What is it Like to Attend Missouri State University

What is it Like to Attend Missouri State University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach theyre sharing their college experiences as well. David is a Kansas City tutor who graduated from Missouri State University in 2011. He holds a Bachelors degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. David specializes inmany subjects including Algebra tutoring, Organic Chemistry tutoring, and Biology tutoring. See what he had to say about his alma mater: VT: How easy or difficult is it to get around on your campus? Is it hilly, do lots of people bike, are there buses, etc. David: The campus is very easy tomaneuver. They have clearly designated bike trails through out the major high traffic areas with plenty of bike racks. There is also a free bus system for students and faculty, making for convenient andexpedient travel between classes. VT: How helpful are the academic advisors? David: The academic advisors are as helpful as you want them to be. A majority of them are also professors with a lot on their plate, but if you take the time to set appointments and ask questions, they are happy to help you out. VT: How would you describe the dorm life? David: I took a year off between high school and college so I never had the dorm experience. As I understand it, dorm life can make or break a college career.It's all about using the resources available to get involved rather than getting off track and caught up in all of the typical college temptations. VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? David: MSU prides itself on being primarily a Public Affairs Institution. This means they focus on ethical leadership, culturalcompetenceand community engagement. I was a Biology major and feel that they did a great job supplying us with an up to date education in a quickly evolving field. VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? David: Making friends was difficult for me.I did not take part in very many collegiate activities, though they were readily accessible.I made most of my friends by participating in the community that the wonderful city of Springfield has to offer. Having said this, the friendships I made during my time at MSU are worthwhile and long lasting, one of them is soon to be my wife :) VT: How helpful is the Career Center? David: Much to my parents dismay, I never used the career center at MSU. VT: How are the various study areas? Libraries? The Student Union? Dorm lounges? David: The study areas that I utilized the most at MSU were the libraries and the Student Union. Both of these areas were extremely comfortable and well thought out. They had quiet areas for individual studying, and designated areas for group sessions and projects. I spent several hours in these areas and I am thankful to their designers. VT: What is the surrounding town like? What are the best local attractions that make it unique? David: Springfield is an amazing city. Besides the obvious Bass Pro and near-by Branson, MO, its location in the heart of the Ozark's lends itself to limitless day tripsandadventures. Its size offers theamenitiesof a large city without feeling too over whelming, yet it is small enough to feel like a college town. For me, the city of Springfield is what made my college experience so memorable. VT: How big or small is the student body and how does that affect your experience? David: MSU is a fairly large college. It has about 23,000 enrolled students. Like any large college, theintroductory classes have high enrollment. But as you move farther into your major, the class sizes decrease dramatically. Most of my upper level classes had less than 25 students in them. For the most part the professors knew my name, and no matter what class it was, they were always willing to see me during their office hours. For me, MSU's size was not a hindrance to my overall education. VT: Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you dreaded the most. David: I had a Microbiology lab class that I dreaded going to, but it was because of my own mistake. On the second day of class I was over 20 minutes late. My teacher, Dr. Plank, pulled me a side explained the importance of punctuality,especially in regards to this particular lab and she kindly asked me not to let it happened again. Of course, the next class meeting I again was over 20 minutes late. This time my professor was not so kind.Needless to say I did not make a good first impression on her. But as the semester progressed I made sure to never be late. I turned in my assignments on time and I earned a good grade in the class. On the last day of class my professor, who had learned of my interest inbecominga teacher, pulled me aside once more and told me that if there was anyway she could help me to just ask, she also gave me several books and materials on biology education. Dr. Plank wasn't the easiest or the kindest Professor but she taught me how to be a good student, and she showed me how to be a good teacher. Check out Davids tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

How To Find Online Math Tutor Help Will Not Worry You Anymore

How To Find Online Math Tutor Help Will Not Worry You Anymore Finding an online math tutor is not that also. It is very easy to find an online math tutor but the thing is you have to check whether the teacher is efficient or not. To find the efficiency you have to conduct a research survey that will help the student or their respective parents to know that is the teacher efficient or not. Efficiency in a teacher can only be measured if he or she teaches well. Teaching a subject well, the good grades that the student get defines the efficiency of a teacher.The charges are also very minimum and this brings in lot of help to the family members as well. For now you do not have to worry about how to find online math tutor  help. Learn Math Easily Among the long list of subjects that a student has to go through in the entire session of their learning or academic phase, I feel that mathematics is one of the tough subject. Mathematics is a different kind of subject and so it requires different type of treatment as well. The subject can only be handled well with good teachers and can be taken in by intelligent students. Intelligent student mostly likes mathematics because they feel it is very easy and can easily be concluded. But on the counterpart are those weak students who are unable to take up mathematics with ease. They everyday have to fight with themselves to cope up with the subject. It is tough for those students. So, teachers can be efficient when they can help these weak students to come out of their zone and learn the subject well. This will define the teaching capability of a