Middle School Tutoring Programs

Middle School Tutoring ProgramsThere are many different middle school tutoring programs that parents can choose from. Parents can have the child tutored in the English language, math, science, or the social studies.Middle school tutoring programs can help children with their homework, and they can improve their grades. They can also learn to better communicate with their classmates. Some parents even believe that this can be a great way to keep the class together.Before deciding on which middle school tutoring program is right for your child, it is important to understand their strengths and weaknesses. If the child has a strong vocabulary and is able to use it, then the teacher can give additional help to the child in order to help him or her to increase their vocabulary. Children that are shy should have their anxiety levels monitored to ensure that they can handle the lessons and that they feel confident about themselves. However, parents should not have their child take a class w here they are not allowed to express their own opinions.For children that are shy and lack the strength to express their opinions, the teacher can help them develop a strong vocabulary. The teacher will know when the child is struggling, and he or she can always ask the child to keep quiet in the class. The more the child learns how to voice their opinions, the stronger the child will become. It is important that parents feel confident that their child is getting adequate help.Students that are struggling academically or are just beginning to feel comfortable in the classroom, can benefit from middle school tutoring programs. These students may need some extra help in the form of extra instruction or interactive lessons. To help these students achieve the academic goals they are aiming for, the teachers can focus on different subjects or teach them in a particular manner.Students that do not have the ability to speak properly can be taught using new technologies such as video and au dio files. The teacher can allow the student to voice their ideas, and they can express their opinions on various topics such as politics and religion. The students will be given the opportunity to express their opinions so that they can understand the world around them and learn to read people.Many students are afraid to express their feelings, especially when they are going to the principal. They may fear that they will get in trouble for expressing negative feelings. Middle school tutoring programs can help to reduce these fears and build self-confidence in the student.Middle school tutoring programs are a valuable tool for students that are experiencing difficulties in the classroom. Many students that do not have a strong foundation in English are able to find support through this type of program. Because the students' opinions are well-understood, parents can feel confident that the teacher is doing his or her best to help the child.

Leaps and Bounds Tutoring - What Does It Offer?

Leaps and Bounds Tutoring - What Does It Offer?The internet is filled with website offering lessons in various areas including private tutoring, public tutoring, online tutoring, etc. There are a few notable tutoring firms that offer education via the internet to students. They make sure that these tutors understand the demand of their clients and take them to the next level.Leaps and Bounds tutoring is one such firm that offers lessons in a variety of areas. The client can find learning materials on how to excel at exams, extracurricular activities, life skills, leadership, ethics, management, etc.Leaps and Bounds provide these services through the internet. It allows users to choose the specific degree that they are interested in. The tuition plan can be customized based on the specific requirement of the student. There are several steps to complete before enrolling for these lessons on the internet.Leaps and Bounds have this task to find out what kind of school the student has bee n attending as well as the subject that he or she is interested in. This information is important as it will help the tutors in order to tailor the tutoring program to meet the needs of the student.There are several steps to complete before enrolling for these lessons on the internet. The client has to go through the details of the course that he wants to learn on the internet. He also has to decide on the type of tutor that he is after. At this stage, he has to make sure that he understands the entire course syllabus and the major features of the course.As soon as the tutor is hired, he has to look into the course syllabus to make sure that the course is interesting. The tutor has to look into the other aspects like related experiences and the possible life skills that the student can use to cope up with the world. Another step is to check whether there are any other services like tutoring at home. Some of the services include tutoring abroad or as part of an exchange program.These tutoring services on the internet also give several other benefits to the user. For instance, they provide feedback regarding the success or failure of the lessons. Users can view the previous notes of the tutor. These aspects help a user to make the right decision on which course to choose.

Understanding the Brain Chemistry of Schizophrenia

Understanding the Brain Chemistry of SchizophreniaOne of the many important and often overlooked aspects of schizophrenia is its brain chemistry. The truth is that there is no research study that has yet to demonstrate a definitive link between schizophrenia and brain chemistry. However, schizophrenia itself and the genes that increase the risk of this condition are well documented in literature and mainstream media reports.Researchers have found that schizophrenics are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, stroke and develop dementia than individuals without this disorder. There is also speculation that an individual with schizophrenia may have an increased incidence of heart disease, seizures and certain types of cancer. All of these conditions are associated with what is known as the dopamine system, and while researchers are not yet sure exactly how it interacts with the rest of the brain or why one person develops all of these conditions at a different rate than another pe rson, they do know that the exact biochemical makeup of this system is similar to that of a normal healthy brain.Schizophrenia itself is a serious neurological disorder. It has been shown that the symptoms of schizophrenia can actually progress and become worse if not treated properly. Therefore, although the biological and genetic factors do not yet seem to be linked with the treatment, there are a number of measures that can be taken to help to reduce the chances of developing schizophrenia.One of the most important treatments for schizophrenia is natural remedies. The most important component of natural remedies for schizophrenia is the use of garlic. Garlic has been shown to control many of the symptoms of schizophrenia, including those related to depression, anxiety and paranoia.Garlic is known to be a powerful herb that contains a compound called allicin, which is known to decrease anxiety. Moreover, it has been shown to reduce the activity of dopamine, which is known to contr ibute to negative feelings in people. As this ingredient is found in large amounts in the brain, you will find that the brain's chemical balance will actually begin to improve when you begin to use garlic regularly. Allicin has been found to promote an improvement in the integrity of neurons, which is a key part of how it improves the chemicals that enter and leave the brain.Natural remedies for schizophrenia can provide a significant advantage over medications when used in conjunction with cognitive therapy. Cognitive therapy is a form of psychological therapy that attempts to change your thought processes. It involves the assessment of both current and past beliefs, patterns of thought and behavior, which is conducted in an attempt to understand why these things happen in the first place. Cognitive therapy can provide many benefits for patients suffering from schizophrenia.It is important to recognize that while natural remedies for schizophrenia provide a number of benefits, it i s never recommended that you try to treat yourself without consulting a professional. Natural remedies for schizophrenia should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Rounding Whole number

