8 Must-Have Acoustic Guitars for Fall 2016 (For All Budgets)

8 Must-Have Acoustic Guitars for Fall 2016 (For All Budgets) Suzy S. In the market for a new guitar? Check out these recommendations for the best acoustic guitars released this year, courtesy of Colleen from Coustii.com Buying a  new acoustic guitar is a really exciting experience. But to make the process hassle-free, youll want to spend some time considering a few important questions. Are you just starting out, or are you an experienced guitarist? Will you be playing solo, or  with  a band? What is your budget? Once you have the answers to these, its time to pick your guitar. Here is my  list of the eight  coolest acoustic guitars released in 2016. Ibanez Artwood Vintage Guitar Brand: Ibanez Name: Artwood Vintage AVD6 Price: $499.99 Ideal for practicing, as well as playing  small, intimate gigs. Ibanezs creation is a perfect mix of technological design and acoustic tradition. It has a dreadnought body with a solid sitka spruce top. The back, neck, and sides are made out of mahogany, and the bridge and fretboard are made out of rosewood. The Artwood Vintage is ideal for carrying around as it does not take too much space. It also boasts  a nice, rich sound. Dean AXS Dreadnought Guitar Brand: Dean Name: AXS Dreadnought â€" Gloss Natural Price: $179.00 Ideal for beginning guitarists on a budget. This is the most affordable acoustic guitar on this list. It has a fantastic-looking spruce top, which is reinforced with a 2-ply binding. Its a full-scale guitar with a rosewood fingerboard and solid die-cast tuners. These allow the ax to remain tuned at all times. This guitar is  great for practicing, recording, and  live jamming. Its  fun to play, even for experienced players, and has an overall good feel to it. Gibson Songwriter Koa Guitar Brand: Gibson Name: Songwriter Koa Price: $3,649.00 Ideal for guitarists who like nice things and arent afraid to admit it. The Gibson Songwriter Koa has set the bar for  a great acoustic guitar. Its soothing, musical sound originates from the koa wood from which it is made. Gibson  even added a new compound radius fingerboard to give you the feel of an electric guitar. Perhaps no guitar is perfect, but Ive  yet to find a flaw in this one. If you can only buy one guitar in your life, this is the one you should choose! Gibson Hummingbird Red Spruce Guitar Brand: Gibson Name: Hummingbird Red Spruce Price: $3,649.00 Ideal for advanced guitarists who plan to perform. This electric-acoustic guitar offers a comfortable rounded mahogany neck and a solid rosewood fingerboard. Keeping a firm grasp on the guitar is easy and your fingers just slide down the polished fingerboard. Its design is bright and eye-catching, and you can see the almost 60 years of experience that  Gibson put into making the Hummingbird. This  is probably why megastars like  Jimmy Page, John McLaughlin, Keith Richards, and Sheryl Crow count the Hummingbird as one of their favorites! Dean Craig Wayne Boyd Gloss Natural Guitar Brand: Dean Name: Craig Wayne Boyd A/E â€" Gloss Natural Price: $449.00 Ideal for an intermediate guitarist who enjoys a good-looking ax. This name might sound familiar: Craig Wayne Boyd rose to fame after winning Season 7 of the NBC reality singing show The Voice. Now, hes  released the guitar that helped him achieve this fame. This model even  features his initials at the top. Its body is made of mahogany, and the quilt ash top makes this guitar great for the eyes and the ears. Its C-shaped neck makes it a very comfortable guitar to use. What better way to follow in Boyd’s footsteps than by choosing this guitar? Yamaha FG180-50TH Guitar Brand: Yamaha Name: FG180-50th Price: $1,300 Ideal for an experienced guitarist  who  prefers to play folk music. Yamaha released this guitar to celebrate  the 50th anniversary of the FG180. Its a limited edition model that  holds much of the folk tradition that helped make the FG180 great in the first place. This is an ideal  guitar for practically anything, from practicing to recording. It sounds great in small venues and even in big mega concerts. Martin X Series Custom 2016 X1-DE Guitar Brand: Martin Name: X Series 2016 X1-DE Price: $599.99 Ideal for environmentally friendly guitarists. This guitar is easy to play and easy on the  environment, as its made with HPL (High Pressure Laminate). It also has  a strong Stratabond neck and robust Richlite fingerboard. The X Series offers an unexpected deep tone that  sounds great, plugged in or not. Orleans Stage Acoustic Guitar Brand: Schecter Name: Orleans Stage Acoustic Price: Coming this Fall! Ideal for performing artists who like to stand out. Unlike most traditional acoustic guitars, the Orleans Stage comes in a vibrant Vampyre Red Burst Satin color. Its expected to be released in the fall of 2016.  The Stage acoustic has a 25-1/2 scale, 20-fret fingerboards, and black chrome hardware. Its base material, body and neck, are all made out of maple. Readers, what are the best acoustic guitars youve tried out this year? Leave a comment below and let us know! Further Reading: Gibson’s 2017 Electric Guitar Collection How to Buy a Guitar: All Your Questions Answered Buying the Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar | What to Avoid Colleen has a passion for guitars and ukuleles. She enjoys jamming, teaching, and getting others involved in music. Her website, Coustii, focuses specifically on guitars and ukes. Photo by Kyle McCluer Need Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

