Simple Definition of Chemistry

Simple Definition of ChemistryWhat is the simple definition of chemistry? When asked what is the simple definition of what people have in common, the answer will probably be something like 'a group of people, who hold an interest in the same subject,' or 'a field of study where people try to understand the relationship between their two thoughts and actions.'However, with all of the confusion and controversy concerning these words, it may be easier to simply give you a simple definition of chemistry. In this article, I will give you a definition of chemistry from the inside and out. It's from the heart.Chemistry is a branch of science, which deals with the properties of matter and how they affect the materials that we use in daily life. Examples of chemistry are also used in business to develop new products and services. However, while the understanding of these chemistry concepts is useful, it can't be the basis for the invention. Like computers and other technologies, it must first be evaluated and tested before it is offered as a product or service.When you think about it, it would be like a scientific project where you're 'in the laboratory' developing the material. It doesn't mean that the process was not scientifically sound, nor that the end product didn't have any uses, it just means that the science and the subject were separate. If you can find a good study to explain this in more detail, I would recommend it.Definitions of chemistry may change over time, but there will always be a center to the whole thing. It may not be a physical center, like a physical plant, but it will be a mental center to consider.Once you've completed a product development phase, it is important to know what your products will do and how you will stand out from the crowd. Without having a clear idea of what you're trying to achieve, all you will be doing is creating ideas in the mind of the consumer, and no one ever wants that.That is why we have so many different ways to def ine chemistry, because it is a functional classification of scientists. The most important part of science is understanding how matter functions, but it has to be done without the prejudices of emotion.

