How to Perfect Couple Dancing

How to Perfect Couple Dancing How Can You Learn to Dance as a Couple? ChaptersStep 1: Warming UpStep 2: Learn the MovesStep 3: Practising Along with MusicStep 4: Stretching and Cooling Down“A day without dancing is a day wasted” - NietzscheSeveral studies have shown that dancing can improve a couple’s relationship.  Be it for a night out, a dance show, or just improving your moves, anyone can learn to dance as a couple.So what’s a dance class for couples like?Regardless of whether it’s at a school or with a private tutor, salsa, bachata, waltz, Argentine tango, every dance will follow a similar structure.In this article, we're going to look at what learning to dance is like. We're going to see a common structure that's used for most dance styles, rather than looking at each one so that you have a better idea of what to expect before you both get on the dance floor. SeamDance Teacher 4.96 (24) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JamieDance Teacher 5.00 (6) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ErickaDance Teacher 5.00 (1) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamuelDance Teacher 5.00 (4) £100/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors FlavioDance Teacher 5.00 (7) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HakimDance Teacher 5.00 (5) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HannaDance Teacher 5.00 (4) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ClareDance Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsStep 1: Warming UpMost dance classes london will take place either after working or during your lunch break. This means you mightn’t be full of beans when you show up to your class.As every good dancer and dance instructor knows, before your first dance of the day, you're going to have to warm up. This is why each dance lesson will start with a warmup.Whether you're learning ballroom dance, Latin dance, swing, samba, or the foxtrot, you shouldn't attempt any complicated new dance moves without having gotten your muscles ready.Regardless of whether you’re doing group classes , a trial class, or intensive classes, your dance teacher will probably start with some warming up.You have to stretch before you dance. (Source: energepic)Warming up helps to prepare your muscles for a bit of exercise. Without warming up, your muscles can cramp up and you run the risk of injuring yourself. In order to have a successful dance class, you need to have warmed up properly.You need to warm up gently and stretch various parts of your body: ankles, knees, thighs, hips, shoulders, neck, wrists, elbows, etc.Start with a few simple and gentle exercises like rotating your ankles and shoulders, for example. Then you can start gently attempting the splits, stopping once you start to feel your muscles stretching. Of course, don’t go too far or you’ll hurt yourself!Your dance tutor will make sure you’re doing it right. If you’ve just started your dance lessons, you probably won’t be an expert at warming up, after all.  Your dance teacher will show you how to warm up unti l you can do it without their guidance.Firstly, you’ll do this on your own before doing it as a couple.  Warming up is the perfect time for you to leave all your worries behind. Forget about work and any other concerns and leave your problems at the door of the dance studio.A lot of modern dance tutors prefer to put music on as students warm up in order to help them. Bit by bit, you’ll get the hang of it.Whether you’re doing Zumba, dancehall, modern dance, jazz, contemporary, break dancing, hip-hop, or waltz, make sure to make the most of the ambience.In a couples’ dance class, the music should be appropriate to the style of dancing that you’re learning.  You can certainly make the most of the music if you’re learning Zumba. Some dances an even be used to help you warm up.Step 2: Learn the MovesOnce all the students are warmed up, the next thing they’ll need to do is learn a few dance techniques.  Each style has its own unique set of rules and how to move.Learning danc e steps is essential for learning how to dance. When it's a couple dancing, your routine will have to be choreographed and both dancers will need to be both familiar with their own moves and their partners.Have you already tried learning how to dance by looking at the people on the dancefloor?Learning the steps is key to any dance routine. (Source: Free-Photos)This could be useful on a night out in a nightclub or at a disco if you're not sure how you should be dancing. While you mightn't have a dedicated choreographer, just by watching other people, shows like Dancing with the Stars, and dance videos online, you should be able to get through any social dance situations.If you use social media a lot, you should follow celebrities and famous dancers like Witney Carson, Mark Ballas, Phillip Chbeeb, and Kym Johnson, for example.If you’re getting ready for a dance, it’s a good idea to learn the steps ahead of time. When it comes to dancing as a couple, don’t forget that each person needs to learn their steps and then the couple needs to bring them together.The men are usually on one side of the room while the women are on the other. In a lot of couples’ dances, the steps are learnt with partners facing each other. You’ll have to learn to move one leg back when your partner advances, for example.A dance teacher’s goal is to teach their students as quickly and effectively as possible so that they start showing off their moves on the dancefloor as quickly as possible. This means they’ll learn a few basic steps. They’ll also need to be able to count along with the music and then they need to move around in time to the music.Advanced dancers can improve their legwork as well as incorporate their arms. Of course, your limbs play an important role.  