Should I Go To Arizona State University

Should I Go To Arizona State University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach theyre sharing their college experiences as well. Paige is a Phoenix tutor specializing in AP English tutoring, Essay Editing tutoring, Reading tutoring, and more. She graduated from Arizona State University in 2011 with a Bachelors degree in Journalism and Political Science. See what she had to say about her school: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options.How urban or safe is the campus?Are there buses or do you need a car/bike? Paige: The Downtown Phoenix campus is incredibly safe. When I first started there in the fall of 2008, it was the first year the campus was open. At that time, Downtown Phoenix wasnt as populated, but now its thriving. The light rail runs all the time, which makes traveling to the Tempe or other Phoenix areas easy and affordable. As for the campus itself, everything is within a few blocks, so no need for a bike or other transportation if youre planning to stay local. VT: How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants? Paige: Because the downtown campus is so much smaller than the other campuses, class sizes are substantially reduced. This gives professors lots of time in class and during office hours to work with students. I cant think of a time when I had a question or concern and I wasnt able to work with my advisor or professors to address it. VT: How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, and socialization opportunities with other students? Paige: When I was going to school on the downtown campus, it was still being built out, so there werent many students who lived there to socialize with. I ended up seeing most of the same people every day. Now, Downtown Phoenix as a whole has been built out, so lots of students live around the downtown area and from what Ive heard, the dorms have a good number of people in them as well. The rooms themselves are relatively new, really clean, and easy to get to. The food choices have also substantially increased over the last few years from what it was previously. VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?What did you study and why? Did the university do a good job supporting your particular area of study? Paige: Arizona State University as a whole has something to offer for pretty much every area of study. The downtown campus, though, is primarily known for Journalism, Nursing, and Social Programing. Initially, I wanted to go to law school after college, and I figured that I liked writing, so why not try out the journalism school? During my first year there, I realized that I really enjoyed my public relations classes and decided to switch my focus from law to PR. The Walter Cronkite School has its own high-tech building and lots of teachers and professors with real industry experience. This made our classes much more than standard lectures, but instead a glimpse into the daily lives of those in the journalism world. Once I started down the PR track, I was able to take classes that helped me progress my knowledge in the digital space that helped me get to my job in online marketing that I have today. VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Paige: Living downtown pretty substantially reduces the number of people students meet relative to how many students go to Arizona State University. Its easier to meet people because it's a closer-knit community. Unfortunately, in college, people usually want more of a social life than just with the other students in their classes. I decided to rush my freshman year and ended up joining the sorority Kappa Alpha Theta. It was a great experience overall and I met two of my best friends during the years I was involved. I did make a point of taking on leadership positions within my chapter and staying active, because it really is true you get out of it what you put into it. VT: How helpful is the Career Centerand other student support services?Do many reputable companies recruit on campus? Paige: The Walter Cronkite School is amazing (yes, I mean amazing) when it comes to helping students find jobs and internships. During my time there, I had seven internships, two of which were paid. During one semester alone, I interned for one of the best PR agencies in Tempe and also the Arizona Diamondbacks. Granted, I was extremely motivated to get as much professional experience as possible during my undergraduate years. Still, the career center for the Cronkite School in particular makes it incredibly easy to find internships and jobs throughout the year. They usually have internship fairs and also email lists of openings throughout the year. VT: How are the various study areas such aslibraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious? Paige: There werent all that many spaces designated as study areas on the downtown campus. Usually, there were quiet empty classrooms with computers available that we could use. Im also pretty sure I only went to the downtown campus library a handful of times while I was at school. If youre looking for the big library or student union setting, the ASU Library and Student Union on the main campus are only a short trip away on the light rail. VT: Describe the surrounding town. What kinds of outside establishments / things to do are there that make it fun, boring, or somewhere in between?To what extent do students go to the downtown area of the city versus staying near campus? Paige: When I went to school on the downtown campus, there really wasnt anything to do in the Downtown Phoenix area. Over the last five years, though, things have changed drastically. I currently work only a five-minute walk away from my old campus and frequent lots of fun restaurants and bars in the area. For those who arent 21, theres also First Friday, art galleries, a movie theater, sporting events, shopping, bowling, and even a comedy club. If none of that sounds entertaining, all the fun of a traditional state school in Tempe is just a short light rail ride away. VT: How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Paige: ASU as a whole, I believe, has around 60,000 students. The downtown campus is pretty small, relatively speaking, and most students dont live on campus after the first year. Class sizes on average range from 15 70 people. Once you get beyond the initial freshmen general-knowledge classes, students are broken up into smaller 15-20 person classes for the higher-level subjects that usually include group discussions and engagement. No matter what the class size, though, professors always made time for students if they had questions. VT: Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. Paige: I remember the first class I took that challenged me with the role of a real journalist. We had to conduct interviews, meet weekly deadlines, and tackle subjects that werent necessarily the easiest or the most fun. It was my Introduction to Journalism Writing class and our professor made the class feel like a real job. It gave me insight into the print journalism world that I didnt have before. Even though I ended up choosing the public relations track, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and worked for a short time at the State Press to develop my print journalism skills further. Check out Paiges tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Music is a Universal Language The Truth About Learning It

