advancells have their own state-of-the-art, GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and developments.

answer: The Advancells lab was equipped with a nursery, genetic and stem cells laboratory, and systems for sterilizing biological materials. Advancells has its own state-of-the-art, GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and developments. We are paired up with medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals. A patient receiving stem cell therapy is provided with third party-authorized authentic cell certificates of Cell Quality.

text: The following section is made-up: "The Advancells lab was equipped with a nursery, genetic and stem cells laboratory, and systems for sterilizing biological materials."

refinement: Advancells has its own state-of-the-art, GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and developments. We are paired up with medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals. A patient receiving stem cell therapy is provided with third party-authorized authentic cell certificates of Cell Quality.

text: Advancells' connections and offered certificates are irrelevant to the question.

refinement: Advancells has its own state-of-the-art, GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and developments.

answer: Advancells has a GMP-grade compliant world-class lab facility. Advancells is focused on providing the best quality, from the start to the end. Advancells is equipped with its own state-of-the-art GMP compliant laboratory.

text: Advancells' quality of service is irrelevant to the question.

refinement: Advancells has a GMP-grade compliant world-class lab facility. Advancells is equipped with its own state-of-the-art GMP compliant laboratory.

text: The same information is repeated twice.

refinement: Advancells has a GMP-grade compliant world-class lab facility.

answer: Advancells's labs are state-of-the-art, and they have a priority on quality research and development. They have a GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and development. They have a team of medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals.

text: "They have a team of medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals." This sentence is irrelevant.

refinement: Advancells's labs are state-of-the-art, and they have a priority on quality research and development. They have a GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and development.

text: The two sentences express similar information and can be combined.

refinement: Advancells's labs are state-of-the-art, GMP-compliant, and they have a priority on quality research and development.

answer: The first describes all of their products as, “...high quality, right from the start till the end. All our products and procedures are certified by third party approved institutes for unbiased authenticity.” The second describes them as having “a priority on quality research and development.”

text: The answer is completely irrelevant.

text: The answer is empty.

refinement: Advancells has a state-of-the-art GMP-compliant laboratory.

answer: Advancells's labs are state-of-the-art, and they have a priority on quality research and development. They have a GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and development. They have a team of medical personnel from different multi-specialty hospitals. They have a state-of-the-art GMP compliant laboratory with a priority on quality research and development.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the text say about treatment costs?

answer: No answer

answer: The text doesn't mention treatment costs.

answer: No answer

answer: No answer

answer: No mention, but the clinic can conduct offline consultations.

text: A consultation isn't necessarily informative about price. The answer should simply admit that pricing isn't discussed in the article.

answer: No answer

answer: No answer


text:
Professional networks are essential to growing and maintaining one’s passion in any line of work. As teachers, we have traditionally found professional learning networks (PLNs) in our buildings, but in the digital age there are no boundaries: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

It’s now entirely possible to have a PLN that spreads out across this country and even around the world—people whose voices you’ve never heard and whose faces you’ve never seen. Although these digital relationships may not be personally close, they can be immensely powerful in terms of influencing pedagogy. And the fact that there isn’t always a personal relationship creates a nice amount of autonomy for both parties in these relationships—when you aren’t face to face on a regular basis, it’s easier to take the ideas you want from your network and make them your own, or to leave the network when you’re ready.

Building a Digital PLN

How can teachers create digital PLNs that are meaningful and powerful? Choosing a digital medium and connecting with other professionals can be overwhelming. It’s important to remember that, unlike with personal mentoring relationships, a PLN really doesn’t require a personal connection. You follow someone on Twitter who provides you with links to resources, inspiration, and advice through their tweets—they may not even realize how they’re helping you. And you can follow multiple role models for different purposes (e.g., one for subject-specific resources, another for general classroom management).

The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it. Is a personal, reciprocal relationship important to you? Or are you happy quietly following a person or group online without much interaction? Are you seeking others to vent with and to share best practices and resources, or inspiration from innovative, cutting-edge teachers? You’ll also need to consider how you enjoy interacting online—do you lean toward visual, auditory, or textual learning and communication? This process may take some trial and error, but you’ll know once you’ve got the right fit.

There are a variety of social platforms you can use to create a PLN: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Teachers Pay Teachers, Pinterest.