What is it Like to Attend Marist College

What is it Like to Attend Marist College Christina earned her bachelors degree in biomedical sciences from Marist College. She specializes in elementary math tutoring, chemistry tutoring, and a number of other subjects. Below, she shares her experience at Marist College. Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Christina: The campus, located directly on the Hudson River, is one of the most beautiful in America. Its fairly small, with a lot of greenery and an amazing view from the majority of student housing and academic buildings. Students are often found relaxing or studying on campuswhether it be by the river, on a patio, or in the newly renovated library. Students walk to their classes from their dorms, and can reach any establishment on campus within ten minutes. How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants? Christina:Professors host office hours multiple times a week and are very accommodating to their students needs. Advisers, too, are very accommodating and always available to meet and discuss whatever questions their students may have. Additionally, the science departments academic advisers host presentations about how to prepare for graduate schools in the health professions and how to prepare for a successful career post-graduation. How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Christina:The dining hall looks like Hogwarts from the Harry Potter movies. Its brand new and the food is great. Options include sandwiches, rotisserie chicken, and sushi, among other things. The freshman and sophomore dorms are close to the dining hall, one of which is directly connected to it. Marist is well known for the upperclassmen dorms, as they are huge and rated as one of the nicest in the country. Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? Christina:Marist has a very strong science program. I was enrolled in it as I prepared for medical school. Marist now has a physician assistant program and offers other graduate degrees in the health professions. All of my professors taught our classes, and most had a PhD. They were all very attentive and passionate about their field of study and excited to be teaching at the college. The fashion program is very strong and highly reputable at Marist, too. Most students graduate from the Marist fashion program employed and earning above average salaries. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Christina:Everyone makes friends in the dorms and through extracurricular activities. Greek life is present on campus, but very small. Most students opt not to become involved with it, as they are able to meet others who have things in common with them without doing so. How helpful are the Career Center and other student support services? Christina:I am not too sure about the Career Center, as I was always taking the initiative to seek employment in my related field on my own during school. From what I've seen through the opportunities my peers have been given, companies like KPMG, Morgan Stanley, IBM, and other respected businesses do recruit Marist students for internships and permanent positions. How are the various study areas, such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Christina:The library is the best place to study. Its three floors and has plenty of room for students to prepare for their courses. It also has quiet rooms, small meeting rooms for groups, and numerous computers available. Describe the surrounding town. Christina:Students mostly stay near campus. While there is a nightlife scene in the city of Poughkeepsie, most choose to only go to that area in large groups and on Friday and Saturday nights when establishments have their venues reserved for college students. The Culinary Institute of America is down the street from Marist. I would say this was one of my favorite parts of being in the area. The food is unbelievable, as is the food at many of the restaurants in Poughkeepsie and in the surrounding communities. How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Christina:The student body was about 3,500 undergraduate students. My classes typically had anywhere from 10-20 people in them. Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most. Christina:One of my most memorable experiences was when my general biology class had one of our lab sessions on a sailboat on the Hudson River. I probably would have never gotten the opportunity to sail if we had not done that. It was an experience Ill always remember. Check out Christinas tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

