Top Reasons to Study Botany

Top Reasons to Study Botany Learn About the Importance of Botany ChaptersWhat is Botany?Careers in BotanyHow to Study Botany like BotanistsTo be honest, botany isn’t often considered to be as sexy a science as neurology or genetics â€" in fact, it isn’t often even considered a very interesting one. However, this is due mostly to the vague understanding of what exactly botany is and how botanists work.To understand botany, it is important to know that the field involves an enormous amount of diversity in terms of the subjects it covers. In fact, it makes up on of the three main branches of biological studies and ranges from plant breeding, ecology, medicine and even studies on the molecular level. While people may not recognize at first what botany is, it is, in fact, the study of all plants â€" so if you’ve ever been interested in the genres, processes and environments of plants, you’ll definitely benefit from learning about the history, study and careers involved in this field.Plant growth is often studied in laboratoriesBe sure about the terms: as in all biological sciences, botany can involve many new definitions and concepts. If you’re struggling to catch up on everything from biogeography to basic plant characteristics, there are a host of resources online that can help you create flashcards or simply remind you of what your terms actually mean.Check out the biology department: this goes for high school and undergraduate students. If you are struggling in class, are curious about possible career paths, or need to choose a thesis advisor, talking to the professors in your biology department can save you a lot of time and energy.Be curious: like previously mentioned, we start learning botany as children as an inevitable process of beginning to understand and classify the world around us. If you’re having trouble summoning up the energy to study for that biology exam, or simply have lost motivation to study your degree, find some inspiration in nature itself!Biology has an enormous amount of diversity within it s countless fields, but Botany is actually one of the most dynamic!

6 Wonderful Blogs to Help You Learn French Online

6 Wonderful Blogs to Help You Learn French Online Megan L. Congratulations on deciding to learn to speak French! Your journey with this beautiful language is bound to be exciting, occasionally difficult, and ultimately rewarding. As you practice the language and study with a French tutor, you should also consider following a few French blogs. Reading fresh updates from other language students and teachers will help you stay engaged in your studies and keep your enthusiasm for French alive. Plus youll learn lots of fun stuff that might not be in your textbook. Here are six of the best blogs where you can learn French online: 1. French Today If youre interested in learning French slang, dialects, and a bit about French culture too, the French Today blog is the perfect place to start! You might learn vocabulary the French use on social media, or how Canadian French differs from what is spoken in France. Based in northern France, French Today is run by a husband and wife team whose enthusiasm for their language and culture shines in every post. 2. I Learn French Adults learning French as a second language will find lots to relate to on I Learn French. This blog is the frequently updated story of William Alexanders mission to learn French in his fifties. He also shares great insights and anecdotes gleaned from his travels in France, plus an occasional recipe. Even though it can be harder to learn languages as an adult, William chronicles these challenges in his blog with a sense of humor and determination that will make you feel like you have a friend learning French online right beside you. 3. French Crazy If you dream of living in France, youve got to follow this blog! French Crazy is run by native English speaker John Elkhoury, who is currently living and working in France. His blog highlights French culture, from spectacles like la fête des lumières to day to day differences like how French credit cards differ from those used in North America. Reading French Crazy is like taking a mini-vacation to France every day. Related: How Long it Takes to Learn French 4. Learn French With Jennifer Jennifer is an American French and English teacher living in southern France with her husband and children. On her blog, Jennifer shares wonderful video lessons for beginners, full of examples and clear explanations. Her mission is to make learning languages easy and fun, and she certainly succeeds. Jennifers love for language is contagious, and her blog is sure to keep you inspired even when you run into difficulty in your studies. 5. Talk in French Talk in French contains so much good stuff that I dont know where to start. Audio podcasts, movie recommendations, interesting vocabulary the list goes on and on! Talk in French founder Frédéric Bibard believes that the best way to learn languages is to make great habits that reinforce your learning. Talk in French is certainly a habit-forming, potentially addictive, blog for French learners. Youll keep coming back for the podcasts, articles, and most importantly the motivation to keep learning French. 6. French Together If youre traveling soon to a French-speaking country, French Together will help you prepare. French Together serves up mini-lessons in French using real-life, conversational examples. Learn French idioms, practice common expressions (like how to ask for the bill at a restaurant), and tips for understanding spoken French. French Together prepares you for conversational French, and youll find yourself chatting at a café in no time! Of course, there are many other wonderful blogs you will find to help you practice your French.  For more resources, be sure to check out the blog Love France and take a look at their list of 100 great websites for studying French. Where do you go to learn French online? Send us a link in the comments below! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo by Gillicious

Part V Conjugating Future Conditional Tenses in Spanish

Part V Conjugating Future Conditional Tenses in Spanish Sign up successful By now, you have come a long way. Remember, this learning is best taught chronologically, so  before you tackle this post you should review  the previous posts: How to conjugate basic Spanish verbs  (present tense) How to conjugate stem-changing verbs in present tense How to conjugate Spanish verbs in past tense How to conjugate the imperfect tense This particular post is about the future tense and the conditional tense  in Spanish. The conditional tense describes what you would like to do given certain conditions, and the future tense describes events that will happen in the future. For example, the following sentences would use the conditional tense: I would go to the game. (Iría al partido) They would see the movie. (Verían la película) Alternately, these sentences would use the future tense: I will go to the game. (Iré al partido) They will see the movie. (Verán la película) Identical to others tenses, the Spanish conditional and future tenses break down verbs into five different ending variants. By now you have probably mastered how it works. All we need to do now is learn another new formula. The conditional tense is strikingly  similar to the imperfect. The key difference is that in the conditional tense, we don’t shave off the -ar, -ir, or -er verb ending first    but the conjugation ending is the same! As we have used the example of the verb mirar (to watch) in the previous articles, lets continue with that. How to Conjugate  -ar Verbs in Conditional Tense DON’T shave off the ending -ar; leave it alone! If you are referring to ‘yo’ or ‘I,’ add the ending ‘ía’ to end the infinitive verb, forming miraría. If you are referring to ‘tú’ or ‘you,’ add the ending ‘ía,’ to form mirarías. If you are referring to ‘él’ or ‘ella” or ‘he or she,’ use the ending ‘ía’ to form miraría*. *Yes this is the same as the ‘yo’ form, just like the imperfect! If you are referring to ‘nosotros’ or ‘we,’ use the ending ‘íamos’ to form miraríamos. If you are referring to ‘ellos’ or ‘they,’ use the ending ‘ían,’ to form mirarían. What about -er verbs? Let’s use comer (to eat) as an example again: How to  Conjugate  -er Verbs in Conditional Tense DON’T shave off the ending  -er Same as -ar  verbs to form comería. Same as -ar  verbs to form comerías. -If you are referring to ‘él’ or ‘ella” or ‘he or she,’ same as -ar  verbs to form comería*. *Yes this is the same as the ‘yo’ form as well! -If you are referring to ‘nosotros’ or ‘we,’ Same as -ar verbs to form comeríamos. -If you are referring to ‘ellos’ or ‘they,’ same as -ar verbs to form comerían. How to Conjugate  -ir Verbs in Conditional Tense Same rules as with -ar and -er verbs See the following charts of key conditional tense verb conjugations: Mirar (to watch): Yo miraría Tú mirarías Él/Ella/Usted miraría Nosotros miraríamos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes mirarían Comer (to eat): Yo comería Tú comerías Él/Ella/Usted comería Nosotros comeríamos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes comerían Vivir (to live): Yo viviría Tú vivirías Él/Ella/Usted viviría Nosotros viviríamos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes vivirían Ready for some practice? Conjugate the following conditional tense Spanish words: Moving on, the future tense does have many irregulars but in this post I just wanted to you get the basic idea. The future tense is similar to the conditional in that you add the ending to the given verb in its infinitive form. Let’s continue with mirar: How to Conjugate -ar  Verbs in the Future Tense DON’T shave off the ending -ar; leave it alone! If you are referring to ‘yo’ or ‘I,’ add the ending ‘é’ to end the infinitive verb, forming miraré. If you are referring to ‘tú’ or ‘you,’ add the ending ‘ás,’ to form mirarás. If you are referring to ‘él’ or ‘ella” or ‘he or she,’ use the ending ‘á’ to form mirará. If you are referring to ‘nosotros’ or ‘we,’ use the ending ‘emos’ to form miraremos. If you are referring to ‘ellos’ or ‘they,’ use the ending ‘án,’ to form mirarán. What about ER verbs? Let’s use comer (to eat), for example: How to Conjugate -er  Verbs in the Future Tense DON’T shave off the ending -er -Same as -ar verbs to form comeré. -Same as -ar verbs to form comerás. -If you are referring to ‘él’ or ‘ella” or ‘he or she,’ same as -ar verbs to form comerá. -If you are referring to ‘nosotros’ or ‘we,’ same as -ar verbs to form comeremos. -If you are referring to ‘ellos’ or ‘they,’ same as -ar verbs to form comerán. How to Conjugate -ir  Verbs in the Future Tense Same rules as with -ar  and -er  verbs See the following examples of key Future verb conjugations: Mirar: Yo miraré Tú mirarás Él/Ella/Usted mirará Nosotros miraremos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes mirarán Comer: Yo comeré Tú comerás Él/Ella/Usted comerá Nosotros comeremos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes comerán Vivir: Yo viviré Tú vivirás Él/Ella/Usted vivirá Nosotros viviremos Ellas/Ellos/Ustedes vivirán Ready for some practice? Conjugate the following in the future tense: The good news is that the future and conditional tenses have the same irregulars! While I won’t go into a lot detail here about the irregulars, here’s some common ones in which their stem changes: Poner ? Pondr forming Pondré instead of Poneré in its future ‘yo’ form Salir ? Saldr forming Saldré instead of Saliré in its future ‘yo’ form Need more help? Contact your Spanish tutor with more questions about irregular conditional and future tense conjugations! Post Author:  Jason N. Jason N. tutors in English and Spanish in Fairfax, CA.  He majored in Spanish at UC Davis, lived in Mexico for 3 years where he completed a Masters degree in Counseling, and studied Spanish Literature and Psychology at the University of Costa Rica. Learn more about Jason here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

Ask an Admissions Expert Brittany Maschal

Ask an Admissions Expert Brittany Maschal Varsity Tutors brings you insider tips and advice straight from nationally recognized admissions experts. Brittany Maschal has held roles in several admissions offices and areas of student services including those at the University of Pennsylvaniaand Princeton University. Additionally, she acquired her Doctorate in Higher Education at The George Washington Universityand currently runs her own consulting service, B. Maschal Educational Consulting. See what she had to say about the undergraduate admissions process: VT: How far ahead of time should a student begin working on his or her college application? Brittany: Better late than never is not applicable when it comes to beginning the work that goes into crafting a strong application. If you have your sights set on college, begin jotting down all of the activities you take part in and start speaking with your counselor about charting out your coursework in grade nine. This may sound a bit early, but you will be happy you did so come junior year. Nothing is set in stone, and changes can always be made on an as-needed basis. Though filling out actual applications wont begin until the summer before senior year, familiarizing yourself with school-specific and Common App requirements well in advance will certainly take some of the stress out of the process come crunch time. VT: What are the best ways to go about selecting a terrific essay topic? Brittany: Essays are a very important component of the application package. Think of them as an avenue through which you have the opportunity to really wow the admissions committee. What constitutes a terrific topic may vary from reader to reader, but choosing an experience where you are able to highlight what the rest of your application may not convey or convey strongly is essential. More important than the topic, terrific essays utilize a positive tone, are insightful, and should demonstrate a candidates ability to be reflective. They focus less on the what and more on the how and why of an experience, situation, or process. VT: Are there any essay topics you get tired of seeing or would warn students to stay away from? Brittany: Avoid clich or overused topics such as the big win, divorce, or death, and those that may lead the reader to believe you are making an excuse for poor academic performance or lack of participation in extracurriculars. Taboo topics and anything that could be perceived as inappropriate should also be avoided at all costs. Very few applicants are able to craft an essay on a topic of this nature that is well received. Play it safe - you never know who your reader will be and what they may feel crosses the line. VT: What is the biggest mistake a student can make on a college application? Brittany: Starting the process too late! I am a huge advocate of making the application a priority early on. Think of it as an ongoing project throughout high school and one that the applicant has the power to excel in, if they so desire. Organization and self-motivation are key here, and the time and effort one puts into their application and supplementary materials (essays, resume, recs) shows. The biggest mistakes I have taken note of are in the form of simple errors such as grammar and spelling. Ive seen instances where applicants mistype their own name! One way to avoid these fatal application flaws is to reach out for support during the process, ask a friend, family member, or mentor/advisor to help you spot