Is it time for a career change - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / Is it time for a career change - Introvert Whisperer Is it time for a career change? Discovering the career path you are meant to be on can be quite the journey. Some find where they’re meant to be right away, while others meander down the path a little longer to find the right fit for them. Still others think they’ve found where they are meant to be, only to find a different passion later on in life.   If you feel like you belong in that last category, you are not alone. It is becoming more and more commonplace to job hop and try on a few different positions before finding the exact right fit for youâ€"in fact, according to a recent study, 71% of the American workforce is looking to switch jobs. If you’ve been hit with the urge to switch to a different position or even an entirely different career, that is completely acceptable. How else are you going to find what you’re meant to be doing without trying out a couple different roles?   What is not acceptable, however, is remaining in a position or career that is not a good fit for you. Whether you and your boss don’t get along, you dread going into work every day, or you just feel like you’re stuckâ€"those are all totally legitimate reasons to begin the search for a new career that may be a better fit.   It’s important to remember that you should always be growing and learning in your role. If you feel like you stopped growing a long time ago, like you plateaued, or if you have a burning passion to be doing something else, it might be time to begin the search for something different.   Though the thought of changing careers may be scary, you don’t have to go through it blind and alone. This flowchart provided by Turbo Intuit will help guide you through making the ultimate decision of whether it’s time for you to make a career change, along with tips on how to make the transition to your new career as seamlessly as possible. While this time is rife with uncertainty, just remember you’re doing this to ultimately benefit yourself and your career. Think of how worth it this will be when you’ve found a role that is perfect for you!

Combat Mathematics Challenge With Algebra Homework Help Online

Combat Mathematics Challenge With Algebra Homework Help Online Algebra homework is one of the premium streams of mathematics. It has always been a herculean task for most of the students. Memorizing the intriguing formulas and equations of algebra and then applying them practically go simply beyond their control. This is the reason why combating algebra challenges gets insurmountable for students. The lessons that they learn in their traditional classrooms are not sufficient. It is not sufficient to give a tough fight to algebraic problems. This condition gets worsened when they are not able to get the right kind of algebra homework help at their homes. One of major problems that a large number of students face in their regular classrooms is the lack of individual attention. Algebra is a subject that requires strong preparation and continuity which are almost impossible to get in group tutoring. Hiring an in-person tutor is not the tea of everybody’s cup on the monetary front. Under these circumstances, the only option which they can go for is online tutoring for perfect algebra homework help. Tutor Paces 25 % Discount on Online Tutoring for Helping Students More It is now an open secret that online tutoring method has scored very heavily over in-person tutoring in the past one decade. The advent of online tutoring has not only comforted guardians but also students to a large extent. When students opt for an online tutor, they simply reap the following rewards: Fully individualized attention that helps them in concentrating better A lot of savings on time because they don’t have to travel anywhere Savings on monetary front because online tutors are more affordable than in-person tutors. Online tutors utilize the latest virtual teaching methodologies that fasten and inspire students for more learning in lesser time Friendly behavior that puts students on ease while having a tutoring session 247 availability that gives them freedom to start learning at their own pace at the timings that suits them best. Unlimited opportunities for revision. No display of frustration from the tutor’s side when students repeat the same question or query again and again. Needless to say, online tutoring has drastically changed the way people have been learning and teaching. It has proved to be a blessing for those who can’t afford private tutors because of timing and monetary issues. And is commonly observed that a large number of students are not able to be regular in their extracurricular activities like singing, dancing and swimming just because of their packed schedules. This compels them to follow a sedentary lifestyle that is dangerous for both their mental and physical developments. Why You Need to Seek Online Help for #ScienceAssignments? https://t.co/vstOy4Q0qp pic.twitter.com/tsHyhX7zL2 â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) February 5, 2016 But, it is no more an issue when students opt for an online tutor for algebra homework help. They can have an easier access to their online tutors as and when they want; be it the very early hours in the morning or the late hours even after midnight. What’s more, the unlimited opportunities for revision which students enjoy with their online tutors are not possible with any other way of tutoring. All these factors not only enhance their confidence level but also put them on ease during the entire learning process.

Finding Accommodation in Taiwan

Finding Accommodation in Taiwan Where Should You Stay in the Republic of China? ChaptersHow Can You Find Accommodation in Taiwan?Staying in Taipei, the Capital of TaiwanHsinchu by the SeaTaoyuan, Near the AirportThe Cities in Central and Southern Taiwan“Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. - Izaak WaltonTaiwan is a country that, like most countries in Asia, is worthy of a visit. Taiwan is a sovereign state but it’s not recognised by the UN and is claimed by the People's Republic of China.With 23.5 million inhabitants who mainly speak Chinese, Taiwan is home to manufacturing. However, it mixes modernity, tradition, and nature.In 2018, 11 million tourists visited Taiwan, which was once known as Isla Formosa, “The Beautiful Island”.The population resides mainly on the western part of the island, by the South China Sea, with Taipei (9.2 million), Taichung (4 million), Kaohsiung (3.6 million), and Tainan (1.8 million) being the most populous cities.Are you looking somewhere to stay in Taiwan?Here’s Superprof’s guide to visiting Taiwan!You th hostelsHotelsHoliday rentsTemples and churchesYou can go on accommodation comparison sites like Booking.com to find some good deals in Taiwan.  There are also good places to stay on Airbnb with entire flats available for £20 per night and discounts if you plan on staying a while.  