teacher. For sure in today’s date there are very few online math tutors who can help students in the way the students want it. For private online math tutor these things are not at all possible as very few have the qualification to appear being the best in front of the students. The online teachers can be a way through which students can learn better and faster. Finding tutors is easy now Today internet usage have increased largely and so students and in some case their parents are quite familiar with internet and the basic way of operating it. Thus finding an online math tutor becomes easy. Various types of online tutors are easily available. Within all of them the student and their parent have to find a suitable and an efficient one that will help the student to learn better and also in an easier way. So, before going to finalize any one online tutoring, you should know about some of the advantages or say features of online tutoring that will help the students and the parents to get a rough idea about what online tutoring is all about. Features of online tutoring There is wide variety of features that makes the work of online tutors even more compiled. The teachers have to be well experienced so that they can tell well. Now let’s get into the details of online tutoring facility so that you can also have a rough idea about what benefits it has with it. Online tutoring is about having some of the best teachers within itself. With the availability of good teachers, it becomes easy to live your life. Online math tutor help in making lives and the subject easier. The easy way of learning is through online tutors. Some of the teachers are well experienced and so they can carry on with the entire process of learning within a constructed structure. The appointment of teachers in any of the good online tutoring firm is through rigorous interview process. The interview process is quite tough and this is the reason that some of the excellent teachers are only appointed. It all starts from checking the qualification of a candidate who has appeared for the teacher interview. Online tutoring is available 24*7 Any reputed online tutoring institute will have 24*7 teaching facility. The teachers who are appointed in the online tutoring world have to serve the students all round the clock. It will depend on the student as to how will they avail the classes. Just by sitting at your most comfortable place you can learn every chapter of any subject. The efficient teachers make a structured plan through which the child is taught. With such structured plan it becomes easy and it also becomes possible for any student to avail the concept. No private tutoring service will come up with the concept of one on one service. It is a great concept that helps in making the student gets the best. The teachers are available all round the clock. The individual teacher is appointed for an individual student and this helps the student in learning better. This is helpful for those students who are weak in their studies or are shy and introvert to open up with their problems. having many student can make these students feel like being insulted and so having a good teacher beside that student alone all the time will help the student with its studies and will also help the student to learn well. They can create a good bonding as well. The charges that are asked in some of the cheap online tutoring institutes are pretty much with the services it provides. But a good institute will always make a point to charge good bucks that is affordable with the students and their parents as well. Online Math tutors are very beneficial in math grades After reading all the points it may have become easier for you as well. You may also have come to know about what are the factors that should be kept in mind while you have to choose any one of the online tutoring institute. If you get these facilities then you can easily cope up with that online tutoring facility. The online teachers should be qualified and efficient and have good base over the subject. TutorPace is one good and reputed institute that has all the facilities that are stated above.  

Learning to Crochet

Learning to Crochet The Beginner’s Guide to Crochet ChaptersWhy Crochet?What Do You Need to Start Crocheting?Which Are the Best Crochet Tutorials?Where Can You Find Crochet Patterns?“Creativity is piercing the mundane to find the marvellous.” - Bill MoyersStudies have shown that knitting and crochet reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in later life. Knitters have healthier brains and better memories than those who don’t knit or crochet.But you don’t need to be 75 to start knitting or crocheting. Making your own clothes and accessories is back in fashion and furthermore, you can help reduce the waste made by the textile industry, the world’s second largest polluter.If you’re getting started with knitting and crochet, you might need some help. Fortunately for you, this article will tell you what you need to get and how to get started. RaySewing Teacher 5.00 (6) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PrincessSewing Teacher 5.00 (2) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AnaSewing Teacher 5.00 (4) £30/h1s t lesson free!Discover all our tutors ArianwenSewing Teacher 5.00 (2) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ShaziaSewing Teacher 5.00 (2) £10/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ZanetaSewing Teacher 5.00 (1) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors GianmariaSewing Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JacquelineSewing Teacher £17/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhy Crochet?Are you not sure about crocheting?There are plenty of great things to make with crochet. (Source: PublicDomainPictures)Here are some great reasons to crochet:It’s easy. Even easier than knitting! There’s just one hook to worry about and fewer basics to worry about.It’s popular right now. Crochet has seen a resurgence in recent years.It’s fun. You can create clothes and soft toys for your children.It’s practical. You only need one hook or needle, meaning that you can easily take your gear with you.It’s relaxing. Studies have shown that knitting and crochet reduce stress and slow your heart rate.It’s good for your brain. Following a tutorial or a free pattern and counting your stitches and lines can be therapeutic and good for your brain by creating new neural connections and strengthening old ones.It’s good for your hands. Crochet can improve your motor skills and your dexterity and can help reduce the risk of arthritis.It’s rewarding. Being able to say “I made that” can give you a huge sense of pride. Crochet allows you to build your confidence, too.It’s social. You