Advanced dancers generally have more freedom when it comes to choosing the dance steps and routines they want to do because they have more moves in their repertoires than beginners. This is when dancing gets re ally interesting as you can let their imagination run wild.When students start advancing is a great time to start teaching them about the history of dance and the different styles available to them.Have you always wanted to master the Viennese Waltz?Step 3: Practising Along with MusicOnce a few dance steps have been mastered, it’s time to start putting them into practice. This is usually when music comes into it.  You need to dance along with the music and use the steps you’ve just learnt.If you're not enjoying yourself, you're not doing it right. (Source: Vladislav83)In couples’ dance classes, this moment can be used for:Learning to leadBalancing each other’s weightImprovisingIt’s all about having fun and not counting each step. You need to learn the steps and bit by bit, you won’t have to think about each step their making and will just let go. It’ll become a habit. Unlike what you probably think, you won’t spend the entire session dancing with the same partner.In a lot of dance lessons, you’ll change partner. You may have to dance with the person to your left or right and keep doing this until eventually, you end up back with your original partner.Why do you have to leave your partner behind?You’ll learn a lot more if you dance for a bit with someone who’s better than you. Dancing with different people can also help you to learn to move in different ways and adapt to any partner.  That’s why you can learn to dance with a partner even if you go to the lesson your own. You might even find your soulmate!When there are more women than men, which can often be the case, some of the women will have to take the leading role. It can be useful to learn both roles.Traditional gender roles are becoming less common in contemporary dance and anyone can learn any role.However, if you learn how to dance the Tango, gender roles are clearly defined!Step 4: Stretching and Cooling DownWhether you’re learning ballroom dancing, Kizomba, Argentine tango, Rumba, Bachata, Cuban salsa, Puerto Rican salsa, pasodoble, Viennese waltz, cha cha, Merengue, Mambo, or flamenco, you’ll still have to do your stretches and cool down at the end.This step usually takes around ten minutes. Your teacher will probably put on some calming music as you slow down your heart rate. These exercises can also make you feel better the following day.By the end of your lesson, you should be feeling pretty good. (Source: lograstudio)Stretching and cooling down are essential parts of any lesson, no matter where it is.Oriental dance, jazz, hip-hop, African dance, tap, Zumba, and ballet lessons all end with a bit of a cool down.  Make the most of this part of the lesson and relax.You can actually feel more relaxed after strenuous exercise. That’s why you should try and do physical activities every day.In a couple’s dance class, you can do stretches as a couple which can make a lot of stretches easier to do. You need to make sure you can feel the stretches wor king.Once the class is over, your teacher will thank you and turn off the music. You can also chat with your teacher at the end of the lesson if you have any questions or just need something clearing up.  You can also ask them about places to go dancing.Dancing elsewhere can also help you learn more quickly. It’s almost like your lesson never ended!If you've just got engaged, don't forget that the bride and groom will have to do their wedding dance. While you won't need to be professional dancers or impress everyone with a complicated swing dancing routine, it might be a good idea to hire a private tutor to help you through the etiquette of the affair, help your partner dance if they've got two left feet, or just help you both get a good rhythm so that you can get people dancing at your wedding.Superprof's complete guide to couples' dancing might help you out, here!The best dance routine is whatever you both feel comfortable with. Nobody is expecting you to do an elaborate hip-hop dance routine that they've seen trending on YouTube, they just want to see you happy, having a laugh, and celebrating your big day so that your wedding photographer can get some adorable dancing pictures of you for your wedding album!If you've never really danced before, don't worry, either! A private dance tutor can put together some simple choreography for you and your partner to do. You can be a romantic couple without having to learn the whole routine from Dirty Dancing!