Once you’ve determined your purpose and the platform that’s right for you, start seeking people to connect with and follow. I strongly suggest creating a professional account if you already have social media accounts. This will help you identify as a teacher seeking a PLN. Your username should reflect your purpose. For example, my teacher accounts use the name Teacherevolution, and my bio on these accounts clearly states my professional interests: English and literacy, secondary education, 21s-century learning, and inquiry-based learning. Many social media programs allow you to select interests or topics of interest to you, which will help you connect with other teachers.

Growing the PLN

The beautiful thing about social media programs is that once you start following or friending certain types of users (e.g., math teachers), the program will suggest other users with similar profiles. Moreover, when you begin following and interacting with certain types of users, you’ll also see comments and posts from other, similar users—and thus your personal PLN will begin to bloom.

This is the point where you need to make a decision about how invested you want to be in your digital PLN and what role you’ll play online. Are you strictly seeking resources and inspiration? Or do you also want to share your own ideas, practices, and resources with others? Many teachers on digital platforms start out as recipients of ideas and resources. As they begin to interact online and become comfortable doing so, they also begin sharing their own experience and resources, and before they know it, they’ve become an inspiration to others.

The more time you spend commenting and interacting on your social network, the stronger your digital relationships will become. This is when mentorship can get more personal and actual relationships can develop. Many teachers like the anonymity of digital PLNs and this isn’t for them, while others seek out small digital networks with a specific purpose like sharing resources and ideas about a particular grade level or subject.

Digital PLNs can seem complex at first, and they are multidimensional and dynamic. Social media platforms allow these relationships to grow on a variety of levels and for a wide variety of purposes. Regardless of an individual teacher’s personal preferences, the possibilities for professional growth are enormous.

question: What is a professional learning network (PLN)?

answer: It's a group of learning professionals (teachers, etc) that share insight and knowledge to become better teachers.

text: Include in what forms and channels PLNs exist in.

refinement: It's a group of learning professionals (teachers, etc) that share insight and knowledge to become better teachers. This can be in the form of a real-life interaction or in an online platform such as social media.

text: "As teachers, we have traditionally found professional learning networks (PLNs) in our buildings, but in the digital age there are no boundaries: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers."

answer: According to the passage, a professional learning network (PLN) is a group of professionals focused on shared professional interests. PLNs can exist on social media platforms, and can serve a variety of purposes both inspirational and mentorship-based.

text: As teachers, we have traditionally found professional learning networks (PLNs) in our buildings, but in the digital age there are no boundaries: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

answer: A PLN is a network comprised of professionals who seek to learn from and collaborate with one another. Usually these networks are found on different social media platforms where communication can be textual, auditory, or visual.

text:
Semantic adjustment needed:

"Usually these networks are found on different social media platforms" this statement is not reflective of the message in the article. While it may be true, logic would dictate that there are more possibilities to form PLNs online, particularly on social platforms, more than in more analogous environments, this is not the message that the article wants to deliver.

refinement: A PLN is a network comprised of professionals who seek to learn from and collaborate with one another. These networks can also be found on different social media platforms where communication can be textual, auditory, or visual.

text: As teachers, we have traditionally found professional learning networks (PLNs) in our buildings, but in the digital age there are no boundaries: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

question: What is the most crucial advantage of digital networks compared to the old-time personal networks?

answer: The use of social networking platforms allows networking on many different levels with other users.

text: The question is a little subjective by asking "most crucial", as the article does not specify one particular trait of digital networks as most crucial (the advantages are presented as all seemingly of equal importance). However, there is a statement in the first paragraph that emphasizes the culmination of all the advantages: "(PLNs on social networks) creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers."

refinement: Unlike personal networks, PLNs on social networks creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

text: "...you can follow multiple role models for different purposes (e.g., one for subject-specific resources, another for general classroom management)."

answer: The freedom to be anonymous helps some people while others enjoy more strict and goal-oriented networks.

text: The question is a little subjective by asking "most crucial", as the article does not specify one particular trait of digital networks as most crucial (the advantages are presented as all seemingly of equal importance). However, there is a statement in the first paragraph that emphasizes the culmination of all the advantages: "(PLNs on social networks) creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers."

refinement: Unlike personal networks, PLNs on social networks creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

text: "...are you happy quietly following a person or group online without much interaction?"

answer: There are no boundaries.

text: While this statement alludes to the most correct answer, it lacks proper context as to how a PLN, which is an abstract thing, have or not have boundaries. It is better to just use the exact wording from the article.

refinement: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

text: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

question: Is it possible to have personal connections in a PLN?

answer: Yes, but not as expected. The digital PLN may not be composed of close relationships, but they can definitely be powerful in terms of influencing pedagogy.

text:
The question asks about "a PLN" referring to PLNs in general, while the answer given is mostly centered around the digital PLN. Inclusion of how it is with a non-digital PLN would make the answer complete.

