4 Reasons for Pursuing an Online Degree for Career Advancement - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 4 Reasons for Pursuing an Online Degree for Career Advancement - Introvert Whisperer 4 Reasons for Pursuing an Online Degree for Career Advancement Professional development has become increasingly important in today’s highly competitive job market. In order to be considered for promotions and better jobs, candidates must demonstrate the willingness to sharpen their skillset. The most common method of advancing your career is to get a degree. Whether that is a bachelor’s degree to become a full-time associate or a graduate degree to move up the management ladder, a degree has been shown to lead to more career options and higher salaries. The problem for working professionals is finding the time to complete a degree while still balancing a full-time job. Scheduling on-campus classes around your busy work schedule can be exhausting. One increasingly common degree path for working professionals is enrolling in an online degree program. Online degrees allow you to pursue higher education while working full time. Here are four of the biggest benefits of using an online degree to advance your career: #1: Don’t Put Your Career on Hold The biggest benefit of an online degree is that it allows you the opportunity to continue working while pursuing a degree. Most on-campus degree programs have a considerable time commitment that forces most students to either dial back their time at work or put their career on hold completely. This can lead to losing valuable work experience and income. In contrast, online programs today are often designed with the needs of the working professional in mind. In some instances, your employer may even offer tuition assistance for a degree program. Taking online classes while working can also give you the opportunity to apply the skills you’ve learned in your coursework to the workplace immediately. #2: Flexibility and Convenience   An online degree can offer a degree of flexibility that on-campus degree programs simply cannot match.  Most online programs are asynchronous, which means that the classes are self-paced. The advantage here is that you can access course lessons and materials whenever you have free time. While you may be completing lessons after work hours, the asynchronous format of online classes frees you up to perhaps read a lesson before work, or use your lunch break to complete an assignment. This can help to maintain free time after a long day at work. Taking classes on campus while working full time limits you to night classes. Night classes can under-utilize the small pockets of free time that you have during a typical workday. #3: Customizable Learning Environment   Another huge benefit of online education is the ability to customize your learning environment. With an on-campus degree program, you are most likely going to be in a classroom for the majority of your courses. With an online degree program, you can choose where you learn. Some people thrive in a comfortable, relaxing environment while others may prefer a more traditional workspace. Many people work best away from home, and coffee shops and libraries often offer wireless internet which would allow you to access course materials there. Whatever your preference is, the key to a productive learning environment is to balance comfortability with the ability to stay focused. #4: Perfect for Introverted Professionals   Online degrees can also offer a less threatening classroom environment. There are many professionals looking to advance their career, who have a more introverted personality, that are not comfortable participating in class discussions that are commonplace in on-campus degree programs. This is where an online degree can be a good fit. With the online course format, most of the interaction with your professors and classmates is through the web. Discussion boards are one of the most common methods of sparking the class discussion. This is a much more comfortable method of participating in class for introverts. This less threatening environment can allow you to come out of your shell and enrich your learning experience without the fear of participating. It is clear that getting a degree can be a pivotal stepping stone for advancing your career. Online degrees have become increasingly more viable and respected in the business world. The flexibility and convenience of these degree programs allowing professionals the opportunity to work full time while pursuing a degree is something that simply cannot be matched by on-campus degree programs. This coupled with the ability to customize your learning environment and the limited face-to-face interaction means that online degree programs can be a fit for all personality types. Author: Tim Ufer Tim works currently works with university graduate programs as a community outreach manager. Tim has developed a passion for career advancement and professional development. Tim’s expertise includes career advice, higher education, and entrepreneurship. Go to top CAREER ACCELERATION Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer

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...