Difference of Two Squares

Difference of Two Squares The difference of squares is defined as the product when sum of two numbers is multiplied with their difference. Difference of squares is also known as binomial where both the terms are perfect squares and one term is negative. This rule is not applicable for sum of squares. Symmetrically, the difference of the squares can be factored as following as the like terms get cancelled: (a + b)(a - b) = a^2 ab + ab b^2 = a^2 b^2 The like terms ab and +ab got cancelled. In the above formula, both a and b have to be the same numbers. In other words, the difference of squares is applied only when a and b is same. It is explained with the help of the following illustration: (x + 2)(x 3) = x^2 3x + 2x 6 = x^2 x 6. Now, in the above equation we did not get perfect squares because b was not same and there were no like terms. Now, let us examine when b is same. (x 2)(x + 2) = x^2 + 2x 2x 4 = x^2 4 (now, like terms -2x and +2x got cancelled) Problem 1: Find the factors of the following a. x^2 25 b. 4y2 81 Solution: a. x2 25 = Now we will first try to find out the perfect squares. = We know that x^2 is the perfect square of x = And 25 is the square of 5 = Thus, factors of x^2 25 = (x 5)(x + 5) b. 4y^2 81 = We have recognized the difference of squares in the above equation. Now, we have to find the factors. = 4y^2 is the square of 2y = And 81 is the square of 9 = Thus, factors of 4y^2 81 = (2y 9)(2y + 9) Problem 2:- Find the final product of the following a. (x 7y)(x + 7y) b. (3z 5)(3z + 5) Solution: a. (x 7y)(x + 7y) = x2 + 7xy 7xy 49y2 = x2 49y2 (the like terms got cancelled) b. (3z 5)(3z + 5) = 9z2 15z + 15z 25 = 9z2 25 (the like terms got cancelled)