The omission of mentioning pedagogy would also help as it is not directly related to the question.

refinement: For non-digital PLNs, this is likely to be yes due to the person-to-person nature of the interaction. For digital PLNs, it depends on how the interaction between people are made as there are many situations where interaction will be too minimal or even non-existent to form a personal connection.

text: "Although these digital relationships may not be personally close, they can be immensely powerful in terms of influencing pedagogy."

answer: The author says that digital relationships aren't 'in person and personal' but that doesn't mean the relationships are not meaningful or valuable.

text:
The words meaning and powerful were not used for describing relationships between participants, but the PLN itself.

"digital PLNs that are meaningful and powerful"

Omit the second half of the sentence to solve this. And include a "no" in the statement to properly address the yes/no format of the question.

refinement: No, the author says that digital relationships aren't 'in person and personal'.

text: The answer fails to address the question in full, as the question is not specifically referring to digital PLNs only, as such, the answer should also apply to non-digital PLNs.

refinement: For digital PLNs, no, the author says that digital relationships aren't 'in person and personal'. But non-digital PLNs are likely to have a degree of personal connection because the participants will intereact directly with each other.

text: "It’s important to remember that, unlike with personal mentoring relationships, a (digital) PLN really doesn’t require a personal connection."

answer: While a PLN is digital, the people in the network are still people. As one grows more comfortable interacting in a PLN, one can form personal connections.

text:
"While a PLN is digital" is false. PLNs exist in both digital and non-digital form.
corroboration: "As teachers, we have traditionally found professional learning networks (PLNs) in our buildings"

Adjust the statement to remove the error.

refinement: In a digital PLN, the people in the network are still people. As one grows more comfortable interacting in a PLN, one can form personal connections.

text:
"As one grows more comfortable interacting in a PLN, one can form personal connections." - While it seems logical, this is conjecture that is not supported by the article.

Omit the statement. Replace with how people may or may not actually form personal connections in a digital PLN.

refinement: In a digital PLN, the people in the network are still people, so if the PLN requires users to interact directly with one another there is a possibility to form a personal connection. On the other hand, a PLN with limited or no interaction will not allow for the formation of personal connections.

text: The answer fails to address the question in full, as the question is not specifically referring to digital PLNs only, as such, the answer should also apply to non-digital PLNs.

refinement:
In a digital PLN, the people in the network are still people, so if the PLN requires users to interact directly with one another there is a possibility to form a personal connection. On the other hand, a PLN with limited or no interaction will not allow for the formation of personal connections.

For non-digital PLNs, there is a higher likelihood of forming a personal connection due to participants directly interacting with one another.

question: What purposes can a PLN have?

answer:
Must include:
Security, Practical Application, General Management, and Assignment

text: The answer is not a list of purposes that the PLN provides, but features that a digital PLN may need. The answer needs to be changed as a whole and replaced with the actual purpose of the PLN.

refinement: A PLN's purpose is to provide teachers with new possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth.

answer: As mentioned - Share and get resources for one's own teaching. Mentorship. A place to vent. Most often people take ideas and passions they've grown, and make them their own.

text:
Opening phrase is suggestive of a prior conversation or statement "as mentioned". There is no prior conversation to refer to.

Remove this and replace with better wording that is closer to the answer the question needs.

refinement: A PLN is used to share and get resources for one's own teaching. Mentorship. A place to vent. Most often people take ideas and passions they've grown, and make them their own.

text:
The answer lists several practical applications/usage of digital PLNs. Primarily, this is wrong becuase it does not directly answer the question which is referring to the purpose. Also, usage of a PLN is not universal but is directly tied to what kind of PLN it is (even in digital form, there are many PLNs so what may be possible to do in one PLN may not be possible in another).