For longer stays, you’ll probably want to rent and flatshare.Having a Taiwanese roommate will not only do wonders for your language skills. It’ll also help you to discover more about Taiwanese culture and history.You can also look for Facebook groups where people post ads for properties to rent in Traditional Chinese (and English).You can pay around £300 for a room in a flat with two other people.Find out more about why you should visit Taiwan.Staying in Taipei, the Capital of TaiwanSo where are you going to stay in Taiwan?Unlike what you might think, it can be expensive to rent in Taipei. This means that there's loads of demand and a huge gap between social classes.The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Ha ll is a popular tourist attraction. (Source: leechentou)Taipei, the capital city, which means “Tai[wan] North” in Chinese, is probably the first place you’ll once you’ve landed in Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.  We recommend looking for somewhere near Taipei city centre next to all the popular tourist attractions:Taipei 101 TowerLungshan Temple (which was built in 1738 under the Qing Dynasty)National Palace MuseumNational Museum of HistoryPresidential Office BuildingNational Chiang Kai-shek Memorial HallTaiwanese night markets: Shilin Night Market, Songshan Night Market, etc.Shi-men TingHuashan ParkDaan Forest ParkXiangshan TrailIs the accommodation in Taipei too noisy or too expensive?Consider heading to New Taipei City, across the Tamsui River from Taipei.New Taipei City is home 3.9 million inhabitants and there’s a large choice of accommodation that tends to be cheaper and calmer than the options in Taipei. However, you will be further from all the attractions.It ’s nice relaxing in the Tamsui neighbourhood because it’s calmer than Taipei city centre.  Furthermore, Tamsui is by the sea at the mouth of the Tamsui River.  You could rend bikes and cycle down to Fort San Domingo, Shalun Beach, Tamsui, and Tamsui Lover's Bridge.Do you like hiking?Don’t miss your chance to walk along to Xiangshan Mountain for an excellent view of the Taipei 101 tower. There's also a mountainous region in the centre of the island that's perfect for keen hikers!Find out more about the best things to see and do in Taiwan. NingChinese Teacher 5.00 (10) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorraineChinese Teacher £10/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChinese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JoyceChinese Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicoleChinese Teacher £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KatyChinese Teacher £16/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YangChinese Teacher £ 18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChengChinese Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsHsinchu by the SeaWould you like to stay nearer the sea?We tend to feel better in open spaces than confined within a concrete jungle.  Hsinchu to the south of Taipei is one of the bigger cities in the conurbation.It’s home to Taiwan’s electronics industry with 115,000 people working in the sector. If you’ve had any electronics with “Made in Taiwan” on them, they probably came from Hsinchu.In Hsinchu, you can visit the following attractions:Night marketsThe Chang Ho, Chenghuang, and Bao Fu Te templesThe Eastern GateThe National Chiao Tung University and National Tsing Hua UniversityWhile it’ll be calmer than Taipei city centre, it’s still Taiwan’s sixth-largest city with 420,000 inhabitants.Find out about the best time of year to go to Taiwan.Taoyuan, Near the AirportAt the end of your stay, it might be a good idea to stay nearer the airport.  Nobody likes goi ng home at the end of their trip, especially getting up early and heading to the airport.The Shimen Dam near Taoyuan. You should definitely visit it towards the end of your stay. (Source: Juan00)Some of the most popular attractions include:Daxi Old StreetMausoleum of Late President ChiangXiao Wulai WaterfallYongan Fishing HarborTaoyuan Night MarketSanken Ecological ParkTaoyuan is home to 2.22 million inhabitants and stretches from the Dongyanshan National Forest to the sea with the international airport in the north of the municipality.The Cities in Central and Southern TaiwanIf you like travelling around, you could take the train to the south of the island.  Let’s have a quick look at the cities to the south of Taiwan.TaichungTaiwan’s second city, Taichung is on the west coast of the country and home to 2.78 million people. Taichung is the perfect spot for romantic excursions to Sun Moon Lake or Dabajian Mountain.Once you've visited Taichung, you have to go to Sun Moon Lake. (S ource: seancom)There are plenty of affordable holiday rents available on Airbnb.Don’t expect to find nice sandy beaches in Taichung, the coastline is covered in factories.You want to visit Taichung for the temples, night markets, and mountains.  Make sure you visit Taichung Park in the city centre, the city’s oldest green space.TainanTainan literally means “Taiwan south” whereas Taipei means “Taiwan north”.  Tainan is home to Taiwanese tradition, culture, history, cuisine, and Taoist temples.  It might be worthwhile visiting Tainan during the Chinese New Year as it maintains the local traditions and puts on quite the show.With 1,613 temples, Tainan is home to more Buddhist and Taoist sites than any other city in the country.  You should definitely see the Kaiyuansi, Zhuxi, and Fahua temples, the Grand Matsu Temple, Sidian Wu Miao, and Dongyue Dian. There are plenty of buildings that were constructed in the 17th century under the Qing Dynasty.KaohsiungStaying in Kaohsiung is the perfect compromise.  Kaohsiung is the third-largest city on the island with 2.77 million people enjoying the tropical climate.The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas on the Lotus Pond are two of the city’s most important monuments and in Kaohsiung, you can come across macaques in the Gushan neighbourhood by the Shoushan mountain.Kaohsiung, like most Taiwanese cities, is densely populated and industrialised. This does mean that there are problems with pollution.  You can enjoy a walk around Shoushan Mountain.After having visited Kaohsiung, you can take the train to Kenting National Park and stay in the Hengchun Old Town!If you’ve still got time, make sure you spend the evening in Hualien and visit the Taroko Gorge, another unmissable sight on the island.  If you're looking for more travel tips, check out the other articles in our Taiwan travel guide series before you plan your trip!If you'd like to learn some Chinese before you visit Taiwan, you could consider enlisting the help of one of the many talented tutors on Superprof! The tutors on the site offer three types of private tutorials to help you learn some of the language: face-to-face tutorials, online tutorials, and group tutorials.Face-to-face tutorials are taught with one student and one tutor and tend to be the most cost-effective type of tutorial since every minute in the lesson is spent focusing on you as the student.Online tutorials are similar to the face-to-face tutorials but take place either on a call or via webcam. They're usually cheaper than face-to-face tutorials.Finally, group tutorials are classes with one teacher or tutor and multiple students. However, with group tutorials, you and a group of friends (perhaps the people you'll be travelling to Taiwan with) could get lessons for cheaper.Each different type of tutorial has its pros and cons and it's really up to you and your budget to decide how much you'll need to learn, how you want to learn, and what your budget is!