The Future of Health and Fitness Training

The Future of Health and Fitness Training Changes We Can Expect to See in the World of Personal Training ChaptersThe Return of BodybuildingThe Growing Distance Between Parts of the Fitness IndustryAlternative Exercise Programs10 Things to Look Out for in the Fitness IndustryNo one can predict the future, but there’s one thing we can be certain about: the fitness industry will continue to evolve as quickly as technology develops.Fitness brands and their computer engineers specialising in health and fitness tracking can spend months or even years working on a device.When you look at the history of the fitness industry, this progression in the way workout training programs have changed is only natural.Until recently, you could count strength training as lifting weights, doing 3-4 sets of 12 repetitions using an arsenal of gym equipment, then resting for the following 3 days.And then, why not do some cardio endurance training by going for a jog or a bike ride?The age of the internet has changed the way we exercise. You can find a certified online personal trainer  for private training ses sions at a distance or simply train at home using an app - setting and achieving fitness goals has never been so easy to do!Here are a few other things that have changed in recent years:Bodybuilding and muscular toning has made a comebackPersonal training is helping motivate more people to stay activeWifi-enabled devices and social networking has encouraged the creation of fitness communitiesExercise is no longer restricted to the gym; you can work out at home or in the great outdoors!Let’s explore what the future may hold for health and fitness in terms of technology and trends. CalumDrama School Entrance Teacher 5.00 (15) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToriSpanish Teacher 5.00 (1) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors OliviaSchool support Teacher 5.00 (2) £21/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarkESOL (English) Teacher 4.76 (17) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChinese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our t utors JenniferMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LouiseAutoCAD Teacher 5.00 (3) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RickyPercussion Teacher 5.00 (7) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicolasGuitar Teacher 5.00 (2) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MyriamOrganic chemistry Teacher 5.00 (13) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JonathanEconomics Teacher 5.00 (9) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Oluwakemi imoleMaths Teacher 5.00 (1) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AlexPhysics Teacher 5.00 (1) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AdamSinging Teacher 5.00 (14) £48/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ValentiniMusic reading Teacher 5.00 (2) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MilenaMaths Teacher 5.00 (5) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RashmiEconomics Teacher 5.00 (1) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsThe Return of Body buildingEvery day we see advertisements, slogans, and promotions telling us that we need to get fit and look after our health, with words like ‘metabolism’, ‘protein’ and ‘macros’ being thrown around.The modern media never seems to stop showcasing what they think it means to have the ‘ideal’ body.As a key source of information, the world’s population turns to the media only to see that selfie culture has taken over.Becoming physically and mentally healthier has never been more important to people than in recent years. History has already seen similar movements in the world of fitness, and the trend seems to have come full circle once more.By the way fitness is going in terms of its trends, it wouldn’t be out of the question to suggest that bodybuilding will make a comeback very shortly.This doesn’t mean oily athletes covered in fake tan posing on stage in their pants. Rather, people are putting more effort than they used to into increasing their muscular streng th through weightlifting and resistance training as part of their functional training programs.Muscular tone is becoming more and more sought after by athletes ¦ source: Pixabay - lukaszdylkaThere’s a bit of vanity in us all, and it’s highly likely that you’ve looked at yourself in the mirror to see how your body looks when you tense.It is completely possible to gain muscle mass and have an aesthetically-pleasing physique without taking medication or dietary supplements.The most noticeable difference in modern-day fitness is that both budding and experienced athletes have returned to the use of gym machines to build muscle instead of practicing methods based on dodgy exercise science.If you find this hard to believe, just practice gently lifting weighty objects, doing 5 sets of 5 several times a week. You may be surprised at the results - even in the short term.Find personal trainers near me.The Growing Distance Between Parts of the Fitness IndustryThe world of fitness is dev eloping so quickly that the large health clubs are having to change their outlook.At present, a mini-war is taking place, with traditional fitness clubs (offering group training sessions) and personal training services (offering tailored one on one advice from a fitness professional) on opposing sides.The smallest gyms in the industry lack the high-spec equipment found in bigger businesses and tend to only offer the basics, such as step boxes and weights. Although modest, they can offer a good workout.On the other hand, larger gyms offer group fitness classes with an accredited fitness instructor, as well as an arsenal of workout equipment.As the larger gyms are losing out to personal training businesses, the need for them to adapt to survive is becoming more and more urgent.Alternative Exercise ProgramsFitness CommunitiesDespite the growing gap between small and large fitness organisations, sporting communities have begun to emerge, as like-minded people come together to work out a nd socialise.A few of these communities include CrossFit, Zumba and parkrun, and many people find that these kinds of clubs keep them motivated, especially if they’re new to exercising.Being a part of a sporting community fulfils our human need for a sense of belonging whilst also providing a support network from others in similar situations.Breaking Down BarriersExercise programs that can be completed in your workplace have already been developed as the practice of exercise is branching out further away from traditional gyms.Go outdoors and get in touch with nature ¦ source: Pixabay - PexelsBreaking free from the four walls of the gym has a multitude of benefits for each athlete, such as saving time, ditching membership fees and having more flexibility in your schedule.10 Things to Look Out for in the Fitness IndustryPredicting how something will develop in the future isn’t always easy, however, a recent study of the fitness and personal training industry informs us of the man y certainties concerning its evolution.Development of small and medium-sized organisations: gym-goers no longer want to feel that they are disappearing amongst a crowd of people during group training sessions, and prefer one to one coaching during their workouts. For this reason, small and medium-sized fitness clubs will be able to develop their services as more customers move over from the larger gyms.The smallest businesses: Very small or individual personal training businesses will continue to grow in number as demand for one on one training techniques from a fitness professional keeps rising.Growing market competition: with the increasing number of people signing up to personal fitness training, competition for gym members will also rise.Local communities: the most effective way for a smaller gym or personal training business to fend off the competition over the next few years is to focus their attention on smaller communities. Being as close to their clients as possible will be indispensable for these organisations, as people try to cut travel time down to a minimum.Dedicated training options: Club managements will need to start focussing on the needs of the population to win their loyalty with suitable fitness programs that are adapted to a target audience. Many examples of this already exist, with senior fitness classes available at lots of gyms all over the country.Fun fitness: in order to attract the younger generations, health clubs and personal trainers will have to play to their love of gaming by incorporating gaming technologies into workouts.Sport specialism: Specialising in a particular field of fitness such as Pilates, yoga, or fitness nutrition can give gyms and trainers the edge when it comes to attracting a certain type of customer.Focusing their services in one area is just one way gyms can improve their prospects ¦ source: Pixabay - UptownFitnessHigher levels of fitness expertise: With amateur athletes pushing themselves further than ever before, fitness instructors and personal trainers will have to receive a higher level of training in their profession than their usual personal training certification in order to keep their clients safe. In addition to reducing risks of injury and learning first aid and CPR, this can help trainers advise on many levels of health and fitness.Online personal training: More and more people are turning to the internet to find a personal trainer who can coach them via webcam. Though this may seem bizarre, finding an online personal fitness trainer can be a good option for busy people as well as those who travel a lot, for example. This removes the need for the coach and client to travel for their personal training sessions, as the instructor can provide specialist advice from a distance.Fitness trackers: These handy and incredibly clever devices can help people keep an eye on their general level of activity as well as analyse their statistics during a workout.The future of fitness is ce rtainly exciting.Whether you prefer small or large gyms or even working out in the comfort of your own home, the arrival of the internet means that you have access to a wide range of information at the touch of a button â€" you may even get yourself an online personal trainer  who will help you take your training to the next level.