50+ Inspiring Choir Songs From Every Genre

50+ Inspiring Choir Songs From Every Genre 50+ Choir Songs From Every Genre Jessica Dais There’s no better opportunity to practice all youve learned in singing lessons than in a choir. You can use choir rehearsals to work on proper vocal production and technique, while also learning to harmonize and sing with others. Plus, sometimes choruses provide solo opportunities which will help you gain audition experience, overcome performance anxiety, and showcase your hard work! Need some choral inspiration? Check out this list of over 50 choir songs in every genre! 50+ Choir Songs From Every Genre Large Choral Works Messiah by George Frideric Handel     Requiem in D Minor by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart The Creation by Joseph Haydn Magnificat in D Major by Johann Sebastian Bach Stabat Mater by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi Carmina Burana by Carl Orff Annelies by James Whitbourn Missa Solemnis by Ludwig van Beethoven Requiem by Giuseppe Verdi Symphony No. 8 by Gustav Mahler Early Music Choir Songs Hear My Prayer, O Lord by Henry Purcell   Come Sweet Death by Johann Sebastian Bach Ave Maris Stella by Guillaume Dufay Ave Maria by Josquin des Prez Ave Verum Corpus by William Byrd Et in terra pax hominibus by Antonio Vivaldi Contemporary Choir Songs Sleep by Eric Whitacre         Carmina mei cordis (Songs of my heart) by Abbie Betinis Evening Prayer by Ola Gjeilo O Nata Lux by Morten Lauridsen Ingrian Evenings by Veljo Tormis The Bridegroom by John Tavener Ubi Caritas by Maurice Durufle Gospel Spiritual Choir Songs Battle of Jericho arranged by Moses Hogan       Deep River arranged by Andre Thomas Ezekiel Saw the Wheel arranged by Mark Hayes Give Me Jesus arranged by Mark Patterson “My Lord, What a Mornin' arranged Harry T. Burleigh “Ride on King Jesus” arranged by Stacey V. Gibbs SEE ALSO: 4 Must-Read Choir Audition Tips Barbershop Choir Songs Aint Misbehavin' arranged by Marge Bailey       Smile arranged by Carolyn Schmidt Mister Sandman arranged by Bertha Bradley Georgia, On My Mind arranged by Mary K. Coffman My Romance arranged by Joey Minshall Let Me Call You Sweetheart arranged by June Berg Come Fly With Me arranged by Kevin Keller Sacred Hymn Choir Songs Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty arranged by Patti Drennan   How Great Thou Art arranged by Stuart K. Hine It Is Well With My Soul arranged by Rene Clausen His Eye Is on the Sparrow arranged by Mark Hayes Simple Gifts arranged by Lloyd Larson Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing arranged by David Schwoebel Amazing Grace arranged by Craig Courtney Popular A Cappella Choir Songs Royals arranged by Deke Sharon     Here Comes the Sun arranged by Kirby Shaw Hallelujah arranged by Deke Sharon Fix You arranged by ACappella-Songs.com Landslide arranged by Deke Sharon Titanium arranged by Deke Sharon Somebody to Love arranged by Deke Sharon Broadway Musical Choir Songs Seasons of Love arranged by Roger Emerson     Hello Dolly arranged by Kirby Shaw Climb Evry Mountain arranged by Ed Lojeski For Good arranged by Mac Huff Memory arranged by John Leavitt Singing in a choir is an excellent way to develop your voice to its fullest potential. Studies have even shown that singing in a choir helps relieve stress and decrease anxiety! Need help finding a choir to join? Thanks to the internet, finding a choir near you is easy. Simply search online for choirs or choruses in your town or state. Other resources include local American Choral Directors Association chapters, Choralnet.org, or a local choral consortia. Need Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Guest post by Tori Cook from Chorus Connection. Tori directs the Harborlight Show Chorus and acts as Section Leader in Chorus pro Musica in the Boston area.

Master Conditionals in 5 Days or Less!