The proper answer, which is the purpose of the PLN, is summed up in one of the sentences in the article.

refinement: A PLN's purpose is to provide teachers with new possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth.

text: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship,

text: Are you seeking others to vent with and to share best practices and resources, or inspiration from innovative, cutting-edge teachers?

answer: They can be about general classroom management, topic-oriented (how-to-teach a math subject for example), and many more.

text: The answer does not address the question but provides examples of possible content for a PLN to cover. This can be corrected by replacing the whole sentence and stating the purpose of a PLN.

refinement: A PLN's purpose is to provide teachers with new possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth.

question: Write a ~4 sentence summary.

answer: Professional learning networks can be found on various social media platforms, offering teachers a way to interact and learn from professionals regardless of physical location. When creating a PLN, it is important to think about your purpose and how you like to interact online, as there is room for varying levels of involvement. Once you become active on a social media platform, your PLN will grow and your relationships will develop.

text: Opening statement is a little misleading, as it can be interpreted that PLNs only exist in digital form. Follow the article wording of labelling it as a "digital PLN" to imply the existence of a non-digital form.

refinement: Digital professional learning networks can be found on various social media platforms and offer teachers a way to interact and learn from professionals regardless of physical location. When creating a digital PLN, it is important to think about your purpose and how you like to interact online, as there is room for varying levels of involvement. Once you become active on a social media platform, your PLN will grow and your relationships will develop.

text: PLNs can exist on any social media platform,

text: The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it.

text: The more time you spend commenting and interacting on your social network, the stronger your digital relationships will become.

answer: When building a digital professional learning network (PLN), consider what your purpose is and what kind of social media platform will be right for you. You can get both inspiration and resources from others, and your relationships can grow more personal as you connect and interact online.

text: The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it.

text: The more time you spend commenting and interacting on your social network, the stronger your digital relationships will become.

answer: In this piece, the author explains why professional learning networks can be powerful and important in the digital age, and gives some tips on how to create a powerful network. In order to grow a successful digital PLN, the author suggests choosing a platform and deciding on how involved you want to be in the network. Additionally, interaction with other professionals is essential.

text: The line "Additionally, interaction with other professionals is essential." is not true, as there are many ways to have an effective PLN that does not require interaction. Solve by removing the sentence.

refinement: In this piece, the author explains why professional learning networks can be powerful and important in the digital age, and gives some tips on how to create a powerful network. In order to grow a successful digital PLN, the author suggests choosing a platform and deciding on how involved you want to be in the network.

text: The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it.

text: The more time you spend commenting and interacting on your social network, the stronger your digital relationships will become.

answer: Professional learning networks can be found on various social media platforms, offering teachers endless possibilities for networking, sharing resources and ideas, and contributing to the learning and advancement of others. While there is no "one size fits all" way to engage in digital PLNs, they can be powerful allies for professional growth and advancement, as teachers also have the opportunity to form new relationships and deepen existing ones.

text: Needs to identify that it is talking about digital PLNs. Fix by using the term digital as per the article.

refinement: Digital professional learning networks can be found on various social media platforms, offering teachers endless possibilities for networking, sharing resources and ideas, and contributing to the learning and advancement of others. While there is no "one size fits all" way to engage in digital PLNs, they can be powerful allies for professional growth and advancement, as teachers also have the opportunity to form new relationships and deepen existing ones.

text: PLNs can exist on any social media platform, which creates endless possibilities for sharing, mentorship, and growth as teachers.

text: You’ll also need to consider how you enjoy interacting online—do you lean toward visual, auditory, or textual learning and communication? This process may take some trial and error, but you’ll know once you’ve got the right fit.

text: The beautiful thing about social media programs is that once you start following or friending certain types of users (e.g., math teachers), the program will suggest other users with similar profiles. Moreover, when you begin following and interacting with certain types of users, you’ll also see comments and posts from other, similar users—and thus your personal PLN will begin to bloom.

answer: Professional learning networks (PLNs) in the 21st-century offer great advantages. Since they can be from all around the world, a teacher can find exactly the kind of content they require. It's also common that teachers start as recipients and eventually grow to be more comfortable sharing. Social media platforms allow for these networks to grow on a variety of levels and purposes.

text: Needs to identify that it is talking about digital PLNs. Fix by using the term digital as per the article.

refinement: Digital professional learning networks (PLNs) in the 21st-century offer great advantages. Since they can be from all around the world, a teacher can find exactly the kind of content they require. It's also common that teachers start as recipients and eventually grow to be more comfortable sharing. Social media platforms allow for these networks to grow on a variety of levels and purposes.

text: The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it. Is a personal, reciprocal relationship important to you? Or are you happy quietly following a person or group online without much interaction? Are you seeking others to vent with and to share best practices and resources, or inspiration from innovative, cutting-edge teachers? You’ll also need to consider how you enjoy interacting online—do you lean toward visual, auditory, or textual learning and communication? This process may take some trial and error, but you’ll know once you’ve got the right fit.