Find English GCSE Revision Materials Online

Find English GCSE Revision Materials Online Help for English GCSE Revision: The Best Online Resources for Learning English GCSE ChaptersWhat Could Happen If I Do Not Revise Using Tools Available To Me?Where Can I Find Revision Tools Online For English Courses?Passing an exam, no matter the subject, is not an easy feat. Attaining a high grade is even harder. Fame and success does not find successful authors like J. K. Rowling. In fact, the now-celebrity did not get the grades she needed to study at her first choice of university. This goes to show that Rowling and many other individuals like her will have had to work extremely hard to get themselves to where they are today. We are sure that they would agree that kicking off this path to success with your GCSEs is vital, regardless of whether your dream is to become a world-famous writer or not.Are you a mature student? If so, follow these tips for sitting GCSE as an adult!J K Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, had to work hard to get to where she is now. Photo credit: lozikiki via VisualHuntBe Equipped To Stand Out From The CrowdIf you want the examin er to notice your individuality in an English Literature exam, you need to find ways to make your work stand out from others in a smart and positive way.For instance, taking an unusual approach to a text analysis can impress an examiner, even if they (or even you) do not fully agree with that side of the argument. The key, however, is to commit to your response and to be convincing and eloquent in the way you present it.When the examiner comes to the end of your text, you can bank on he or she wondering why or how they have never heard that argument before. Of course, this will only work if your ideas are plausible. But how can you achieve this and where can you find the information and tools required to do so? Hopefully, by now, you have come to realise that all the answers are not solely found in the books set on your syllabus.To be close to being able to formulate an intelligent and thought-provoking response to an essay question, you must have some background knowledge of your t ext and be able to apply an awareness of context, whether that be social or historical, to the areas which you are focusing on. For instance, how better to learn about the times in which characters were living in than by looking in detail at that period in history?Equally, you cannot expect to understand the meaning of a given text unless you know about the person writing it. All of these factors, which can all come together to reward a fantastic grade at the end of your two-year study programme, are the culmination of effective revision and using all types of online resources to your advantage. The more revision guides you consult and the more official websites you visit, the better your understanding of the book's context will be.Similarly, the more texts you access and the greater the variety, the better your ability to analyse and evaluate language will be.You   might find inspiration and novel arguments in past GCSE papers! CalumDrama School Entrance Teacher 5.00 (15) £50/h1s t lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToriSpanish Teacher 5.00 (1) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors OliviaSchool support Teacher 5.00 (2) £21/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarkESOL (English) Teacher 4.76 (17) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChinese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JenniferMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LouiseAutoCAD Teacher 5.00 (3) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RickyPercussion Teacher 5.00 (7) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicolasGuitar Teacher 5.00 (2) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MyriamOrganic chemistry Teacher 5.00 (13) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JonathanEconomics Teacher 5.00 (9) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Oluwakemi imoleMaths Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AlexPhysics Teacher 5.00 (1) £50/h1st lesson free!Discove r all our tutors AdamSinging Teacher 5.00 (14) £48/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ValentiniMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (2) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MilenaMaths Teacher 5.00 (5) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RashmiEconomics Teacher 5.00 (1) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat Could Happen If I Do Not Revise Using Tools Available To Me?As we have touched upon, those who fail or merely pass their GCSE English will no doubt be the ones who did the bare minimum when it came to research and revision. There are no two ways about it, a lack of independent study will result in an undesirable grade.However, it is not just about the letter you receive at the end of the course. If you fail to prepare for your exam by doing proper revision, you could regret it further down the line. As an English Literature or Language  student, you are encouraged to spend time reading widely, understanding the language you call your mother-tongue, learning about your ancestors, finding out about different cultures, ... but all of this is easy if you let yourself enjoy the process.The words on the page are just one piece of a puzzle, however, and it is the underlying interpretations and criticism which truly tell the story. This is why everyone has a different take on a story and why we all have our own personal preferences when it comes to reading books. If you are wondering what exactly will happen if you do not use information gained from revision, then here is just one possible outcome: the examiner will be able to see instantly that there is no depth of understanding to your response. If little effort has been made to offer an original evaluation of the text, they will notice this and your mark will subsequently reflect your basic answer.Getting hold of revision materials online is a brilliant way to widen your horizons as most resources are easily accessible at the click of a button and are usually free. In addition to websites, students should consider visiting and even participating in educational forums to get themselves used to discussing topics and backing up their ideas with concrete evidence.You will find more help for English and suggestions with this introduction to English GCSE!You could also find an English tutor near you by searching for English tutors on Superprof and get all the help for English exams that you need.Where Can I Find Revision Tools Online For English Courses?As you can imagine, there are endless amounts of tools and resources that can help you with revision, some of which may not even have been intended to be an educational resource. For example, a website offering information about a stately home for tourists might offer you a perfect insight into culture during a particular period of history, and enable you to imagine what other issues or interests a character may have been surrounded by alongside those mentioned in the plot.Reading information for tourists concernin g a historical stately home could give you an insight into culture in its day. Photo credit: Martin Pettitt via VisualhuntSimilarly, reading some very general information online, like what a traditional ball was like in the 1800s, can be extremely useful in understanding certain aspects of a storyline (like Jane Austen's novels which feature protagonists attending many dances).Attention to detail is what the examiner will be looking out for, among other things, so all of the extra reading will work to your advantage.Here is another great resource for studying GCSE English Language! And if it is not enough, you could also hire an English tutor.Online Revision Sites For English CoursesIf you have not yet come across it, be sure to visit BBC Bitesize for your learning needs throughout the course. This website dedicated to students of your age will help to break down the topics in an easy way and will help to make learning a little bit more fun. As well as BBC Bitesize, Revision World i s a fantastic meeting place for students who need some inspiration with their revision. This easy to use website offers students study help, coursework assistance, essay writing tips, past papers and many more valuable resources to make revising easy and surprisingly enjoyable. Swotrevision.com is a website which offers free materials for students across many subjects, including English Language and Literature.In its English section, the website offers downloadable documents such as general writing tips and techniques, writing to argue, writing to persuade, writing to advise, and many more. Not only do the different sections individually offer user-friendly and easily applied details and skills, they also back up their recommendations with snippets of sample essays so that you can really see how these tips are to be used in the exam. Teachit, meanwhile, is a website which is primarily aimed at teachers of English, but can also be a useful resource for students looking to get ahead i n their studies.When accessing the site, you can initially download free .pdfs however it is made clear that, if you take the time to register for free, then you can get your hands on thousands more resources. If you are wondering why you should be looking at a website that is used by teachers, the answer is there in front of you. As you set out to revise for your English exam, you will become your own teacher, working independently,  evaluating resources yourself and making up your own mind about the texts you are studying. As such, reading any materials that teach your teacher how to teach you must be useful to you and your ability to excel in the course!Finally, Gojimo is yet another revision tool which enables you to revise on the go, without the need to take a million books with you. So if you are going on holiday, visiting family on the other side of the country or just want to revise using your laptop whilst on a train,  you can easily access this website to find what seems like an infinite number of resources for your particular modules.In this article, you will surely find great sources for studying literature at GCSE level!Technologically-Advanced Revision ToolsYou can now also download revision apps dedicated to GCSE students. Not only can they help you with exam preparation, but also by helping you to organise yourself in the run up to and during the busy and stressful exam period. Exam Pal, for instance, helps to keep you on track with data fed by the various exam boards. The app will enable you to schedule revision sessions, will alert you when exams are coming up and will update you on any relevant changes issued by your examination board.Get revision materials and tips on your phone with apps specifically designed for your GCSE course. Photo via VisualHunt.comLearn why it is important to check your exam timetable and marking scheme!Meanwhile, Revision App, created by teachers, offers a vast amount of information designed to help you succeed i n the exam. As its name states, this app's primary goal is to provide revision materials and guidance which you can rely on to help you revise the right content prior to the exam. Just think of these apps as revision tools in your pocket. Each time you pick up your phone to call or text somebody, try to spend five minutes revising instead. Your friends will still there be later but time may be running out for you to revise!