Rounding Whole number Rounding numbers coverts large numbers and decimal numbers to simpler forms which are then useful to solve or express in a given question. This concept is commonly used in many word problem and different calculations. A whole number is a non-decimal number, non-negative number starting from zero. While rounding to the nearest whole number if the number to the right of the rounding number is less the 5 round down and if the number is 5 or more round up. Then replace the removed digits by zeroes in the given number. Example 1: What is 5,673,489 rounded to nearest thousand? Solution: For rounding find the place to round, next look for the number right to the place. If the number is less the 5 round down and if the number is 5 or more round up. The number in the thousands place is 3 in 5,673,489. The number to the right of the thousands place 3 is 4 which is less than 5. Replace all the numbers to the right of thousands by zeros. Hence rounding the number is 5,673,000. Question: Multiple choice question (Pick the correct option.) What is 7,549 rounded to nearest tens place? a) 7,548 b) 7,500 c) 7,550 d) None of these. Correct answer: option c. The number in the tens place is 4 in 7,549. The number to the right of the tens place is 9 which is greater than 5. Round the tens place one units up. Replace all the numbers to the right of tens by zeroes. Hence rounding the number is 7550.

A Day in the LIfe at Arizona State University

A Day in the LIfe at Arizona State University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach theyre sharing their college experiences as well. Jennifer is a Phoenix tutor who specializes in Statistics tutoring, Anatomy tutoring, Biology tutoring, and more. She is a 2010 graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelors degree in Biological Sciences. Check out her review of her alma mater: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options.How urban or safe is the campus?Are there buses or do you need a car/bike? Jennifer: The main campus at Arizona State University is pretty large, but there are definitely many transportation options. I got around just fine on a bicycle, but I also commuted in my last year of college. The light rail system also makes it easier to get to campus from the East or West Valley. They are currently expanding the light rail system, which will only make it easier to get to campus. The campus is very safe. Its well lit and highly populated, so I never felt afraid walking alone, even at night. VT:How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants? Jennifer: The professors are a little harder to come by because they are generally really busy. I attended the School of Life Sciences, and many professors were busy with research. The academic advisers were helpful and available to me when I needed to schedule a meeting. The teaching assistants in general were very good and understood their subjects. VT: How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Jennifer: I did not live in a dorm. However, I had friends who lived in the dorms, and they were nice. There are plenty of dining options in and around campus, so finding a good meal isnt hard to do. Tempe is centrally located in the Phoenix Valley, so you can zip across town either way with ease. The shopping around the area is pretty good, as well. Tempe Marketplace has a decent shopping complex, as well as several eateries and bars if you need to relax after a hard week of classes. ASU also has many clubs and organizations you may choose to join. I myself did not join any particular club, but I did participate in a few club outings for ultimate Frisbee. Its a good way to get to know some people on campus and stay active. VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?What did you study and why? Did the university do a good job supporting your particular area of study? Jennifer: The Business program and the research-related programs and majors are very good at ASU. I studied Biological Science with an emphasis in Genetics, Cell Biology, and Developmental Biology because they are subjects that I have an interest in. They are also well developed by the university. ASU supported me in my particular area of study when I needed it most. They assisted me in finding a good fit for my final internship course that ended up taking me out of the country to study for two months. VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Jennifer: I did not attend ASU my freshman year, but from my perspective, it seemed like there was a positive vibe flowing through the campus that made meeting new people very simple. I did not participate in a sorority. It seemed like they were well established on campus, but that they did not make it easier or more difficult to make friends if you were not a part of Greek life. VT: How helpful is the Career Centerand other student support services?Do many reputable companies recruit on campus? Jennifer: The job fairs for my specific department allowed me to see what industries and businesses were hiring ASU graduates before I left campus. A lot of great companies and entities choose their talent from ASU because of its reputation as a research institution and also its excellent business school. VT: How are the various study areas such aslibraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious? Jennifer: There are a huge variety of study areas at ASU. Finding a place to study was not difficult and did not require a long walk or commute. Some areas are busier than others, but for the most part they are not over-crowded and are well kept. VT: Describe the surrounding town. What kinds of outside establishments / things to do are there that make it fun, boring, or somewhere in between?To what extent do students go to the downtown area of the city versus staying near campus? Jennifer: There are plenty of things to do for fun around Tempe, AZ. I really enjoyed the variety of places to eat, recreate, and experience the culture of Arizona. I think the light rail system makes it easier than ever before to travel to downtown Phoenix, where there are sporting events, arts, and fine dining. There are also lots of fun nightlife activities going on. If you decide to stick around the campus area, Mill Avenue shops, bars, and restaurants are right across the street from campus. VT: How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Jennifer: The ASU main campus alone is home to tens of thousands of students. It is a very large campus, but I felt that the class size was comparable to other large universities. In the higher-level courses, the class size was kept very low, so I felt that this made the instruction seem more individualized. I was able to talk directly with the professor(s) when necessary. VT: Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. Jennifer: One experience that I both loved and regretted the most was when I took a lab that was nearly seven hours long. The beginning of the semester started off with no A/C in the room (it was August in Arizona), and people were sweating and dropping like flies. I remember quite a few people dropped after that miserable day, but everything was fine after that! It ended up being one of my favorite courses. Check out Jennifers tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