Music is a Universal Language The Truth About Learning It Suzy S. Youve likely heard the saying Music is a universal language. If thats the case, then how should we be teaching it? How can you effectively learn the language? Read on as Aurora, CO teacher Zach S.  explores the idea   I recently was able to go to a master class taught by Victor Wooten, and he brought up something that is not talked about nearly as much as it should be in music. Music is a language. Now what does that mean? It means that music has rules (music theory) just as languages do (grammar), and that music can be used to communicate with others. I will go more in depth into those two aspects of music as a language, but if you read one thing from this post, this should be it: You do not learn a language by studying grammar all day, you learn a language by talking and by listening. The same approach should be taken to music learn to talk (play) but also learn how to listen. Communicating with Music I love music theory. I have studied it for seven years and it is my favorite class in college right now. With that being said, there are a lot of problems with the way music is being taught. When handed an instrument the first thing I am told to do is learn to play scales. Why? There is nothing musical about scales. I am not able to communicate with a scale, just as I am not able to communicate by saying the ABCs. The first thing we teach a child when they are learning how to speak is a word, but in music the first thing we teach a student is a scale. Why not teach the student how to communicate? Why not teach them how to express themselves first and then teach them how it works second? What I do with students in their first lesson is have them play. I dont care what, I dont care how, I just want to see what they have to say. Then I play back, and by the end of our lesson we are able to communicate and my student has learned how to say something with his instrument. That is why they came to me in the first place, to learn how to talk with their instrument. Why not teach the student that first? Learning How Communicating With Music Works Now this is where music theory comes in. After a little bit of communicating with music, we start to learn why it works. Just as toddlers start to learn grammar in grade school. It is not the FIRST thing that is taught, but it is still taught. One can communicate without any knowledge of grammar, but the ideas one can get across are simple. As one learns more grammar they are able to get more and more complex ideas across to the listener. This is why one should learn scales not to be able to play through them at rapid fire, but to be able to use the scale to get a more complex idea across.  Lets take my main instrument, for example, which is bass guitar. I can hang out on the root of a chord and I will sound good. I then can add in some different rhythms to give it my own little flair. That is with one note, but if I learn the scale that goes with the chord, then six more notes open up. I am able to get a more complex idea across just because I have studied the grammar behind music. This is why music theory is important to allow musicians to better express themselves. Conclusion Music is a universal language. Everyone feels something from music, so that should be the first thing taught to students how to communicate using your instrument, how to be in a band, and how to contribute to the sound. That should be the first thing taught by a teacher. Then it is the teachers responsibility to open up the vocabulary of the student, to allow the student to be able to say more, and say something complex. Music is taught backwards currently; we teach students the grammar and then hope they stay with it long enough to the point were they are allowed to say something. Lets teach student how to say something first, then worry about the grammar behind music. Thank you for reading! Zach S. teaches music theory and bass guitar in Aurora, CO. He is currently a Music Major at CU Denver, and has  played bass guitar and studied music theory for seven years. Learn more about Zach here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo by Melissa Wiese

Musical Theater Tips 53 Common Audition Terms to Know

Musical Theater Tips 53 Common Audition Terms to Know Suzy S. Come across like a professional at your next audition! Check out this glossary of important theater and acting terms, put together by voice/acting teacher Liz T... Are you preparing for a musical theater audition? As you look at your materials, you may be wondering what a cold reading is, or which  audition songs count as contemporary ballads. And even once youre past the audition (congrats!), you might find yourself backstage or on a movie set and hear the director shouting words and phrases you dont recognize. Dont worry! Many singers and actors are unfamiliar with the terms used in the musical theater industry at first. Below, weve put together a list of the most common audition terms and vocab you should know. The infographic highlights several important ones, but scroll down further to see even more must-know words and phrases! Audition  Terms Accompanist: a piano player hired (either by you or the theater) to accompany you on your sheet music Callback:  an additional  audition after the first sometimes youll be called back as many as 10 times! Cold reading: part of an audition in which youre given  very short notice to read from a script, either as a monologue or with a scene partner (may be given to you on the spot) Dance call:  a dance audition Headshot:  a professional picture of yourself printed on quality photo paper, usually 8 x 10, in either color or black and white Monitor:  a person who  helps  run the audition process (signing people up, calling names, etc.) Open call:  an open audition, meaning both non-union and union members can attend Showreel:  video clips (usually no more than 10 minutes) of you in your favorite performances, sometimes required for an audition Sight reading:  part of an audition in which you must read music  on the spot, without seeing it or practicing it before (more sight reading tips for singers here). Typecasting:  when actors are put in a room, and based on appearance (height, age, weight, hair color) are  asked to stay and audition or leave. This may either be  announced before an audition or happen on the spot. Monologue:  a solo acting speech Audition  Terms / Repertoire  Monologues 8-bar, 16-bar, or 32-bar cut:  requirements for limiting  your audition  song  to a specific number  of measures A cappella: singing a song with just voice, no instruments or accompanist Book: your binder of audition repertoire, which should be brought into the audition room in case they ask for additional material Lead sheet:  a piece of sheet music with just chords and melody some auditions may state no lead sheets, meaning your music must include the full piano part Sheet music:  full piano accompaniment, with voice and lyrics  included Contemporary repertoire:  music written after 1970 Classical/traditional repertoire:  music written before 1970 Classical ballad: A slow song from an older musical Classical