How to Fix Fret Buzz (Guitar Buzzing) Once and For All

How to Fix Fret Buzz (Guitar Buzzing) Once and For All Sign up successful 5 Steps to Fix Fret Buzz, AKA Guitar Buzzing 1. Check Your Strings Strings covered with dirt or grime can create a host of problems. Make sure to clean and change your guitar strings regularly to ensure the best sound overall. If your strings continue to buzz, but only when youre playing with a lot of pressure,   you may need to switch to heavier strings. 2. Check Your Frets Hold your guitar out and look down its neck to check that all of the frets are even and the binding is still intact. Examine your guitar for worn or uneven frets, as any grooves or depressions from frequent use can cause fret buzz. Fret replacements can be pricey, so if you notice any issues, take your guitar into a shop to see if they can simply reset the frets, which can help. 3. Check the Fingerboard If you notice that the ends of your frets have become sharp and jagged, it may indicate issues with the actual fingerboard. This is a common problem for players in dry environments, especially if youre not taking proper care of your guitar. Try using lemon oil on the fretboard to keep the wood moisturized.   If the fingerboard is already warped, take it into a shop to get the frets leveled. In the worst case scenario, you may need to replace the fingerboard. 4. Check the Hardware Examine the guitar for any other loose parts: the bridge, pegheads, braces, string windings and screws, as well as cracks in the body. A good way to find loose parts it to tap your knuckles against the neck and body and listen for any rattling. If youre not familiar with guitar repair, make sure to take your instrument to a professional so you dont create even more damage. 5. Check Your Technique Even if your guitar is in great shape, poor (or simply under-developed) technique can be the underlying culprit of guitar buzzing. If you havent developed calluses on your fingers yet, for example, you may not be putting enough pressure on the strings. Other causes include placing the pick at an unusual angle (keep it at a 90-degree angle perpendicular to the strings), or placing the fingers too far behind the fret. Work on your technique, and you should notice a much better sound as you progress. Did you find the cause of your fret buzz? Let us know in the comments section below! 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 meddygarnet.

Difference Quotient

Difference Quotient Difference Quotient is an effective tool in calculus. It is used to find out slope of a secant line. Secant line is a line that intersects at any two points on a curve. Difference quotient is used in defining the derivative. Dividing the function difference from the difference of the points is called as difference quotient. . We know that slope is change in y axis over change in x axis. If secant line passes through two points (x, f(x)) and (x + h, f(x + h)). Then the slope of a secant line is calculated as m = (f(x + h) f(x)) / (x + h) x. by simplifying this we get slope = (f(x + h) f(x)) / h and it is denoted by d y/d x. Problem 1: Find the difference quotient of function f(x) = 4x^2 - 1 Solution: Given function isf(x) = 4x^2 -1 = So f(x + h) = 4(x + h) ^2 -1 = Now find, f(x + h) - f(x) = 4(x + h) ^2 -1 (4x^2 -1) = 4(x^2 + h^2 + 2xh) 1 - 4x^2 + 1 = 4x^2 + 4h^2 + 8xh 1 - 4x^2 + 1 = 4h^2 + 8xh = Difference Quotient for function f(x) = (f(x + h) f(x)) / h = (4h^2 + 8xh)/h = 4h + 8x. Problem 2: Find the difference quotient of the function f(x) =3 - 5x Solution: Given function isf(x) = 3 - 5x = So f(x + h) = 3 5(x + h) = Now find, f(x + h) - f(x) = 3 5(x + h) (3 - 5x) = 3 5 x - 5h 3 + 5x = -5h = Difference Quotient for function f(x) = (f(x + h) f(x)) / h = -5h /h = -5.