The Best Places for Landscape Photography in South America.

The Best Places for Landscape Photography in South America. Find Latin America’s Greatest Spots for Landscape Photographers. ChaptersWhat is Landscape Photography?What Makes a Landscape Photograph Good?Some Great Spots for Landscape Photos across Latin America.Apart from with gap-yearing teenagers, Latin America doesn’t get much attention from our part of the world. The usual connotations are of drug gangs and dictators, massive wealth inequality, more drug gangs and dictators, football, and they all speak Spanish. Except, of course, they don’t.Stupid stereotypes are far too easily fallen into. And with stupid stereotypes come massive generalisations, a reluctance to correct oneself, and, usually, fear.But, again, it’s all stupid. Because the countries of Latin America are as different as England to Italy, France to Finland, and Poland to Portugal. This is, after all, a whole continent we’re discussing â€" a continent nearly twice the size of Europe. It shouldn’t be so surprising that there is a lot of stuff going on there.Behind the reductive stereotypes, we find a place so beautiful, so disarmi ngly wonderful, that it’s just baffling that the stereotypes have stuck. Here, you have sky-scraping mountain peaks and tropical beaches. You have the largest rainforest in the world and driest desert. You have immeasurable plains and endless coastlines.And that’s to say nothing of the people, the food, the culture, the music.But here we’re talking about spots for landscape photography. And rest assured, if you are heading to South America, you’ll find plenty all by yourself.Check out our piece on landscape photography in Europe. The landscapes of MexicoAnd this complicates our sense of what a landscape photograph can be. It isn’t just about lonely mountains or wild plains. It’s about everything around us. A cityscape or seascape is a landscape; street photography, engaging with an urban landscape, is a landscape photography. Types of photography like wildlife photography and nature photography overlap with our style â€" but so can portrait photography, night photography, aerial photography and even food photography.A landscape photo can really be anything you want it to be.Take a look at our article on landscape photography in the USA.What Makes a Landscape Photograph Good?However, a good landscape picture is not something so straightforward. You’ll have seen the sumptuous landscapes of Sebastião Salgado or Fay Godwin, say, and really these are not things that are easily reproduced.Anyone can put on the panorama setting on their iPhone and get a decent enough shot, and most people love taking photos o f every hill or cliff top they see.Yet, to be a professional photographer â€" and to make great photos â€" you need something else. You need a real knowledge of the range of photography skills, photography equipment, and photography techniques.You need to understand the difference between wide angle lenses and fisheye camera lenses. You need to understand long exposure, shutter speed, and depth of field do to your landscape pictures. You need to think about foreground and background, white balance, and natural light.And on top of this, you need to practise your compositional skills. Also, you need to be prepared to commit the time to get exactly the shot you are after â€" whether at sunset, sunrise, or at night.A lot of work goes into making great pictures â€" so don’t take this for granted.Check out the best spots for landscape photography in Africa.Some Great Spots for Landscape Photos across Latin America.It’s worth saying, at the beginning of this list, that part of the task of the landscape photographer is to scout locations, explore your own areas, and find, yourself, the composition and forms that you want to create.Given this, all of South America â€" in the same way as all of the rest of the world â€" is a potentially glorious landscape photograph. Bear this in mind when you start on your photography journey: it’s not so much the location that makes a great photograph so much as the way that you represent and capture it.However, having said this, a great location â€" an inspiring landscape â€" can be the perfect motivator for you to learn and develop your passion in photography. Because there is nothing like a beautiful place to keep you going.So, here are some top spots across the whole of Latin America (not just the south!). It’s a beautiful continent â€" so there are many many more we have left out.Read about the best places for landscape photography in Asia.The Atacama Desert: Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina.Let’s start with the Atacama De sert, the driest place on Earth. Spreading across Chile, parts of Argentina, and into the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, it has some of the most striking landscapes of on the planet.There is a reason why one of the most famous places in the area is known as Valle de la Luna (or, ‘Valley of the Moon’). And that’s because it is a completely otherworldly place. Head up to the northern parts of the south of Bolivia, and you’ll see the likes of Laguna Verde and Laguna Colorado.The colours are just breath-taking. The Andes are full of stupendous views.Mexico’s Sierra Mixteca.We have an image of Mexico that usually involves plenty of cacti. The place to go to see such a landscape would the Sierra Mixteca, which crosses the states of Puebla and Oaxaca.The Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve is a highlight, where the collection of plants makes for a really startling experience, but the Sierra is a wonderful place to take your camera.The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.Everyone’s favourite wildlife haven, the Galapagos are largely off-limits without a permit. If you do manage to get there, then good for you.Alongside the turtles for which it is famous, the landscape itself is gorgeous â€" a volcanic archipelago of nineteen islands surrounded by the bluest of blue seas.Their reputation speaks for itself.The Amazon, Brazil.And to the Amazon, the lungs of the world. Not much really needs to be said about its beauty, its vastness, its global significance.It’s telling that there are still areas un explored â€" and let’s keep it that way. But there’s plenty of it for you to explore. And its mists, its lush vegetation, its fierce and varied wildlife are all reasons to go.Words really are not enough. Take photos instead.Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia.Immortalised by countless works of travel literature, the mythic Tierra del Fuego (the Land of the Fire) sits at the southern tip of South America, in Patagonia.It’s a mix of waters â€" rivers, lakes, glaciers â€" and the most dramatic mountain peaks outside of the Dolomites. It’s an incredibly special place, with some of the most recognisable colours and landforms in the world.The Pampas, Argentina.The Great Plains of Latin America, the Pampas are the never-ending grasslands of the south. Once inhabited by the gauchos, the iconic Argentinian cowboys, and travelled by the legendary Butch Cassidy, the Pampas remain a sort of Wild West.Flat but atmospheric, with mountains imposing in the distance, they are a majestic place. The Galapagos Islands' most famous resident.The Andes.The Andes are the longest continuous mountain range in the world, passing from the top to the southern tip of South America. Considering that it is just so damn long, the possibilities for exploring are endless.Some of the most beautiful places along the mountain belt â€" although this is all totally disputable â€" are in Peru. Try the Cordillera Blanca, with the Huascarán National Park, which has some of the higher peaks in the Andes. Expect snow and cracking views.Guajira Peninsula, Colombia and Venezuela.For something a little different, try the Guajira Peninsula, which is shared between Colombia and Venezuela. It’s known as the home of the ethnic group, the Wayuu, an indigenous community.On this peninsula, which sticks out into the Caribbean Sea, you’ll find the Parque Nacional Natural Macuira. It’s dominated by a desert which fades into the beaches, with dry vegetation around. Parts of it have a sort of desolate, end-o f-the-world feeling to them.Read about photogenic landscapes across the world.