uptempo: A fast song  from an older musical Contemporary ballad: A slow song from a modern musical Contemporary uptempo:  A fast song from a modern musical Theater Terms / Rehearsals Performances Broadway:  commercial theaters with a minimum of 499 seats in NYC Call time:  when youre expected to report to the theater for a rehearsal or performance Costume fitting:  when  measurements are taken for your costume; may be a separate appointment Dark:  when the theater is closed (usually on Mondays). Dressing room (or green room):  where the actors get ready with their costumes and makeup; a safe space to warm up before the performance Dress rehearsal:  one of the last final performances before the show opens, with costumes added Ensemble:  the chorus that sings and acts throughout the show. Limited engagement:  when a show runs for a specific length of time, anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks Marquis:  a  poster outside the theater with the show’s name, picture, and headlining actors Matinee:  a performance during the day, usually between 1 and 3 on Wednesdays and Saturdays. National tour:  a production that tours around a number of cities each week, instead of being established in one venue Off-book:  rehearsing without your script, so you must have your lines memorized Off-Broadway:  a theater in NYC with  fewer  than 499 seats, but more than 99 seats Off-Off Broadway:  a theater in NYC with fewer  than 99 seats, and usually not-for-profit Playbill:  the official program given at each performance with the cast credits, pictures, and info about  the show Previews:  when the show is running in previews, this means it isnt the official opening yet, so theres still time to work out any problems Prop table:  backstage where all of the props and materials for the show are placed Sitzprobe:  one of the first rehearsals with the orchestra or band, meant to review the music together Stage directions:  quick terminology to use on stage when blocking a scene on a stage (see expanded section below) Standing only:  a limited number of tickets sold  for  the back of the theater, where patrons can stand and watch the show when seating  is sold out Striking the set:  taking the set apart  after a show ends. Summer stock: professional musical theater performed during the summer, either indoor or outdoor Swing:  an understudy who  learns many roles (sometimes as many as 10!) Tech week:  the week before opening where lights, sound, and scenery are incorporated in the rehearsals Understudy:  the person who  learns the main roles, in case they have to go on in an emergency Waiver:  if you are doing “background or extra work,” whether you are union or non-union, this essentially is your receipt of your paystub, where you will record the hours worked, lunch breaks taken, etc. Theater and Acting Terms /  Other Vocab to Know Non-Union:  a person who doesnt have a  membership or an invitation to the Actors Equity Union Union:  a person belonging to and being a paid member of the  Actors Equity Union EMC:  stands for Equity Membership Candidate, meaning you have acquired enough points at equity theaters to be considered for membership in the Actors Equity Union Actors Equity: the official union for professional actors Backstage Magazine: A subscription magazine (also available online)  that announces all upcoming auditions in major cities Important Notes Your Headshot This is a very important theater term to know, because many auditions will require one!  This is a clear, professional picture of yourself, usually on high-quality stock paper  and  810. It  can be in either black  white or color, and should be from the shoulders up or can be a close-up of your face. Please note that this is different from  a “selfie” because of the lighting, contrast, and angle. Its definitely worth researching professional photographers in your area; the cost will usually range from $200 to $1,200 and youll get  few different headshots.  If youre on a budget,  you can even find a local high school or college student to take them for you. Before you book a photographer, check out their portfolio  and make sure you have  a contract in writing. Wear something you feel comfortable in  that brings out your personality. Also, these photos should look like you do naturally so don’t wear heavy makeup if you don’t normally, and dont  dye your hair right before! Additional Resources: •  3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting Headshots,  via Backstage.com •  Headshot Dos and Donts, via Actors Casting Agency LLC • How to Get Great Headshots for Musical Theatre, via Musical Theatre U Showreel Usually casting directors will want to see video of you acting or performing to be considered for a role. Your showreel should be no more than 10 minutes, and include a variety of  video clips of you in your favorite performances.  Include clips of your dramatic acting, comedic acting, singing, and dancing, if you have them! If you dont have a lot of  performing experience,  you can record yourself in a practice studio or room performing your favorite monologue or grab a partner and perform a strong scene. And dont worry about having expensive recording equipment you can easily make your showreel through iMovie. Additional Resources: •  How to Make a Good Showreel, via StageMilk •  11 Tips for Creating a Memorable Acting Showreel, via Daniel Johnson •  5 Mistakes Actors Make When Creating a Showreel From Scratch, via Raindance Cold Reading At some  auditions, youll be given very short notice to read from a script, either as a monologue or with a scene partner. It might be as little as 5 minutes! This is to see how well you can act on the spot, and how well you do with improvising. It  can be nerve-wracking, but have fun with it! If youre nervous, practice cold reads before the  audition, and bring a pencil, glasses if you need them, and anything else that will make you comfortable. Additional Resources: •  10 Ways to Master the Dreaded  Cold-Read, via Backstage.com •  How to Prepare for a Cold Reading Audition in 4 Easy Steps Typecasting This is one of the most difficult casting calls! A type call usually happens when thousands of actors show up to an audition, and the casting director knows they will not have the time to see everyone. The directors line up a small group of  actors at a time, and based on your height, weight, eye color, hair, etc., theyll decide on the spot if youll be continuing on. Sometimes the director will look at resumes, sometimes not. There’s nothing you can really do in these circumstances except for be yourself! Also, dont  lie or pretend for example,  dont say you can do the splits if you cant! These often occur in dance auditions, or if they need people to fit specific costumes or requirements. Sometimes they  are announced on the audition notice, and sometimes it’s a surprise! Open Call If you see this theater term, be prepared for a busy day. This type of audition is usually held in major cities, and it means anyone can  show up, regardless of age, union status, location, height, and experience. Because these get so crowded, I recommend getting there several hours before the audition. Sometimes after 100 people sign up, they will cut the number or line off. Bring a book and some patience, as you  may  be