How to Speak the Queens English

How to Speak the Queens English Learn to Speak The Queen's English ChaptersEnglish Lessons: What is 'The Queen's English'?Learn English: What is BBC English?The Queen's English vs BBC English: What Defines Them?How to Speak English Clearly and EffectivelyWhere to Find a Suitable English Language TutorHow to Learn New English WordsIs Speaking English with an Accent really Important?At the start of your English learning adventure, choosing a speaking style - American English versus British English for example, has great significance and relevance.The worst consequence of choosing badly depends on where you will eventually live, study, and work. For example, adopting a north American vocabulary could risk your not being well understood anywhere in the UK or Australia.Throw it all against the wall and see what sticksThat is a slang phrase that means “try every avenue and method to see which one will yield faster, better results.”Many non native English speakers hoping to study outside of their home country avidly apply at every possible institute of higher learning that recruits international students, regardless of what country, in the hopes of being accepted at any one of them.Such a practice puts the English learner at a disadvantage because, in anticipation of IELTS or TOEFL results, s/he does not know which style of English to increase competency in.Assuming that you have selected Britain as your destination of choice and have only sat IELTS, you might ponder which accent and style of British English you should cultivate in order for your speech to be effective.Many non-native English speakers logically aim for the poshest sounding tone but is sounding posh vital in everyday English?Let us explore why the Queen's English is revered, BBC English is lovingly mocked and whether either one of them are actually ever used in ordinary English conversation.The King (or Queen, if there was no king) routinely addressed his/her subjects in public speeches, putting their ability to speechify on display for all to see. The general sen timent was that the sovereign was an educated, talented, knowledgeable and revered being.“Why, just listen to him speak! So refined, so smart...” they must have said.The Queen's English (or the King's English, if there is a male ruler in place) represents the epitome of education, polish and poise.The Oxford Dictionary of Living English defines Queen's English as:The English language, as written and spoken by educated people in Britain.They are not suggesting that people who speak Welsh, Scottish or Cockney are uneducated.    Rather, that statement is a reflection of the long-held tradition that the British ruler represents the ultimate in social refinement and therefore, the highest level  of education.To speak English like the Queen, you must first slow your speech. While many native English speakers tend to speak relatively fast and inject a lot of slang phrases, the  Queen's English is thought to be free of colloquialisms and deliberately, exactly articulated.The phrase Quee n's English does not refer to accent or regional variations of English in general. Her particular brand of English speaking mainly involves alterations of vowel sounds.We also note that analysis of her recorded speeches over the years has demonstrated a shift toward the more popular Estuary English, a London accent from counties adjoining the river Thames.BBC English is a cultivated accent (Source: Pixabay Credit: DesignFile)Learn English: What is BBC English?IELTS candidates and those learning English as a second language often find that listening to BBC Radio or watching popular British television programs helps in learning English pronunciation and honing English listening skills.It is never a bad idea to improve your English by emulating native English speakers.  However, you should be aware of what exactly you are copying.Is BBC English a good model for ESL  students to follow?Let us delve again into the history books to see why this style of spoken English features so prominen tly in ESOL courses  all over the world.The BBC starting broadcasting radio programmes in 1922, under a Royal Charter.  The trouble was, not everyone spoke or understood BBC presenters' spoken English.To this day, Britain has more than recognises  fifty-six regional dialects, with the London accent and expressions having always been thought as the most popular.Because the BBC was headquartered in London, radio hosts cultivated an exaggerated manner of speaking that regional banter, to better be understood over the tricky wireless airwaves.In keeping with the demonstrated example of properly spoken English transmitted on the air and heard all over the world, the teaching of grammar,  vocabulary and especially pronunciation in UK schools was revolutionized.It is not uncommon for a country to formulate a standardized version of its native language, all while maintaining local dialects.To standardize the English language in the UK, school curricula were modified to teach Received Pronun ciation, sometimes to the detriment of the existing national language, such as Irish.English Language StandardizationGlobal  broadcasting of BBC English, or RP â€" as Received Pronunciation is often called was, in fact, the beginning of standardization of the English language in the UK.Standardization of any language including English involves:Codification â€" how standard language is validateddictionaries, grammar and vocabulary textbooks, style and usage guides.Dialect levelingLanguage ecology and planningUsageThe English language is currently undergoing further standardization because of the popularity of movies and music in English.This time, the shift is more toward a north American accent, or a neutral accent.What does that mean for all of you, who are developing English language skills? The Queen's English vs BBC English: What Defines Them?The Queen's English is not an accent. It is a slower speech pattern distinguished by elongated vowel sounds.The Queen's (or King's) Englis h is considered Standard English that is not necessarily spoken in conjunction with RP.BBC English, or Received Pronunciation is considered a cultivated accent, not a natural speech pattern developed by a segment of society, as other dialects are.Only about two percent of Britons speak RP in its purest form. - David Williaminspires more confidence when spoken.You only need to study English with the end goal of becoming fluent.Apply pronunciation rules to any new words you learn (Source: Pixabay Credit: Alexa Photos)Where to Find a Suitable English Language TutorYou might wonder about that ‘suitable’ qualifier. Isn’t anyone who speaks English qualified to tutor in the spoken language?In theory, yes. Practice is a different kettle altogether, for several reasons.Depending on where in the world you live, you may not have access to native English speakers and, if you do, they might not speak the type of English you are striving to learn.In spite of global gravitation to a ‘regio n neutral’ adaptation to the English language, there are still distinct accents, dialects and vocabulary to contend with.A good example of variances in vocabulary is the word ‘jumper’.In British English, a jumper is a knit garment that covers the torso and arms; in other words: a sweater.In other English speaking countries, that same article of clothing would simply be called a sweater, while a jumper would represent a sleeveless dress worn over a blouse.Turnabout is fair play! In Great Britain, such a dress is called a pinafore.You can see where the confusion would start... right?This trouble is exacerbated by the policy of some non-English speaking countries to learn and teach both British and American English and blending the two.If you live in Poland or India, two diverse examples of situations that involve English learning, most likely you will be exposed to and have access to British English speakers.However, if you live in China, Japan or South Korea, your English curri culum at school may consist of a mix of the various styles of English. You may, for example, use a textbook that reflects American English but any recordings or videos could be in British English.Furthermore, your school’s curriculum may place less emphasis on your learning and practising pronunciation, favouring instead your acquisition of vocabulary and your understanding of grammar rules, proven through rigorous exams.Finally, any Native English speaker working as a foreign teacher you encounter in your country might speak with either British, Australian or American pronunciation.Remember: the most important criterion in finding an English teacher to learn with is what your purpose and goals are with regard to your use of English.With all of the factors to consider, how can you find your ideal English teacher: one you click with on a personal level â€" a very important aspect of taking lessons, and that you can learn well from?First, ask around.If you have a native English spea ker for a teacher in your classes, ask him or her if s/he may give private lessons. If s/he doesn’t, ask if s/he has any friends or colleagues who are local that might be interested in taking you on.It is not recommended that you approach random English speakers on the street to ask them if they might help you practise your spoken English.One reason is that you do not know that person. Will s/he have time and interest in teaching English pronunciation outside of class? Is s/he a good teacher, one who cares about your learning or someone who might charge you a high price and not do much to help you improve?Yes, such teachers do exist!Another reason is that foreign teachers hear such requests all the time! Many expatriate teachers report burnout, in part because of the excessive demands from virtually everyone they encounter