can easily create a social bond by sharing your passion for crochet with others in a café or a Facebook group. You’ll be surprised at how many people you’ll meet through crochet.Convinced? When are you going to start?What Do You Need to Start Crocheting?To learn to knit, you’ll need knitting needles. To learn how to crochet, you’ll need just one crochet hook.Choosing the right crochet hooks can be a nightmare for beginners. (Source: FeeLoona)Choosing a Crochet HookJust because you only need one hook, that doesn’t mean you should get the first one you see. There is a multitude of plastic, wooden, bamboo, metal, thick, and thin crochet hooks you can get.A crochet hook has three main parts: the head, the shaft, and the handle. Each part is important and you’ll need to consider the material, length, diameter, and weight before choosing one.Plastic crochet hooks are very light and are recommended for thick threads like when making a rug, scarf, or snood. On the other hand, metal crochet hooks are recommended for fine materials like lace.Beginners should opt for a 15cm wooden or plastic crochet hook with a diameter of between 0.4 and 0.5cm. These are quite large crochet hooks and they’re good for making things with large stitches. They’re great for getting started.A crochet hook can cost between a couple of quid and go up to £20 in a haberdashery. You can also find them online.There are also packs of crochet hooks available s o you can get various diameters and lengths and choose the right one for each project.Choosing Your MaterialJust like the hook, you need to choose the right material for your project. I recommend you decide what you’re going to make and then buy the crochet hook and the right yarn or thread.Start with soft cotton thread in a single colour to better understand the process. You can get started with a hat, poncho, or some mittens.Check out amazing  sewing classes London on Superprof.Which Are the Best Crochet Tutorials?Once you’ve got your materials, it’s time to really start learning about crochet. Before you start your project, you should practise some of the basic crochet techniques. Even if it seems quite simple, you should start off simple and master the basics before you get started.By following a tutorial, you could make a lovely bag for the beach. (Source: xxolgaxx)Here are some of the most common techniques:Chain stitchHalf double crochet stitchSingle crochetChanging the lineIncreasing or decreasing stitchesChanging the yarn or threadTreble crochet or quadruple crochetTunisian crochetSlip knotJust by learning these techniques, you can have quite a bit of fun. You can then learn to do a magic circle, crochet in the round, or do a V stitch.To learn the basics of crochet, there are plenty of tutorials and patterns available for free online. There are plenty of YouTube channels and websites that can show you how to do it. Keep in mind that the British and American terminology for crochet is different so check where each resource you use is from.The best thing of all is that there are a lot of free resources to get you started with crochet and simple patterns. Similarly, you can use the internet and social media to get in touch with other crocheters. You can talk to them, show off your projects, and get advice. There are beginner crochet kits and equipment available for around £30 to £40, too.Where Can You Find Crochet Patterns?So you’ve already mas tered the basic crochet techniques and you’d like to start making clothes or accessories. But you don’t know where to begin...Once you've understood the basics, you can start making more things. (Source: HOerwin56)Crochet isn’t as widespread as knitting but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a free crochet pattern onling. A quick search for “crochet patterns” on Google will reveal plenty of results.The website LoveCrochet has plenty of free crochet patterns for you to work from. Handy, isn’t it?AllFreeCrochet.com also has free patterns. There’s also information on the various techniques.Yanspirations has a lot of crochet patterns and knitting for you to work from.The social network Pinterest is also a great site to visit for arts and crafts. Searching for “crochet patterns” there will provide you with a lot of inspiration.Ravelry, the social network for knitting, crocheting, weaving, and spinning.If you’re looking for ideas, here are some things you can make qu ite simply:Amigurumi soft toysCrochet basketA pouch or purseA teapot cosyAfghansA crochet baby blanketA ponchoGranny squaresDishclothsA crochet scarfCrochet hatsA placematShawlsA cushion coverA rugAn infinity scarfAs you’ll have understood, it’s not difficult finding information about crochet online. You just need to work out what you want to make!Crochet is a great way to express your creativity and let your imagination run wild.So are you ready to give it a go?Before you start with a granny square, a baby blanket or baby booties, scarves, or your first slip stitch, consider getting a private tutor to help you. They'll be able to help you find suitable crochet projects, an easy crochet pattern, and the right yarns to get you started!If you still need more help, search for crochet tutors on Superprof. There are plenty of tutors across the country with the skills to help you with your new hobby.Check out the best sewing classes in the UK on Superprof.There are three main types of tutorial available on the site: face-to-face tutorials, online tutorials, and group tutorials. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and the best one for you really depends on your situation.Face-to-face tutorials are the most personal and have you and your tutor working together for the whole session. Of course, this bespoke service comes at a cost, making it the most costly type of tutorial available. However, it's also the most cost-effective as every minute of the tutor's time is spent helping you.Online tutorials are similar to face-to-face tutorials with the main difference being that the tutor isn't physically in the room with you. Thanks to services like Skype, a tutor can teach you remotely using a webcam and an internet connection. Since the tutor isn't in the room with you, this can make hands-on skills like crochet a little trickier. However, without travel costs, the tutor can charge their student less per hour.Finally, there are group tutorials. In these types of tutorials, there are several students and just one tutor. With all the students sharing the cost of the tutor's time, these tutorials are usually the cheapest per person per hour but each student won't get the bespoke tutoring or one-on-one time that they would in the other types of tutorials.So are you ready to start learning how to crochet?You'll soon be hooked!