waiting a long time to be seen! Stage Directions If you get the part, knowing these theater terms will make your life a lot easier. Heres the run-down: Center stage: The dead center of the whole stage (CS) Downstage: Closest to the audience or orchestra pit (DS) Upstage: Behind you, if standing center (US) Stage Left: Your left, when youre on stage, not the audiences  (SL) Stage right: Your right, when youre on stage  (SR) Memorize these, so youre not confused the first day of blocking on stage! Fortunately, these are the same  no matter what theater you perform in. Off-Book Usually a month or a few weeks before the show or film is set to start, your director will call for rehearsals to be off-book meaning youre not allowed to look at your script. This is hard for many actors, as memorizing can be difficult. Start memorizing early! I hope this post  helps you at your next vocal audition or performance for musical theater. If you would ever like extra help preparing, I recommend finding an  acting or vocal coach today on TakeLessons and booking lessons! Post Author:  Liz T. Liz T. teaches singing, acting, and music lessons online.  She is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music with a B.M in Vocal performance and currently performs/teaches all styles of music including Musical Theater, Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop, RB, and Country. Learn more about Liz here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

How to Learn Japanese with a Private Tutor

How to Learn Japanese with a Private Tutor Japanese Distance Learning With a Tutor Via a Webcam ChaptersThe Advantages of Japanese Learning Distance Learning Via WebcamThe Best Way to Learn Japanese Online: Where to Find your Japanese TutorHow to Learn Japanese with a Private Tutor: Things to RememberHow to Choose Your Tutor So You Can Start to Learn Japanese OnlineThe Importance of Buying Quality Audio and Sound EquipmentThe land of the rising sun can seem like a fascinating and mysterious universe.But what do you really know about Japan? Modernity mingles with tradition, the shinkansen (high-speed train) rubs shoulders with a past civilization consisting of temples, sanctuaries, and matsuri (traditional folk festivals).If you want to go to work in Japan or even to travel there, you will have to study the Japanese language sooner than later! It doesn't matter if you want to learn some Japanese words, how to structure a sentence, or how to introduce yourself to Japanese people, you'll need some sort of tuition.So the question arises about how to learn Japanese. The good news is that there are a number of different ways to study Japanese.The first question that you'll need to answer relates to your motives. Do you need to study Japanese grammar in order to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)? Or would you rather study basic Japanese in order to learn some greetings and expressions in preparation for your upcoming trip to Tokyo?Either way, one of the most effective ways of studying Japanese is to do so with a private Japanese teacher, perhaps even via webcam.By the end of this article, you'll know where to find the perfect tutor, the cost of a Japanese class, and the benefits of taking classes via webcam!Ready for an immersion in the country of manga and sake? Let's take a look..Throughout its history, Japan has been shaped by the influence of Asia's great civilizations: India, China, and Korea. While the cultures of these Asian countries do differ, Asian cultures together share many similarities that differentiate them from Western ways and norms. So a study of Japanese can open your perspective on the values that other Asian nations share with Japan, including religious beliefs, ethics, and aesthetics. A familiarity with Asian cultures also allows you to step outside the culture you live in and see it from a fresh, new perspective.2. Japanese-speakers are the Internet's 3rd largest language group.The Japanese make up the third largest language community on the Internet, after only English and Chinese speakers. An estimated 88 million Japanese, or 9.6% of the world's online population, are connected to the Internet. Knowing Japanese can connect you to these people in an instant. They may just be future friends or acquaintances, business associates, or even the market that you or your future employer hopes to target.No need for the telephone, you'll find everything you need on the web.Before choosing your Japanese tutor, you must ask yourself several questions. Be sure about a few things especially if you are learning J apanese for beginners:Are you a beginner or do you already have some basics of this new language?Would you prefer to learn Japanese with a native speaker?What price do you want to pay? Our Superprof tutors set their own hourly rate, so you will find different prices for the same course of Japanese.What is your learning goal? Fluency, Traveling in Japan, working there, reading mangas in their original version, working in the Japanese embassy and being able to translate (discover Japanese-English translation tools), linguistic transcriptions, playing Genki video games...What kind of resume are you looking for your tutor to have? Training, experiences, teaching methods, returning students...Do not hesitate to contact your potential tutor by  email in order to have a first exchange with him or her.The Importance of Buying Quality Audio and Sound EquipmentLearning Japanese online may help you to learn how to express yourself correctly in order to be able to find your way through the stre ets of the capital or Kyoto, the main problem you may encounter is...a  bad internet connection and communication problems due to bad equipment!Maybe your native tutor will even teach you how to cook some native Chinese dishes!It may be wise to invest a little in good quality material in order for your courses to run without the slightest hitch:A good webcam: between €20-60 ( £17-50; $25-70 USD; $30-95 AUD; $30-90 CAD)   for the best quality. Otherwise, use a camcorder--if you have one that is good quality of course! It is often possible to connect them to the computer!A headset: to hear and be heard. The microphone is closer to the mouth, your teacher will better understand what you are saying, especially when it comes to improving your pronunciation. If you'd like something that is good quality, choose a headset from €25 ( £22; $30 USD; $40 AUD; $38 CAD) onwards--although you can find ones that are a lot more expensive.In short:Whether you want to go to Japan on vacation, to d iscover Mount Fuji, its rich history and customs, or work in Japan, it is important to learn to speak the Japanese language.Taking classes online has many economic benefits and ensures flexibility with time. From an organizational point of view, it can be an interesting prospect.Remember to set your learning goals and check your tutor's credentials before embarking on an understanding of this Asian language.If you would like the course to be the best it can be, invest in quality audio and video materialFinally, discover the benefits of learning Japanese through textbooks  in a way that can supplement your classes with your Japanese tutor.If you prefer the idea of face to face learning, then look out for a japanese language course london.