check your work. A few sets of eyes are always better than one, so dont be afraid to reach out to others for support. VT: What is the typical process an admissions officer goes through to evaluate applications? Brittany: It depends at what point an officer receives/evaluates the application (Pre-read, 1st read, 2nd read, Committee), and this may vary from university to university. Generally, test scores and grades will be reviewed first. Essays, letters of recommendation and support, if applicable, and then extracurriculars/resums are reviewed in detail, in addition to any other information that may be in the applicants file perhaps an interview report. How each component of the application is rated or factored into whether or not an applicants file moves on is different at every school. The admissions websites of many schools make clear what they take into account when evaluating applications, so be sure to review this information if it is available. VT: What do you think is the single most important thing a student should make sure they present in the best possible way on their application? Brittany: Students need to demonstrate that they are capable of undertaking the level of academic work that will be expected and required of them at the collegiate level and at that particular college or university. VT: How should students go about determining the culture of a university, and whether they would be a good fit? Brittany: Fit is a two-way street. Do your research online and in person by visiting the campus if possible. Make contacts with admissions officers, current students, and alumni. Ask questions, take notes and reflect. Can you see yourself at university X? Will you be successful and happy there academically and socially? VT: Early-action, early-decision, binding/non-binding, regular decisions...With so many choices when applying, what do you recommend to students? Brittany: Do what is best for you taking into consideration your own unique situation. Dead-set on a certain university? Have you visited, done your homework over time, dont need to compare financial aid awards, and decided it is a great fit academically and otherwise? Then apply early decision. Really like a few schools but maybe arent so sure of which one you like best? Maybe your essays need work or maybe you need the fall semester to get your grades up a bit. Then apply regular decision. If you find yourself somewhere in between, early action could be an option. Either way (ED or EA), make sure you are very clear to differentiate between binding vs. non-binding agreements. VT: How important are grades and standardized test scores when admissions decisions are being made? Brittany: Extremely important. From my experience they are the foundation of the application, whether a school wants to be transparent regarding this level of importance or not. VT: What tips do you have for students asking their teachers for letters of recommendation? Brittany: Ask so far in advance that you think it may be too far in advance to ask. Life happens (recommenders have lives, too!) and you want to make sure they have enough time to complete and get the letter to the admissions office prior to the deadline. If you hesitate to ask early because you want them to get to know you more or better, well you are probably asking someone who does not know you well enough, and I would suggest finding a more appropriate recommender. Ask in person (self-explanatory), and if they say yes, set up a time to meet with them to go over your academic record, choice in major, essay topics, and any other information that may support your cause and may be important for a recommender to have, such as future plans (academic and extracurricular). Be sure to let them know the importance of making the letter detailed and unique to you general form letters add nothing to your candidacy. Visit B. Maschal Educational Consulting for more information.The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Arabic Immersion How Best to Do It.

Arabic Immersion How Best to Do It. Ditch the Classroom and Immerse Yourself in Arabic. ChaptersLanguage Immersion: Better Than Mere Language Classes.Which Country Should You Study Arabic In?How Do Arabic Immersion Courses Work?Getting a Student Visa in Arabic-speaking CountriesGetting Scholarships in Arabic-speaking CountriesHow to Study in the MaghrebThings to Be Aware Of.“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself” - John DeweyImmersion in a country where Arabic is spoken as one of the official languages is one of the best ways to learn how to speak the Arabic language.  This only really works if you spend a good amount of time in a place.  Generally, we'd recommend at least a semester.According to UNESCO, there were 257,885 students on placements in the Middle East in 2012. 12.3% of them were in the United Arab Emirates and 8.5% were in Jordan.  The number of Arabic-speaking students coming to Western Europe is much lower.Whether you're interested in Islamic studies, want to learn more about Arabian culture, or are planning to travel to a Mi ddle Eastern country, immersion remains the best option when it comes to learning Arabic.In this article, we’re going to look at which Arabic-speaking country you should study in, how you get your visas and paperwork sorted in these countries, how to get scholarships for universities in Arabic-speaking countries, and what studying in North Africa is like. HalimaArabic Teacher £13/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KotaibaArabic Teacher 5.00 (3) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SoledadArabic Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NancyArabic Teacher 5.00 (1) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TaouesArabic Teacher £8/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DinaArabic Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AbrarArabic Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors UsamaArabic Teacher 5.00 (1) £17/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsLanguage Immersion: Better Than Mere Language Classes.If you really want to develop your proficiency in a foreign language, there is nothing better than enrolling onto a language learning course in a country that speaks that language. Attending a language program that meets for a class weekly is not even comparable.Language and culture are often deeply entwined - and attending language courses in that country gives the learner an insight not just into the new language, but into the world that speaks it too. Having the cultural coordinates of the second language you want to learn helps you make sense of the language itself. There are cultural references embedded in the language that will be clarified by your exposure to that culture. Meanwhile, learning colloquial expressions and Arabic phrases and dialects will help you sound like a native speaker.By studying in a context in which you cannot leave the classroom and speak English again is another fantastic part of language study abroad. You are forced to learn to speak from the very first moment - something which develops your fluency, vocabulary, and your pronunciation. It also, over time, prevents that mindset in which it is embarrassing to make mistakes: the possibility of communicative success in Arabic relies on you actually speaking Arabic - and the quicker you are comfortable with this the better.The change of mindset that comes with being in a different place helps the language learning experience too. Rather than being in the same classroom in your home town, you are much more likely to actually learn something with a radical shift in environment.Obviously, however, all this stuff obscures one of the most important aspects of the immersion experience. That's that it doesn't just help your language learning but it's incredibly inspiring, exciting, and enjoyable too. These will be some of the best experiences in your life, living in a different country, experiencing a way of life completely different to your own, and developing a larger sense of the world.Find great Arabic cours es London now.Which Country Should You Study Arabic In?It should be mentioned that not every country in the Arab world is somewhere you can go. Whilst the concern about the 'safety' of Arab countries is often a bit of a dog-whistle - with many in the west holding the problematic assumption that the Middle East is a dangerous, monolithic bloc - you should take the time to find out which countries are okay to visit and which are best avoided. For example, conflicts in Iraq, ongoing civil war in Syria and now Libya, and dictatorships in many other countries, make parts of the region risky for anyone who is not sensible and prepared.There are inherent risks no matter where you go. (Source: 8moments)The Arab spring resulted in instability in parts of North Africa as Arabs overthrew regimes in various countries.  