Spring 2013 ACT tutoring at AJ Tutoring

Spring 2013 ACT tutoring at AJ Tutoring As the March 2013 SAT approaches, its time to start thinking about your next steps with standardized testing.  Like the SAT, the ACT is accepted by all colleges and may be a good option for you.  If youre interested in learning more about the ACT, read on!Differences between the SAT and ACT include:ACT questions are generally more straightforward, while SAT questions involve deeper critical thinkingThe ACT has a science section, unlike the SATThe SAT tests more vocabularyThe SAT is split up into more sectionsThe ACT is a faster-paced testMath on the SAT only includes algebra and geometry, while math on the ACT includes more advanced trigonometryWhile its often true that students who enjoy puzzles and logic games prefer the SAT and literal thinkers prefer the ACT, it can be hard to predict which test will be a better fit for you.AJ Tutoring recommends that students take both the SAT and ACT, since both tests are accepted equally by colleges.  Students are always welcome to take a d iagnostic ACT at AJ Tutorings offices on Saturdays.  Well then score the test and compare it to your SAT scores to determine which test might be a better fit.  If the scores are similar, you should plan on sitting for both tests in the spring of junior year.We know that preparing for standardized tests can involve a significant investment of time and money.  With that in mind, we created our shorter ACT hybrid program.Primarily intended for students who have already completed AJ Tutorings full SAT program, the ACT hybrid program is shorter (3-4 sessions) and focuses on the differences between the two tests.  Our ACT hybrid program emphasizes the faster pace of the ACT, as well as the ACT science section and the different format of the English section.  Each student who completes the ACT hybrid program will take at least two full-length ACT exams, either at home or proctored at our office.AJ Tutoring also offers a comprehensive 8-9 session ACT program for those students who woul d prefer more comprehensive instruction and a greater number of practice tests.The ACT is offered on two Saturdays in spring 2013: April 13, 2013 and June 8, 2013.  To register for the ACT, please consult the ACTs website.  Many students who take the January or March SAT go on to take the ACT in April, and students who take the May SAT often take the June ACT.  With 5 or more weeks between the two tests, there is plenty of time for students to prepare for the ACT and maximize their chances of success on both tests.If youd like to sign up for ACT tutoring or speak with a director to develop a testing plan for 2013, please give us a call at (650) 331-3251, or email info@ajtutoring.com.  Were looking forward to talking with you!