Master Conditionals in 5 Days or Less! Trying to learn  all of the English conditionals at once can be a daunting (and confusing!) task.  So, I suggest splitting up  the following 5 mini lessons over 5 days.  That way, you can let your brain digest the information and maybe even  get a chance to use your new knowledge  in a conversation  that day.  If you need a native speaker to practice with, schedule a class with one of our friendly, professional English teachers!  So, well spend a day on each of the four conditional types, and then take  a quiz at the end.  Lets get started!Types of Conditionals:ConditionalUseIf clause (condition) Main clause (result)Zero                           General truth, imperativesPresent simplePresent simpleFirstReal and probable situationsPresent simpleFutureSecondUnreal, imaginary situationsPast simpleWould + verbThirdUnreal past situation and probable result in pastPast perfectWould have + past participleDAY 1: ZERO CONDITIONALIf/When + (subject) + (present simple), (subject) + (pres ent simple)If/When this thing happens, that thing happens.If/When + (subject) + (present simple), (imperative)If/When this thing happens, do thisUses:We use zero  conditional to talk aboutFacts: If water temperature goes  below 0 °C, it freezes.General truths:  When I take the train, I bring  a book.  Imperatives: If you see him, be nice.Good to know:For all of the conditionals, we can flip the sentences around by putting the main clause/result first and the if/when clause second.  Like this:(Subject) + (present simple) if/when (subject) + (present simple).  That thing happens if/when this thing happens.We can use both if and when for zero conditional, but if suggests that something happens less often.  For example, If she gets a day off from work, she spends time with her  son.  This gives the idea that she doesnt get many days off work.  On the other hand, when suggests that something happens more frequently.  For example, When I read a book, I dont listen to music.  This gives the idea that I read books frequently.Practice:  For each exercise, write your answers in the comments section.When he (have/has) time, he (cook/cooks) dinner for me.We (go/went) to yoga together when we (had/have) the same day off.I _____ (to ride) my bike to work when I ____ (to have) time.If she _____ (to go) to a friends house, she usually (not/to bring) drinks.____ (to read) the newspaper if there ___ (to be) nothing on TV.Great job!  Remember, the best way to learn is to practice, so try to use this grammar in a conversation today.  Maybe youll talk to someone about what you usually read  when you take the train.  Need a chance to practice English with an LOI instructor?  Schedule a conversation class today!DAY 2: FIRST CONDITIONALIf/When + (subject) + (present simple), (subject) +  will/(be) going to + (verb)If this thing happens, that thing will happen.When  this thing happens, that thing is going to happen.Uses:We use first conditional to talk aboutWhat you think will happen in a specific situation in the future: If the weather is nice, I will bike to work.When I have a day off work, Im going to visit my sister.Good to know:If and when can both be used in first conditional, but if suggests that youre not sure if something will happen or not.  For example, If it is sunny tomorrow, Ill wear  sunglasses.  We dont know what the weather will be like.    When suggests that you know this thing will happen at some point.  For example, When I see her, Ill give that to her.  You know you will see her at some point.Conditional modals:Could:  We could go swimming if its sunny tomorrow.Should:  If she asks you on a date, you should say yes.Might:  If she invites me to the party, I might go.Watch and listen:  Heres a quick, helpful video to clarify the uses of first and zero conditional.Practice:If we (went/go) to her house tonight, we (should take/should taken) a bottle of wine.Q: What are you going to do if it (snow/snows)?A: Im just (going to shovel/will shovel) the snow away.When you ____ (to call) me, I ____ ____ (to give) you my address.We ____ ___ (to hug) her if we ___ (to see) her.Excellent work with day 2!  Only 3 more to go.  Dont forget to practice this conditional in a conversation today.  Maybe you can talk with a colleague about what you will do in future scenarios at work.  Dont forget to schedule a conversation class with LOI if youd like to practice with a native speaker.DAY 3: SECOND CONDITIONALIf + (subject) (past simple), (subject) would + (verb)If this thing happened, that thing would happen.If + (subject) (past simple), (subject) + would be + (verb)ingIf this thing happened, that thing would be happening.Watch and learn:Uses:What we would generally do in imaginary situations: If I won the lottery, I would buy a vacation home.Good to know:We cant use when since were talking about  imaginary situations that probably wont happenIt is considered grammatically incorrect to use was, in this conditional.  