to help them learn and practise speaking English.So, be considerate! Let those foreign teachers go about their business; there are other ways for you to find a teacher to help cultivate your English pronunciation.Students of all types make use of online learning tools; so can you! Source: Pixabay Credit: RawpixelTake a look online.Because learning English is a global undertaking, there are tons of resources online to help guide your English pronunciation and more are added seemingly every day.None would be better than having a regular chat with an English speaker who is invested in your learning. In other words: a tutor.Finding a tutor to work on your pronunciation has never been easier, thanks to platforms such as Italki, LiveLingua and Tutoroo.Italki is a language learning website where you get to choose your teacher. After signing up (it’s free!), you simply scroll through teacher profiles until you find the teacher most suited to your English learning goals.Take a quick look at his/her calendar: does s/he have open time slots that correspond with your schedule? You are in luck! Mark your place and, at the appointed time, join your te acher online for a lively chat.On Italki, you only pay for the sessions you participate in. There are no other fees, no membership costs and no overhead costs.And, if you’d like to be an ambassador for your native language, you could sign up for language exchange and let people find you! You would teach your native tongue to interested parties and they, in turn, would help you cultivate your English pronunciation. Participation in this programme can offset your costs of mastering English pronunciation.LiveLingua also enjoys a great reputation for online language learning.One of their best selling points is that they have native English speakers from each of the four most sought-after regions: Canada, the UK and US, as well as Australia.Here again, you select which teacher you’d most like to work with and meet on Skype for your lessons, according to the schedule you outlined!There are so many language exchange platforms out there that we could write a separate article about them and still not cover them all!Learning English Pronunciation in EnglandIf you are already living in England and wish to improve your English pronunciation, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding conversation partners!The only aspect of selecting a tutor or teacher would be, again, whether you would learn Received Pronunciation or the Queen’s English.As mentioned before, our royals speak very well but not necessarily in an everyday vernacular. BBC English has its share of critics, too.Perhaps it would be best to adopt the accent, speech patterns and phrases particular to your area, at least initially, so that you can communicate and understand the people you deal with daily: shopkeepers, neighbours and maybe even your children’s school teacher.As such, you would need to narrow your search for a language teacher to your immediate area.Have you talked with anyone at your local community centre?Oftentimes, such facilities offer language classes and have contact informati on of teachers and tutors  who might live or work close to you, who would be happy to work on your language skills with you.You might also check in with your local library. It is fairly common for libraries to sponsor continuous learning programmes and, as such, likely keep a roster of training volunteers handy.If you’d rather not talk with anyone about your language learning needs just yet, how about scanning bulletin boards?Both your community centre and library have such boards, usually mounted by the entrance to the facility, with adverts from anyone offering services from car repairs to language lessons.You might also find such adverts at your local supermarket, petrol station and even on college campuses!And, naturally, you could search online for a tutor close to you.Your Superprof recommends against searching social media sites such as Facebook and services sites like Craigslist because you might be hard-pressed to verify any potential teachers’ credentials or experience in teaching.Likewise, you could search for an English tutor on Gumtree or Freeads but, again: how would you know such a teacher has the experience needed to help you master English pronunciation?The wise choice would be to head directly to a learning website; a tutoring platform where you can find everything you need to know about any tutor you’d like to work with.While there are plenty such sites to be found, obviously Superprof offers you the superior choice.You may search for a tutor in your area or work with a teacher strictly online â€" Superprof tutors work much like the aforementioned Italki teachers insofar as giving lessons online.Every Superprof tutor has their own profile page where they list their credentials and experience, indicate whether they would come to your home, or meet you out somewhere â€" or whether you would work together via webcam.Most importantly, you will be able to read testimonials from other students this tutor has worked with.Every tutor sets thei r own rates based on their experience and the level they teach at, and most Superprof tutors offer their first hour of lessons at no cost!Best of all: there are Superprof tutors available online just about anywhere in the world!Whether you are a postgraduate student preparing to sit IELTS in your native country or have recently arrived in the UK with the intent of making it your home, you should know that your English pronunciation will be of paramount importance.If you are newly arrived in London, you may be overwhelmed at how fast people talk! Source: Pixabay Credit: Free-PhotosThe debate continues: Queen’s English or Received Pronunciation? How about just speaking English in such a way that you will be understood?Next, we share some simple rules of English pronunciation  so that you can be ready for when your Superprof tutor expounds on them!How to Learn New English WordsMore important than adopting any particular accent is being able to speak English using the proper tone and stress.Inflexion is defined as stress or pitch in the voice when speaking.Like many other languages that use stress, tone or pitch to give meaning to their words, English also has rules for inflexion that you must follow.For two (spoken) syllable nouns, the first syllable is stressed: TA-ble, DRES-ser, WIN-dow, etc.PIC-ture and SYL-lable technically have three syllables but, because the last syllable is silent, it is pronounced as a two-syllable word.For two-syllable verbs, the rule is reversed: ad-MIT, pro-TECT, in-SERT, re-LAX.Two-syllable prepositions are spoken the same as two-syllable verbs.You should adopt and follow these principles as you practice English vocabulary, so that any native English speaker will understand you, every time, without the benefit of any regional  accent.Find a private tutor to help you with your ESOL courses.Is Speaking English with an Accent really Important?Finding quality programs to learn English online is not difficult and, more and more, online English is moving toward a neutral accent â€" neither British, Australian or north American.The British Council uses Standard English in its podcasts and lessons targeted at non native speakers who are learning English. The narrators use a variety of accents to teach English, edging ever more away from any affected speech.BBC reporters and  presenters will most likely continue to broadcast using a Received Pronunciation accent in spite of the mild ridicule that those who emulate that manner of speaking endure.The Queen will most likely continue to speak Standard English slowly and clearly, with drawn-out vowel sounds.How you cultivate your English language skills will depend on where you live, what your preference is and how your English teacher inflects.The important thing is that you are learning the language that more and more people of the world know how to speak.Learn how to perfect your English accent with our guide to pronunciation.

Learn to Speak Mandarin Chinese with Private Tutors

Learn to Speak Mandarin Chinese with Private Tutors Learning Chinese with a Private Tutor ChaptersWhere Can You Find Chinese Private Tutors?How Do You Choose the Right Private Chinese Tutor?The Advantages of Private Chinese TutorialsHow Much Do Chinese Tutorials Cost?How Can You Make Your Private Chinese Tutorials More Affordable?How Many Tutorials Does It Take to Speak Chinese?