What to Do After a Bad Grade

What to Do After a Bad Grade Getting a bad grade can immediately induce panic and stress. After receiving a lower-than-expected grade, though, its key to take a step back to analyze the situation and strategize how to move forward. After a bad grade, meet with your teacher to discuss it further, review your mistakes, and make an action plan. If youre looking to improve in a particular class, keep reading to learn what to do after a bad grade. Meet with your teacher or professor after earning a bad grade As soon as you can, schedule a meeting with your teacher or professor during office hours, your lunch period, or after school. Your teacher or professor has your best interests in mind, so theyll be happy to clarify your grade and help you understand the rationale behind it. During this meeting, bring specific questions that you have about your grade. Ask your teacher or professor questions like: What can I take away from this specific assignment that will help me on future assignments? Are there any practical tips or steps that you recommend? Your teacher can often point you to strategies and resources that you might not know about. Additionally, they can help you understand this bad grade within the overall scope of the course (i.e. how this might affect your final grade). [RELATED: How High School and College Students Can Setand AchieveAcademic Goals] Review answers/areas of weakness after receiving a bad grade Once youve met with your professor or teacher, review the assignment and identify specific areas of weakness. Note exactly where you went wrong on this particular assignment, and pinpoint concepts you may need a deeper focus on moving forward. If you got a bad grade on a math assignment, have your teacher help you work through specific problems step-by-step so you can gain a firm understanding of how to solve the problem. If you struggled with an essay assignment, inquire with your teacher about how you can better hone your writing and strengthen your assignments in the future. Depending on class policy, your professor might offer opportunities for retakes or rewrites. While you can ask your teacher if these options are available, its important to note that not all classes allow this and to focus on ways to improve your grade in the future. [RELATED: Time Management Tips for Students] Create an action plan after a bad grade Once youve identified areas of improvement, its time to create an action plan to continually improve your grades. To do this, its important to designate times in your schedule for this subject. What time during your week can you dedicate to this subject or a particular upcoming assignment? What kind of support do you think would be helpful for getting you to the next level? Identify resourcesboth inside and outside of your schoolthat can help you focus your studies. These support services could include a math or writing center, specific teachers, and peer study groups. It also might be useful to visit your guidance counselor or advisor to see if they have any tips as you move forward. [RELATED: How to Make a Smart Study Routine] In times like these, your peers and classmates are often excellent sources of support. Do you have any older friends whove gone through this particular class that you can chat with and ask for advice? Establishing a support system will help you turn this bad grade into a positive learning experience. 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.