For example:If he were rich, hed buy a car.If he were rich, hed be buying a car.Conditional modal verbs:Might: If he had time, he might be able to do it.Could: If I had a lot of money, I could  take us to the beach.Should: If she asked you to help, you should help her.Practice:  Fill in the gaps below. You’ll use a verb in the past simple for the first part, followed by a modal verb in the second part of the sentence.  (See Pauls full second conditional lesson here!)1. If you ___  more time, you ____ be able to study more English.2.  If you _____ more, you ____ be healthier.3. If I ___ more money, I ______ work so much.4. If you ____ more money, you ____ have to work so much.5. If he ____ a lot of English classes, his English _____ be great.Complete the sentences below.1. If I had a million dollars, _____________________.2. If you were smart, ____________________.3. ________________________, I would be happy.4. _________________________, I would travel the world.5. _________ ________________, I wouldn’t study English.Now, practice with Beyoncé:  (See the full lesson here!)If I were a boy I’d _______out of bed in the morning and go.If I were a boy _______ drink beer with the boys.If I were a boy I’d ______I could understand. (Note: could is the participle hear.)If I were a boy, I swear to you, I would ______ a better man.……______ listen to her.If I were a boy I’d ______off my phone.…____put myself first.Youve had lots of practice today.  Great work!  Remember to reinforce  all this new knowledge in a conversation sometime today!DAY 4: THIRD CONDITIONALIf + (subject) + (past perfect), (subject) + would have + (past participle)If this thing had happened, this thing would have happened.If (subject) + (past perfect), (subject) + would have been + (verb)ingIf this thing had happened, this thing would have been happening.Uses:Imaginary situations in the past:  If I had won the lottery last week, I would have bought a house.What you would have done differently:  If I had known better, I would have payed more attention in school.Good to know:Only use if to discuss imaginary situationsConditional modals:Could have:  I could have practiced Spanish if I had gone on the trip.Should have:  If I had had money, I should have gone to the concert.Might have:  If I had had time off work, I might have gone home for the holidays.Practice:If he had (had/has) more time, he (could have go/could have gone) to the gym.You (would have read/would had read) more as a child if you (hasnt/hadnt) played so many sports.If I ___ ______ (to work) harder, I _____ ____ ____ (to make) more money.We _______ ____ ____ (not/to do) it if we ___ ____ (to know) it would upset you.If you ___ _______ (to decide) to move to Europe, what city _____ you ____ ______ (to choose)?Awesome!  Youve almost completed the five day challenge.  For a little something extra today, try this 3rd conditionals  quiz!DAY 5: PUT IT ALL TOGETHER!Congratulations, youve made it to the fifth day!  Hopefully by now youre feeling pretty confident with all of the conditionals.  Today well put all that knowledge to the test with a quiz and yet another challenge.Quiz:If the weather is nice tomorrow, he  ____ ____ (to take) her out for a picnic.Im sorry, I didnt realize you were allergic to peanuts.  If I ___ _____ (to know), I _____ ____ ____ (to tell) you.  (If/When) I go out to lunch, I usually go to the Thai place down the street.If I ___ (to have) enough money, I _____ __ (to go) to Canada.  Unfortunately, I dont have any money!She doesnt like running, and she thinks its really boring.  (If/When) she goes running, it is a very short distance.Please ___ (to set) the table when the guests ______ (to arrive).We _____ __ ______ (to be laying) on the beach right now if we ____ (to be) still on holiday.My friend is always texting.  (If/When) she gets a text message, she writes back immediately.I love to go running!  When I ____ (to have) enough energy, I ___ (to run) in  the park.I really wanted to go running with my friend last night, but I was too tired.  If I ___ ___ (to have) enough energy, I _____ ____ ____ (to go) with her.A: Im sorry, I dont know what he got you for Christmas.  B:  _____ you  ____ (to tell) me if you ____ (to know)?Im not a man, but if I ____ (to be) a man, my name _____ __ (to be) Derrick.Its a shame Phil is not here.  If he ____ (to be) here, he _____ ____ (can/to cook) us something nice.If you ____ (to help) me carry these boxes, I ____ ___ (to buy) you a beer later.If you ___ (to eat) too much, you ___ (to get) sick.Dont forget  that singing is also a great way to remember grammar, learn new vocabulary and practice fluency.  So, review  all the conditionals with  these hit songs!If you just cant get enough of conditionals, dont worry, heres a bonus challenge for you.  Its a short video about how we mix our tenses  when using conditionals.  Watch it  and try the exercise below.  (Click here for Pa uls  full post).1. If you __________ (insulted) him yesterday, he _______ __ ____ to the wedding tomorrow. 2. If she __________ (accepts) the promotion, she ____ __ ____ to Brazil in 2015. (future using will) 3. I ________ ______ (speak) fluent Spanish, if I ____ lived in Spain for 10 years. 4. He _____ _____ ____ (left), if he ____ _____ (known) you were coming.