The Different Types of Law

The Different Types of Law What Are Main Areas of Law? ChaptersTwo Broad ClassificationsTort LawFamily LawContract LawPersonal DisputesWe hear legal terms regularly bandied about: on the telly, on the news, in conversation; perhaps you might even have had a case to bring before the court.Or worse: you might have been a defendant in a legal case â€" meaning somebody brought charges against you!The law is the law is the law, but there are distinct divisions to address specific legal matters that might arise so, if you have a legal matter to take up, you should address it to the proper court and to a solicitor that specializes in that type of law.Conversely, if you are a law student still trying to decide your area of expertise, you may want to know more about the various fields of law.Either way, this article is meant for you! Superprof now jumps into the legal fray to bring you salient points of the four main types of law that shapes and governs our society. two types of law that are absolutely distinct from one another: criminal law and civil law.Broadly painted, the difference between the two is that criminal law addresses offences against society â€" the more heinous crimes such as murder and rape, drug deals and assaults.Those thus accused are prosecuted by the state in Magistrate’s court or Crown court, and, if convicted of misdeed(s), that conviction would be entered on that person’s criminal record.Most people never acquire a criminal record!By contrast, civil law is a much broader topic that encompasses everything from immigration to tort.That is a French word meaning wrongdoing.Civil cases may be brought by individuals or by companies and may seek simple redress or substantial and extended compensation.Civil cases may include:Insurance payouts â€" you bring suit against someone’s insurance company after a traffic accident, for example.Breaches of contract: your landlord or employer has failed to live up to his/her formalised agreement.Divorce and child custody â€" one party files suit against the othe rpersonal injury cases â€" contrary to the name, you don’t need to be physically injured to obtain compensation; you may seek relief because of mental anguish brought on by discrimination, for example.traffic offences: speeding tickets and any other moving violations; you may even dispute parking tickets in civil court!Negligence: you become sick after eating in a restaurant, you may sue the restaurant owner because s/he is responsible for providing uncontaminated food.Copyright and design right infringement: whether an artistic medium or a functional item, they are protected from reproduction for a certain period of time.One gripping civil case of note was the one brought against O.J. Simpson â€" what was called America’s trial of the Century.He was found not guilty of murder in criminal court but was found liable for the death of his wife in civil court through the lawsuit brought by her family.They received an injunction against him: any future earnings are to go directly to relieve his debt to the families concerned!Discover the the different law tutors on Superprof.Crimes are offences prosecuted by the state Source: Pixabay Credit: GeraltOne critical difference between civil and criminal court proceedings is how the parties involved are labelled.For criminal cases, the defendant(s) must answer to the charges made against him/her by the prosecution.In civil law, the parties are generally designated as the plaintiff â€" the one complaining to or petitioning the court, and the defendant: the person being sued.They may also be called petitioner and respondent.However, no matter the grounds of the lawsuit or the criminal charge, in our country, all judges are to follow judicial precedent, meaning that decisions made in higher courts are binding onto lower courts.Now we delve into four main types of law addressed in civil courts in the UK each type necessitating  the intervention of a different kind of lawyer.Tort LawThis is an umbrella term for any litigat ion that addresses wrongdoing between two parties.Tort law covers assault, battery, trespass, intentional infliction of emotional distress and product liability â€" when your new phone explodes, for example.Briefly stated: when one party’s alleged negligence ‘injures’ the other party â€" causes them financial or physical harm or some other type of duress, the injured party may engage the services of a tort lawyer to seek redress.Of course, nothing says that you must hire a solicitor but, the law being very complex, your best chance at settling any dispute in your favour demands someone with legal training.Tort law comprises of all past litigation decisions which form the basis of deciding compensation for people who claim injury in a court of law.Damages are generally monetary in nature and may cover the loss of earning capability, medical expenses, reimbursement for property damage or loss and may even include punitive damages â€" a sum that the defendant must pay to the plai ntiff as punishment.Of course, this is a mere overview of torts; the topic is so vast that entire volumes have been written about it!A current case in point of a verbal/social contract gone wrong involves the American dine-n-dasher who misrepresented his romantic intent to various women, inviting them to a fine restaurant â€" only to leave the lovelorn women to foot the bill for his extravagant meal.As dining/dashing is considered a crime in California, he is currently being held to a criminal statute rather than any civil code.However, in addition to criminal penalties, the women in question also have the option of bringing civil charges against him.This case presents a fascinating study of a contract law!It is in the public interest that verbal contracts, as well as written ones, receive the same treatment under the law. However, verbal contract breaches tend to be much harder to prove.In the days prior to digital recording, most such cases boiled down to the credibility of the pa rties involved.Tax law, labor law, business law and corporate law; estate law and property law; international law and immigration law â€" a branch of law practice that is currently under close scrutiny all over the world...These are particularly high-profile categories that anyone in law school may choose as their specialization.Lawyers can be expensive, check Superprof guide to pro-bono legal aid.However, the fourth type of law we will cover is rather ambiguously labelled.Personal disputes need not be a black and white affair; mediation can help you see the other side of things! Source: Pixabay Credit: Kabaldesch0Personal DisputesTechnically, any legal issues between two parties are considered disputes.The legal system considers everything from public and private nuisance claims to bankruptcy and personal injury personal disputes.Those aforementioned elderly who must bring suit against their family â€" perhaps for a will dispute or inheritance provisions, would most likely do so as a personal dispute rather than a tort case.The first order of business in personal disputes is mediation.This is a process in which both sides meet and discuss the pertinent issues under the guidance and advice of their family lawyer.If the matter at hand does not involve family, many types of lawyers are available.You may need a business lawyer to help protect your rights in corporate matters, or you may need an injury lawyer when seeking redress against someone who struck your car while driving.Should negotiation not resolve the issue, you and your counsel will find yourself embroiled in a civil court case whose resolution may not be entirely in your favour.Whether you work in a law firm actively practising law, are taking strides toward obtaining your law degree or if you are just looking for a bit of legal education so that you may be better versed in public law...Learning about advocacy, jurisprudence and legislation in general will serve you well but law tuition fee can be ex pensive and may require that you get a law scholarship.After all, we all have a constitutional duty to fulfil our social contract as citizens by learning everything we can about different types of law, if only that we might uphold them better.And who knows? You may decide to embark on legal studies if you’re not yet enrolled in law courses!Check for law tutors online.