Buying Your First Guitar a Guide

Buying Your First Guitar a Guide The Guide to Buying your First Guitar ChaptersTips and Tricks to Choosing Your First GuitarKelsey’s Advice For Buying Your First Classical, Folk and Electric GuitarAll the Specifics That You Need to Know Before Buying Your First GuitarWhere to Buy Your Guitar: Store, Internet or Pre-owned?More Advice For Buying Your First Guitar!The Essential Accessories that You  Cannot ForgetCaring For Your GuitarBefore buying your first guitar and learning how to play it, it's necessary to keep in mind the different types of guitars.My name is Kelsey and I am a professional guitarist and guitar teacher.I will share my expertise to help you choose your first guitar.The perfect guitar that suits everyone does not exist. It is necessary to make your choice according to your musical style.Here are some recommendations and directions regarding your purchase.First, let’s talk about guitar sizes.Here are some things to consider when buying your first guitar.A neck too large or too long, a case too imposing, or an unsuitable guitar size c an be very problematic for both children and adults.Therefore, throughout this article, I will explain the different sizes and who they are best suited for. Then I will give some recommendations of different products and where to buy them to prepare you for your guitar lessons online or in person!Guitars for Children: Different Sizes According to their AgeBuying a guitar for a child is not always easy.How to buy a kid’s guitar?Guitar 1/4 - 110cm | 5-6 years oldThe 1/4 guitars are between the toy and the real musical instrument.With their small size, they are particularly suited for very young children.Guitar 1/2 - 125cm | 6-8 years oldThe 1/2 guitars are meant for children.Its sound is closer to a traditional guitar than the 1/4 guitar.Guitar 3/4 - 140cm | 8-10 years old3/4 guitars are the ultimate learning guitars. They are massively used for guitar lessons for children aged 8-10 years old. Their fretboard and body shape are both slightly smaller, but not enough to affect the sou nd too much.Guitar 4/4 - 150cm | 10 years and olderThe 4/4 guitar is the standard size guitar used by teenagers and adults. They provide more powerful and warm sounds than the smaller guitars. This information is very practical for acoustic guitars (classical or folk).On the other hand, I advise against buying an electric guitar until your child is of age to play on a standard size. Smaller size electric guitars are not usually well made, and any guitar player will notice that it is not the best guitar.  Kelsey’s Advice For Buying Your First Classical, Folk and Electric GuitarThe Classical Guitar: Some Buying RecommendationsSizes 1/4 and 1/2 for children 5 - 8 years oldFor children 5 - 10 years old, the price margin will be between $60 - $150.YAMAHA CGS102A - 1/2 and 1/4 Guitar$120The Yamaha brand is, in my eyes, the reference in terms of children’s guitars size 1/4 and 1/2. Yamaha is aimed towards children and allows them to start on a quality instrument for a little more than $100. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge illustrate Yamaha’s desire to offer an instrument with impeccable quality at an economic price.LYONS Classroom 1/4 Guitar$67This is a good compromise to start at a low price point and an early age! Indeed, this guitar is not on the same level as Yamaha’s standard, but it will still allow you to enjoy a good product for less than $100.Size 3/4 for children 8 - 10 years oldFor children 5 - 10 years old, the price margin will be between $60 - $150.YAMAHA CGS103A - 3/4 Guitar$130True to Yamaha’s reputation for quality, this 3/4 guitar offered at a very affordable price would be the perfect companion to a young musician of 8 - 10 years old.FENDER MC-1 - 3/4 Guitar$130Fender is a brand that I particularly like. Very famous in the middle price range, their guitars are of excellent value for their price. These instruments astutely combine playing comfort and a warm sound.Size 4/4 for children from 10 - 11 years old to teenagers and adultsUnl ike children under 10 years of age, for teenagers and adults, a guitar will cost between $150 - $200.CORT AC200-OP$194I want to talk to you about CORT because I greatly appreciate this brand. Cort manufactures guitars whose value for money is unrivaled in the market. The constant with these guitars: the sound is always clear and brilliant.YAMAHA - C40$140The Yamaha C40 classical guitar benefits from the quality and know-how of Yamaha in the manufacture of nylon string guitars. As I said before, nothing to add, Yamaha is a good product!FENDER - CN90$230In addition to being the most affordable nylon string guitar from Fender, the CN-90 resonates with fantastic classical elegance, while adding real value. The Folk Guitar: Some Buying RecommendationsSizes 1/4 and 1/2 for children 5 - 8 years oldStagg Folk Blue Burst$110It is quite rare to find folk guitars in sizes 1/4 and 1/2. The STAGG brand offers this product for a little more than $100.Size 3/4 for children 8 - 10 years oldYAMAHA - FOLK 3/4 JR1$135We return once more to the YAMAHA brand. Its 540mm short neck is easy to play, even for the smallest hands, while the small dimensions of the body guarantee an excellent hold. This is perfect for beginner guitar lessons.FENDER - MA 3/4 STEEL$140This is perfectly suited for music schools, students, and beginners who feel more comfortable with a guitar of smaller dimensions.  Size 4/4 for children from 10 - 11 years old to teenagers and adultsAs far as adult folk guitars are concerned, the choices are much larger and more extensive. Here is a list of products that I recommend.  Between $100-200Between $200-300CORT - AD810EPIPHONE - EL-00 ProEPIPHONE - DR100IBANEZ - AEG1211-NTYAMAHA F335CORT - LUCE L100-OYAMAHA FG730S SUNBURSTYAMAHA - FG700STAKAMINE - GD10EPIPHONE - Hummingbird ProFENDER - CF60FENDER CD280SFENDER - CD140SIf you already have a specific brand or model of guitar that you want to buy, head on over to Guitar Center to find the guitar of your dreams!The Fe nder Sonoran has an atypical look that makes it an ideal guitar for beginners.This guitar is magnificent, it has a destroyed look and finishes, and an impeccable polish.This is an acoustic-electric folk guitar, which means it is equipped with a preamp for sound. I used this guitar when I first started and it is a real treat to begin with.The sleek maple neck on this electric guitar and its atypical look make it an ideal guitar to start guitar lessons.A major asset: its finishing is impeccable!The only downside: the bassThe Electric Guitar: Buying RecommendationsSizes 1/4 and 1/2 for children 5 - 8 years oldYou will find 1/4 and 1/2 guitars between $80 - $110.A reminder that at this age and with these dimensions, the guitars lean more towards the toy rather than the instrument.The sound quality is not yet a priority, hence the lower