Listening Exercise Can you ride THIS bike

Listening Exercise Can you ride THIS bike Can you ride a bike? Most people can, but I bet you cant ride the bike in the video below. This video is of a fascinating brain experiment and listening exercise. We can learn a couple of things from this experience.1. You are never too old to learn something new, including a new language.2. It is easier to learn new things when we are younger, especially language!Watch the video below, then answer the questions. This is a great lesson to talk about abilities in the past and present.Answer the questions below in comments and well respond.What does its just like riding a bike mean?When did he first learn to ride a bike?Explain why this bicycle is different.Here he is ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Destin Sandlins first attempt at riding ___ bicycle.Why does he use the definite article in the sentence above? Click here for more information on articles.Could  you ride this bicycle? Why not?How long did he practice every day?How many months did it take him to learn to ride the bike?What facto rs made him wreck?How long did it take his son to ride the bike?How long did it take him to re-learn the new bike?The audience or crowd thought he was faking. T/FClick here to learn more about can for abilities.

UK has the youngest teaching workforce in the developed World - Tutor Hunt Blog

UK has the youngest teaching workforce in the developed World UK has the youngest teaching workforce in the developed World UK has the youngest teaching workforce in the developed WorldSchoolsIn fairy tales and legends the character of `the wise old man` often features. This venerable sage, with his long white beard and modest attire is seen as a fount of all knowledge, with everyone from humble villagers to Kings and Queens seeking his sage advice. Though some details concerning this character archetype many alter from story to story, one things stands constant - he is always of advanced years. In many cultures there is a parallel made between age and wisdom: someone who has lived such a long life must surely have accumulated a great amount of knowledge. Does this mean that older teachers make better teachers? Back in the 60`s and 70`s when I was at school, it seemed there wasn`t a teacher under 50, though this certainly doesn`t seem to be the norm nowadays. A report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has disclosed that the UK has more than double the proportion of teachers who are under the age of 30 compared to the other developed countries. As well as having the most youthful workforce, our teachers have a modest salary, being paid below the international average for all the associated levels. This trend seems to have begun in 2005, when the average age of teachers started to fall, leaving us with 31% of primary school teachers now aged 30 or under. Salaries for teachers in England are on average 10% lower than in 2005 - and it doesn`t look like the study has taken into the effects of inflation, meaning the real pay for teachers has fallen even further over the last decade and a half. Combine these constricting finances with growing class sizes - the UK being one of the few countries that has classrooms becoming more packed since 2005 - and it becomes easy to understand why there is a recruitment and retention crisis in teaching. Andreas Schleicher, the director for education and skills at the OECD, gave a speech at the launch of the report, saying `There have been clear cuts and when you make cuts you have to make choices. You cut your teacher salaries, you increase your class sizes.` `Teachers have moved backwards on pay and on class size so the UK is in the risk quadrant where class sizes have become bigger and teachers are paid less.` Of course there`s no rule that says younger teachers are any less skilled then their more `mature` colleagues - in fact many students claim to learn more from a teacher who is close to them in age. Mr Schleicher pointed out that the UK having the youngest teaching workforce could be seen in an favorable way: `You can look at that as a positive sign in the sense of lots of people who want to move, who are motivated and who are freshly educated with the latest technology.` The fact remains that the reason we have such a large number of young teachers, not just in primary but also in secondary schools, is that there is a huge retention crisis. Recent research carried out by the National Foundation for Education Research (NFER) suggests that a quarter of teachers quit within their first year; and that four out of ten plan to leave the industry completely within the next 5 years, according to the National Education Union. With excessive workloads, often exceeding 70 hours a week, and with one in four teachers `experience(ing) violence from pupils every week` (according to the NASUWT union), it`s really hardly surprising that so many teachers leave the industry to pursue other occupations. It`s this exodus of course that`s bringing down the average age of teachers, with many older teachers leaving the profession only to be replaced by young graduates. Mr Schleicher was well aware that the young average age of teachers `signals that a lot of people leave the profession. That`s the downside of it. That actually there is a lot of churn and turnover in this which I think puts the population at risk.` The strains aren`t just felt by teachers though, as the report from the OECD reveals the UK has the second highest university fees in the developed world, despite the salary premium for graduates declining over recent years. There may be some good news however, with the Department for Education promising that all teachers and school leaders will enjoy an above inflation pay increase this year of 2.75% - and the government has also announced that teacher starting salaries in England will be raised to 30,000 by 2022. 5 months ago0Add a Comment

Primary school children learn computer coding - Tutor Hunt Blog

Primary school children learn computer coding Primary school children learn computer coding Primary school children learn computer codingPrimary schoolsWhen I was a primary school student, back in the 1980`s, lessons in IT were nothing more than an hour a week being taught very basic word processing techniques. Those of a certain vintage will recall when BBC computers seemed to be in every school - a result of the government subsiding half the cost the `BBC Micro` from 1981 to 1984. These distinctive looking machines, with their long row of garish read function buttons, were seen as a daring piece of modern technology. Permission from the teacher had to be granted to even touch one of its clunky buttons, and we would be separated into groups, each waiting our turn to have the privilege of sitting in front of `the machine.` This was of course before computers were a feature of almost every home, so we were all rather in awe of this ; `machine` that could apparently `solve problems` in some mysterious, oracle like manner. We were taught the rudiments of word processing: changing fonts, centring a title, printing a document. A gigantic nine pin dot-matrix machine, which had the fearsome appearance of a small combine harvester, would screech to life, our teacher warning us not to get too close, for we might get sucked into its whirring mechanism. Needless to say these lessons imparted to me little in the way of practical computer skills. Even in secondary school the IT classes were hardly more sophisticated: spreadsheets and pie charts were added to my arsenal of computer abilities, along with games that could be played when the teacher wasn`t looking. Fortunately my meagre IT skill set never had to be put to any practical use at school - all assignments were still handwritten, tables and pie charts carefully constructed with a ruler and pair of compasses. Things are rather different these days - primary school children are being given compulsory lessons in computer coding during their first two years of schooling. This is not html - a relatively user friendly system which enables people to create web sites - they will be learning a computer language that looks like mathematical hieroglyphs to the uninitiated. From the moment they start school, children are being taught the skills to both create and debug simple computer programs, as well as (according to the curriculum guidelines) `use technology safely and respectfully.` During key stage one they will also be taught about algorithms, and how rule governed processes enable computer programmes to function. Once they reach key stage two the focus will shift onto creating programmes that fulfil specific objectives. A simple task might be to write a computer programme that helps you manage your finances, or create a calendar that can issue alerts when certain assignments have to be completed. Entering secondary school students will begin key stage three, and will start learning certain abstract features of computer programming, such as boolean logic, along with more advanced algorithmic processes. They will also be taught how computers actually work, learning about CPU (Central Processing Unit) architecture, and how the numerous different systems interact. Key stage four allows students to be more creative, letting them utilise the skills and tools they have acquired to create programmes and projects of their own. By this stage those with a real gift and aptitude for programming will have the chance to display their abilities. Things have changed rather a lot then in the two decades or so since I have left school. As a secondary school student, to me computer proficiency meant being able to fix the printer when it was jammed. Learning how to code was something unimaginable - I wouldn`t have even known the meaning of this activity, and would have probably thought it related to espionage in some way. Speaking at Startup Fest Europe in Amsterdam in 2016 Tim Cook, the CEO of apple, said `Coding should be a `second language` taught to all children,` and that it`s `just another language, and just like any other language it should be taught in schools.` Computers are obviously part of every industry today. If your company doesn`t have a website, chances are it wont be lasting much longer. From our phones to our fridges - our televisions to our thermostats, computers are everywhere. If we are to remain competitive we have to equip our workforce with the skills to meet the demands of the modern world. 2 years ago0Add a Comment