Math Tutoring in EdinburghÂ

Math Tutoring in Edinburgh   Find the Right Math Courses for You ChaptersExtra Mathematics Education by LevelIn-Person and Online Math Classes: A ComparisonMaths Help for Test PrepFree Tutoring for MathsHome to almost half a million people, the second-most populous city in Scotland is also its capital. Edinburgh has achieved many milestones throughout its almost 11-thousand-year-old history. While recent fame as the city that inspired the wildly popular children’s series Harry Potter has brought flocks of die-hard fans to the story’s birthplace, Edinburgh has been notorious throughout its long history.Famed extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat was actually one of the first places people settled in the city back in the Bronze and Iron ages. Holding claim to the title of being the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade and service, Edinburgh has recently also earned the record for the city with the most trees per capita in the UK.The home to the first ever Encyclopaedia Britannica, Edinburgh is the perfect place to perfect your arithmet ic, algebraic and trigonometry skills! If you’re thinking about getting help to supplement your mathematics courses but aren’t sure where to start looking, read this guide to find out how to find the perfect level for your math troubles. Get motivated in maths with the help of a tutor! MyriamMaths Teacher 5.00 (13) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarkMaths Teacher 5.00 (5) £200/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Dr parikhMaths Teacher 5.00 (8) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KamalMaths Teacher 5.00 (9) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PetarMaths Teacher 5.00 (8) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors GowsikaMaths Teacher 5.00 (5) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RubenMaths Teacher 5.00 (1) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ConorMaths Teacher 4.75 (4) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsExtra Mathematics Education by LevelFrom arduous word problems to complex theorems, mathematics is a very broad and difficult field. Ranging from honours maths courses in elementary school to actuarial mathematics at the college level, finding the right math teacher for supplemental instruction can often be difficult to pin down. One of the ways you can narrow the field is by searching for tutors and tutoring services by your skill level.Those pursuing an MSc for math at a college of science or math will be more worried about research excellence and employability skills. Elementary school children, on the other hand, will have less concerns over discrete mathematics and informatics and more curious about numbers and arithmetic.Searching for mathematicians or services that specialize in giving individualized advice in the level you’re interested in for yourself or your child can be one of the best ways to ensure that your experience in being tutored aligns with your expectations and goals. Here are some of the services you might want to check out in the Edinburgh area!Looking for a maths tutor in Birmingham? Check out our guide!Elementary School MathEngaging with the services of a private tutor or tutoring centre can be a difficult choice to make for both financial and personal reasons. For elementary school children , parents might also want to make sure that their children’s learning environment is safe and reliable. Always go with a reputable service when browsing your options, which can be made easier if the tutoring centre follows strict employment guidelines.Explore Learning is a tutoring centre with locations in Blackhall and Murrayfield that offers help in subjects like English literature, writing and math. If you’ve already asked the math department at your school for recommendations or feel like your child needs extra support outside of a school teacher, Explore Learning can be a great option. Having a ratio of one math tutor to six children, this learning centre strives to offer personalized learning plans and guides for optimal learning. While specific membership fees are available upon request, you can book a free trial lesson for your child if you’re still hesitating. If the financial aspect might be a problem for you, ask about their scholarship and financial aid programs!Wa nt to know about tutors in Belfast? Here's our guide for maths tutoring!Middle School MathAt the middle school level, your child has to begin to juggle extracurricular activities, like participating in a student’s association, with the pressures of academic life. While they may have a specific interest in other subjects like linguistics or psychology, mathematics is a requirement they’ll have to face throughout their school career. If your child is struggling in topics like linear equations, inequalities and algebra, turning to a math tutor can be a helpful solution.Kumon, a notorious tutoring centre invented by a Japanese mathematician in the late 50s, offers tutoring services in both math and English. If you’d like the tutoring environment for your middle-schooler to mimic that of a math teacher while including an innovative