ADHD Video Games An Update

ADHD Video Games An Update Earlier this year, a team of researchers published findings from a study examining the connection between problematic video game use and ADHD in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. The results add to a small but growing body of evidence suggesting that kids and adults with ADHD are at increased risk for problematic video game use. This particular study found that among adults who play video games, higher levels of ADHD symptoms are associated with more severe symptoms of video game addiction (the average age of the adults in the study was 22, and over 90% of the participants were men). The study also explored whether specific characteristics of the games being played had an impact on video game addiction symptoms. Surprisingly, factors like how much someone feels the video game encourages them to continue playing, or how reinforcing they find a video game to be, did not have any impact on the connection between video game addiction and ADHD symptoms. While more research i s needed in this area, the study authors suggest that individuals with ADHD who play video games should be informed about the signs of video game addiction and the elevated risk that may be associated ADHD. So, what are the signs of video game addiction? There are currently no formal diagnostic criteria available for video game addiction; however, the most recent edition of the DSM (the diagnostic tool used the US for categorizing mental health disorders and addictions) does include Internet Gaming Disorder in the appendix as a tentative diagnostic category. The DSM-51 suggests that Internet Gaming Disorder (which can include playing video games off-line as well as on-line), may be identified when an individual has displayed at least 5 of the following 9 symptoms in the past 12 months: Preoccupation with games: The individual thinks about previous gaming activity or anticipates playing the next game; gaming becomes the dominant activity in daily life Withdrawal symptoms when gaming is taken away: These symptoms are typically described as irritability, anxiety, or sadness Tolerance: The need to spend increasing amounts of time engaged in games Unsuccessful attempts to control or reduce participation in games Loss of interest in real-life relationships, previous hobbies, and other entertainment as a result of, and with the exception of, games Continued excessive use of games despite knowledge of psychosocial problems; Has deceived family members, therapists, or others regarding the amount of gaming; Use of games to escape or relieve a negative mood (like feelings of helplessness, guilt, or anxiety); and Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of participation in games. Why might kids and adults with ADHD be at higher risk? Researchers are not entirely sure why individuals with ADHD are at higher risk for video game addiction, but they have some theories that are being studied. Some factors being considered include: Impulsivity and difficulty stopping an activity that is highly reinforcing or engaging Difficulty with time management and other executive functions Avoiding stressful social interactions or academic/work-related activities Self-medicating untreated symptoms of anxiety or depression (which occur at higher rates in individuals with ADHD) A biological predisposition to addiction: Many activities (including video gaming), foods, and drugs can become addictive because they trigger the release of dopamine in the brain. Kids and adults with ADHD naturally have lower levels of dopamine in the brain, and as a result they are more likely to have an additive response to anything that triggers a dopamine rush. Knowing that kids and teens with ADHD may be at higher risk for problematic video game use is important, but when it comes to helping a child change his or her behavior it can be hard for parents to know where to start. In my next post Ill talk about 5 steps parents can take to help their kids and teens develop healthy video game habits. 1Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5) https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm ABOUT DR. MARY ROONEY Mary Rooney, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco. Dr Rooney is a researcher and clinician specializing in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD and co-occurring behavioral, anxiety, and mood disorders. A strong advocate for those with attention and behavior problems, Dr. Rooney is committed to developing and providing comprehensive, cutting edge treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and adolescent. Dr. Rooney's clinical interventions and research avenues emphasize working closely with parents and teachers to create supportive, structured home and school environments that enable children and adolescents to reach their full potential. In addition, Dr. Rooney serves as a consultant and ADHD expert to Huntington Learning Centers. ABOUT HUNTINGTON Huntington Learning Center is the tutoring and test prep leader. Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students of all levels succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Founded in 1977, Huntington's mission is to give every student the best education possible. Call us today at 1.800.CAN LEARN to discuss how Huntington can help your child. For franchise opportunities please visit www.huntingtonfranchise.com. This website does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material on this site is provided for educational purposes only.

5 Benefits to Taking a Second Language in College

5 Benefits to Taking a Second Language in College 5 benefits to taking a second language in college More students will take a second language at the college level to fulfill a foreign language requirement for their general education. However, most students dont take intermediate and advanced level courses once they have met the necessary graduation requirements, leaving the majority of students as English-only speakers by the time they go out into the workforce. There are more and more bilingual graduates these days so students should consider the benefits of speaking a second language. Students are also encouraged to think which language will best support their future career aspirations our Orange County foreign language tutors are here to help you learn a second language. 1. One step ahead of the competition The modern job market is more competitive than ever, and there are more students graduating college than in generations past. This means that students need to continue looking for more ways to stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs. Students who are truly fluent or conversational in a second language have a better chance of offering companies a special skill. Students may or may not use their language skills on a regular basis once hire, but it can certainly help them get their resume to the top of the pile (READ: 5 Reasons to Hire an Orange County Private Tutor). 2. A multicultural workplace More and more companies have employees on their roster who speak different languages and need middle and upper-level managers who can speak multiple languages as well. Graduates who want to move up in their company have an opportunity to demonstrate leadership skills by learning a second language while theyre still in college. Employees who can manage a team of employees who speak different languages are more valuable when it comes to some different business ventures. 3. International opportunities More and more companies are becoming multinational conglomerates which have offices in the US, Europe, Asia, and South America. Students who speak two or even three languages have more opportunities to travel the world as part of their job or live abroad on professional assignments. Even if employees can get by in the workplace with only one language, it will be difficult to live abroad without speaking that country’s native language. Students who learn a second language in college have an opportunity to open international doors in any number of different career fields. 4. Multicultural student experiences When students take a second language at the university level, they have an opportunity to learn about a different culture and different parts of the world. Although the majority of the students in the class may be English-only speakers, language students will learn about other cultures and expressions from the teacher and course material. College is a great opportunity for students to expand their horizons and learn about different people from different walks of life and conversing in a second language can do just that. 5. Study abroad opportunities Students who study a second language at the intermediate or advanced level have an opportunity to spend a summer or even a semester abroad honing their new language skills. Its a fabulous opportunity for students to spend a summer in the countryside of France perfecting their French language skills and experiencing the French provincial culture first hand. Students can choose from some different languages and cultures and have experiences in Spain, Mexico, Germany, Japan and so on. Students are encouraged to think about which language will best help their future career. From Spanish to Farsi, our Orange County foreign language tutoring is here to help you master a second language. Call us today for more information. All blog entries, with the exception of guest bloggers, are written by Tutor Nerds. Are you an education professional? If so, email us at pr@tutornerds.com for guest blogging and collaborations. We want to make this the best free education resource in SoCal, so feel free to suggest what you would like to see us write.