price.Size 3/4 for children 8 - 10 years oldFrom this age on, there is the Squier brand that offers guitar sets at very attractive prices, that is, less than $200. I do not recommend it. I have seen its shortcomings on several occasions with students. Inaccessible, unplayable, etc.First solution: Go with the Stagg brand which offers a finishing and sound that’s much less degraded than Squier’s.Impeccable quality should not be expected, but it works without problems and is in a reasonable price range, between $100 - $120.If you are looking for a guitar with a better range, IBANEZ offers 2 products:IBANEZ - GRGM21-BKNIBANEZ - GRGM21-WHSize 4/4 for adultsThe price of electric guitars for teens and adults can vary between $150 - $2000! It all depends on the style you decide to play. Each brand has its different series and styles of sound.The Fender guitar remains an essential reference in the field of electric guitars, in particular, the STRATOCASTER series. Adapted to many styles, this series is a real “Swiss Army knife” for guitar playing styles and all guitar lessons.You can also find very interesting products for less than $ 200:EPIPHONE - LES PAUL SPECIAL IIEPIPHONE - SG SPECIALIBANEZ GRX20ZCORT G110LAG - ARKANE66Feel free to follow these recommendations.I advise you, however, not to buy an electric guitar for your child until they are old enough to play on a standard size.Looking at buying your first guitar? We hope you find this helpful.Indeed, most of the time the models suited for younger children sound very bad. They are often unplayable and unreliable, with poor stability of tunings, poor acoustics, unreliable intonation, and wobbly guitar pickups.  All the Specifics That You Need to Know Before Buying Your First GuitarDreadnoughtJumboElectro-acoustic  Folk Dreadnought Guitars are the big guitars of cowboys with metal strings. It is the most versatile and popular type of folk guitar. Perfect for rhythm, it adapts well to fingerpicking and accompaniment. Its size, on the other hand, is quite a handicap for those small in stature and women.Jumbo Folk Guitars or more “classic” forms: it sounds p retty crystalline, with less bass than in a dreadnought. But playing it is more flexible; you can brush the chords or play with a pick. The size doesn't necessarily affect the playability.Folk Acoustic-Electric Guitar: you can also go with an acoustic-electric variant. Indeed, a classical or folk acoustic guitar is not equipped to be sounded loudly like an electric guitar. The acoustic-electric guitar is equipped with a preamp and a jack output.With or without microphones?Even if an acoustic guitar sounds without a microphone, it is necessary to amplify it when playing in a group of other loud instruments (electric guitar, piano, drums…)Therefore, some acoustic guitars are equipped with a microphone allowing them to connect directly with an amp (different from the amps for electric guitars).The microphone is different from that of the electric ones and is not seen: it is a sensor, integrated into the bridge.It is, therefore, a useful tool in the guitarist’s toolbox. Several opti ons are available to you when buying your guitar.Going to a specialized store to buy your guitarThese shops are the only places where, not only can you buy your guitar, but you can also test it before purchasing it. You can try it out and listen to the sound, etc.In addition to that, you could possibly get useful advice from a salesperson. At the very least, they may ask you questions that you have not yet asked yourself. And, more often than not, they will be guitar players who know their stuff - about guitar brands, guitar cases, types of electric guitar strings, a guitar amplifier, as well as anything else you might want to know about the body style.  For me, the guitar shop or guitar store is an ideal solution for making the purchase.Buying a guitar on the InternetThe Internet is a great place to quickly purchase a guitar. Keep in mind that you lose the benefit of trying it out in the store, as previously discussed. If you don't know the type of guitar that you want then maybe i t is not the best option.However, it remains a solution for those who cannot go to a store.Finding a pre-owned guitarBuying a used guitar allows for the possibility of paying a lower price than at the store or on the Internet and also negotiating with the seller.Another advantage is, with a little luck, you can meet with the seller and try out the guitar. This is a very positive point for seasoned guitarists, but I do not think that it’s good for a first purchase.More Advice For Buying Your First Guitar!Beware of beginner sets and low prices. Oftentimes these are not very advantageous. Being a beginner is not an excuse to buy a bad quality guitar. Specialized sellers will be able to advise you on the purchase of your first guitar. In short, to start playing the guitar, it is better to choose a classical or folk guitar. How to make the right choice? Follow the advice of your music teacher, but don’t forget to ask the right questions, whether for you or your child. You now know ab out different models to help guide you in your selection and you know the main characteristics of each guitar.It is important to recall the main advantages and disadvantages of the classical guitar and the folk guitar. The right choice is a personal decision.The Classical GuitarIn general, many teachers ask beginners, especially children, to start with this type of instrument. The reasons are simple:They are available in all sizesThe strings are evenly spaced so that finger placement is easier. But this can also be disadvantageous for working the bars… we can’t have everything!The frets are largeThe strings are flexible, which is more suited for children’s sensitive fingersThe price is attractive. Children grow up fast and it is true that you will have to buy several guitars as they grow bigger…that cost must be taken into account!On the other hand, the classical guitar cannot play all styles of music, but it still offers beautiful possibilities. Don’t you want to try flam enco?The Folk GuitarIf you are not afraid of hurting your fingers, you will certainly be drawn to the folk guitar. Yes, with its steel or bronze strings, the tips of your fingers will get callouses!However, once this detail is taken into consideration, the folk guitar does not lack assets:With a neck that is longer and narrower than the classical guitar, you will be able to work the bars and climb the treble more easilyYou will also be able to play various styles, including blues, folk, and even country… Yee-haw!By learning on a folk guitar, you can more easily switch to the electric guitar later on.In any case, think especially of your comfort when learning to play the guitar. Not to mention the sound, which remains a notable difference between these two types of acoustic guitars. The classical guitar will have a soft