text: The beautiful thing about social media programs is that once you start following or friending certain types of users (e.g., math teachers), the program will suggest other users with similar profiles. Moreover, when you begin following and interacting with certain types of users, you’ll also see comments and posts from other, similar users—and thus your personal PLN will begin to bloom.

text: It’s now entirely possible to have a PLN that spreads out across this country and even around the world—people whose voices you’ve never heard and whose faces you’ve never seen.

answer: Social media platforms provide teachers with the opportunity to build robust digital professional learning networks that can potentially encompass the entire globe. Teachers should consider their reasons for wanting to connect with other professionals online, and should decide on the type of connections desired (e.g. reciprocal relationships or inspirations sharing only). The more time that is spent participating in a digital PLN, the stronger the relationships will become.

text: It’s now entirely possible to have a PLN that spreads out across this country and even around the world—people whose voices you’ve never heard and whose faces you’ve never seen.

text: The first thing to consider when dipping your toe into a digital PLN is what you want out of it.

text: The more time you spend commenting and interacting on your social network, the stronger your digital relationships will become.


text:
[The Velaires]

THE VELAIRES were an American rock and roll band from Sioux City, Iowa.

Early years

[The Velaires] The group began as The Screamers in 1958. Founding member Don Bourret explained the origin in a 2013 newspaper article:

  We were the Screamers in 1958 at Central High School. Truth be known — we actually got our start as a group of mostly swimmers who liked to sing in the shower. So we decided to enter the Central High School talent show. The singers were Denny Wurster, Jerry DeMers and Jeff Lockhart and musicians Bob Dawdy, Roger Hughes and myself. Our sextet performed “Bebopalula”.[1]

They soon after changed their name to The Flairs (not to be confused with the doo-wop group The Flairs based in Los Angeles). However, after playing in the legendary Val Air Ballroom in Des Moines, and with numerous groups on the scene with that same name, they became The Velaires.

Personnel

[Danny and the Velaires. In the photo are the original members, left to right: Bob Dawdy, guitar; Gary Kimble St. Martin, drums; George Norman, bass; Danny Matousek, guitar and lead vocals; Carolyn Chipman (later, Carolyn Matousek), vocals.] The band consisted of Daniel Matousek on rhythm guitar, Bob Dawdy on lead guitar, Jerry DeMers on bass and Don Bourret on drums.[2] The fifth Velaire was their full-time manager and booking agent, Dan's older brother, Richard "Dick" LaMiere Matousek.

First group

In 1961, as THE FLAIRS, they released their cover of Chuck Berry's classic, “Roll Over Beethoven” on Palm Records. Later in 1961, as The Velaires, they signed with Jamie Records and again released “Roll Over Beethoven”.[3]

The record leapt onto the _Billboard_ charts rising to No. 51 nationally[4][5] and reaching No. 1 in Los Angeles. It is reckoned to be the highest selling cover of “Roll Over Beethoven” ever.

Bourett said that the name change from The Flairs to The Velairs resulted from a problem with a recording company contract. When they needed to make a change, he explained: “We had just played the Vel Air Ballroom in Des Moines, so we said, 'Hey, let's become the Velaires!', a slight difference in spelling of the ballroom, and, that has stuck ever since.”[6]

While “Roll Over Beethoven” was on the charts, The Velaires had the opportunity to appear on Dick Clark’s _American Bandstand_ in Philadelphia being the only-Iowa based group to have ever done so.[7] They also joined the Caravan of Stars for a time.

They would follow “Roll Over Beethoven” with eight more releases on such labels as Jamie Records, Mercury Records, Palm Records, Ramco Records and Brent Records. Other releases on Jamie Records included their cover of “Dream” (Johnny Mercer) and “Ubangi Stomp” (Earl Bostic).

Re-formed group

The original members would stay together until 1963 when Dan Matousek would reform the group and continue on until 1970 under the name of Danny and The Velaires.

This band recorded in 1966 in Omaha several originals that received ample airplay, but never charted after “Roll Over Beethoven.” Gary Kimble St. Martin left in 1967 to join Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame group, Greg Scott and The Embers.

In 1997, much-deserved recognition came their way when Germany’s Bear Family Records released on CD their Greatest Hits/Anthology, _The Screamers To Flairs To The Velaires: Sioux City To Phoenix_.