approach to tutoring, Kumon can be a great choice. Having four locations throughout the Edinburgh area, you’ll have to register your kid for 35 pounds . Afterwards, the monthly plan of 64 pounds includes access to their facility two times a week as well as practice sets to complete at home. Providing personalized math counselling and preparation, this tutoring centre can be contacted if you have any questions on pricing and availability.Our guide on London maths tutoring will tell you more about Kumon! Practicing interactive math learning with a tutor can make a world of difference!High School MathThe department of mathematics at many high schools, while likely being comprised of only a couple of staff members, can be quite involved in school programs. However, there are still many high schoolers that simply can't grasp concepts in precalculus and geometry even with the help of supportive staff members. The math at this level starts to get a bit more abstract, leading into concepts like abstract algebra, differential equations and more. Even if you’re child isn’t vying to get into a school of mathematics, science and engineering, success in high school mathematics is still essential to graduating.Superprof, with its community of almost 150,000 maths tutors worldwide, offers tutors for all subjects in mathematics. Taught by people passionate about math, from mathematics department research assistants and undergraduates to retired teachers of mathematical sciences, you’ll have 350 math tutors to choose from in the area. From chemistry students at the University of Edinburgh to astrophysicists, you’ll be able to pick a tutor for the average price of 16 pounds an hour.Check out this guide for high school maths tutoring and more in Glasgow!Graduate and Postgraduate MathAccording to the QS World University Rankings, Edinburgh is home to some of the worlds most prestigious universities including Heriot-Watt, St. Andrews, and more. While the Edinburgh university and Edinburgh college system are rich in topics, covering social sciences, archaeology, and more - the mathematics department in various universities are a source of pride to Scotland.While world university or Scottish university rankings serve as a great university guide, life at university can be pretty stressful if you’re studying college math. Whether you’re an undergraduate, postdoctoral or graduate student, you probably have less interest in world university rankings and more concerned over passing your linear algebra or number theory courses. While you’ll be able to get help on Superprof for higher-level maths courses as well, you can also check out other platforms like Gumtree and Tutorful. Prices for tutors on Tutorful range from 15 to 75 pounds an hour. Gumtree offers tutors for a vast array of prices and availabilities as well.Learn more about post-secondary maths tutoring and more in Cardiff with this maths guide!In-Person and Online Math Classes: A ComparisonThe student experience can be a trying one no matter at every stage of the education system. Not only does this have to do with trying to also pursue your personal ambitions outside of being a student, but can also greatly impacted by the cultural, social and political atmosphere in your place of residence. Whether you’re interested in getting a tutor because you’re pursuing mathematics as a career or are simply taking a course to fulfill graduation requirements, there are many reasons why getting an o nline tutor might be more beneficial to your schedule and wallet.Firstly, online math tutors can be better for those working with an irregular schedule and need the flexibility of either working from home or at different hours than those of regular tutoring centres. Secondly, online tutors tend to have cheaper rates and, because of this, can be better for those looking to save money.Both Superprof and Tutorful have tutors available for online math lessons. Tutorful has 3077 tutors available for prices ranging from 15 to 75 pounds an hour. Superprof has a community of about 122,200 online maths tutors starting at 10 pounds an hour.Check out more great maths tutors in Manchester!Maths Help for Test PrepAll of the companies we mentioned have help for test preparation. Some of the tests you might be interested in getting a tutor for can be:11 PlusSATsIBA-levelsGSCEWhen looking for test prep help, regardless of the subject, keep in mind that the price is usually higher for these services .Learn more about GSCE prep in the UK with our guide!Finding online resources can mean getting access to free math programsFree Tutoring for MathsIf you don’t have any room in your budget for math tutoring or simply want to try free resources first, check out your local library to see if they have any free, volunteer-based tutoring programs. If not, using the internet will be your best tool.Maths Tutor UK is a great website for those in primary through secondary school. Created by UK mathematicians, the site covers seven subjects like arithmetic, geometry, and integration. If you’re looking for higher level help, make sure to check out tutorials online such as Khan Academy’s great selection.Here's more about maths tutoring throughout the UK!