and warm sound, while the folk guitar will have a more metallic and crystalline sound. Choosing a guitar is also a matter of personal taste.The Essential Accessorie s that You  Cannot ForgetGuitar accessories? Yes, it’s not enough to just buy a guitar, you also have to think about the necessary accessories to help you play at your best! We do not alway think about that when we start…You don’t want to find yourself helpless with an untuned guitar, right? Or worse: a string-less guitar!Find out when and how to buy your next set of guitar strings  - and whether you need steel strings or nylon strings, Ernie Ball Slinky or Elixir.And say goodbye to back pain and bad posture with well-chosen accessories…So take a trip to your favorite music store and invest in all the tools that will be useful to you. No, I don’t push you to buy. You will see that these tips prove to be very helpful!Find out also how to choose the right strings for your guitar...The CaseCall it what you want - a gig bag or a guitar case - but you are going to need something to cover your musical instrument. Sometimes, these come in a beginner guitar pack, but not always.Th is is absolutely the first thing that you need to get with your first guitar. Otherwise, how are you going to get it to your friend's house for a jam session? How are you going to even get it out of the shop?The pickIt’s essential for strumming the strings, are you already perplexed by all of the options?There are all different sorts to choose from, how to decide?There are plastic, wood, metal and even glass picks. Each has its characteristics, but to start it’s better to choose a plastic pick since it’s easier to handle.On the other hand, for just a few cents you can have several models of different thickness (and also with a different rigidity). Let’s not forget what all guitarists will tell you: the pick is the accessory that is lost the most often. It is better to have a few on hand, to avoid spending an hour searching everywhere for it.The capodasterDon't forget essential accessories like the capo!If there is a necessary accessory it is the capodaster, or “capo” for the insiders. This bar that blocks the strings has two uses:It changes the pitch of the instrument to continue playing with the strings you know. This allows you to play faster without changing the position of your fingers.It avoids difficult positioning of fingers when bars and chords are not mastered.How to choose?There are two main variants. The classic capodaster that requires the use of both hands to be installed, and the spring capodaster that can be placed with one hand thanks to the spring system.What other accessories might you need?The tuner and the metronomeIt’s not always easy when you begin to tune your instrument by ear. Therefore, it is very useful to invest in a tuner, especially since it’s not very expensive. You can find one starting at $10. With a tuner, you will be able to make sure that the notes you play are correct.It’s also important to correctly follow the rhythm of the song. At first, you may not be able to keep track of the pace with your foot while playing properly. So let the metronome do this job for you and focus on the placement of your fingers. The metronome’s price is similar to the tuner: starting at $15.If you don’t like having too many objects, there are models that combine the tuner and metronome functions, in the $20 range.The footrest and strapCan’t find a good position to comfortably play the guitar?!It's important to adopt good posture when learning how to play!If your back is hurting from playing the guitar, it’s no wonder if you don’t have a footrest. You can always use a stack of books, a shoe box or any object that you have on hand, but the best thing to use is a footrest. In the price range of $10, it allows you to raise your foot to maintain the correct position without tiring yourself.To play standing (and even sitting), think of the guitar strap. When standing, the strap allows you to hold the guitar. When seated, it helps you secure the instrument.Caring For Your GuitarYou are now perfectly eq uipped. Before you leave, I can’t resist giving you a few last tips to take care of your new guitar. Admit that it would be a shame to ruin it…Rest assured, it is not complicated to take care of a guitar and knowing when to change the strings, just adopt some simple, but essential habits.The guitar’s enemy is the moisture in the air, otherwise known as humidity. Indeed, it should not be forgotten that guitars are made out of wood! One would tend to say that you must be wary of humidity, and while this is true, contrarily the main risk for an instrument is dryness. A guitar that retains moisture will swell, but regain its initial shape afterward. On the other hand, if it dries out too much, the wood shrinks and this is when problems appear: cracks, paint peeling off, etc…To avoid this, store your guitar in its case or cover and never leave it in direct light (especially sunlight), too close to a radiator or excessive heat source.Avoid leaving your first guitar on the beach, i n the sand and in the sun!The strings tend to oxidize. I’m not talking about the classical nylon guitar string, but those of the folk guitar. Metallic strings are also sensitive and not to be neglected. They tend to oxidize with sweaty fingers. To avoid this:Wash your hands before playingAfter playing, clean the strings and under the strings with a soft clothWhen you change the strings, take this time to clean the tuning pegs, on the neck and each fret (metal bars). If the wood is not varnished, dust and deposit risk inlaying the wood. For a gentle cleaning, you will need a soft cloth that’s slightly wet with hot water and a few drops of dishwashing soap. Rub gently to remove dirt encrusted along the frets. Also, think about oiling the key to protect it.In your favorite music store, you will find many products specifically designed for the maintenance of your guitar. Fast Fret is one of the most famous. As a cleaner and lubricant, it protects the strings and key, helping them st ay clean and shiny longer. This prevents the sound quality of your guitar from deteriorating. It’s easy to apply, but you must remember to use the product regularly.Finally, the varnish of the body can be attacked under the effect of perspiration. Also, remember to clean it regularly with a soft cloth.Now that you have the essential information, it’s time to buy your first guitar. The first guitar also usually goes along with guitar lessons. Find a guitar teacher here on SuperPROFAnd one day you could end up playing the guitar onstage… who knows?To get you started, why not consider taking private lessons.  Searching for guitar lessons London  produces the most results on Superprof but there is a lot more choice if you're willing to learn online.If you've chosen a bass guitar, then you might want to opt for bass guitar lessons.