Tips for Children to Overcome Procrastination

Tips for Children to Overcome Procrastination Many parents have experienced the frustration of watching their child put off important school work or studying until it is a stressful, fire drill situation. But procrastination isnt just annoying, saysEileen Huntington of Huntington Learning Center. It can be downright harmful. Parents often ask us what they can do to teach their children how to not procrastinate, and we feel there are two aspects to discuss,Huntington says. First is helping children understand why procrastination is so detrimental to their learning, and the second part comes down to adopting good habits. Here are some of the dangers of procrastination: Everything takes longer than it needs to. The most obvious problem with procrastination is that it wastes precious time. Homework that could take an hour instead takes an entire night. Often, children who procrastinate do everything school-related at the last minuteor worse, they run out of hours in the dayand squander away all their free time. Children hold themselves back. What children dont realize when they procrastinate repeatedly is that they are not fulfilling their potential. The time they spend goofing around instead of doing what they need to do is time they could be bettering themselvesin school or some other extracurricular passion. It causes stress. Procrastination puts children in the bad situation of having something to do and not enough time to do it. That is certain to lead to stress and tears for children and their parents. Long term, this can take a toll, causing children to feel overwhelmed and disappointed in themselves. Even with good intentions, children set themselves up to fail. Picture a child who wants to earn a good grade but continuously undermines his or her abilities by waiting until the last minute to study and do homework. Children simply cannot achieve goals they set for themselves when they put things off over and over. And now the tips. Here are five suggestions to help your child conquer procrastination: Embrace the planner. The planner is a great tool to help your child stay organized and on track. Each day, your child should record all homework and upcoming tests or deadlines. The planner should drive your childs nightly to-do list and serve as the master checklist for everything school related. Prioritize each days to-dos. Have your child make a list of homework at the start of each homework session and rank each task in order of importance. That exercise alone helps children get into work mode and gives them clear direction on what to start with when sitting down for homework. Make homework time screen-free time. Get your child into the habit of putting the smartphone or tablet in a drawer during homework time. And under no circumstances should your child do homework in front of a television. Set time goals. Research shows that set periods of work time combined with regular breaks help students maintain focus longer. Set a timer during homework to have your child work for 25 minutes before earning a five-minute break. Rely on programs to help with tech distractions. Many children (especially those in middle and high school) need computers to do homework. If youre concerned about making sure your child doesnt waste time on the internet or social media, programs like RescueTime are a great way to track the amount of time spent on different websites, email, and applications like Microsoft Word. You can block distracting websites during focus periods and set up alerts for spending too much time on websites or social media. Last and certainly not least,Huntington reminds parents to address the matter at hand: why their children might be procrastinating. Some children who are struggling avoid work because they fear failure, she says. Others are disorganized and lack good time management skills. Procrastination is also one symptom of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Bottom line: there are many reasons children procrastinate, but parents can help by addressing the underlying causes. For help getting your child focused on school and into a good homework routine, call Huntington at 1-800-CAN LEARN.