Later years

The Velaires continue to tour with drummer Bourret, keyboardist Gene Ambroson, bassist Mike King, guitarist Bill “Chopper” Pelchat and saxophonist Dave Napier.[8]

Recognition

The Velaires are in two state rock and roll halls of fame. They were inducted into the Iowa Rock n Roll Music Association's Hall of Fame in 1997[9] and into the South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association's Hall of Fame in 2013.[10]

Deaths of members

Daniel Matousek died in May 1998 just a few days prior of a scheduled performance of the group at the DanceMor Ballroom in Swisher, Iowa.

Dick Matousek died on October 24, 2011, at home, in Sioux City, Iowa. He was 74.

Bob Dawdy died on January 21, 2013, at home, in Sioux City, Iowa. He was 70.

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title: The Velaires

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the text say about Danny and The Velaires?

answer: Danny Andre Matousek and his group The Velares reformed in 1963 under the name of Danny and The Velaires. This band did originals in 1966 that received airplay but never charted. Danny Matousek left the band in 1967 and Gary Kimble St. Martin joined Greg Scott and the Ember.

answer: After the original members left the band, the band continued with Dan Matousek under the new name of Danny and The Velaires. The band recorded in Omaha but never charted after the old band's hit "Roll Over Beethoven." ##

text: Remove hash keys

refinement: After the original members left the band, the band continued with Dan Matousek under the new name of Danny and The Velaires. The band recorded in Omaha but never charted after the old band's hit "Roll Over Beethoven."

answer: Danny and The Velaires is the name of the group formed by Dan Matousek. Matousek was an original member of The Velaires. Danny and The Velaires performed from 1963-1970. Their original songs never charted the way The Velaires' first single (a cover) had.

answer: The Velaires were an American rock and roll band from Sioux City, Iowa. The band consisted of Daniel Matousek on rhythm guitar, Bob Dawdy on lead guitar, Jerry DeMers on bass, and Don Bourret on drums. The original members stayed together until 1963 when Matousek reformed the band and continued on under the name of Danny and The Velaires. This band recorded in 1966 in Omaha several originals that received ample airplay, but never charted. Matousek died in 1998 just a few days before a scheduled performance. Dawdy and Matousek both died in 2013.

answer: The Velaires were an American rock and roll band founded in 1958 by members Don Bourret, Danny Matousek, Bob Dawdy, Gary St. Martin and George Norman. The band is most famous for their 1961 cover of Chuck Berry's 'Roll Over Beethoven'. They continue to tour today, and are in two state rock and roll halls of fame. Matousek and Dawdy died respectively in 1998 and 2013, while Dick Matousek died in 2011.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

Summarize the original band's name changes.

answer: The band is known as The Velaires. They were originally The Screamers, and then changed their name to The Flairs. 'The Flairs' was a popular band name at the time and there was a recording contract issue, so the name was changed once again to The Velaires, after the Des Moines venue the Vel Air Ballroom.

answer: The Screamers became The Flairs. They common spelling of Val Air Ballroom's name was The Velairs.

text: First three words are ungrammatical

refinement: The Screamers became The Flairs. Then they performed at the Val Air Ballroom and decided to change their name to The Velairs.

answer: The band began in 1958 as The Screamers because they were members of the swimming team. They became The Flairs before going on to become The Velaires.

text: More than just they were members of the swimming team

refinement: The band began in 1958 as The Screamers because they were members of the swimming team who used to sing in the shower. They became The Flairs before going on to become The Velaires.

answer: The Screamers became The Flairs and then The Velaires. They changed their name for the first time to avoid confusion with another group. Later Dan Matousek reformed The Velaires in 1966 after original member Gary Kibly St. Martin left.

answer: The Screamers changed their name to The Flairs, but changed it again to The Velaires after playing in the Val Air Ballroom. The original members were Daniel Matousek, Bob Dawdy, Jerry DeMers and Don Bourret. After Matousek's death in 1998, Danny and the Velaires were formed with drummer Bourret, keyboardist Gene Ambroson, bassist Mike King, and guitarist Bill Pelchat. Dick Matousek and Bob Dawdy both died in 2013.

text: The lines about membership are unnecessary

refinement: The Screamers changed their name to The Flairs, but changed it again to The Velaires after playing in the Val Air Ballroom.


text:
The sand was blowing so hard it was difficult to see anything.  Even the tanks parked just a few feet away seemed insubstantial. The goggles I wore did little to keep the sand out.  I felt filthy.  My eyes ached and felt as if they could produce no more tears. My hands and all other exposed skin were raw and tender from the biting sand. I huddled in as close as I could to my battle buddy, Mike.  Outer discomfort was only part of the reason we kept so close to each other.  Fear dictated most of our actions. The need to hold on to something familiar. Mark and I had become good friends during our training. Our shared struggles in infantry and airborne schools had developed a trust that only deepened when we both washed out of the Ranger Indoctrination Program. Our faith in each other had become the only stable thing we had. Training was over and we were going to war.