Common entrance exams - Verbal reasoning tests (2)

Common entrance exams - Verbal reasoning tests (2) In the following sentences, a four letter word is hidden between two words that are next to each other. Find the word and write it in the brackets. Example: The child fell over the stone. (l o v e ) 15. The hot coffee tasted very good 16. Let's hide away from him! 17. He was happy on the farm. 18. Is the yellow shape the biggest? 19. Which old picture would you like? 20. The rabbit escaped from the run. Use the information below to find the answer to the question. Circle the correct letter. 22. There are 5 balls in a bag. There are three different colours of balls in the bag. Which of the following statements cannot be true? A One ball is green. B Three balls are blue. C Four balls are yellow. D Two balls are red and one is yellow. E There are blue and yellow balls in the bag. In the following sentences, one word written in capital letters has had three letter removed. These three letters together make a correctly spelt proper word without changing the letter order. Work out the three-letter word and write it in the brackets. Example: There was a strange CR by the pond. (OAK) 23. The old lady was DEDENT on her guide dog. 24. They enjoyed FIGN holidays. 25. The mosaic formed a beautiful TERN. 26. The famous LANDSE was bought by the gallery. 27. A CE was used to unload the ship. 28. The old lady collected her SION. 29. The professor had a strange ORY. In the following questions, there are two sets of words. Choose the two words, one from each set, that are closest in meaning and underline them. Example: (race, shop, start) (flag, end, begin) 30. (safari, jeep, rhinoceros) (binoculars, lion, expedition) 31. (dress, decorate, fashion) (model, outfit, millinery) 32. (avalanche, hurricane, earthquake) (tsunami, cyclone, flood) 33. (apprentice, apparition, novice) (invoice, experience, spectre) 34. (hero, medal, courage) (valour, conflict, campaign) 35. (sensible, sensitive, sensation) (reactor, recreation, responsive) 36. (microscope, medicine, microbe) (germ, antibiotic, stethoscope) Common entrance exams - Verbal reasoning tests (2) In the following sentences, a four letter word is hidden between two words that are next to each other. Find the word and write it in the brackets. Example: The child fell over the stone. (l o v e ) 15. The hot coffee tasted very good 16. Let's hide away from him! 17. He was happy on the farm. 18. Is the yellow shape the biggest? 19. Which old picture would you like? 20. The rabbit escaped from the run. Use the information below to find the answer to the question. Circle the correct letter. 22. There are 5 balls in a bag. There are three different colours of balls in the bag. Which of the following statements cannot be true? A One ball is green. B Three balls are blue. C Four balls are yellow. D Two balls are red and one is yellow. E There are blue and yellow balls in the bag. In the following sentences, one word written in capital letters has had three letter removed. These three letters together make a correctly spelt proper word without changing the letter order. Work out the three-letter word and write it in the brackets. Example: There was a strange CR by the pond. (OAK) 23. The old lady was DEDENT on her guide dog. 24. They enjoyed FIGN holidays. 25. The mosaic formed a beautiful TERN. 26. The famous LANDSE was bought by the gallery. 27. A CE was used to unload the ship. 28. The old lady collected her SION. 29. The professor had a strange ORY. In the following questions, there are two sets of words. Choose the two words, one from each set, that are closest in meaning and underline them. Example: (race, shop, start) (flag, end, begin) 30. (safari, jeep, rhinoceros) (binoculars, lion, expedition) 31. (dress, decorate, fashion) (model, outfit, millinery) 32. (avalanche, hurricane, earthquake) (tsunami, cyclone, flood) 33. (apprentice, apparition, novice) (invoice, experience, spectre) 34. (hero, medal, courage) (valour, conflict, campaign) 35. (sensible, sensitive, sensation) (reactor, recreation, responsive) 36. (microscope, medicine, microbe) (germ, antibiotic, stethoscope)