Educational Link Round-Up

Educational Link Round-Up 1. What College Admissions Offices Really Want“Elite schools say they’re looking for academic excellence and diversity. But their thirst for tuition revenue means that wealth trumps all.”2. Elementary Reading Strategies That Really Work“We know that learning how to read is essential for success in school. Students need to be able to close read, annotate, and comprehend assignments and texts across all subjects.So we looked through our archives and consulted the research to arrive at a list of strategies that could develop strong reading skills and confidence for all studentsâ€"including struggling readers.”3. The Power of Short Writing Assignments“Some educators avoid assigning writing, believing that they don’t have the time to either incorporate such a project or grade it. Thankfully, writing assignments need not be long in order to be effective. If you don’t wish to assign a potentially time-consuming project, try these short assignments to help students become bet ter writers and thinkers.”4. 6 Teacher-Approved Tips for Faster, More Effective Feedback“Giving students good feedback is crucial, but it can also be incredibly time-consuming. So we went straight to the sourceâ€"experienced teachersâ€"and identified some of the best advice we could find for striking the right balance between effective assessment and a reasonable workload.”5. Why Normalizing Struggle Can Create a Better Math Experience for Kids“It’s not uncommon for students to graduate from high school believing that every math problem can be solved in 30 seconds or less. And if they don’t know the answer, theyre just not a math person. This is a failure of education, Finkel said.6. Why College Became So Expensive“Caitlin Zaloom: College used to be a lot cheaper for families, because there was more funding from the government. If you think about the biggest educational systems, like the University of California system or the City University of New York system, these u niversities were free or practically free for decades. That was in part because of a belief that higher education was essential for the national project of upward mobility, and for having an educated citizenry.” Educational Link Round-Up 1. Debate Arises over Teaching “Growth Mindsets” to Motivate Students“Dweck says she used to think that growth mindset was a simple concept. ‘But then we started becoming aware of all the ways that it might be misunderstood or not implemented in a compelling way. One thing we’ve learned in the past five to 10 years is how the nuances matter.’”2. How Parents Can Help Middle Schoolers Build Confidence and Character“When it comes to how we talk about and interact with middle schoolers, we need a new mindset, says Fagell. ‘Rather than looking at this phase with dread, see it as an opportunity to share your values and solidify your relationship with your children.’”      3. Reading Aloud to Middle School Students“For five minutes of each class period, I read aloud to my middle school students. I’m often asked how I “give up time” each day to read, but the five minutes are a gift to my students. Spending this time each day enriches the classroom community, all ows me to share a love of reading, enhances my language arts instruction, and exposes students to new authors, genres, and themes.”4. Remembering Why Curiosity Should Be Boundless“Watching young children interact with the world can provide an important reminder of science as a process and frame of mind rather than scope of content. Trying the same puzzle piece in every orientation in every slot is part of a systematic approach to problem solving. Modelers trying to represent a new phenomenon have to start out the same way, and geneticists might be reminded of their own shotgun approaches.”5. Build Empathy and Understanding by Pairing Comics With NovelsTo effectively instruct with graphic novels or comics, teachers need to make sure that students understand how the medium functions. Just as every word and aspect of grammar is purposeful in a traditional text, every part of the panel in a comic or graphic novel is used with intention. The placement of words, movement of lines, a nd chosen colors all have a purpose. Examining these details provides accessible channels for students to gain not only literary and artistic comprehension but also social-emotional skills.6. Why Students Plagiarize“Addressing plagiarism requires building students’ confidence in their writing, developing skills to navigate school stress, fostering investment in the assignment, and creating understanding of plagiarism and attribution. As a teacher, I have agency to address these issues. My response to plagiarism addresses four forces that lead a student to plagiarize.”7. Inquiry Into Student Learning Gaps Leads To Better Teaching And Shifts School Culture“Similarly, when teachers are tackling a broad problem like English Language Learners ability to pass an accountability test, it’s easy to list all the things students can’t yet do. Teachers get overwhelmed by all the ways their kids are struggling. And that makes it hard to move from talking about the problem to action. Scharff Panero coaches teachers to look at the test itself, identify a section where students struggle the most, and then look for patterns in why they aren’t scoring well in that section.” Educational Link Round-Up 1. What Does ‘Career Readiness’ Look Like in Middle School?“Not only are the jobs changing, but the very landscape they will have to navigate will be changing rapidly,” said Baker Wright, the former JFF program manager. “That’s what career training is about today, giving students skills that will make them more flexible and resilient as workers.”2. The Reading Wars: Choice vs. Canon“The day I arrive for the school-wide “Read-In” this past spring, teenagers and books are covering every available surface in Jarred Amato’s English classroom at Maplewood High School in Nashville, Tennesseeâ€"flung across lived-in couches, desks, and chairs. But there’s not a book one might traditionally identify as a “classic” in sight, and that’s by design.”3. Why Normalizing Struggle Can Create a Better Math Experience for Kids“It’s not uncommon for students to graduate from high school believing that every math problem can be solved in 30 seconds or less. And if the y don’t know the answer, theyre just not a math person. This is a failure of education, Finkel said.4. What Doesn’t Work: Literacy Practices We Should Abandon“From Reading Month in March to year-long reading incentive programs, it’s common practice in the U.S. to give students prizes such as stickers, bracelets, and fast food coupons for reading. What’s the problem?Unless these prizes are directly related to reading (e.g., books), this practice actually makes students less likely to choose reading as an activity in the future (Marinak Gambrell, 2008). It undermines reading motivation. Opportunities to interact with peers around books, teacher “book blessings,” special places to read, and many other strategies are much more likely to foster long-term reading motivation (Marinak Gambrell, 2016).”5. Is It Time to Detrack Math?“In the past several years, schools and districts around the country, including ones in Cambridge, San Francisco, and Escondido, California, h ave eliminated math tracking, recognizing that the practice can create inequities between students, with significant ramifications as they progress through school.”6. Concrete Ways To Help Students Self-Regulate And Prioritize Work“There are a lot of skills necessary to succeed in school that arent directly about mastering content, including the ability to recognize, name and control one’s emotions. The school day often comes with lots of emotion, everything from elation to frustration, which makes it the perfect place to practice self-regulation.” Educational Link Round-Up 1. Smartphones in Classrooms: A Blessing or a Curse?“Smartphones are common tools in schools around the country. But are all those screens a good thing?”2. Using Digital Tools to Promote Social and Emotional Learning“There was just one problem: “Kids were playing together, but the game tended to foster controversy and competitionâ€"not the best SEL we were looking for, as it brings out conflict,” Santo said. The solution was to work with the most excited teens to create a Super Smash Bros. tournament that channeled that fun and competitive spirit into a more structured opportunity that pushed participants to collaborate, a component of SEL. They were empowered with tasks outside the game such as youth outreach and recruitment, project planning, timeline planning, and tournament facilitation.”3. 