The Advantages of Learning Japanese in Japan

The Advantages of Learning Japanese in Japan Why You Should Learn Japanese in Japan Chapters Getting Japanese Private Tutorials to Master the Basics before You Go Where Can You Learn Japanese in Japan? The Advantages of Linguistic Immersion What About Homesickness?Do you like Japan? You’re not the only one. In fact, there are plenty of Americans who feel the same way. Perhaps you grew up with anime and manga. Maybe you just want to discover a faraway culture that’s quite different to our own. There are plenty of great reasons to go to Japan. That's why there are so many people interested in learning Japanese.Can you really visit the Land of the Rising Sun without speaking a word of the Japanese language?Can you just learn Japanese when you get there?We’re going to tell you... NanaJapanese Teacher 5.00 (3) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EllyJapanese Teacher 5.00 (1) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MomokoJapanese Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MelanieJapanese Teacher £14/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tut ors YukoJapanese Teacher 5.00 (3) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JamesJapanese Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PippaJapanese Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarikoJapanese Teacher £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Getting Japanese Private Tutorials to Master the Basics before You GoIn order to feel more comfortable when you land, getting private Japanese tutorials before you leave is a great idea.  If you don’t do this, you run the risk of not being able to understand anything for the first few months. Of course, you can always cross your fingers and hope to always meet people who speak English well. After all, English is taught in Japanese schools. Some people have a really good level, too. Others... not so good.Nevertheless, it might be necessary to learn at least the very basics before traveling to Japan.  Even the simplest expressions can go a long way in a foreign country.  If you’ve already s tudied Japanese at middle or high school, that’s great! You probably already know what you need to know.There are as many different kanji as there are types of sushi. (Source: Anton Mislawsky)If you haven’t, here are the things you should learn before you go:The Japanese writing systems: some common kanji (characters) and kana (hiragana and katakana)Everyday Japanese customs and etiquetteBasic vocabulary (Japanese words for when you get lost or stuck)Expressions for starting and ending conversations.Of course, if you have the desire, you can always learn more about Japanese history as well as some information about the major cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, etc.), and the cities you’ll be visiting.  If you need to learn all this quickly, we recommend hiring a private Japanese tutor to help you.  This can be an interesting learning experience since you’re the only student in class.This also means that every minute of their lesson is dedicated to you and they’ll adapt their methods to ensure you learn as much as possible. They can focus on teaching you the basic Japanese phrases that you need to learn before you go. Thanks to this bespoke teaching approach, you’ll benefit from lessons that work well with your strengths and weaknesses.Additionally, a lot of the tutors on our platform offer free tutoring for the first hour so you can see if you like them.  These are just a few of the good reasons for getting a private tutor. Superprof makes finding the right tutor even easier. It’s a great way to learn Japanese quickly! Where Can You Learn Japanese in Japan?Do you know the basics of Japanese but not enough to really get by once you land in Japan? Don’t worry! You can always take Japanese classes when you get there, too.In fact, there are plenty of schools that would be happy to welcome you as a student regardless of your level of Japanese. You don't need to have mastered Japanese grammar before you take your first Japanese lessons London.  However, since ther e are literally hundreds of establishments offering courses, there are some that should be avoided, too.You should probably ask around for recommendations when you get there. Both locals and foreigners will be happy to recommend the best places. If the recommendation comes from a trustworthy source, you’re ready to enroll. However, if you’re struggling to find recommendations, we’ve got two places that you should consider checking out when you get Japan.Nihongo CenterThe Nihongo Center in Kyoto welcomes western students throughout the whole year.  You can find several different courses for studying Japanese:A 10-week course for 243,000 ¥ (about $2,200)A 20-week course for 399,600 ¥ (about $3,600)A year-long course for 777,600 ¥ (about $7,000)The interesting things about this establishment is that in addition to Japanese courses, you can also learn more about the city itself. This is great if you’re interested in learning more about Japanese culture.The capital is a popular d estination among tourists. (Source: Ben Cheung)There are also scholarships available for those staying for a while.  They can also help you to find accommodation.This is the perfect option for those who want to learn how to speak Japanese as well as learn more about the grammar. It’s also a great way to broaden your Japanese vocabulary.JCLI Language SchoolIf you’re going to Tokyo, we recommend checking out the JCLI Language School. You can find it in the heart of the Shinjuku, Tokyo.The tuition is as follows:1 month: ?70,200 (around $630)3 months: ?210,600 (around $1,900)1 year: ?788,400 (around $7,100)The school can also help you with finding accommodation either in dorms or your own room.  Make sure you do your research before you go. Ask other people who’ve already done it.A Few Things You Should KnowBefore you go to Japan, there are a few things that you should know.In order to study in language schools, you usually have to be at least 18 years old and have finished high s chool.Furthermore, they’ll probably ask you for:A cover letterA medical certificateTravel insuranceAn account statementA JLPT level (if you’re applying for the higher levels).You should also research the class sizes. If the classes are too crowded, you might struggle to learn effectively.If you want to learn as quickly as possible, you should avoid all other English speakers. Try to hang out with native Japanese speakers.By talking to Japanese speakers, you’ll have the opportunity to regularly practice the language and you’ll improve without even realizing that you are.  This is a great way to complement the classes you’re taking, too.Finally, for those staying longer than 90 days, you’ll need to look at your visa options. It can take a while to sort out so you should probably start looking at your options as soon as possible. The Advantages of Linguistic ImmersionImmersion comes with a huge number of benefits.  Most of them are great for when it comes to learning langua ges. However, others will benefit your personal and professional life.In any case, there’s nothing better than going to a country and fully immersing yourself in the culture. It’s a perfect way to learn Japanese vocabulary, new verbs, adjectives, and important grammar points without having to learn them by heart as you would in school.By diving straight into the country’s culture and meeting new people, you can do all this without even trying. This is known as “massive input” (when you manage to change how you think in order to think differently in a different language). Traveling can do that.Furthermore, linguistic immersion also means that you can visit places without really being a tourist. In fact, you’re not really a tourist if you live there. You’re just a person who wants to learn more about the culture and the language.If you want to discover Tokyo, you have to go there. (Source: pixabay.com)Tourists don’t tend to take the time to completely learn about a cou ntry’s culture and history. They show up at monuments and hang out with other tourists. Don’t be one of them!You’ll be proud of yourself and what you’ve achieved once you return. These experiences aren’t your basic vacations: they’re life-changing experiences that will make you grow and change as a person.Finally, these experiences look great on your resume, too! It shows that you’re adventurous, brave, and independent. Additionally, you’ll be able to say that you’re fluent in both English and Japanese, languages that are widely spoken in some very powerful countries.If you can afford it (both in terms of money and time), you should definitely consider spending several weeks or months in Japan rather than just vacationing there.You can even learn the language without taking the lesson if you’re committed enough.  While you’re there, you could even try to learn Japanese through video games! What About Homesickness?Have you seen the movie Lost in Translation?  If you’ve never seen it, we recommend you watch it. It’s an award-winning masterpiece (Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture, etc.)The 2003 movie directed by Sofia Coppola tells the stories of two Americans (Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson) who find themselves in Japan for a while. The two are struggling with adapting the Japanese way of life.Rather than being a simple drama, the movie asks interesting questions that were inspired by the director’s time spent in Japan.  Are the characters really just homesick or is there something else going on?This kind of malaise can be common among those who completely change their lifestyle. This renders them unhappy and, in some cases, can make them depressed.If this has happened to you before (and you’re worried about it happening again), here are some tips and tricks that can help.Firstly, you should carefully research where you’re going and what you’re doing. This means that you’re less likel y to pick a place where this could happen. Research the customs of where you’re going in order to make sure you don’t embarrass yourself once you get there and make sure you know how to do all the important administrative and financial tasks.You should also make sure that you stay connected to your friends back home. Some people even decide to write a blog to keep everyone up to date with what’s happening on their adventures. This is also a great way put your experiences into perspective and see them in a positive light.Finally, don’t be alone! Go out and meet everyone. You might just want to hang out with other English speakers in the beginning. However, you should aim to broaden your circle of friends and meet other people.There are plenty of beautiful places to enjoy whenever you feel homesick. (Source: pixabay.com)The goal is to settle into your new life as quickly as you can.  Moving to a new country might be a bit scary at first. However, it’ll be fine!  You’ll com e back with lots of great memories and a new language you can speak.