Efficient Multitasking How to Learn Different Languages at Once

Efficient Multitasking How to Learn Different Languages at Once Quick question: Whats even better than mastering a foreign tongue?Why, mastering two foreign languages, of course!If youve ever dreamed of studying multiple languages at once, youre not alone.While the very concept perplexes traditional students in North America, studying different languages concurrently is a commonplace occurrence in schools across Europe and Asia.In fact, many high schoolers across the globe are required to study two foreign languages to graduate.If you  jump into a multilingual study plan feet first right now, you might  find yourself lost in a maze of conjugations, vocabulary words and grammar drills.So before you  leap, take some time to discover the benefits of studying multiple languages, prepare yourself for the inevitable challenges and get equipped with the right strategies needed to juggle multiple languages over the long-term.Lets get started! Why Learn  Different  Languages at the Same Time?A Faster Path to MultilingualismAside from the sheer fun of st udying a language, learning to speak a foreign tongue provides a number of  incredible professional and interpersonal benefits. Some of the cognitive benefits of language learning include improved problem-solving abilities, memorization skills and creativity.  Studying multiple languages amplifies those benefits, providing your brain with plenty of stimulation and challenges.While studying two languages together may slow down your overall learning progress in a single language, it will allow you to advance at a similar pace through two different linguistic systems. Some students find this approach more appealing than studying a single language from beginning to end, before starting on another.Increased Challenge for Language LoversScientists believe certain individuals may possess the ability to learn a new language more rapidly and efficiently than other people. If youre one of these people, developing the capacity to speak a foreign language may not require the same amount of effo rt it takes some students.Choosing to study two different languages serves as an additional challenge that will keep your brain working overtime. There have been several reported cases of ambitious polyglots teaching themselves upwards of ten languages simultaneously, so regardless of how busy you find yourself on any given day, two should prove manageable if you remain motivated.Addressing a NeedLanguage skills arent merely an extra bonus for many students, but rather an essential component of their everyday lives. Whether youre a travel aficionado gearing up for a big trip overseas, or you instead plan to spend long hours working on a project with foreign colleagues, learning multiple languages may serve a real need.Some students also take on the two-language approach to complete university credits. No matter what your motivation for tackling this admitted challenge may be, sometimes concurrent studies are simply inevitable.Choosing the Right Languages to Study at the Same TimeThe Argument for Dissimilar LanguagesEven if you consider yourself the Michelangelo of language learning, you will encounter obstacles as you attempt to gain proficiency in two different languages. Researchers have explored how the human brain stores different languages, with a number of factors influencing the region where linguistic information resides. Bilingual children who learn two languages concurrently often store parts of different languages in the same general area, whereas students who take on a foreign language later in life store that information in different regions of their brain.When you learn two languages simultaneously, your brain will naturally make connections between the two. For this reason, it may be worth considering learning two languages at opposite ends of the linguistic spectrum. For example, while romance languages will share similar vocabulary words, grammatical structure and writing systems, a Germanic language and an Asian language share almost no simil arities. Its incredibly easy to trip into another foreign language when they share a similar syntax, but youre unlikely to toss out a Japanese word or two while speaking German, for example.Building on Previous Learning ExperiencesStudying incredibly different languages may prove beneficial for some students, but others instead choose to pick a language in the same family as one they already speak. This approach helps lessen the workload for students concerned about overdoing it. Remember, regardless of which language you ultimately choose, you will want to make time to not only study your new languages, but also to continually invest in retaining your skills in other languages you speak.Feeling stuck about where to begin? Consider this cheat sheet to learn about the specific benefits of many world languages. If youre feeling squeamish about committing to a particular language, look for local cultural groups that offer language learning opportunities.Meetup  organizes language learn ing groups in many cities around the world, which can provide a starting ground for your research. If you live in a larger city, contact your nearest foreign consulateâ€"many consuls work to promote foreign language education through various initiatives in their local communities.Crafting a Study Strategy to Learn Different Languages at OnceScheduling Time for StudyEven the most devoted budding linguistics often struggle to simultaneously focus on improving their skills in multiple languages. Not only is it vital to find a strategy for juggling both languages, but youll need to schedule time to keep both languages a priority. Some students find it beneficial to pencil language learning time onto their daily agenda, as a means of creating a lifelong habit. Even if you dont opt to schedule