2018 Education Research Highlights“Education research continues to remind us of the powerful impact teachers have on children. This impact is overwhelmingly positiveâ€"the studie s we highlight here demonstrate specific ways in which teachers can or already do help students feel a sense of belonging in school and make gains in learning.”4. How to Develop a Greater Sense of Motivation in Students“Remember that we all have different intrinsic motivators. A child intrinsically motivated to play sports might respond well to constructive criticism from a coach, eager for the internal sense of satisfaction from doing well. But another student might respond more to encouragement and get discouraged by criticism. Be mindful that these different motivation systems may be due to childrens genes and their life experiences, and that they might require different approaches to motivate.”5. How to Help Teenage Girls Reframe Anxiety and Strengthen Resilience“Having conversations with stressed-out teens about this type of downtime redirects the attention away from the stress and toward the recovery. Students can’t always control the stressors in their life, said Da mour, but they can have a say over how they choose to restore themselves.”6. How to Find Balance When Too Much Self-Doubt Gets in the Way“According to social scientists, a self-doubting mindset leads to two common coping mechanisms: “self-handicapping”â€"when students underperform as a way to shield themselves from the psychic consequence of working hard and doing poorlyâ€"and “subjective overachievement,” taking heroic measures to guarantee a successful outcome, and attributing that success solely to effort. The overachieving variant of self-doubt, which afflicts Sophia, is common among high school and college students, said Patrick Carroll, an assistant professor of psychology at Ohio State University who studies the problem.” Educational Link Round-Up 1. It’s like an Analogy“Creative communication can help, or hurt, our attempts to bridge the divide between technically or emotionally disparate audiences”2. How Parents Can Model Better Screen Time Behavior for Their KidsMost of us feel like were failing, at least at times, to manage the competing bids for attention that come from work, kids, partners and from our digital devices.While she doesnt want to come off as judgy of parents, Radesky and other experts shared four takeaways from the research that can guide parents who want to improve their relationships both with their kids and with technology.3. Four Research-Based Strategies To Ignite Intrinsic Motivation In Students“‘Research shows students who believe their school work is interesting and important are cognitively engaged in trying to understand the material,’ Laufenberg told the educators gathered. That also means they have intrinsic motivation, a quality many teachers complain students lack. So why aren’t a ll teachers ensuring every lesson plan engages students’ interests? Educators at EduCon were quick with their responses: it’s hard to tailor instruction to a diverse set of learners; it’s hard to convince learners of the long term benefits of their work when short term needs are more present; and of course, many teachers feel bound by curriculum, standards, and testing.”4. Making Things We Know Will Disappear“When kids decide to create something, a kind of magic happens â€" they just start creating it. They build and make and design all at once without hesitation or fear. The things break and fall down, and they just try again. Sometimes they “make” things just in the world of their imagination, creating elaborate landscapes or histories or machines or friends that never leave the world of pretend. They still throw themselves into that process without concern or shame.”5. Using Scientific Pedagogy to Teach History“In the same ways that students in a science class m ake observations about the natural world, history teachers can engage students’ curiosity in the human world through inquiry. Using a contemporary issue pulled from the headlines is a good starting point. Consider events that connect to the content, but also pay attention to the level of difficulty of a piece.”6. What Students Gain From Learning Ethics in School“Though sought after, ethics classes are largely absent from schools. Also, teachers’ freedom to migrate into wide-ranging conversations that might veer into ethics have been curbed by standardized testing and curriculum requirements. This is despite research that shows teenagers’ ability to make ethical decisionsâ€"to see problems from multiple view points, and to consider the potential harm to others that a decision can causeâ€"is underdeveloped.” Educational Link Round-Up 1. College Board Backtracks on ‘Adversity Score’“The College Board abandoned its plan to capture the socioeconomic profile of students with a single score, opting instead to provide admission officers with bulleted information about a students high school and neighborhood and make public the methodology it uses to do so.2. Why Arts Education Is Crucial, and Whos Doing It BestArt does not solve problems, but makes us aware of their existence, sculptor Magdalena Abakanowicz has said. Arts education, on the other hand, does solve problems. Years of research show that its closely linked to almost everything that we as a nation say we want for our children and demand from our schools: academic achievement, social and emotional development, civic engagement, and equitable opportunity.3. What’s Lost When We Rush Kids Through Childhood“Being little” is of critical importance because we see the signature of early childhood experience literally in people’s bodies: their life expe ctancies are longer and their social-emotional capabilities are more robust when they have a chance to learn through play and through deep relationships, and when their developing brains are given the chance to grow in a nurturing, language-rich, and relatively unhurried environment. It’s clearer than ever before that young children are not simply mini-adults.”4. How Building in Time for Exam Review Supports Advances in Student Learning“Too often, exams or essays are seen as the end goal of teaching. After a busy period of learning, students sit down, fill in their papers and hand them in. We mark them, grade them and hand them back. But many of us don’t realize that assessment itself provides opportunities for learning and growth.”5. A Simple Practice Yields Big Results in Middle School for Less Than $2“The proposed solution is simple: New middle school students in the study completed two 15-minute writing exercises at the beginning of the year that asked them to reflec t on statements like these from prior students: “Almost all 7th graders said they had worried a lot about taking middle school tests at the beginning of 6th grade, but almost all 7th graders say that they now worry much less about taking tests,” and “Almost all 7th graders said they had worried at first that they did not ‘fit in’ or ‘belong’ at the beginning of 6th grade, but almost all 7th graders say that they now know that they ‘fit in’ and ‘belong.’”6. International Survey: U.S. Teachers Are Overworked, Feel Underappreciated“According to the survey, 90 percent of U.S.teachers are satisfied with their jobs, but only 36 percent believe that American society values the teaching profession â€" a sentiment thats fueled the discontent among teachers thats been on public display since 2018.”7. How to Raise a Kid with a Conscience“Showcase character-rich movies and TV shows. On your next family movie night, choose a film or TV series that promotes the soft skills such as empathy, gratitude, and integrity. After the show, talk about what traits you value and how your family can focus on and strengthen them in your daily lives. Consider having a character day where everyone practices a skill such as gratitude. This helps kids see how they make right-vs.-wrong decisions even in their everyday interactions.”

