For this week$$s portfolio activity, please advise the instructor of the following:

$1.$ Utilizing the information provided in your course textbook$($s$)$ or other valid sources, briefly compare the coupon rate and the interest rate regarding bonds. What is a par value?

$2.$ Describe the impact of a tax shield on fixed income yields.

$3.$ Please provide a brief update to the instructor on how you feel you are doing so far this term.