We stood in that storm for what felt like hours before a wiry man stepped up to us and shouted in our ears to be heard over the wind “you fags follow me!”

Unquestioningly, Mark and I did as we were told and were lead through the sandblaster to a small tent where we could wait out the storm. As the storm failed we found that a meal and some water had been left for us. We had not had anything to eat or drink since landing in Kuwait at least sixteen hours prior to arriving at our little tent. Our hunger and thirst helped make short work of the food and water, but as we finished a wave of nausea washed over me and I ran outside to purge myself in the sand.

 “Why do I always throw up when I’m nervous?” I asked Mark after rinsing the bile from my mouth.
“I don’t know” he shrugged.
“That’s just the faggot coming out of you” barked a deep nasally voice with a hint of a southern drawl.

Mark and I both turned to the speaker ready to throw insults back in return.  Fortunately for us, our eyes were quicker than our tongues, and our words never quite reached the air. We both snapped-to upon seeing the same wiry soldier who had shown us to our tent.  Without the sand swirling between us we could clearly see the stripes on his collar.

“You privates want to say something?” he asked.
“No, First Sargeant.” we replied in unison.
“Good” said the First Sargeant.  “You two see that group of vehicles circled up about four yards to your twelve o’clock?”
“Roger, First Sargeant”
“Then double time over there and report to Lieutenant Black.”
 “And for fuck sake don’t salute” he yelled at our backs as we hurried off to follow his instructions.

We found Lieutenant Black playing spades in the back of a Bradley. He did not acknowledge our presence until he and the other soldiers with him had finished their hand. When he finally did look up he pointed at Mark and said “you first.”
“PFC Mark Strunk reporting for duty, sir” Mark replied.
“Sound like stump” grunted one of the soldiers who had been playing cards.
“Where you from Strunk” asked the Lieutenant
“Denver, Colorado, Sir.”
“Good. And who is this turd with you?”
Barely recognizing my cue, I stumbled over both my feet and my words and said “PFC Brandon McNair reporting for duty, sir.

“Alright, listen close Stumpy and Mcturd.” Said Lieutenant Black “The president is going to declare war any day now.  We are currently sitting less than a mile from the border. When he does declare war we are to be the point of the spear going into Iraq. You two are a liability to me. We don’t have time to train you up on unit SOP and I won’t have you getting someone killed by being in the way. So what that means to you is stay on the hip of the team leader I assign to you, keep your head down, and do what you are told.”

To be continued...

title: Stormcoming

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the story say about Mark and Mike?

answer: The story presents Mark and Mike as close friends who share common struggles. When they arrive at their designated spot, they follow instructions without question. Lieutenant Black speaks harsh words to them, making clear that they are liabilities. However, despite their inexperience, Mark and Mike remain obedient and dedicated to the task at hand.

text: Nowhere does this summary mention the two men are in the army

refinement: The story presents Mark and Mike as army buddies who became close after going through training together. They are green, and have not been tested by combat yet. They look out for each other.

answer: The story portrays Mark and Mike as friends who trust each other implicitly. They stick together in order to maintain stability in a chaotic environment and obey orders without hesitation. They are also portrayed as inexperienced soldiers who are anxious about their upcoming mission.

text: It still does not mention they met in the army

refinement: The story portrays Mark and Mike as friends who trust each other implicitly. They met in the army and went through training together. They stick together in order to maintain stability in a chaotic environment and obey orders without hesitation. They are also portrayed as inexperienced soldiers who are anxious about their upcoming mission.

answer: Mark and Mike are soldiers traveling on a tank to war. Lot 21, part 2 says they become friends during their training. Mark and Mike are good friends, having trained together and bonded over their shared struggles. They trust in each other to survive their time in the war.