What should I write in an email to my teacher

What should I write in an email to my teacher Is there a better way to phrase your email to your teacher? Students arent often aware of the impact of their emails on their teachers. Well-written emails strengthen the relationship. Poorly-written emails will arouse resistance and opposition. You dont want that. Teachers are committed to helping students succeed and prosper. Really. It only makes sense for students to learn to write emails that maximize their chances of getting the help and support they want and need from the people who want to help and support them. Here are a few things to keep in mind the next time you send an email to your teacher. Dos Write your email in English. English teachers like that. Write an information-rich subject line: Online quiz problem in Lesson 4Begin with a salutation followed by a comma: Dear Professor Walker, Show some concern for the person reading the email: Ihopeyouarehavingagoodday.Remind your teacher how he knows you: Im in your Monday 8-11 class. Say why you are writing your email: IamwritingthisemailtotellyouaboutaproblemIamhaving andtoaskyouforyourhelp.Be specific and get to the point: For some reason, I wasnt able to do the online reading quiz on Labodanglais.com in Lesson 4. Thequizclosedwithoutwarning,anditgavemeascoreofzero.Politely say what you want: Couldyouresetthequizformewhenyougetthechance?Show some gratitude: Iwouldreallyappreciateit.Say when you will contact the teacher again: See you in class on Monday.Close with a standard greeting: Bestwishes,Add your name: JustinTrudeauCheck your email for errors using the Virtual Writing Tutor grammar checker. Example SUBJECT: Online quiz problem in Lesson 4 Dear Professor Walker, I hope you are having a good day.Im in your Monday 8-11 class. I am writing this email to tell you about a problem I am having and to ask you for your help. For some reason, I wasnt able to do the online reading quiz on Labodanglais.com in Lesson 4. The quiz closed without warning, and it gave me a score of zero.Couldyouresetthequizformewhenyougetthechance? Iwouldreallyappreciateit.See you in class on Monday.Best wishes,Justin Trudeau Donts Dont forget any of the steps listed above.Dont repeat any of the steps listed above in any subsequent exchanges. It usually isnt necessary since the email thread will contain all of the previous pleasantries. Big mistakes students make Some students write their emails angry and confused. You can imagine a student suddenly feeling very needy and a little annoyed while doing his or her homework. Something went wrong. Because of the pressure that student feels, he or she decides to get help from the teacher with a particular problem. However, instead of thinking how to get the teacher to sympathize and then assist with the problem, the student decides to share his or her annoyance and complain. The website bugged on me and gave me zero on a quiz. I am not happy. Many teachers will simply choose to ignore an impolite students email. Other teachers will engage. I tend to engage. I figure that I have a job to do. The student obviously doesnt know how to communicate effectively in English, I have made a commitment to assist students outside of the classroom with office hours and emails, so it is my job to help students communicate. I might ask a few pointed questions. Who are you? Why are you being so rude? Which website? Which quiz? Which course? Which group?Whatdoyouwant?Best wishes,Nicholas Walker I realize that the tone of such a reply is rather hostile, but Im no pushover. The student wanted a frank exchange. Wish granted. The real issue is this. Whether your teacher responds or not, the opportunity to build and strengthen the relationship between the teacher and the student will have been lost. Now, the relationship is infused with annoyance and frustration on both sides. The big solution If you are a student, learn how to write a proper email. You will get better results. If you are a teacher, take a minute to communicate your expectations. If this blog post helps, please feel free to share it. Please follow and like us:

GCSE Spanish tips for the speaking exam

GCSE Spanish tips for the speaking exam GCSE Spanish tips for the speaking exam by Max W As the GCSE speaking exams are fast approaching, we have got one of our top Spanish tutors to offer his top tips for how to prepare for the dreaded Spanish oral test… Get comfortable with the language! The amount of people who have language degrees but can’t really speak the language is staggering. A great way to manage the language and learn to listen is to try to convert everything you do into Spanish. Start with the TV, switch it off and instead go online to this link.  Select the news show or any Spanish programme that sounds interesting to you and spend a few minutes each day listening in on the world and improving your Spanish at the same time! Get comfortable saying the words. Reading out loud is a great way to start recognizing the sounds and get your tongue used to pronouncing words that can be a real struggle. Also try talking to yourself in Spanish. This will help you use the language in a natural manner. Get comfortable expressing your thoughts. Here, you are trying to train your brain to pluck words from your memory with the same fluidity that you manage with English. In Spanish, there is not just one way to say something. The English language has one of the largest vocabularies in the world because we have single words that describe a single situation, feeling, sensation or thought. In Spanish things are more fluid, more relaxed and more emotive. Try not to confine yourself to learning Spanish in a scientific manner:   have fun, play around with the words and enjoy talking! Practice, Practice, Practice!  The more you practice speaking Spanish, the more natural it will come to you. Make sure you understand the format of your Spanish speaking exam and practice every element of it, whether that be a presentation, answers to questions on different conversational topics, role-plays, or anything else. Try and get someone to speak with rather than just speaking to yourself because this will allow you to really understand the language and develop a conversation, which is what you want to replicate in the exam. Finally, you must try to relax! The last few minutes before your oral exam can be almost painful. Keep calm and remember that all you are doing is going into a room and having a conversation with someone. Breathe deeply, drink some water and remember that the examiner is not trying to catch you out. He or she wants you to be comfortable enough to answer their questions in a natural manner. Good luck! Fancy booking a lesson with Max? Click here to see his profile page. Or you can search Tutorfair using your postcode to find fantastic Spanish tutors in your area. Illustration from  www.clickmediaagency.com   CC-by