As a rule of thumb, you should probably avoid border regions and certain countries in the Arabic-speaking world: Libya, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Algeria, and Yemen.Additionally, in Saudi Arabia, the ruling powers don’t really have a great record when it comes to human rights.  This leaves countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman.Generally speaking, the best places to go to learn the Arabic language are the United Arab Emirates and Egypt because the dialect of the latter is the closest to Modern Standard Arabic.You need to keep in mind that the security risk of Egypt is higher than some of the other countries on this list.  You can also study in Lebanon and Jordan, which have an even higher security risk.While you can travel on a tourist visa for 90 days in Morocco, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, you’ll need to get a student visa to start a university course or a language course at a language school.With all that said, there are plenty of countries where Arabic is the official language and plenty of Arab countries that are safe with welcoming and friendly people. Here's just a selection.Jordan.One of the most popular pla ces to take an Arabic immersion course, Jordan is a country known for such incredible sights as Petra, Jerash (an ancient Roman ruin), and the capital city, Amman. If you are looking to do Arabic immersion, the chances are you will find yourself in Amman, a busy, modern, and beautiful city.Known as one of the easier places to travel in the Middle East - as it attracts many tourists from the Arab world and Europe - it will provide a wonderful experience for anyone looking to learn Arabic whilst sampling the range of Arab culture.Find Arabic language course here.Egypt.Known for its pyramids, its ancient pharaohs and gods, and the mighty river Nile, Egypt will be forever on the map of those looking to see the world. And, whilst, these days, the political climate has become rather concerning, it remains a safe place to travel - as long as you don't head into the North Sinai nor into the desert west of the Nile. Take care, don't do anything risky, and follow government advice, and you'll have no trouble at all.The chances are that, if you take a language immersion course in Egypt, you'll be based in Cairo - the famous capital. However, there are also great opportunities to study in Alexandria and in Dahab - a spot famous for diving.Morocco.Morocco is the north-west African country that appears to extend an arm to reach Spain, separating the Mediterranean from the Atlantic. Owing to this geographical proximity to Europe, it enjoys a cultural proximity too - and it brands itself as the safest and easiest country in the Arab world in which to travel.Arabic language immersion experiences are available in Rabat - the capital city - in Marrakesh, and in Tangier. Whilst Marrakesh, the ancient city and popular tourist destination, might appeal more for its familiarity, beauty, and pace, Morocco's other cities are potentially even more interesting.UAE.The United Arab Emirates is a country that is historically, culturally, and demographically unique. Famous once only for its pearls, oil was discovered beneath the country in the 1950s. Since then, wealth has piled on wealth, and the state is now known for its two cities - Dubai and Abu Dhabi - that boast jaw-dropping architecture, pristine beaches, and a culture based on commerce.Travelling to these cities is, essentially, the norm: of a population of nine million people, only 1.4 million are actually Emirati citizens, with the rest being expats. Here, you'll be in good company - and there are plenty of language courses available.Lookup for Arabic courses for beginners here.How Do Arabic Immersion Courses Work?Arabic immersion courses - like all language immersion courses - work like any other language course in the UK. However, rather than a lesson a week or something like this, what you'll get is a much more intensive experience, studying between four and six hours a day.Across this time, you will be learning everything from the Arabic alphabet to pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar - the normal th ings you should expect from a language class.However, depending on where you will be, and the school you attend, you may have radically different experiences. If you are on a reasonably short trip for the language experience, the schools will organise sight-seeing trips at the weekends. They might organise evening visits to cultural experiences or social experiences for the students of the school. All of these things are designed to make your trip fun - but of course you are not obliged to attend.If you are attending university in an Arabic-speaking country, the experience will be much different - obviously. You will be living in the country properly, and unless the institution helps you out (see below), you will have to think about the social and life stuff yourself.How Much Should I Expect to Pay?Immersion experiences vary in terms of cost depending on the region you wish to visit, the length of your course, whether they provide accommodation, etc etc etc.As you can imagine, the G ulf States - such as UAE - are the most expensive in terms of cost of living, and the costs of immersion courses will reflect that. Entry level prices offered by the website, ESL, show the following:Morocco £295 / two weeksJordan £270 / two weeksUAE £1270 / one weekEgypt £380 / two weeksSo, whilst the UAE offers glitz, the costs may well be prohibitive. Regardless, it is well worth shopping around to see what the other options are like. HalimaArabic Teacher £13/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KotaibaArabic Teacher 5.00 (3) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SoledadArabic Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NancyArabic Teacher 5.00 (1) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TaouesArabic Teacher £8/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DinaArabic Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AbrarArabic Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors UsamaArabic Teacher 5.00 (1) £17/h1st lesson free!Discover all our t utorsGetting a Student Visa in Arabic-speaking CountriesFor example, if you want to live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi while you study, you’ll need a student visa.  