How to Find a Chinese Teacher

How to Find a Chinese Teacher Learn Chinese With The Right Teacher ChaptersWhat Qualities are Indispensable in a Chinese Tutor?Where Can You Find Chinese Lessons in Britain?Finding a Mandarin Instructor Among University StudentsWhat Are The Different Types of Chinese Teachers?Over 1.3 million people on the planet speak Chinese, making it the most commonly-used language in the world in terms of users, before English and Spanish.Linguists count seven living languages in China, each covering a greater or lesser territory. The most commonly spoken Chinese language is Mandarin, with 850 million speakers.Chinese language and culture, the history of the Middle Kingdom and its multi-religious patrimony seduces more and more people wanting to learn to read, write and speak Chinese.The Chinese are not known for their English skills. Knowing this, studying the language of Confucius and learning to speak Chinese can also be a useful basic skill if you are planning a trip to China.So why not recruit a tutor so you can take Chinese lessons? It's the best way to   learn Mandarin quickly!Superprof has prepared a mini-guide of things to consider when choosing a Chinese teacher.Are you interested in taking Mandarin lessons?born of Chinese parents?What are their qualifications? (Bachelor or Masters in Sinology, teacher certification for schools etc.)How much experience do they have teaching Mandarin Chinese? How many years have they been teaching?How many students have they had?Ask them if they have lived in a Chinese or Taiwanese cityAt what level do they teach - beginner classes, intermediate Chinese, advanced, university-level?What kind of Chinese lessons do they offer: intensive Mandarin courses, summer Chinese courses, evening classes, classes during the week or on the week-end?What is their availability - are they flexible and can they adapt to your schedule?What Chinese language are they teaching? Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese Chinese, simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, Pinyin?After having gathered all these facts, it is also important to meet with your future Chinese teacher face-to-face: human sympathy is vital for good progress.Discover how you can learn Chinese quickly...A native Chinese speaker, from Beijing for example, has a lot of advantages when learning to speak Mandarin. Photo via VisualHunt.com“It’s better to have a well-made head than a full one” wrote Montaigne.To better memorise the Chinese ideograms and characters, you will need to understand them. This is where a private Chinese class differs from a university course in Sinology: the private teacher is expected to ensure that his student understands a lesson properly before moving on to something else.Is that all? Not by far!A good teacher should:Listen to their studentsBe patientAdapt to the student’s level and characterUse a pedagogical and understandable approach so as not to discourage the learnerTeach without judging: everything is easy when you already know how to do it!Be considerate, pleasant and benevolent - arrogance will turn s tudents offBe capable of simplifying things and illustrate difficult wordsAnd while we’re at it: what does a Chinese lesson cost?Where Can You Find Chinese Lessons in Britain?Learning Chinese is considered a complex task. In fact, even the most educated of native speakers doesn’t know all of the Chinese characters!Just like there are several types of Arabic - Modern Arabic, Classical Arabic, Arabic dialects or Quran Arabic, there are several forms of Chinese.The most commonly taught is Standard Mandarin, the official language of China, Taiwan and Singapore.This means that Standard Mandarin is the language spoken by most of those native to China and those countries previously under Chinese rule.But what does that mean?It means that there are enough people out there to give you the opportunity to learn to read Chinese vocabulary words and progress with your pronunciation.And fortunately, there are several organisations in Britain that will help you learn this form of Chinese in th e UK.In fact, Britain has just launched a nationwide programme to promote learning Chinese in schools.The goal is to have 5000 students learning Mandarin by 2020. Meanwhile, the first bilingual English-Mandarin school (with incorporated nursery) has opened in the captial offering Chinese classes London.Over 30 universities in the UK teach Chinese at an undergraduate or graduate level.Other private and public institutions for learning ChineseBenefit from private or group lessons with a native speaker from China!When looking for a Mandarin teacher to help you learn to speak the language of Confucius, you will find that many big cities have some sort of association or school for foreign languages.Here are a few:Mandarin classes London are possible with the Hutong School  or Practical MandarinAlso, the University of London has a Language Centre that teaches ChineseCactus offers courses in various languages, including Mandarin, in cities throughout the UK - learn Chinese in Bristol, Manc hester, Leeds and SheffieldDurham University also offers Chinese language courses open to the general publicMany universities such as Manchester house a Confucius Institute that offers 10-week courses in Conversational MandarinAn exhaustive list would take too long, but here, Google is your friend: simply type in “Chinese in + your city” and all of the institutions, public or private, teaching Mandarin near you will appear. From there, you can choose the Chinese teacher that suits you the best.You can learn Chinese quickly with these great tools!Finding a Mandarin Instructor Among University StudentsHave you been looking for awhile but still haven’t found a Chinese teacher? Group lessons are not your thing? Going to and from a language school is too stressful or far away?No problem. Why not look to students to teach you in private lessons? Giving private lessons is a good way for a lot of young people to earn a little extra money.Some might not yet know how to prepare a Chines e lesson the same way that an experienced teacher would, but they have their own advantages…Ask around at your local university to find the best native speakers willing to teach Chinese classes.Your local university can yield a treasure trove of affordable Chinsese tutors. Photo via Visual HuntFrom 2015 to 2016, 91,215 Chinese students were counted studying within the UK system of higher education, with a steadily increasing trend.A nice gold mine of potential teachers, all waiting for future students they haven’t even met yet. In choosing to learn from Chinese students, you can:Have proper conversations in Mandarin ChineseBenefit from private lessons