What To Expect From Your Violin Lessons

What To Expect From Your Violin Lessons What To Expect When You Are Learning To Play The Violin ChaptersViolin Teaching Methods:What To Expect When You Learn ViolinWarm Up Exercises For Playing The ViolinTop Tips For Learning ViolinLearning to play the violin is a fantastic goal to train to reach. It takes dedication, motivation and a passion for the instrument. One of the amazing things about violin lessons, however, is that it not only trains you to be able to play the instrument, but it also teaches you how to be a better person. It takes time and precise to learn how to play the violin well.Today we are taking a look at what to expect when you are learning to play the violin. TomViolin Teacher £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors StacyViolin Teacher 5.00 (5) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ValtieViolin Teacher £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors BenedictViolin Teacher 5.00 (8) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TaisiiaViolin Teacher 5.00 (1) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AmyViolin Teacher 5.00 (1) £25/h1st le sson free!Discover all our tutors LuísViolin Teacher 5.00 (6) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MomokoViolin Teacher £45/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsViolin Teaching Methods:Traditional Learning TechniquesThe traditional violin method is a collection of teaching styles that all share a common structure, teaching the student how to read notes. Even as a beginner violinist using this method, you will learn to read music. Although this may be the only commonality among the various teaching styles. It is core to the belief that starting to read notes early on helps music students to become strong sight readers and gives them the opportunity to join in with recitals, music groups or a junior orchestra from early on.Advantages Of This Style:Students can learn the notes by reading music and then later memorise them to help with their technique.Parents are not required to be involved in this technique, and so it is a very low-maintenance style to study.There are lo ts of study aids available to instructors which can help them to teach the violin better.Disadvantages Of This Style:Having to read music while playing the violin can be a bit of an overload and can get in the way of the technique.Additionally, for a very young student who is learning to play the violin, it can be challenging to implement at learners as young as 3 years old may not yet even be able to read books let alone music notes.There is little accountability at home as parents are not involved in music lessons.Suzuki Violin MethodThe method is invented by a violinist from Japan called Shinichi Suzuki, It was his observation that children could learn their mother tongue with relative ease and so he developed this inspiring system using that idea as the foundation. It relays heavily on parent involvement, positive encouragement and repetition.The Suzuki method delays learning to read music, which they call the mother tongue approach. This method treats music classes as a languag e. Immersion is one of the primary ways that students of this method learn.Advantages Of This Style:Students can focus on playing music and on all of the other things they have to remember as reading music is introduced much laterThis method allows you to learn at an increased speed which allows the student to become confident quickly.Because parents are heavily involved in the lessons, the child and parents learn together creating a healthy relationship for learning. Empowering the parents to be able to coach children at home. Which creates a very complete learning program,This method is excellent for music students of all ages. An especially excellent learning method for younger kids.Disadvantages Of This Style:Delaying note reading until so late in the violin classes, may impede the student later on.It is hard for the kids to take part in an orchestra or group shows because they do not read music. They use mostly ear training.Problems can arise for children who don’t work well with their parents.Learning how to play the violin takes time. Photo Source: UnsplashWhat To Expect When You Learn ViolinYou Have To Lose Your EgoLearning how to play the violin takes time, and many other students find themselves getting discouraged when they discover that they are not as good as talented child prodigies. But the violin isn’t about being better than other students it is about being passionate about your music and following your own privately created discipline.Your Violin Needs A Lot Of CareLearning how to play your violin is only part of the work to be done you also need to take care of your violin. Especially if you want to sound your best when you are playing and practising. This will become natural to you over time and is an essential part of being a violinist. As well as tuning your violin you also need to take care of the bow making sure to loosen the violin strings when not to retain the curve in the strings. Violinists use a violin rosin to do this which i s a tool that attached to the strings to create the friction required to make the sound.Unless You Are A Prodigy, You Won’t Sound Good For A Long TimeIt takes a lot of time, dedication and determination to be able to play the violin well. In the beginning, you will likely find that the sound that you create is very unattractive. It is important to remain enthusiastic and try to focus on remaining motivated. There is lot’s that goes into mastering the violin, and to play well could take as long as a few years.You Will Become Part Of A CommunityBecause of the dedication, it takes to learn to play the violin, you find that there is an active community around the instrument. People group together as s form of encouragement, this creates a supportive and passionate community.Having to read music while playing the violin can be a bit of an overload. Photo Source: UnsplashWarm Up Exercises For Playing The ViolinFinger PlacementFinger placement is crucial for playing the violin, If you don’t master finger placement, you will never create a great sound. Playing simple scales in the first position is a well know tip to help to tune your ear to the sound of the notes and train your fingers where to go. It is a good idea to play with a tuner so that you know that you are getting the right sound for each note each time.Playing Long StringsPlaying long open strings is an excellent way to learn bow placement and practice making consistent and clear sounds. When practising move to stand in front of the mirror and slowly draw the bow over the each of the strings paying close attention to placement. This also a good time to learn about the weight of the bow and focus on how it moves across the strings.String CrossingBeing able to move smoothly from string to string with precise placement, is very important, as is maintaining good posture and focusing on your movements as you practice.Fourth Finger PracticeWe don’t often use our little finger for much, but it is just as important as any of the other fingers in violin. If you hope to reach professional musician level with your practice, you will need to learn to use all of your body to play the music. Your little finger, in this case, is critical as sometimes you won’t be able to reach the strings in the correct location with your other fingers. In this case, you must strengthen your little finger so and practice with it so that you can give yourself more reach while playing.Finger placement is crucial for playing the violin. Photo Source: UnsplashTop Tips For Learning ViolinUse online  violin mobile apps, you can find apps to track your progress, for tuning your notes or for joining a community of other musicians. Since you probably use your phone quite a lot, integrating your violin practice with your phone apps makes good sense.Make sure to focus on your posture, it is an integral part of your music. Good posture helps you to play even better and prevents fatigue. Exercises to loosen and open u p your body before playing can support better stance in the long term. It is probably worthwhile finding a short exercise routine that allows your body the flexibility needed to play well.Create a violin practice habit and stick to it, if you are serious about getting better, you will need to practice playing the violin every day. If you have a set time to practice you are more likely to stick to it. Distractions are bound to come, and sometimes you may seem too busy but maintaining a constant practice is the best and most efficient way to become a violinist.Keep your sheet music together and in good order and keep a pencil with it so that you can write any breakthrough down as you are practising. As you practice each day, you will need to be able to find the song that you were working on. Even if you can remember how to play without the music, your notes written on the sheet music will still be an invaluable resource to have with you as you practice.Make sure to tune your violin at the start of each and every practice session. This is some you will be doing a lot so either learning how to use this by ear or getting an app that can help you will be important. You cannot play the violin with an out of tune instrument. If you do, you will be damaging your violin and your ear. You do not want to practice and learn notes that are not in tune if you are serious about improving your skills.Final tip: look for a violin teacher near me.For students of the violin whether you are thinking about violin lessons with a tutor, just learning to play, an intermediate learner or a professional violinist. Learning the violin naturally instils students with skills such as patience, focus, precision, confidence and many other skills which are very useful to have in life in general. Enjoy your music program.