your time in this way, you will need to determine what rhythm works best for your personal acquisition style.Alternating between two languages necessitates serious time management skills. Some stude nts alternate between different languages each week, while others spend the morning learning one language and the afternoon studying another. Choose your preferred approach and work to maximize your efforts as much as possible.Are you familiar with the Pomodoro Technique? Developed by Francesco Cirillo, this productivity method uses short blocks of time (traditionally 25 minutes) to keep interruptions and distractions at bay. If you struggle to keep your language learning on track, use a free tool like Tomighty or Pomodairo to create these spurts of learning time. You can also get creative by exploring all of the unique ways to efficiently learn a language throughout the day.Setting Learning GoalsKeeping your study sessions spontaneous and incorporating a myriad of learning materials will no doubt keep your language learning enjoyable, but dont forget to set goals for yourself as you progress. Try to set defined goals and work your hardest to reach them as you improve your abilities in both languages. This will help bolster your motivation.According to research conducted at UCLA, setting process goals often proves more successful than focusing on your desired outcome. For example, it might be enticing to imagine yourself chatting up your gondolier on your next trip to Rome, but youre more likely to actually master Italian if you instead set small goals necessary to reach that dream.Dont simply visualize yourself speaking the languageâ€"instead, determine to master five new conjugations this week. Next week, you can focus on learning 40 new vocabulary words. Achieving these goals will provide inspiration, and each objective serves as yet another stepping stone on the way to fluency.Immersion in Two Different  LanguagesAre you familiar with the expression, Use it or lose it? Its hard to overstate the importance of immersing yourself in a foreign language, particularly in the beginning stages of your studies. Simple techniques like watching movies and TV offer a great starting ground, but youll also want to try to converse with native speakers on a regular basis.Online Immersion with FluentUOne way to immerse yourself in a foreign language is with  FluentU,  an online platform and app that takes  real-world videosâ€"like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talksâ€"and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.  You can browse videos  by difficulty (beginner to native), topic (arts and entertainment, health and lifestyle, etc.) and  format (video blog, news,  shows, etc.).FluentU isnt just watching videosâ€"its about learning and actively practicing the language you hear in videos. FluentUs unique learn mode will teach you  all that the clip has to offer. Learn mode takes your learning history into account, asking questions based on what you already know, which  sets  you up for success.Creating an In-depth Study AgendaIt can be hard to keep yourself from favoring one language over the other, which is why its benefi cial to make commitments outside of your own time. Find a language exchange partner for both of the languages youre learning and schedule meetups in advance. Volunteer for cultural events, tutor at a language institute and make friends studying the languages you enjoy. Its one thing to skip over the 45 minutes youve allotted for your evening flashcards session, but chances are better than not youll want to keep the social engagements you have made.Another powerful tool for ensuring you progress in multiple languages is to create  an agenda for the month ahead and purposefully alternate between your chosen languages. It can feel frustrating to spend several hours mastering a certain skill in one language, only to find you need to put in time on another language. Instead, consider diverting your focus with an 80-20 approach. Devote 80% of your time for a given week on language A, before switching to language B the following week.The Importance of Memorization WorkUltimately, every lan guage learner begins to grasp linguistic concepts differently, which is why its essential to remain flexible and experiment with various learning styles. No matter how you juggle your joint learning endeavor, however, remember to keep a keen eye on how much time youre spending on memorization exercises.Focus on repetition techniques to drill new vocabulary words and grammatical principles into your brain. Be careful not to neglect actual practice of your new skills, by taking the time to put them into practice. One simple way to do this is by using a combination of flashcards and writing exercises.Take 10 new vocabulary words and spend a few days memorizing them. After you feel confident in your recall, write sentences using your new words. This helps solidify the links in your brain between your new found knowledge and its real-life application. You can also try this technique with other parts of speech, including verbs, possessive adjectives and prepositional phrases.Studying a fo reign language is perhaps one of the most fulfilling activities on the planet, but taking on two languages at the same time is no small undertaking. Carefully consider the pros and cons of learning two languages simultaneously, and make the decision that best works for you.If youve got the time on your hands to make it happen, focus on creating long-term goals to keep your studies on track. With hard work and a bit of luck, youll be a veritable polyglot in no time.Adam Zetterlund is a language enthusiast living in New York City. He spent five years honing his foreign language skills in Paris and London, and he currently partners with a number of international clients in a marketing capacity. Learn more by reading his blog.