with a native speaker from China, Hong-Kong, Canton or TaiwanTake lessons at reduced costsTeach English to a student in a language exchangeMaybe make contact with someone from China and learn about Chinese cultureTake more time to perfect you pronunciation freely, without constraintsLearn Mandarin as it is actually spoken in China, in a more informal manner than in a Chinese courseExtend your vocabularyProgress in reading and writing Chinese characters.Here’s what you can do to find a Chinese student to teach you:Go around to the university or other centres of higher education (HE)Leave a note on their noticeboards with your name and telephone numberSpeak to friends and family who are currently studying; they might have some Chinese friends willing to help outSearch through Superprof, where over 400 teachers, many of them Chinese students, offer their linguistical expertiseJoin Facebook groups with foreign students whose mother tongue is Mandarin ChineseContact associations for Chinese students studying abroad, such as the local Chinese Students and Scholar’s AssociationTo find out what these notices are advertising, make your own to find a Mandarin teacher among university students. Photo credit: Marc Ben Fatma - visit sophia.lu and like my FB pa via VisualHuntWhat Are The Different Types of Chinese Teac hers?A Chinese proverb recommends: “never fear that you are too slow, fear that you have stopped.”To choose your Chinese language coach, you will need to find an experienced person who will help you make significant progress.By comparing the different profiles on Superprof - a bit like a dating site - you can separate the chaff from the wheat and contact the teacher that is the best fit for you.Let’s have a look at the profiles of private Chinese language tutors on Superprof.You will quickly notice some trends. You can find:Tutors with a diploma from a Chinese university (Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, etc.).Native Chinese speakersQualified Chinese teachers, teaching Mandarin in schoolsCertified teachers already teaching in a language institute or at a public institutionTeachers giving refresher courses or beginner Chinese lessonsIndividual home private lessonsChinese lessons online via Skype or other webcam providersPrivate Chinese tutors having studied Mandarin or Cantonese at a university (BA or MA-level)Chinese students currently studying at universityNative English speakers who have spent several years living in China and started teaching Mandarin Chinese when they come back to EnglandBilingual tutors who teach other subjects (maths, English, French,etc.)Teachers offering coaching in learning to memorise vocabulary and how to learn a foreign language fastUse a language exchange to find an affordable Chinese language tutor. Photo via Visual HuntYou will find the whole spectrum in most of the cities harbouring Superprof tutors.A few clicks, some reading to decide which Chinese teacher corresponds to your needs, and off you go!Immerse yourself in the Chinese language as though you were off to Beijing tomorrow!Discover also the best way to learn Chinese...

English Idioms Related to Happiness and Sadness - Intermediate English

English Idioms Related to Happiness and Sadness - Intermediate English Sometimes it can be hard to show happiness and  sadness to other people. There are many idioms related to happiness and sadness in English. Let’s learn some of them so you can express your happiness (or sadness)  in any social situation. 12 English Idioms Related to Happiness and Sadness 1. GET A (REAL) KICK OUT OF SOMETHINGto enjoy something very muchExample: This show is just the kind you like and you’ll get a real kick out of it.2. IM THRILLED TO BITS  to be extremely happyExample: Kathy was thrilled to bits to win the main prize.3. JUMP FOR JOYto be very happy and excited about something that has happenedExample: The student was jumping for joy as she took silver medal in the women’s high-jump competition.4. TO WALK ON AIRto be very happy about something that has happenedExample: I was walking on air since Chris asked me to marry him.5. TO MAKE YOUR DAYsomething makes you feel very happyExample: My husband came home with flowers for me, this really made my day! Idioms about Happiness and Sadness - Infographics Enjoyed this infographic? Here’s what you can do next: 6. TO BE OUT OF SORTSto be slightly ill or slightly unhappyExample: Jason was out of sorts and decided to stay at home.7. DOWN IN THE DUMPSto be unhappy or sad (informal)Example: Everyone feels down in the dumps once in a while.8. NOT THE END OF THE WORLD  nothing serious, it’s no big dealExample: If you don’t finish this task by the end of this week, it’s not the end of the world. 9. A   MISERY GUTSsomeone who is miserable and unhappyExample: I’m such a misery guts lately, I complain all the time.10. SOUR GRAPESsomeone is unhappy due to jealousyExample: She didn’t think I deserved to win, but I think it’s just sour grapes.11. GRIN AND BEAR ITto accept a difficult situation as there is no other choiceExample: My sister started a new job last week and doesn’t get on well with her boss, I’ve told her that she’d better just grin and bear it.12. HAPPY AS LARRYto be very happy (New Zealand/Australian slang)Example: He was happy as Larry  eating a huge piece of cake.Who actually was Larry?  It is believed to be originated from an Australin middleweight boxer called Larry Foley in the 1870s. He won a prize of £1,000 before boxing was fully legalised. An article was published in New Zealand newspaper with a headline on its front page  Happy as Larry and this phrase stuck.Please, make sure to learn at least 10 out of 12 English idioms related to happiness a nd sadness! Indeed, 12 is always better.Did we make your day? Now continue learning English idioms and English Grammar online:IDIOMS DESCRIBING CHARACTER AND PERSONALITYENGLISH IDIOMS WITH TWO WORDSENGLISH VOCABULARY RELATED TO LOSING YOUR JOBENGLISH IDIOMS ABOUT COMMUNICATIONMore English idioms  related to happiness and sadness can be found  here English Idioms about Happiness and Sadness - Images

Can a Private Math Tutor Help - Private Tutoring