The quality of life in the United Arab Emirates, where these cities are, is very high, notably due to:The subtropical desert climate where the average highs are 24 °C in January and 40 °C in JulyA high standard of livingAn excellent healthcare systemHigh-quality infrastructureAll of these things come from the fact that this state is absolutely filthy rich - due to the presence of oil.Once you've got your visa, you'll need to get your flights! (Source: jackmac34)Those from countries who are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council won’t have the same visa requirements.You’ll need a sponsor from the host university of the private school, a valid passport, and a copy of an admission letter.  Student visas are valid for 12 months. Depending on the situation, the visa can cost up to £600.You’ll need the following documents fo r a residency visa in Abu Dhabi or Dubai:A photocopy of your passportA colour ID photoMedical insurance valid in the United Arab EmiratesThe visa application formYou’ll also need to health insurance if the host university doesn’t cover this, which can cost up to between £10,000 and £15,000.If you’re heading to Amman, Jordan, where there are several universities, you’ll need a tourist or business visa before you go. You’ll change this visa once you get there.You can also study Arabic in Saudia Arabia. This country is notorious for its human rights, but you can get a visa if you’re studying there.  You’ll need to apply for a visa through visa agencies accredited to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia.Getting Scholarships in Arabic-speaking CountriesStudying in the Middle East or member states of the Arab League often comes at a cost.You can learn Arabic in Doha! (Source: Konevi)This is why so many students apply for scholarships to help them pay for their studies and exp enses. Scholarships are usually given out in accordance with a student’s grades and the very best will be encouraged financially to continue their studies.These are generally provided by public organisations or by rich families. For example, the Saudi Royal Family also provide scholarships.Scholarships in QatarQatar University has a scholarship for students wanting to improve their level of Arabic. This is for those who already have a good understanding of Arabic but don’t speak it as a native language.Before you leave, we recommend you get intensive Arabic lessons from a private tutor so that you can get around once you’re there.You can improve your linguistic skills in Arabic such as writing, speaking, reading (from right to left), and learning more about the role of the language and the history of Arabic culture.The scholarship for Qatar University in Doha includes:Student visaResidence permitApplication fees and textbooksReturn flightsUniversity accommodationThree daily me alsYou should be aware that you’ll need a letter of recommendation and you’ll need to be able to speak in Arabic or English with the administration.There are three types of organisation that offer scholarships: The Qatar Foundation, the ruling family, and scholarships from UK universities.Arabic ScholarshipsThere are multiple scholarships available from host institutions in the UK for those wanting to study a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Arabic-speaking countries.  You can go to countries like Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia, for example.  That said, you can also get scholarships in Morocco, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. You should have a look at different organisations offering bursaries and scholarships.How to Study in the MaghrebYou can also learn Arabic in Morocco and Tunisia.You can learn Arabic in Tunisia, too! (Source: Skitterphoto)The countries in the Maghreb (North Africa) also often speak French because many of them were once colonised by the French em pire.  Foreign students wanting to study in the Maghreb should probably get good A-Level or degree results.In Morocco, you’ll need to put together an application and get it to the “Agence Marocaine de Coopération International” (Moroccan International Cooperation Agency) before the 31st July each year.Your application needs to include:The routes or establishments the bursary will be for.The application form from the AMCI.Photocopies of results and transcripts.The student will receive a letter if their application is successful.Once you’re in Morocco, you’ll need to finish your registration at the university, find accommodation, and get a residency permit.Keep in mind that the dialect used in Morocco, also known as Moroccan Darija, is actually quite different from other dialects of Arabic. An Egyptian may not understand you if you speak this dialect of Arabic, for example.If you study in Tunisia, you’ll need a visa, a residence permit when you arrive, and to be accepted onto a course at a Tunisian school.Living in a country in the Maghreb allows you to benefit from a lower cost of living than in the UK or the countries in the Gulf.You’ll need six different documents to get your Tunisian residency permit:A certificate proving your enrollment at the universityThe receipt for the payment of your tuition feesYour lease contractTwo ID photosTwo tax stampsProof of financesProof of medical and accident insuranceThe steps you’ll need to take before you before going to an Arabic-speaking are similar to other countries around the world. After you’ve learnt Arabic, you’ll have quite the CV!Before you go, it's a good idea to get private tutorials from one of the private tutors on Superprof. You can get private one on one tutorials, online Arabic course, or group tutorials.Private tutorials are the most expensive per hour but arguably the most effective. Online tutorials offer a cheaper option for tailored tutorials as the tutors don't have travel costs to account for.If you're on a budget, group tutorials are cheaper per hour but your tutor's attention will be divided between you and the other students. That said, this is really useful if you're going to an Arabic-speaking country with some friends.Things to Be Aware Of.When traveling to a different country, the thing you need to remember is respect. There will be different ways of doing things: different customs, different ways of eating, different ideas of acceptable standards of behaviour. Some countries are more notorious than others for the strength of the standards they enforce - but the areas better-trodden by tourists are generally going to be more relaxed than the more remote places.Considering this, it is worth briefly covering some things that you might want to know before you get off the plane. Whilst this often sounds a little scary, it's best to know what you are dealing with.Drinking alcohol. - The consumption of alcohol in the Middle East is not so common as it is here. Let's say, it's best not to stumble down the street raucously waving a bottle of Bacardi. Some hotels serve alcohol, but don't expect it in every restaurant - and in Saudi Arabia, you'll find that possession of alcohol is just flat-out illegal.Covering up.  - Dressing modestly is something generally recommended when travelling in the Arab world. By this, we mean covering shoulders, legs, and - in the more conservative countries - even your hair. If you don't do this, you'll may receive unwanted attention, hassle, and touching. It's best to dress like the locals.Travelling as a woman.  - There are a lot of horror stories on this topic, and a general fearfulness around the advice for women. Generally speaking, it's not as bad as you may have heard. Again, the name of the game is do as the locals do.Eating.  - It's not all falafel and hummus, just to begin. Otherwise, it's important to know that you should eat with your right hand, and never your left. And, if you don't want to eat with your hands, practise your Arabic and just ask for a fork.  The important to remember in all this is that, with customs, you are allowed to get it wrong. Unless you are rude, offensive, or downright weird, no-one is going to care if you do something slightly different.