6 Tips for Accepting and Giving Constructive Criticism

6 Tips for Accepting and Giving Constructive Criticism Constructive criticism can often feel uncomfortable, vulnerable, and even unproductive. It can seem like a roadblock to completing a project or your overall work. However, if framed correctly, constructive criticism can be one of the most helpful ways to move forward in your work, and can also be an opportunity to support your peers. When accepting constructive criticism, its key to be open to feedback and willing to create a plan of action based off of it. If youre asked to give constructive criticism, its important to be specificand kindwith your input and to tailor your feedback to the correct context. Learning to graciously accept constructive criticism, and thoughtfully provide it to others, can greatly elevate your learning. Keep reading to discover six tips for accepting and giving constructive criticism. Tip #1 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: be open to change When receiving constructive criticism, its easy to become defensive about your work. While its completely human to shield yourself from discomfort, and it can be vulnerable to share your work, the key to getting the most out of constructive feedback is to be open to change. Constructive criticism may include suggestions like: Deconstructing a project Discarding certain parts and starting over Trying a drastically different strategy within your piece of work Helpful feedback is structured in a way that encourages you to see the full potential of your work. This perspective of trying something new can help unlock things you hadnt previously thought of. [RELATED: Top 10 Essay Editing Tips] Tip #2 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: plan action steps Receiving criticism can be overwhelming. To help with this, reflect on any feedback by free-writing, chatting with a classmate or colleague, or even meeting with your teacher or supervisor. Then, make a plan of concrete steps to take next. Break down large steps into more manageable tasks. Remember, especially if youve received conflicting feedback, you dont need to follow each piece of advice from classmates. Its more important to synthesize the input and take steps toward what you see as important for your project. Tip #3 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: remember the nature of criticism While receiving constructive criticism, remind yourself that this feedback is only for your specific project or performance, and does not have any bearing on who you are as a student, a person in your field, or as an individual in general. While this many seem obvious, its easyespecially in vulnerable moments of receiving feedbackto incorrectly apply the criticism to a bigger picture. In these moments, remind yourself that the scope of the feedback is limited. [RELATED: The Importance of Writing Skills] Tip #4 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: be specific One of the most helpful ways to give feedback is to be specific. Give exact examples from the workfor example, if youre peer-reviewing a classmates essay, quote actual lines and examples from the rough draft. Also offer specific strategies that your colleague can tryin the same scenario, suggest, for example, a rewording of the thesis or adding more evidence to support a claim. Specificity is important in both positive and critical feedback. Pointed positive feedback helps us understand what weve done well and can continue doing, while specific constructive feedback shows us specifically what we can focus on moving forward. Tip #5 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: dont be afraid to ask questions Tone is often misunderstood in written, or even oral, feedback. To help you convey your feedback more effectively, use language that centers around your experience of engaging with the work, rather than on what the person did wrong or couldve done better. You can use questions to both understand your colleagues project better and potentially help them better understand their own work, such as: What do you mean by this? Im confused by can you clarify? What are you trying to convey here? Tip #6 for accepting and giving constructive criticism: tailor feedback to the context When giving feedback, keep the larger context in mind. Consider the desired outcome, as well as appropriate etiquette for this context. More specifically, youll want to refer to a rubric or other established feedback protocol to guide both your wording and the amount of feedback you give. Lastly, keep in mind that your classmates work is not your own. While you might have done the project differently, your classmate has a unique vision for the work that could produce a strong, though different, outcome than one you wouldve come up with yourself. [RELATED: How Students Can Improve Their Research Skills] The discomfort of constructive criticism can often stymie a project or lead you to avoid any instances that involve it altogether. Thinking of it as an opportunity to reinvigorate your work is a great way to receive feedback. Dont forgetgiving feedback also develops your own critical perspective that you can apply to your own work. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.