Can a Private Math Tutor Help Jelena Jan 13, 2016 The transition from early math of elementary school to that of middle and high school can be difficult for many kids.   Its also a time when parents are frequently in search of academic assistance and support in areas such as English, languages or looking for a quality 7th grade math tutor.   Whether you’d like your child to earn higher grades or just to make academic life easier for your child, tutoring is always a good option. 7th grade is a big step further into various mathematical areas such as algebra, geometry, measurements, fractions and so much more.   What your student learns this year will be the basis for higher level mathematics, and we are all aware that the base is what makes the house stable and firm, so making sure kids firmly understand the fundamentals now is critical for future success. Why Tutoring? Students in 7th grade are in transition at this age and children often have problems concentrating and keep the focus on the topic at hand. They wander away, don’t listen closely and math is not the first thing on their “to do” list when they get home. Tutoring will help your child understand what he or she missed in class as well as getting additional practice for the topic being covered. For my son, when I realized that he had a gap in what he knew and what he was expected to know about mid-year, the tutor was able to help him get an understanding on those topics well before his 7th grade final exam. Private Tutors Build Confidence and Help Students Grow Your private tutor will encourage children who have problems and/or a fear of failure; they will explain it’s not about the mark they will get, it’s about the knowledge they have. They need to understand the importance of problem solving and how it affects their way of thinking. Most of the children (and adults!) just think about the solution or the results, while the actual meaning of mathematics is the problem-solving way that shapes the way we think rationally and logically all our lives. 7th-grade Math Homework Help Tutors will always make sure homework is done, and the unit has been completely understood before moving on to the next topic. 7th-grade math has many new things that need additional explanations or examples; some students are too shy to ask the teacher to repeat or explain the problematic part to them, because they are ashamed or they think everybody else except them understands (And to all you students out there, you are NOT the only one who doesnt get it). Tutors are always there to answer the student’s question and make sure the unit is clear. At Home Tutors are There to Support and Give Answers When You Can’t Another important plus for hiring a tutor is time management. Parents usually don’t have as much time as they would like to sit and help their children with homework or to explain to them what they don’t understand. Tutoring will make sure your child has all the support and help he needs to understand the matter and to score well on the next test. 7th-grade homework help can be challenging even for adults; we forget those formulas and equations, and we can’t help if we don’t know, right? What are the Areas of 7th-Grade Math? Theres a ton of topics covered during this academic year.   Its truly a transition from lower level math.   7th-grade math areas are: Numbers and operations:   rational/irrational numbers, square roots, proportional reasoning, problems with discounts, tax, rates, work with decimals, integers, and fractions Geometry and measurement: angles, problems with various geometric shapes/figures, sketching them, analyzing, constructing, measuring them, etc. Functions and algebra: variables, algebraic expressions, simple formulas and simplification of algebraic equation Data, statistics and probability: analyzing the data to justify conclusions and make predictions, experiments, range, mode, mean and median, representation of data, various predictions and determinations of events, etc. Private Math Tutoring Makes Sure Your Child Understands the Subject Matter Personalized attention for students is imperative because they often get lost in new things they havent come across before and when you have so much to deal with, you lose your focus and will to work and study because you are overwhelmed.   Kids are also easily frustrated and discouraged at this age, so struggles in school make for some challenging times for both parents and kids.   Private tutoring offers a chance to get really into the matter and understand the root of the topic. Without understanding the basics, students will get lost until the end of school year. Unfortunately, once a student falls behind in math, catching up the next year becomes more difficult.   So staying on track through each year makes for an easier and better academic year. Pre-Test Examples for Reducing Stress and Anxiety Private tutoring offers a chance to keep up with school and even be ahead of the class. It all depends on the time needed for understanding and time available for practice. Tutors give homework and tests similar to those at school. These pre-test tests are helpful because they psychologically prepare the student for the upcoming exam pressure. Many students do not do as well as they might because of the fear they have, or they are too focused on scoring well than in solving the problem right. Pre-tests give them the chance to get to know how the test might look and what are the problems they might find on the school test. Setting the students mind in the right “mood” for math problem solving is crucial for success. The way of thinking and logic is what math is trying to help each of us develop. For the Future As mentioned, 7th-grade math is the basis for further education, and if this base is solid, the education will be solid, and the student won’t have major academic problems later. Investing in math tutoring is one of the best things you can do for your child. You are giving him or her a chance to become better and to develop a new way of thinking. A student will have time to understand the topics, and the tutor will make sure to ignite the fire of knowledge in your child. People who do their job with love and purpose can have a significant influence on younger people. Tutors are trained professionals who love teaching and sharing their knowledge. Finding a Great 7th Grade Math Tutor Online Private Tutors The Internet gives us many great things, and one of them is online tutoring. It saves you time from commuting.   Its a great option to explore if in home tutors in the topics you need arent available. Tutoring online is great; it allows you to do things at your own pace in the comfort of your home. These days we can get all the knowledge we need in just one click and find a great tutor that has the ability to help us or our kids ace math! Electronic devices are in use in schools all day long. Students are attached to their smartphones, iPads or tablets. Make knowledge easily available and make learning more interesting by introducing an online tutoring platform to them. Use this opportunity and don’t forget â€" knowledge is power. Find the Best Private Tutors At Reasonable Rates - Get Real Results Fast! Choose Your Subject - Add Your Zip Code - Find Top Rated Tutors Today InPerson or Online Online InPerson