What is it Like to Attend Harvard University

What is it Like to Attend Harvard University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach theyre sharing their college experiences as well. Jonathan is a 2011 graduate of Harvard University where he studied Philosophy. He currently tutors in Los Angeles, specializing in a multitude of subjects including Statistics tutoring, SAT prep tutoring, ACT prep tutoring, and Chemistry tutoring. See what he had to say about his time at Harvard: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Are there buses or do you need a car/bike? Jonathan: Cambridge is very easy to navigate.Campus is pretty much totally flat and everyone walks or bikes to class.There is also a subway stop right in the middle of Harvard Square and Boston is an easy 20-minute commute away. I think one of the best features of Harvard is its location right outside of the college-mecca of Boston. Theres always something fun and interesting going on. VT: How helpful are the academic advisors? Jonathan:The academic advisors at Harvard are top-notch.Every student has multiple advisors (professors, RAs, upperclassmen) assigned to them and they are all quite friendly and helpful. My freshman year academic adviser is the reason that I ended up graduating as a Philosophy major! VT: How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Jonathan: Dorm life at Harvard is great.99% of students live on campus because the housing is so awesome. All upperclassman students are assigned to 1 of 12 upperclassman houses.Each house has its own dining hall, library, class rooms, gyms, etc. My house even had 4 squash courts in the basement.People play intramural sports for their houses (it gets pretty competitive) and each house has its own graduation ceremony for its seniors where you get your actual diploma. VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? Jonathan: The most popular majors at Harvard are easily Economics and Government.However, there are a plethora of other majors available and if theres something you want to study that Harvard doesnt officially offer, you can petition the school and literally create your own area of study. VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Jonathan: As a freshman, it was very easy to meet people and make friends.The Harvard community is phenomenal and nearly everyone I met was extremely friendly and interesting. VT: How helpful is the Career Centerand other student support services? Jonathan: OCS (Office of Career Services) is very helpful.While I knew that I was going to graduate school (and thus didnt spend much time there), all of my friends who were trying to get a job right of college told me that OCS was a great resource. VT: How are the various study areas such aslibraries, student union, and dorm lounges? Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious? Jonathan: The Harvard library system is second to none.The school actually has 12 libraries on campus (plus 12 more, one in each of the upperclassman houses, for a grand total of 24).There is literally no book that Harvard does not have in the reserves or cannot get you.The student body is extremely studious and come finals period, its not surprising to see kids literally camped out (tents, sleeping bags, and all) in one of the libraries. VT: Describe the surrounding town. What kinds of outside establishments / things to do are there that make it fun, boring, or somewhere in between?To what extent do students go to the downtown area of the city versus staying near campus? Jonathan: Cambridge is a great little city that has been built up around Harvards campus. It has a plethora of restaurants and shops, a movie theater, etc.Cambridge also happens to be situated right along the Charles river, which is beautiful in the spring and fall.And once you get bored of Cambridge, historic Boston (which speaks for itself) is just a short subway ride away. With 50+ colleges and universities in the greater Boston area, there are college students everywhere. VT: How big or small is the student body and how does that affect your experience? Jonathan: The undergraduate student body at Harvard is right around 7,000 (~1,700 per class).I think its a perfect size for a college as its large enough to allow you to constantly meet new people but small enough where you dont just feel like a number. I never had a problem getting into the classes that I wanted or getting in to see a professor. VT: Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. Jonathan: One of my favorite classes that I took at Harvard was a senior seminar entitled The Science of Happiness. It was taught by a Harvard Medical School professor and only 20 students were permitted to enroll.We read about and discussed fascinating research into the psychological and neurobiological underpinnings of happiness from chemical stimulation to friendship to love. It was extremely interesting and a class that I will never forget. Check out Jonathans tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.