“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself” - Chinese ProverbWith over 955 million native speakers, Mandarin Chinese is the most spoken language in the world. Spoken in China, Taiwan, and Singapore, Chinese is the language for those who want an international business career.So why not get started today?Private tutorials can help you learn to speak Chinese fluently. Keep in mind that for the purpose of simplicity, when we say Chinese, we mean Chinese Mandarin Londonand not the other Chinese languages such as Cantonese or Wu, for example. NingChinese Teacher 5.00 (10) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorraineChinese Teacher £10/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChin ese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JoyceChinese Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicoleChinese Teacher £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KatyChinese Teacher £16/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YangChinese Teacher £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChengChinese Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhere Can You Find Chinese Private Tutors?Learning Chinese isn’t very common. Most students learn French, Spanish, German, or Italian. That said, this was the first year where more students decided to learn Mandarin than German at A Level!However, being able to speak Chinese is a huge advantage if you want a business career or just to travel and learn more about Chinese culture.Notice boards are still a really useful way to find private tutors. (Source: Pexels)Getting a private Chinese tutor who lives near you might be the perfect solution.But how do you find one?The tried-and-tested met hod is to have a look at the classified ads on notice boards in local businesses. While these have become less common in the internet age, they still exist.You can find out a little bit about the lessons they offer (Mandarin for beginners, private tutorials, intensive courses, etc.) and get a contact telephone number for them.Word of mouth also works really well when it comes to finding private tutors. Talk to a few friends and your family and you’ll soon find someone.Going online and searching  on social media is another great way to find people. This system is very effective because word spreads very quickly on the internet. You can also have a look for tutors by using search engines like Google.You’ll come across platforms like Superprof. These platforms help students get in touch with suitable private Chinese tutors. You just need to have a look at their profiles and choose your favourites.How Do You Choose the Right Private Chinese Tutor?How can you be sure you’ve chosen the right tutor as soon as you start your Chinese lessons?You need to get on well with them and be left wanting to learn more about Chinese and to progress.Everyone’s had a teacher that’s helped them fall in love with a subject. This is essential when it comes to learning languages.Learning Chinese is far less stressful with a private tutor! (Source: JESHOOTScom)In order to find the perfect tutor, you need to spend some time thinking about exactly what you want so that you can find the profile that corresponds to your wants and needs. Your reasons for learning Chinese can be professional or personal (travelling to China, learning about the culture, etc.).Would you like to learn a lot about Chinese culture or focus on the technical aspects of the Chinese language (Chinese grammar, pronouns, numbers, adjectives, tenses, etc.)?You can learn how to introduce yourself, have a simple conversation, and ask for directions after just a few lessons with a private tutor.There are plenty of different types of tutors when it comes to private tutorials. They might be students, retired teachers, or native Chinese speakers. The latter can be really useful if you need to focus on your pronunciation and accent.In any case, make sure you talk to any potential tutor before getting lessons with them. A lot of the tutors on Superprof offer free tuition for the first hour so you can work out the details of your lessons and see whether you get along or not. Make the most of this!You may also be interested in knowing where you can study Mandarin... NingChinese Teacher 5.00 (10) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorraineChinese Teacher £10/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YuweiChinese Teacher 4.33 (6) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JoyceChinese Teacher £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicoleChinese Teacher £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KatyChinese Teacher £16/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors YangChinese Tea cher £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChengChinese Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsThe Advantages of Private Chinese TutorialsThere are plenty of advantages to getting private tutorials, regardless of what you’re learning. Academic support isn’t the only reason to get private tutorials. A lot of people use private tutorials to learn a new skill or do something enjoyable.Your tutor can also help you see China in a different way. (Source: bartwrite)Private Chinese tutorials allow you to progress at your own pace. You don’t need to worry about keeping up with the rest of the group or being held back by them. If you want to take your time going over something because you haven’t understood it, you can whenever you want. For example, if you're interested in Chinese speaking tutorials, your language learning can focus on the conversational aspects and speaking Chinese rather than getting bogged down with really dry grammar rules.Furthermore, you g et to choose when and how often you have your private tutorials. If you’re really busy, you and your private Chinese tutor can work out a schedule that works for both of you.You’ll also get tailored feedback with a private Chinese tutor. This can help you progress more quickly.If you’re more interested in a certain topic, you and your tutor can focus on that. Whether it’s Chinese calligraphy, learning Pinyin, Chinese characters, speaking, translation, pronunciation, or listening, you can choose exactly what you want to learn.Learn also what you need to prepare yourself for Chinese lessons...How Much Do Chinese Tutorials Cost?The cost is going to be an important thing to consider when learning Mandarin with private tutorials.Travelling to China can also help you learn Mandarin pretty quickly. (Source: Jing)You’re going to have to invest in textbooks or pay a private tutor (or both).  You need to know that your tutor also has to prepare your tutorials. This time will be fact ored into their hourly rate.  As private tutors are self-employed, they also need to budget for any other expenditures involved in helping you learn Mandarin Chinese. The amount you pay doesn’t go directly into their pocket.You need to know that the rates will change according to your tutor’s experience and qualifications. If you’re a beginner and just getting started with Chinese, you could opt for a student to help you learn the basics. Their rates will be lower than a retired Chinese lecturer or native speaker. Even though they're also a learner, if they're better at Chinese than you, they can teach you!However, if you need to focus on Chinese pronunciation or a particular dialect, you're going to need to invest in a native speaker or maybe even immersion!You also need to consider the type of tutorial and where it takes place.  On Superprof, the average cost of Chinese tutorials in London is £23 per hour. However, that means that there are tutors charging more and less tha n this figure.How Can You Make Your Private Chinese Tutorials More Affordable?Private Chinese tutorials might seem quite expensive at first glance. You need to consider whether you’ll progress more quickly with a private Chinese tutor or by attending Chinese classes in a private language school.  Here are some tips for getting the most out of your tutorials.Speak Regularly with Your TutorHaving a private tutor for learning Chinese is a great way to quickly advance. However, you have to be honest with your tutor. Don’t hesitate to talk to them if you’re having difficulties or have any doubts about the tones, certain phrases, or how to put together a sentence in your new language.  Since you’re not in a group class, you can basically ask whatever you want. There are no stupid questions.Work On What You Find DifficultIt’s pointless spending hours studying something you’re already good at. To get the most out of each hour of Chinese tuition, work on what you find difficult w ith your tutor and try to structure your course around this.Prepare for Your Next TutorialTo make quick progress, you’ll need to work outside of your tutorials and study for your next session. Don’t wait until your next tutorial to do some work.  Go back over your previous tutorial, look at the exercises you did in class, or ask your tutor for homework to be getting on with.Speak Chinese!If you’re going to speak Chinese, you’re going to have to practise it.But with whom?Talk to your tutor, of course. Ask them if you can spend a certain part of the tutorial speaking in Chinese.You can also find someone to practise speaking with at language exchanges.Why not travel to China?This is a great way to motivate yourself. Having a conversation in Chinese is a great way to improve your pronunciation over time.Use Chinese CultureTo learn Chinese, you have to have fun. Watch Chinese films or read Chinese books. Music is also a great way to improve your listening skills.How Many Tutorial s Does It Take to Speak Chinese?It’s difficult to give a single answer to this question as it depends on the tutor and the student. There are a lot of criteria to consider when estimating how quickly a student will learn in private tutorials.Firstly, it’ll depend on your motivation. Those who are more motivated will spend longer studying Chinese characters and watching films and series in Chinese. They’ll be passionate about doing it, too.On the other hand, others may see Chinese as a new skill they have to learn without really wanting to become fluent in the languages. If you don’t study between tutorials, your progress will be slower.You also need to consider how much free time you have and how you can juggle your profession, family life, studying Chinese characters and vocabulary, etc. Furthermore, some people are really gifted when it comes to learning foreign languages. These people will make quick progress. It all depends on the type of person and their motivation.Don' t forget that if you can't find any tutors near where you live, you can always learn Chinese online. Thanks to the internet and video conferencing, you can arrange tutorials over Skype, for example, and a tutor anywhere in the world can teach you how to speak and write Chinese phrases, for example, at any time of the day.This is also a great option for those that work irregular hours or need to study at very specific times of the day as you can turn your study into a classroom for a few hours a week.Now discover other ways you could learn Chinese!