100+ Online Tools and Resources for Musicians

100+ Online Tools and Resources for Musicians Brooke Neuman Are you ready to take the music scene by storm? As a musician, you’re well aware of how difficult it  is to make a name for yourself or your band. Practicing until the wee hours of the night, juggling several odd jobs, and traveling to play multiple gigs are just a few of the sacrifices you make as a musician. Luckily, there are a ton of online music resources that can help make your life easier, including platforms that help you find gigs and websites that assist in promoting your band. Since we know you’re busy being a rock star, we’ve rounded up over 100 of the best online music resources that will help take your career to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for some time, these music resources are sure to help you. Sick of rehearsing in your studio apartment? Or is your current space too expensive? Here’s a list of online resources that you can use to find the perfect rehearsal space that fits within your budget. Fractured Atlas: Through their SpaceFinder program, Fractured Atlas helps artists find the space they need, while helping venues promote and rent their spaces. It’s a win-win. Musicnomad: Musicnomad does all the heavy lifting for you. All you have to do is type in your zip code, specify the mile radius, and choose your perfect space. Rehearsal space finder: Rehearsal Space Finder is another easy-to-use service. Just enter your location and what you’re looking for and you will be presented with a list of nearby venues. Craigslist: If you’re looking for a low-cost option, browse Craigslist for a rehearsal space near you. Oftentimes, rates are more negotiable. Booking gigs on a consistent basis is extremely important for both promotional and monetary reasons. Here’s a list of online tools  that will help you book more music gigs. Gigsalad: Gigsalad, a platform in which party planners can find and book talent, is great for local musicians. Signing up is easy; all you have to do is create a profile and wait to get booked. ReverbNation: ReverbNation is dedicated to helping emerging artists build their careers. The platform’s “Gig Finder” tool helps artists connect with different venues, festivals, publishers, and labels. Gigmasters: Similar to Gigsalad, Gigmasters is a platform where people can book various vendors, including DJ’s, singers, and live bands. The website allows you to create a customized profile and choose from a range of memberships. Splitgigs: Splitgigs is a unique social network that allows artists to “split” their gigs with other artists. This website is great for those who are just getting their feet wet. You can also find music gigs uploaded by venues and organizers. Additional tools: Sonicbids Songkick Bandsintown GigWish GigFinder Need some help promoting your band? Below are some great websites for getting your name out there and generating fans. Don’t forget social media too! CDbaby: CDbaby has a number of different partnerships with brands that can help promote your band. For example, FanBridge, PledgeMusic, and Merch.ly. Dizzyjam: Dizzyjam is a free online service in which musicians can create and sell branded merchandise. To get started, create your personalized shop, and then develop products for sale. BandPage:  BandPage is another easy-to-use platform.  Upload your profile, bio, pictures, videos, tracks, and tour dates and BandPage will update that information across the Web for you. BandApp: Perfect for musicians who have a solid fan base, BandApp allows users to share music, tour dates, and news  directly with fansâ€"for free! Music Gorilla: Music Gorilla connects artists with industry professionals. Artists can sign up, upload music, and create a profile page. Whats more, the company  does live, label showcases and provides artists with film and television placement opportunities. Additional tools: Twitmusic Eventful last.fm Ourwave Wix Music TopSpin Whether you want to share one song or an entire album, there are a variety of websites in which you can share your music with fans around the world.  Check out the ones  below! Radio Airplay: With Radio Airplay, musicians’ music plays on stations featuring the popular artists they choose. What’s more, artists have access to reports and data about their fan base. Stageit: With Stagit, artists perform live online shows via their mobile device. Fans can ask questions or request songs. Fans can also monetarily support their favorite artists. On SoundCloud: On SoundCloud is SoundCloud’s newest partner program for musicians. It allows artists to upload music, build a profile, and manage stats. Melody Fusion: Melody Fusion is a website in which artists can share their music for free. Musicians can also get feedback from their peers, take master classes, and find a mentor. Additional tools: Tunecore Music Gateway Fandistro Spotify Reddit Music Keeping track of your finances, tour dates, and more can be exhausting, especially if you’re doing it all yourself. Here’s a list of online tools that will help you better manage everything. Bandbook: Bandbook makes your life easier. Within the platform, you can manage your schedule, track your expenses, and send private messages to anyone with a Bandbook account. Artist Growth: Great for both managers and musicians, Artist Growth helps individuals schedule events, create reports, track finances, and manage tour merch all from one place. TeamSnap: With TeamSnap, you can manage member’s contact information, coordinate upcoming events, track group fees, and share files within the group. BandHelper: BandHelper takes care of all the annoying logistical detailsâ€"such as expense reports, set lists, and moreâ€"so you can concentrate on making music. Additional tools: BandLoot Entering music competitions is a great way to get exposure, connect with industry folks, and earn some much-needed cash. Check out the music competitions below. Unsigned Only: Unsigned Only was produced by the same team that created the International Songwriting Competition. Solo artists, bands, and singers can enter a wide range of categories, including rock, pop, country, and vocal performance. OurStage: Artists can enter original music into any of OurStages genre-based channels for a chance to win. Winners are featured on Amazing Radio, which boasts an international listening audience of thousands. Hal Leonard Vocal Competition: The Hal Leonard Vocal Competition is a music competition for voice students comprised entirely of YouTube video entries. International Songwriting Competition: The International Songwriting Competition is an annual song contest for amateur and established songwriters. The contest is judged by an impressive panel of judges, offering great exposure for artists. Additional tools: MuzicNotez Battles American Songwriter Lyric Contest Battle of the Bands Hard Rock Rising: Global Battle of the Bands Brush up on industry trends and get expert advice from peers by browsing through these awesome online music resources. Don’t forget to bookmark your favorite ones! Making Music Magazine: Making Music Magazine  is a lifestyle resource for all types of