text: Completely incoherent. There is not Lot 21 in the story as a subject heading

refinement: The story portrays Mark and Mike as friends who trust each other implicitly. They met in the army and went through training together. They stick together in order to maintain stability in a chaotic environment and obey orders without hesitation. They are also portrayed as inexperienced soldiers who are anxious about their upcoming mission.

answer: Mark and Mike are soldiers in the middle of a sandstorm in the desert. Mark and Mike have become good friends since their training.

text: Mention that they are green

refinement: Mark and Mike are soldiers in the middle of a sandstorm in the desert. Mark and Mike have become good friends since their training. They are rookies, never having seen combat before.

answer: During their training, Mark and Mike became good friends. Mark and Mike washed out of the Ranger Indoctrination Program. Mark and Mike always hold on to something familiar as they do not really trust other people. They are a unit.

text: Not clear what this means

refinement: During their training, Mark and Mike became good friends. Mark and Mike washed out of the Ranger Indoctrination Program. They are a unit.

text: Not clear how relevant this is

refinement: During their training, Mark and Mike became good friends.  They are a unit.

text: They are soldiers and this is their first time seeing combat

refinement: During their training, Mark and Mike became good friends.  They are new soldiers, and this is their first time seeing combat.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the story say about the First Sargeant?

answer: Mark and Mike are soldiers in the middle of a sandstorm in the desert. The First Sargeant introduces himself and assigns them a task.

text: This does not discuss who he actually is

refinement: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

text: This does not describe the first seargant at all

refinement: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

answer: The wiry soldier that commands Mark and Brandon to follow his instruction and leads them to Lieutenant Black is the First Sargeant. He oversees the platoon while Commander Black is off, playing spades and decides who to assign to more dangerous activities. He barks at Brandon, Mark, and their unnamed soldier friends.

text: It has gotten the first sergeant confused with the lieutenant

refinement: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

answer: The First Sargeant appears to be cruel and impatient, making disparaging comments about the soldiers in his charge. By implication, he does not appear to be a particularly fair or reasonable leader.

text: It's not clear that he is an unreasonable leader

refinement: The First Sargeant appears to be cruel and impatient, making disparaging comments about the soldiers in his charge.

text: More detail about what that means for his command is necessary here

refinement: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

answer: He shares a similar tendency of having strong opinions of private soldiers, at least towards the two (the main characters). The story never really provides much information about his character, other than his shared opinion.

text: Discussing his opinions does not describe who he is well

refinement: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

answer: The First Sargeant is harsh but efficient. He cares more about making sure the soldiers under his command are ready to carry out their duties than building relationships. He also expects nothing but compliance out of the soldiers he assigns, regardless of their inexperience.

question:
Answer the following question based on the above passage:

What does the story say about Mark, Mike, and Lieutenant Black?

answer: Mark and Mike found Lieutenant Black playing spades in the back of a Bradley. Lieutenant Black points out that the president is about to declare war any day now and he needs them to keep their heads down and follow orders.

text: This summarizes absolutely nothing of what happened with the group. It discusses only the events and not the characters

refinement: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army.

answer: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army. By "scoring" a perfect 10 on a simple luck quiz of sorts, Mike wins the favoritism and a place in the group, regardless of his carelessness.

text: This does not occur in the story

refinement: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army.

answer: From the passage, it can be inferred that Mark and Mike are both inexperienced soldiers who are terrified of war. Lieutenant Black is an experienced soldier who does not have time to train new recruits. He is also tough and expecting them to obey orders without question.

text: Issues of accuracy and tone here include "inferred" referring to something explicitly states, and not giving enough detail (speaking in generalities)

refinement: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army.

answer: The story depicts Mark and Mike as friends who are scared and inexperienced. Lieutenant Black is seen as unpleasant and unsympathetic, likely to assign them minimum protection and safety.

text: More detail about Lieutenant Black is necessary

refinement: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army.

answer: Mike and Mark often went to battle together. The two of them trust each other. Lieutenant Black assigned the two of them to the same team. The two privates didn't like his assigning since the lieutenant had called them names. Lieutenant Black also found them a liability.

text: Mike and Mark did not often go to battle together

refinement: Although it may seem rather negative, the story implies that Lieutenant Black dislikes his new recruits, first addressing them as "Stumpy" and "Mcturd" during their first meeting. The recruits stand out because they are young, inexperienced, and not familiar with the military procedures. Plus, they are rank-less and untested, so the odds of them being sent to the frontlines are higher. Mark and Mike are placed into a group of four other soldiers, who both berated them for joining the army.