How to Help Math-Phobic Students This School Year

How to Help Math-Phobic Students This School Year This post is part of our 2017 Back-to-School Series. Throughout the month of August, visit the Varsity Tutors blog for back-to-school advice, tips, and tricks for all ages. Did you spend countless evenings arguing with your student over his or her math homework last school year? Dont worryyoure not alone, and the good news is math class doesnt have to be so painful this year. There are ways that you can help your child gain confidence in his or her math skills. For instance, you can help your math-phobic student this school year by understanding whats causing the trouble, learning what the math expectations will be this year, and dedicating time each day to math homework and practice. Understand whats causing your student trouble in math class Understanding the cause of your childs troubles is essential to helping him or her succeed this school year. Spend some time with your student leading up to the beginning of the school year, and listen to what exactly is causing the math struggle. It might take some time for the truth to come out, but pinpointing trouble areas will be helpful in the coming year. For example: Maybe your student isnt fully confident with the basic skills, such as fact families and times tables. Perhaps its a certain skill, like long division, that stops your child in his or her tracks. It could be that dreaded word problems constantly make your student scratch his or her head. Whatever it is (and it could also be a few different areas), make sure that you and your child are on the same page and can work toward strengthening those skills. [RELATED: How Parents Can Help with Elementary Homework Challenges] Spend a set amount of time every day on math Once youve figuredout the trouble spots, reach an agreement with your child about spending a set amount of time working on those skillseven ten minutes a day can make a difference. Perhaps your school sent home a math packet to work on, or perhaps you can review division flashcards together. Varsity Tutors also has an extensive collection of grade-appropriate online math help. Find a math tutor this school year Now might be a great time to find a math tutor for your student. The time right before school is crucial for getting your student back into the swing of things, as well as refreshed on concepts he or she has already learned. This sets your child up for immediate success. Finding a tutor now is also a good idea because by the time a student needs help, it is often a race against time to get him or her back on track. Being prepared before the start of the school year can eliminate stress and help your student feel more confident in math class. It can also help your child ace that first test, which is often a moment when confidence is either built or crushed. Learn as much as you can about this years math expectations Is there a math syllabus you can access on your schools online parent portal? If so, read about the upcoming year and know ahead of time what will be expected of your student. If the teacher has a strict homework policy and you know your student struggled with this last year, talk with your child about what can make homework a better experience. If your students teacher is basing the grade on only three tests per semester, talk with your child about how to work on test preparation and note-taking strategies. See how accessible the teacher is and prepare any questions for back-to-school night. Remember, everyone wants to help your student do well! Stay on track with math this school year Its wise to review and practice skill-building in the summer, but constantly communicating with your child throughout the year is necessary as well. There may be resistance and avoidance in trouble subjects for students. This requires even more checking in. This also means following up with the teacher if your student falls behind or is not understanding the material. It is possible to make this year less fraught with tension in the math arena. Good luck to you and your student! Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.

How to Create 3D Drawings

How to Create 3D Drawings How to Draw in 3D ChaptersWhat is a 3D drawing?How do I Draw in Perspective?How Do I Create an Optical Illusion Effect in a Drawing?A Selection of Tutorials to Learn 3D Drawing3D Drawing: The Best Apps!Which Pens Should I Use for 3D Drawing?Tips for Easy 3D Drawing“That which we perceive is not of the world, but of the brain’s model of the world.”This quote from Chris Frith makes sense when you realise how successful 3D drawings can mislead and distort our perception.And yet, representing reality in all its dimensions on only a flat surface is not that easy when you start drawing, yet it is fundamental to many different types of art.What are the best techniques for drawing in 3D?How can you create the illusion that a drawing isn’t flat?In this article you’ll find techniques for drawing in perspective and mastering anamorphic art, and learn to draw various models realistically. And why not try it out using a 3D pen? FernandoDrawing Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tuto rs EmmaDrawing Teacher 5.00 (5) £75/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DavidDrawing Teacher 4.75 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaDrawing Teacher 5.00 (7) £37/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorrenDrawing Teacher 5.00 (2) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SabrinaDrawing Teacher 4.33 (3) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Julia janeDrawing Teacher 5.00 (5) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EvelinaDrawing Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is a 3D drawing?What is the difference between a 2D and a 3D drawing? Well, the answer is pretty simple.When we draw in 2D (two dimensions), we produce a sketch on our paper with no sense of volume. All that is really taken into account is the width and height of our object. But when we draw in 3D, we include a third dimension: depth. It’s stating the obvious to say that drawing in 3D makes a drawing more realistic, considering that it’s more faithful to the small details that the eye observes in reality. It copies reliefs and distances, and keeps the same proportions as in reality, for instance when drawing a face.From putting into perspective to grasping optical illusions, 3D drawing takes various forms and requires strong competency in drawing.How do artists completely master these drawing techniques?How can you give the illusion that a flat drawing jumps off the page?The first thing you need to know for creating volume in a drawing is how to draw in perspective.How do I Draw in Perspective?Perspective is the technique which allows you to draw an object in space in three dimensions. The drawer takes into account the depth of the scene and reproduces the object as it is perceived from their own point of view.Learn basic techniques to mimic reality. Photo on VisualHunt.comCavalier perspective consists of giving an object volume by adding a structure of parallel lines. This is a type of drawing that we predominantly fin d in geometry to represent a cube, for example.Linear perspective is often used in drawing. In order to create a good linear perspective, we generally concentrate on these two elements:A horizon lineOne or more vanishing points.From these elements, by drawing lines we can create a grid that will work as visual guides for drawing the various parts of our scene.There are many different types of linear perspectives, which helps the drawer create depth and volume in their work:Frontal perspective: the eye is facing the scene front-on. The drawing is based on the horizon line at eye level, and all the lines meet at one sole vanishing point.Oblique perspective: we see this in two directions. The composition has two vanishing points. This type of perspective uses two vanishing points, allowing you to draw cubes and other geometric shapes by taking into account their real shape and depth.Aerial perspective: here we take into account all the dimensions of the object by working on its represe ntation with three vanishing points. This is the most realistic perspective, predominantly used in architecture to represent furniture, for example.Mastering drawing in perspective is necessary to create a realistic drawing and give it volume, such as drawing a hand for example. Drawing in 3D is not about improvisation. You need to really use your eyes and take in the proportions of your object as faithfully as possible. Representing characters or objects by properly observing the effects of depth is crucial for great 3D drawing.Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa is an example of the atmospheric perspective technique. Photo on VisualHunt.comSome artists use another type of perspective as well: atmospheric perspective.It could be compared to a camera and its focus. This perspective is based on impressions. This means that whatever is in the foreground is drawn in a clear and precise way, but the more you look in depth, the more the details are unclear. Some artists also play on colours an d gradients as well to create this effect of depth: the cooler the colours, the less precise the details of the scene.This is a technique developed and used by Flemish painters of the 15th century, but it is also seen in the work of Leonardo da Vinci, notably in the Mona Lisa.How Do I Create an Optical Illusion Effect in a Drawing?Those who master the art of drawing in perspective achieve an even more impressive result in their work. The objects seem to literally jump of the page and come to life.When a drawing is successful it gives the impression of coming to life and really takes on three dimensions. It’s a great start for designing an eye-catching company logo too!This impression is an optical illusion, which is only noticeable from one specific angle. When you look at an anamorphic drawing you have to look at it a certain way in order to see the result in 3D. From any other angle, you’ll only see a distorted image.How Do I Create a Picture that Jumps off the Page?Learn to b ring your drawings to life with some simple techniques. Photo credit: Abi Skipp on Visual HuntYou need to learn the right technique. It’s not only necessary to know how to distort an image correctly, but for the result to be really realistic, you also need to master basic drawing techniques. There are quite a few steps to get from the first sketch to the finished piece. You will to know how to draw each detail of your subject, and also how to paint or colour your drawing for effect.To create an anamorphic drawing, you’ll need to distort the image that you wish to represent on paper. The main techniques that will help you draw an anamorphic image are:Use a camera to capture your object in a photo, which you can print or display to help you sketch it accuratelyUse computer software to distort the object that you wish to represent so that you can draw it easilyUse a grid system to draw the object in its correct proportionsCut out part of the outline of the drawing to reinforce the 3D impressionUse multiple sheets or fold a sheet to achieve the desired volume effectMany artists have been able to master the art of anamorphic drawing, such as Leon Keer and Kurt Wenner. You can sometimes even come across 3D art on the ground or on walls in public spaces. Many street artists produce striking realist pieces.Between gaping holes in the middle of the pavement and sharks protruding from the road, there are many performances from artists such as Edgar Mueller and Julian Beever, for example, that are really impressive.You could even use this technique to design your own tattoo! FernandoDrawing Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EmmaDrawing Teacher 5.00 (5) £75/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DavidDrawing Teacher 4.75 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaDrawing Teacher 5.00 (7) £37/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorrenDrawing Teacher 5.00 (2) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SabrinaDr awing Teacher 4.33 (3) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Julia janeDrawing Teacher 5.00 (5) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EvelinaDrawing Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsA Selection of Tutorials to Learn 3D DrawingTo train yourself up in 3D drawing, it’s important to master the basic drawing techniques. You can practice really easily thanks to the huge range of online tutorials that are available online, with step-by-step guides to help you improve you sketches and create a realistic 3D drawingYou will find tutorials for all different levels, whether you are a total beginner or an experienced drawer.Among some of the easiest things to draw, this clever tutorial shows you how to draw a Rubic’s Cube in 3D, giving the impression of levitating above the paper. This well-explained guide will familiarise you with the basic techniques, which you can then transfer onto other objects:How to draw a 3D Rubik's CubeThe following video reveal s the secret for drawing a 3D open door. You’ll see how, by cutting the bottom of the paper, you can create a really realistic effect:How to draw a 3D open doorHere, you will discover how lines can help create volume. In this instructive video, you will learn to draw a half-sphere in 3D. With the same principle, you will also be able to draw other 3D objects such as hands:How to draw a 3D half sphereMore experimental artists could try a 3D drawing of a great white shark, which seems truer than life thanks to this video:How to draw a 3D sharkDesign Software to Help with 3D DrawingThere are lots of different types of 3D software. Used for all sorts of purposes, they allow you to create synthesised three-dimensional images.From 3D architecture to 3D modelling to 3D animation, the design industry has so many options for creating things in three dimensions â€" today, 3D is everywhere. It is even exceeded by augmented reality and 4D cinema. With 3D modelling software, creatives can now even use 3D printers to realise their designs.As an amateur designer, you can easily find some free design software to use. Software is generally fairly intuitive and simple to use, allowing you to familiarise yourself and experiment with three-dimensional vision.Which design software should I choose?What is the best software?That all depends on your needs. You can use 3D design software online or opt for one that you download to your computer. Here are a few examples of 3D software you could use:Photoshop: an abcolute essential for all graphic designers, it offers infinite possibilities for design, very much like Adobe Illustrator.Krita and Artweaver: these are also great programmes for design which both have their own advantages.Google Sketchup: perfect for 3D modelling, this software was initially built for architecture and interior decoration.Blender: this 3D modelling and animation software is one of the main points of reference for experts.Autocad: this is one the most used pl atforms for creating 2D and 3D designs.Manga Studio EX: perfect for creating 2D and 3D cartoon or manga art.3D Drawing: The Best Apps!If you want to learn to draw in 3D, there are other interesting tools at your disposal: tablet or smartphone 3D drawing applications. They will accompany you everywhere, all throughout the day. It’s therefore really easy to improve your drawing skills and techniques when you have a spare moment, be it in your lunchbreak or on your commute to work!On your phone or tablet you’ll be able to learn to draw volume in order to achieve a realistic 3D effect.3D drawing is one of the most popular drawing techniques. Whether you want to become a professional or simply improve your skills for fun, you’ll easily find the perfect for you.Here at Superprof, we’ve selected some of the best apps for you which offer great guidance and techniques. From 3D modelling to learning to draw in realistic perspective, there is an app for all tastes and all ages!To learn 3D drawing simply follow the steps in this app! Source: play.google.comLearn to Draw 3D, to progress at your own paceThis app is accessible for younger ages, starting from the age of 8 up. It’s a clear app for helping you learn to draw in 3D and easily create optical illusions.The app is pretty well made and easy to use. You can choose a 3D drawing model and then discover all the different steps to reproduce the image yourself. A simple but effective app for understanding the essential steps of 3D drawing at your own pace.How to Draw 3D and Illusion, videos dedicated to 3D drawingThis app is also really great on a pedagogical level, teaching you to draw in 3D with its tutorial videos. The app actually gathers all the best YouTube tutorials on the subject, so you get the best drawing lessons for kids possible. It’s especially useful when you can’t find good online tutors yourself and want drawing lessons for beginners.The app is updated every week so that you can discover load s of new videos and techniques at the click of a button!Tilt Brush, virtual reality 3D drawingDrawing in 3D just got even more exciting thanks to Tilt Brush, an app which lets you pain in 3D space with virtual reality. Even though it’s not an app strictly for learning 3D drawing techniques on paper, it’s still a great tool for discovering different, creative ways to work in 3D!With a virtual reality headset, you can let your imagination take free rein and create 3D art in a virtual world.Leopoly, to create 3D charactersAvailable on tablets and also on your PC, Leopoly is an app which allows you to create 3D characters and modify them exactly to your specifications thanks to the numerous tools at your disposal.This is an app that all animation and comic fans will appreciate, helping you to design and bring to life your very own characters!Tinkercad, 3D design for beginnersTinkercad is an Autodesk app which also offers a wide range of design software for professionals and amateurs alike. Tinkercad makes 3D drawing simple with an easy-to-use display â€" making it an essential for 3D designers!The app is based on shapes that can be assembled to build up your designs. Anyone can bring their creations to life with the 3D printing feature, so now you don’t have to be an expert to get creative with 3D modelling.Tinkerplay, perfect for kids!Autodesk also offers Tinkerplay, a really popular modelling app for children as it allows you to easily create 3D characters and