music makers, featuring professional musician stories, instructional articles, gear guides, and more. Passive Promotion: Created by Brian Hazard, a music veteran with 20 years of experience, Passive Promotion gives artists applicable advice about music promotion. He also regularly features reviews about new platforms. Hypebot: Hypebot features a variety of useful articles for artists. For example, the website features dedicated pages on social media use and music technology. Music Industry Inside Out: Music Industry Inside Out is a music industry knowledge hub filled with expert advice from music industry professionals. The website offers different course topics, such as funding your music, book keeping, and applying for festivals. Make it in Music: Make it in Music is a great website for emerging artists. It has a ton of advice about how to make it big, including how to build your fan base and how to approach a record label. New Artist Model: New Artist Model, an online music business school for artists, has an amazing blog, which regularly features strategies and advice for independent musicians. Additional tools: Music Think Tank Unsigned Band Promotion dawcast.com Music Industry How To Digital Music News Amp Music Marketing Cyber PR Music Hear the Music (gear reviews) Dave Ruch Do you need a branded website or flyers for your next show? Here’s a list of online resources that can help you develop and organize different kinds of marketing materials. BandZoogle: Bandzoogle describes itself as a website builder created by musicians for musicians. The website will help you create a customized website where you can sell merch, tickets, videos, and more. CASH Music: This nonprofit organization  helps musicians manage their mailing list, sell music, and organize their digital worldâ€"free of charge! Haulix: Haulix is a one-stop-shop for musicians. Using the platform, you can create promos, manage contacts, track progress, and more. Bandcamp: This free service does just about everything. Not only can artists share music with fans, but they can also get stats on who’s linking to them, where their music is embedded, and which tracks are most and least popular. Additional tools: INgrooves The Orchard Viinyl Onerpm MobileRoadie Stage Songpier Are you looking to join or start a band? Or maybe you just want to network with other musicians? Here are some music resources that can help you do just that. Kompoz: Kompoz is the ultimate collaboration tool for artists. The website allows you to upload your song idea and collaborate with other musicians from around the world. Indaba Music: Indaba is a place where musicians can collaborate with some of the biggest artists and bands in the world to create new music. Bandmix: Bandmix is the largest musicians wanted and musician classifieds website. Users can search through thousands of musicians in their area. AirGigs:  With AirGigs, songwriters and producers  can connect with  top studio musicians, singers, and engineers and virtually collaborate on projects. Additional tools: Cocompose FindMySong Zipjam eJamming As a musician, you’re always working on your craft. Here’s a list of educational music resources  that will help you sharpen your musical skills so you can perform at your best. TakeLessons: With TakeLessons Live you have access to live online classes led by high-quality music teachers who specialize in everything from ukulele to piano. Take music lessons in the comfort of your own home with its free app. Musictheory.net: Musictheory.net is a great online resource if you want to learn more about music theory. It has tons of free exercises and tools. Free-scores.com: If you’re looking for sheet music, look no further than free-scores.com. The website has tons of free sheet music in a wide range of musical styles, such as blues, classic rock, contemporary, and country. Berklee Online: Berklee Online’s video library has a number of educational videos, including in-depth lessons, exclusive clinics, and course overviews that artists are sure to find helpful. Additional tools: The TakeLessons YouTube Channel Sonic Academy Mutopia Lynda.com 8notes.com Looking for some top-notch gear to help sound your best? Here’s a list of online music equipment stores that offer high-quality instruments and gear at great prices. Music Go Round: Music Go Around sells used musical instruments, such as guitars, amps, drums, and violins, at competitive prices. As an added bonus, you can sell or trade-in your old gear. Music123: From lighting and stage effects to orchestra, Music123 offers over 65,000 products. The website boasts in-depth product information and reviews. Musician’s Friend: Musician’s Friend has a great selection of music instruments and equipment. Don’t forget to check out their blog, called The HUB, for artist interviews, product reviews, buying guides, and more. Sweetwater: Sweetwater is dedicated to keeping its customers satisfied, which is why the company offers a wide range of gear at great prices and free shipping to lower 48 states. Additional tools: GuitarCenter zZounds American Musical Supply Sam Ash Notating:  An independent community with forums, downloads, and news, Notating caters to composers, engravers, and anyone interested in music notation. SongTrust: SongTrust ensures that musicians and songwriters are able to confidently manage their music publishing. The website simplifies everything from the administration of music publishing assets to digital licensing. SonicAngel: SonicAngel offers several different options for artists. For example, musicians can crowdfund their campaigns on the platform of its partner, angel.me. CoPromote: CoPromote is a network of artists dedicated to helping one another grow their fan base by cross-promoting social posts. Radar Music Videos: Need a music video? Through Radar, artists can reach out to up and coming filmmakers to get their music video developed. Additional tools: Nimbit iMaschine 2 Cleartune Road Trip Music Memos Lets face it; making it in the music industry  is hardbut not impossible. Take advantage of these 100+ online  music resources and tools  to help manage, promote, and distribute your music. Good luck! Did we miss your favorite online music tool or resource? Tell us about it in the comments below and we will add it to the list! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

English Listening Exercise iPods, Steve Jobs and Magic