Learning German Language The Best Friend of English

Learning German Language The Best Friend of English The Germanic Language Family: A Godsend for Those Learning How to Speak German ChaptersA Common DenominatorEnglish Words Which Have Crept into German VocabularyLearn German by Speaking English!Links Between German and English-Speaking CultureA large part of the native English-speaking population believes learning German to be a difficult task.According to the British Council, the European Survey on Language Competences showed that just 9% of British teenagers had progressed beyond a basic level in the language they were learning, compared to an average of 42% in other countries.With English being related to so many other European languages, the reason for this disparity between language students in Britain and the rest of the world seems to stem from the lack of necessity to learn a language, as the age-old excuse goes: “everyone speaks English anyway”.So, in theory, language learning shouldn’t be any more difficult for native speakers of English than for anyone else learning to communicate  auf Deutsch!The low level of progress in foreign language skills for English speakers could be due to British attitudes towards language learning.With the vast majority of pop culture featuring music, television and films in English, students are barely exposed to other languages and therefore, don’t feel the need to learn about German and improve their proficiency in other foreign languges.Non-English speakers, on the other  hand, are surrounded by the English language from a young age and can experience it passively.This means that by just tuning into the radio, they can start to pick out common English words and phrases and form a base for more formal learning.So, perhaps the difference in progress is down to the determination of the students.As it is so easy for British students to slip back into their native language, they can fail to recognise the benefits of achieving fluency in a foreign language.And as pop culture is dominated by the English language, making the effort to communicate in and appreciate a second language can seem more d ifficult than it actually is.Deutsch and Englisch, and refers to everything from borrowing English words to using them excessively and even adopting some English grammar.Other examples of the English invasion of the German language include downloaden (to download), which can be conjugated as a regular German verb according to the tenses and cases in a phrase.See where you can find a good German course here.Learn German by Speaking English!On this side of the channel and indeed throughout the English-speaking world, borrowed German words are far less common.You may not notice them, but they do exist!Some German gems we use in our day-to-day lives include:RucksackDoppelgängerWanderlustDelikatessenAngstFestPoltergeistAbseilJust like English words in German, these terms are lexicalised.This means that the umlaut on Doppelgänger may be removed, since English does not have umlauts or accents in its alphabet, and the plural form of Rucksack is pluralised with the addition of an ‘s’, rather than using the German pluralisation, Rucksäcke.This collision of the two languages can be explained by the special relationships maintained between Great Britain and Germany over the centuries.Despite the complex history of the German borders and more than one devastating war, the UK and Germany have a lot in common.Even from the 13th to the 17th century, the two lands engaged in trade as part of the Hanseatic League, which used German merchants to facilitate trade between cities across Northern Europe, including London.Later on in history, the British and German royal families began to intermarry, which, in the late 17th century, stood for healthy international relations.English, too adopts words from German such as 'abseil' ¦ source: Pixabay - Ellen26Up until the reign of Queen Victoria, the Germans and Brits more or less shared a royal family.In science and technology, too, Great Britain and Germany have been great allies, sharing ideas and pioneering research since the late 19th century.The German spirit for innovation is still present today, and German is the second most popular language for scientific publications, coming closely behind English.Links Between German and English-Speaking CultureLanguage and culture are largely interlinked, and since the English and German languages are so closely related, you can witness this in the geopolitical relations between countries speaking these respective languages.Regardless of the reported incomprehension between in the countries in the light of the UK's exit from the European Union, economic relations will always thrive.Today, there are around 100,000 Brits living and working in Germany, and some feel such a part of German culture that they have applied for German citizenship amid Brexit fears.So, the golden duo that is German and English goes beyond linguistics!The binding link between language and culture is the exact reason why total immersion in German culture will send you on your way to success. Over the course of your German lessons, bit by bit you will understand that despite their differences, German-speaking and English-speaking culture hold common economic and political values which go back centuries.This is why it is so important that students both on the continent and in the British Isles are given the opportunity to learn the other country’s language, regardless of how ‘useful’ it is perceived to be at the time.Learning languages quickly improves your career prospects as well as your ability to engage in intercultural communication.Another point English and German hold in common is that they are widely spoken languages. English is spoken as an official or primary language in more than 50 countries, and German in 25, including Switzerland, Liechtenstein and, of course, Germany.This means that both languages have a major influence across the globe, and knowing how to speak them both can only be beneficial for developing and maintaining healthy international rela tions.

5 Common Italian Grammar Mistakes That Even Natives Make