Can I teach English abroad without knowing the local language (or being bilingual)

Can I teach English abroad without knowing the local language (or being bilingual) There are two common misconceptions when it comes to requirements for teaching English abroad: I can’t teach English abroad if I don’t speak the local language. I need to know a foreign language to teach English abroad. Well, no need to worry, we’re here to quash these common misconceptions for you! Can I teach English abroad if I don’t speak the local language? The short answer is YES! You can absolutely teach English overseas without speaking the local language of your destination country. To teach English abroad all you need are these two things: Fluency in English Bachelor’s degree (any major) Read this: Here's where you can teach English abroad without a degree! So why don’t you need to speak the local language? Well, let’s face it, as a native English speaker you’re an expert! Many employers actually PREFER that you don’t speak their local language, at least in the classroom. When it comes to learning a new language, what is one of the first pieces of advice you’ll get? Immerse yourself in the language you are trying to learn! Whether that means going directly to the source and living amongst the locals that speak the language you’re learning, or if you take a language course that speaks only that language - you’re sure to pick up a few things! If you find you’re a bit intimidated to teach English without knowing the language your students are fluent in, that’s okay! There are plenty of non-verbal tools and resources to help you effectively teach your students English without speaking their language in class, including: Pictures/posters Objects Body language Picture dictionaries Using these types of tools can help you demonstrate the meanings of certain words or phrases, using them to depict things like: Opposites Synonyms/Antonyms Kinds of... Etc. This way, rather than translating word for word from your students’ local language to English, students will be able to actively learn what you are teaching them - without relying on you to do the work for them! Sign up to Teach Away today for access to the latest teaching jobs around the world. Do I need to be bilingual or know a foreign language to teach English abroad? Like we mentioned already, you don’t need to speak the local language to be able to teach English overseas. But do you need to be bilingual, or speak a foreign language? Sure, being able to speak more than one language will definitely provide you with certain skills or perspectives while in the classroom. The most basic being that you can empathize with your students, you know firsthand what it’s like to learn a new language. But is that skillset required? Nope! You are being hired because you’re fluent in the language you’re being hired to teach - English! Speaking another language, or multiple languages for that matter, are not required for the majority of ESL jobs. Okay, so you know that you don’t need to speak a foreign language to actually teach English abroad, but there are two more questions you may have about speaking another language: How will I be interviewed if I don’t speak the language? What about actually living and thriving abroad? When it comes to being interviewed, stop stressing! Since employers are hiring you because of your expertise as a native English speaker, you will more than likely be interviewed in English. This is also a great reminder that you likely won’t be the only English speaker at your new job. More often than not, some of your colleagues will speak some English, even if it’s just conversational or a basic understanding. Great, so you know you can teach abroad without knowing another language, but what about actually living abroad? Getting by in a foreign country when you don’t speak the language Living and working in a different country and culture can be a lot to take in. There’s no denying that you may experience a bit of culture shock while you transition into your new home and teaching opportunity. But a great way to help manage that experience is by taking some time to learn a few key phrases and terms of the local language you are going to be surrounded by - just to help you get comfortable and thrive during this new adventure! Don’t forget, while your students will be immersing themselves in the English language in your classroom, you’ll also be immersing yourself in their language and culture throughout your stay in your destination country. Whether your teaching contract is one semester or one year, you’ll definitely pick up some basic words and phrases of the local language. Well, now you know! You absolutely do NOT need to speak the local language, or another language for that matter, to teach English abroad. Teaching English in a truly immersive classroom (while it may be a bit challenging at first) will ultimately push your students to actively learn what you are teaching them. You’ve been hired because you’re in demand, you’re a native English speaker â€" and there’s no better way for your students to learn a new language than by diving in, and immersing themselves in the English language. PLUS, there are lots of useful tools and teaching approaches that you learn through a TEFL certification course. These courses, like the one offered by Teach Away and the University of Toronto OISE, are designed to give you the tools and skills you need to teach English abroad - no other language necessary! For more FAQS related to teaching abroad, check out the links below: What qualifications do I need to teach English abroad? Can I teach English abroad if I’m a non-native speaker? Will I face age restrictions teaching abroad? How can I land a job teaching English abroad without experience? After you’re done brushing up on the need-to-know info, what are your next steps? First things first, can you check these two things off your list? Fluency in English Bachelor’s degree (any major) If you checked yes to both of those things, then you can start applying! So get the application ball rolling by visiting the Teach Away job board today. Good luck!

Two Vital Skills your Child Needs - ALOHA Mind Math

Two Vital Skills your Child Needs (Part 1 of 2) The Two Vital Skills Affecting Success in School and Career: Focus Span and Attention Take a moment and think back to when you were in grade school and middle school. You might have had classmates who had the energy and imagination, or the quick wit of actor and comedian Robin Williams, but you, your class, and the teacher were annoyed and frustrated because of the continual ruckus caused in a learning environment. How can it be that one child can have the focus and attention span of an adult and another child the same age fidgets, does not wait their turn, or is easily distracted by every noise and movement? Being Attentive According to the National Institute of Mental Health, http://www.nimh.nih.gov, even though Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is common there are no known causes. Not all children who have focus or attention issues have Attention Deficit Disorder, ADD, or ADHD. Children who have symptoms of inattention may: Be easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and frequently switch from one activity to another Have difficulty focusing on one thing Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable Have difficulty focusing attention on organizing and completing a task or learning something new Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities Not seem to listen when spoken to Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others Struggle to follow instructions. This information is for educational purposes only, not for diagnosis. For additional information visit the National Institute of Mental Health, http://www.nimh.nih.gov or your family physician or your child’s pediatrician. Next: In part 2 we will examine the issues of focus, being impatient, and hyperactivity.