English Listening Exercise iPods, Steve Jobs and Magic When I heard today that Steve Jobs has retired as head of Apple, I wanted to make an English listening exercise that had an Apple theme.Jobs is, I think, one of the greatest businessmen in American history, and Ive always loved Apple products (Im writing this on my iMac). Ive heard people say before that Apple products give you the feeling that they are almost magical, which is why I thought this TED video would be appropriate.In the video, Marco Tempest uses iPods to perform magic tricks. Marco is from Switzerland. Like a lot of modern English speakers, he is not a native speaker, so he has a slight accent. This is good listening practice for the real world that English is spoken in these days.Why you should listen to Marco Tempest:Marco Tempest’s imaginative combination of computer-generated imagery, quick-cut video and enthusiastic stage presence has earned him a place in the pantheon of great illusionists. At 22, the Swiss magician won the New York World Cup of Magic, launching him into international prominence. Tempests award-winning television series “The Virtual Magician” airs in dozens of countries worldwide, while his lively phonecam postings on YouTube, done without post-production and video-editing tricks to astonished people on the street, get millions of views (search on virtualmagician). His Vimeo channel showcases his artistic side like his recent hypnotic series levitation, using a high-speed camera.Through his art, Tempest creates a highly entertaining way to be entranced by the reality-bending tech magic that surrounds us all every day.Here is the video, find listening questions below.What type of magic does Marco like? What does his application do? What is his favorite subject? He ___ this wonderful _____ where a rosebush would bloom _____ __ _____ of your ____. Magic is the ____ honest profession, a magician _______ to deceive you and he ____. What do you think the context is when the man in the video says Its just what Ive always wan ted. What was his joke about men and women and lying? I didnt deceive you, you ________ ________. Have you ever deceived yourself? What does it mean that art is a deception? Do you think lying is a fundamental part of life? Do you think men lie more than women?

Note Taking and Memory Put Down the Pen!

Note Taking and Memory Put Down the Pen! Improving Academic Performance Note Taking and Memory Put Down the Pen! Improving Academic Performance Note-taking, once the activity de rigueur of learning and memorizing facts and new information, and an activity that certainly appears, well, active, is fast becoming replaced with newer forms of active engagement. Taking notes has long been lauded as a tried and true approach to memory and retention, as well as the best option for having recorded documents with which to refer after an initial discussion, but note-taking in and of itself might not be the best strategy available and can often become its own mindless, passive, or even distracting activity. Instead, active listening with a more strategic approach to obtaining information allows the brain to stay focused on the lecture while still capturing highlights and overarching ideas. According to an article on Panopto, standard note-taking may be one of the worst options for understanding and retaining what occurred in classroom lecture; “not only do you miss the big picture, but you let your brain know it’s okay to forget the details too,” the article explains. Some, who take copious and ultra-organized notes, whether on the computer or by hand, often find that when they leave the classroom they cannot remember what was said. They cannot point out the big idea or essential question, let alone grasp the smaller components. While the hands were busy jotting down every word of the teacher, the brain was missing out on the big picture or overall theme of the lecturer, as well as the smaller facets thrown in that enrich the overall idea. Bloomberg Business agrees. In an article titled “Taking Notes Kills Your Memory,” the online journal emphatically states “the brain assumes that since the information was written down, there’s no need to remember it.” A great metaphor for this sort of memory-lapse is what happens when we write someone’s number down or plug it into our phones - there’s just no way we are remembering it in our brains, since it remains stored in a notebook or our handy devices! And just as we are learning as a society that one cannot really talk on the phone and drive at the same time in a healthy and sufficient manner, note-taking actually detracts from the brain’s ability to completely focus and engage with the lecture, thus leaving gaps in comprehension and clarity. But what about the necessity of having documents to refer to and use for studying outside of the classroom? What about those individuals who feel completely scattered and disorganized without a reference sheet to remind them of weekly lectures and discussions, or learners who fall on the spectrum of linguistic and visual more than active or kinesthetic? (BCPS.org provides a great visual for determining what learning styles you most identify with.)As supported by TeacherVision, there is plenty of variety in how we learn, so how is this achieved, given the evidence that note-taking might detract from learning? Many schools and universities today are utilizing technology to create reference documents that provide video or audio footage that students can regularly refer back to after the live lecture. Having this handy helps learners of all varieties apply their best practices to getting the most out of the lecture in multiple modes. A student might take some written notes while sitting at home re-watching a lecture, or he might utilize rewinding and re-playing certain portions to gain further clarity on a challenging problem or complex issue. Students who retain information best through audio can listen to the document several times, even while driving or exercising, in order to focus and catch pieces they might have missed the first go-round. Even the most focused and attentive of us can lose our attention span over the course of an hour, and so to have the document for post-referral is extremely helpful and a fantastic use of technology. For those who do recognize in themselves that a certain degree of note-taking is beneficial, jotting down key insights or brief re-written summaries of lecture highlights is beneficial. This allows room for the mind to consider what the major takeaways are while still allowing one to fully engage and think deeply with professor, classmates, or coworkers. A quick article on Edudemic offers excellent tips for active note-taking that allow students to record the significant elements while remaining engaged. OneClass provides recommendations on how to create visually compelling and organized notes, complete with examples. As the world of education and technology continue to evolve and grow, it’s wonderful that we can keep considering the best modalities for learning. Out with the old and in with the new certainly applies to note-taking and how, through modifications and improved practices, we can all benefit more greatly from lessons, lectures, meetings, and classroom discussions. About the Author Stephanie Ingraham is a former English teacher turned writer and tutor with a BA in English from UCLA and a Masters in Education from Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. She is deeply passionate about education, psychology, child and adolescent development, literature, and writing. She believes the education world can benefit greatly from the meditation world - mindfulness and self-compassion are key! In her free time she loves reading and writing, music, baking, yoga, dance, animals, and exploring new cities. She currently lives in Chicago, Illinois. For more information on tutors like Stephanie, click here.