5 Common Italian Grammar Mistakes That Even Natives Make Brooke Neuman Dont pick up any grammatical bad habits when  visiting  abroad. Below, Italian teacher Giulio G.  shares 5 common Italian grammar mistakes natives  often make Spending your vacation in Italy is amazing, both for the breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to improve your Italian language skills. When learning Italian through immersion, however, it’s necessary to know that even native speakers make some pronunciation and grammar mistakes. It is extremely important to recognize these Italian grammar mistakes in order to avoid  getting into any bad habits. Below are the five most common Italian grammar mistakes natives make while speaking. 1. “Ma Però” vs. “Ma” or “Però” Italians will often put together these two conjunctions in daily conversation, not realizing that they’re making a common repetition mistake. When translated into English “Ma però” means  but however. As you can see, this is a repetition of two words that have similar meanings, which makes the expression wrong. When you want to introduce an adversative sentence, it is necessary to choose just one of the adversative conjunctions. For example, “Volevo andare al mare ma sono restato a casa” (I wanted to go to the seaside, but I stayed home.) 2. “A me mi” vs. “Mi” or “A me” This is another repetition mistake similar to the one above. Many Italian speakers are used to emphasizing the “Mi” by putting it together with “a me” to express the piacere construction. For example, “A me mi piace il gelato” (I like the ice-cream). This sentence is grammatically incorrect, however, as “Mi” is an alternative way to say “A me.” Therefore, saying “A me mi piace il gelato” actually corresponds to saying  I I like the ice cream. The correct way to say this sentence is “A me piace il gelato or Mi piace il gelato.” 3. The usage of congiuntivo (subjunctive) When traveling throughout Italy, it’s uncommon to hear the subjunctive while speaking with natives. Rather, native speakers prefer to use the indicativo, even with sentences containing verbs that express doubts, wishes, beliefs and worries. However, this is incorrect, as one should use the congiuntivo form when expressing such emotions. 4. The usage of Ed/Ad Natives are used to putting the D eufonica (a Greek word for ‘Good Sound’) after the vowels e or a anytime theyre  followed by a word that starts with a vowel. For example, “Io vado ad Empoli” (I go to Empoli) is incorrect because the word Empoli does not begin with an ‘a.’ Its only  necessary to use the D eufonica when the e and the a are respectively followed by a word that starts with e and a. For instance, “Io vado ad Ancona” (I go to Ancona) or “Luigi ed Ennio sono italiani” (Luigi and Ennio are Italian). 5. Gli vs. Le In Italy, it is quite common to use the masculine indirect pronoun instead of the feminine indirect pronoun  when talking about a woman. Doing so, however, is committing a gender mistake. It’s important to keep in mind that Gli is a masculine pronoun and Le is a feminine pronoun. For example, Gli ho detto che era bello (I said to him that he was handsome), or Le ho detto che era bella (I said to her that she was beautiful). Traveling to Italy is a great way to learn Italian. However, be aware of these common mistakes, so you dont pick up any bad Italian grammar habits from the natives you meet. Post Author: Giulio Giannetti Giulio Giannetti received his degree from the University of Florence in linguistics and intercultural relations and is currently getting his master’s degree at the University of Bologna. Find a  language lesson near you. 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 Help Your Child Find School-Life Balance This Year

How to Help Your Child Find School-Life Balance This Year The life of a child can be quite busy. School can be demanding enough, but when you add extracurricular activities into the mix, its easy to pack the schedule to the point that theres littleif anytime left. Eileen Huntington of Huntington Learning Center reminds parents that overscheduling leads to stress and anxiety. Parents have good intentions and want their children to have opportunities to explore passions and try new things, but its important to keep the big picture in mind too, she says. Finding balance between school and life should be the goal. How can parents help their children do so? Here are several tips: Embrace the art of time management. The key to finding balance in life is carving out time for everything. We encourage our students to maintain three schedules: a master schedule, weekly schedule and daily schedule, Huntington explains. The master schedule includes all classes for a semester and important dates like test and project due dates; the weekly schedule maps out regular, fixed obligations and activities like sleeping, eating, school, study time and extracurricular activities; and the daily schedule is the plan for each daybest created each night for the following day. Time management is one of the most critical life skills and best learned early to avoid procrastination and wasted time. Prioritize. If weeknights at your house are a chaotic rush to a variety of places and homework and family dinner consistently take a backseat, spend some time looking at whats on your daily calendar and talking as a family about whether all of it should stay. You and your child should block out time each day for sleep, school, homework and dinner and work from there. Then, ask the hard questions: what are your childs top few activities? Which ones offer the greatest benefits? Which cause the most stress? Identify the time wasters. The nemesis of productivity, time wasters are lurking everywhere. Have your child write down the things that throw him or her off course the most as well as any ideas on how to counteract or avoid such distractions, says Huntington. Common pitfalls include social media, smartphones and television, but dont forget about things like household activity and noise that might be keeping your child from making the most of his or her time. Its also critical that children understand that when they stick to a schedule, theyll accomplish moreand will have more time for what they want to do. Make time for what really matters. Nobody can sustain constant productivity with no downtime without feeling the effects. Encourage your child to embrace good habitsstudying in blocks of time, taking frequent breaks and getting sufficient sleepand make time for friends, family and exercise. Neglecting these things will cause a range of problems and may hurt your childs academic performance and motivation over time. School-life balance is important for a childs well-being and happiness. Its so important that children learn to juggle multiple priorities and still find time for the want-tos in life, says Huntington. Parents should teach their children the importance of managing their time effectively and how to embrace good habits now so that they will be well equipped to navigate school and life at every stage. About Huntington Huntington is the tutoring and test prep leader.Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams.Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards.Founded in 1977, Huntingtons mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.huntingtonhelps.com. For franchise opportunities please visit www.huntingtonfranchise.com. 2017 Huntington Mark, LLC. Huntington Learning Center, the three-leaf logo, and 1 800 CAN LEARN are registered trademarks of Huntington Mark, LLC. Each franchised Huntington Learning Center is operated under a franchise agreement with Huntington Learning Centers, Inc.