Irvine Physics Tutor Tip What is a Newton Weight vs Mass

Irvine Physics Tutor Tip What is a Newton Weight vs Mass Irvine Physics Tutor Tip: What is a Newton? Weight vs. Mass Irvine Physics Tutor Tip: What is a Newton? Weight vs. Mass A common problem for physics students is conceptualizing new types of measures and what they represent.   It’s easy enough to understand meters an,d seconds; we’re used to these concepts of distance (even if it isn’t usually in meters) and time.   Other units, however, aren’t as commonplace in our everyday lives and are harder to understand.   As a tutor and physics teacher, I’ve found that students having a strong understanding of units and being able to trace and connect different units helps them dramatically in both their physics understanding and their physics grades (book your private Irvine physics tutor today). Here, we will be discussing one of the main culprits in physics confusion that is introduced very early in an introductory physics class: the Newton. You are likely familiar with the concept of weight in everyday life. Things have different weights, and we measure them in pounds, ounces, and sometimes tons.   You’ve likely also heard metric system units of weight: notably grams, milligrams, and kilograms. But in physics, this gets more confusing.   Pounds are rarely or never used. Kilograms are still used, but they are a unit for “mass” rather than weight.   Instead, the “newton” is introduced as the new unit of weight.   So, in real life, we use kilograms to describe weight, but really, they’re for mass?   What is a newton and how is it different? Our answer is in a fundamental physics equation that you will need to quickly commit to memory to succeed in physics: F=ma. This is called Newton’s second law. Knowing the equations is the key to understanding new units and what they measure.   This equation is defining “force.”   Force is the measure that is describing what we call weight in physics.   Mass is an intrinsic quality of matter.   If we multiply that mass by an acceleration, we get the force. The reason we often equate these two in everyday life is that the acceleration of gravity is always the same for us on Earth.   Specifically, the acceleration is around 9.8 meters per seconds, squared (m/s2).   So, if we know the mass of an object, we can always multiply by 9.8 to get force it exerts downward or its “weight.”   Because of this, mass and weight have become synonymous when talking about the force that objects exert downward since we are almost always talking about objects on Earth and at a typical altitude. A way to understand this new unit of force is to break it up into its fundamental components.   We can do this by replacing our equation for force above with the units for each variable: force is measured with Newtons, mass with kilograms, and acceleration in meters per second2. Using this unit definition can help you check answers during a test.   If your final answer is a force, then the units you end with should be: Similarly, if you get an answer with those units but didn’t know what is, now you know that it is representing force. Knowing your units is an important tool in physics to check answers and aid in understanding new concepts and new measures.   Every time you learn a new unit, you should be asking yourself what it is measuring and how it is defined with the more fundamental units. Our experienced Irvine physics tutors are here to help you succeed in your physics class. Call us today to book your tutor! Michael C. is currently a private math, science, and standardized test tutor with TutorNerds in Irvine and Anaheim. All blog entries, except for guest bloggers, are written by Tutor Nerds. Are you an education professional? If so, email us at pr@tutornerds.com for guest blogging and collaborations. We want to make this the best free education resource in SoCal, so feel free to suggest what you would like to see us write.