creatures. You start from a basic model, which you can personalise by experimenting with the different elements and features. You can then print or order your 3D characters. It’s the perfect app for a lively imaginationWhich Pens Should I Use for 3D Drawing?Because 3D drawing also entails virtual reality, 3D printing and 3-dimensional writing, it’s impossible to talk about the subject without mentioning 3D pens.So what is a 3D pen? It’s an innovative tool which operates on the same principle as a 3D printer. The 3D pen allows you to write and draw in 3 dimensions with its simple function: the pen heats the plastic, which cools when released onto a support. This means you can create 3D structures really easily and quickly.You can use an object to help you draw contours in 3D, build parts and assemble them, or simply let your imagination run free!A 3D pen can contain one of two types of plastic: ABS or PLA. The choice of plastic that you opt for is important for different types of projects.ABS is a material that cools instantly, so it’s ideal for 3D drawing. It’s a plastic made from petroleum, which allows you to easily create different shapes which will hold their structure well. You can make all sorts â€" straight and curved lines, spirals, and geometric shapes. It’s also very useful for 2D writing creations that you can peel off and use as you wish.PLA cools less rapidly, taking longer to solidify. PLA is mainly composed of starch and natural materials, and is biod egradable. It is better suited for 3D writing as it adheres well to a support, such as cardboard, metal or ceramics. It’s useful for drawing 2D images that won’t peel off.How do I choose a 3D pen?Browse the market for the perfect 3D pen to suit your needs! Photo credit: yourbestdigs on VisualHunt.comUnlike 3D printers which are only available to particular groups of people, 3D pens appeal to a large demographic because they are affordable and accessible.  Both amateur and professional artists are intrigued by the idea of 3D drawing, and it amuses children for hours â€" it’s the perfect hobby for those who love building and realising their designs, providing infinite opportunities for invention!The first 3D pen was the 3Doodler. Today it’s in its third generation, and this latest version is more precise and reliable than ever, at an affordable price.There are many different models of 3D pens today. They are available at all prices, with varying choice depending on your perso nal needs and expectations. There are a few elements to take into account when making your choice, such as:The design and weight of the pen: this is an important element to facilitate the handling and accuracy of your 3D drawing.LCD display: another important point when using a 3D pen is monitoring its functions, such as the pen’s temperature. The temperature makes it possible to experiment with the effects of the plastic.The price: obviously, your budget will influence your choice of pen, but this will also affect the quality of pen that you will look for and afford. You can find 3D pens for less that £50, but they aren’t always the best quality.The brand: among the field of big names in the world of 3D pens, the mentionable ones are 3Doodler, Lix pens, Yestech 3D, 7tech 3D and GENESIS.Tips for Easy 3D DrawingWhether you love new technologies or you prefer putting pen to paper the old fashioned way, you can quickly progress with drawing if you take some online classes!You coul d learn to draw all sorts of objects such as buildings, hands, or faces, or even create your own comic book.You will benefit so much from the advice and experience of an expert drawing teacher, who will help you master the art of drawing in perspective, 3-dimensional drawing and realism.But taking online art classes is not enough to completely master the techniques of three-dimensional drawing. You will also have to acquire specific skills, which can only be done with patience and through regular practice in your own time.To become a real expert in 3D drawing, start by following these tips:Practice lots of varied drawing exercises so that you can work on the effects of perspective and volume.Learn to observe and draw the small details of you object for a realistic result â€" after all, 3D drawing is based on technically accurate and realistic reproduction of an object. To successfully draw 3D images, whether on paper or a tablet, it’s essential to master the basics of drawing (suc h as proportions, light and shadow, perspective, details).Practice regularly to make it second nature. Carrying a sketchbook around with you is a great start to incorporate drawing into your everyday life.Get inspired by artists and pieces that you love, and watch online tutorials to learn how to draw just like them.So are you ready to start 3D drawing? Grab your pencil or charcoal and don’t forget your rubber…or your tablet!Find tutors for drawing lessons throughout the UK on Superprof:Drawing courses LondonDrawing courses BirminghamDrawing lessons GlasgowDrawing lessons online

GCSE Analysis Lord of the Flies by William Golding

GCSE Analysis Lord of the Flies by William Golding English Literature GCSE Analysis: Lord of the Flies by William Golding Overview The Lord of the Flies tells the story of a group of British schoolboys marooned on a pacific island after the aeroplane on which they are travelling crashes into the jungle.   Isolated from society and freed from adult supervision, the characters in the story quickly lose their civilised manners and begin to act with surprising violence and savagery.   Golding, who wrote the story while working as a teacher, held strong views on the nature of innocence and the power of civilisation to control ‘the beast’ of savagery within all people.   His accurate portrayal of boys, drawn from his experience, together with the startling and ultimately pessimistic exploration of human nature, have given the book worldwide recognition together with a lasting influence on thinkers, writers and film-makers.   The title is a translation of the Biblical name, Beelzebub, used for a god who expected human sacrifice. Themes Most discussions of the book centre around strongly polarised concepts that arise from the boys’ actions, for example: innocence and the loss of innocence; civilisation and savagery; and diversity and conformity.   Then there are the ‘totemic’ objects that have come to be representative of bigger ideas: the conch; piggy’s glasses; and the beast.  The resonance and power of the book is partly due to Golding’s willingness to write about events as shocking as murder, torture, bullying and hallucination and partly because of his willingness to explicitly discuss the morality with his narrative voice. Innocence When first arriving on the island, the boys are made to seem almost entirely innocent.   Despite the difference in behaviour from what we might expect from school children, due to the age of the book itself, we can observe this innocence best by contrasting it with the behaviour towards the end of the book.   Two scenes to consider would be the very first, when Ralph and Piggy meet, and the climax in Chapter 11, Castle Rock, when Piggy is murdered. At the start of the novel, the boys even dress like they are in the heart of civilised Britain: ‘The fair boy stopped and jerked his stockings with an automatic gesture that made the jungle seem for a moment like the Home Counties.’ Ralph in particular is described as healthily muscled, but ‘there was a mildness about his mouth and eyes that proclaimed no devil.’   The word ‘devil’ only appears twice in the whole book, and although it might be light-hearted here at the start, the darkening tone means that later in Chapter 11 when we read of ‘the anonymous devils’ faces’ there is a real threat to the word. In the final scene, the naval officer presumes that the mud-plastering and the dressing-up has been ‘fun and games’, but he is surprised by the response to his question ‘Nobody killed, I hope?’   Ralph’s tears are both a response to the ‘end of innocence’ and also a proof that he has lost his own innocence: like Adam after eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, he now has the ability to recognise when something will never return. Civilisation and savagery First Golding has the boys create a fair sort of system â€" an agreed leader, a symbol for democratic participation (the conch) and a shared need to draw the society together.   The ‘assembly’, which even in 1954 would have had overtones of school gatherings, is a meeting that can’t survive alongside the desire to hunt, break and kill.   The two are antithetical.   Consider the scene in Chapter 5 when the assembly is first suggested, with the scene in Chapter 11 when Jack and his gang decry the rules and ‘law and rescue’.   In one, the boys talk one at a time, punctuated by ‘murmurs’.   In the other, the boys shout at the same time, interrupted by a ‘clamor’. Some of the missing pieces of civilisation are the school uniforms which are quickly stripped off, but by the end most of the boys have also lost their long, civilised names.   Ralph unwittingly betrays his friend by calling him ‘Piggy’ and encouraging others to see him as a victim, but he is not the only one to be degraded by his name.   When a small boy is asked who he is by the naval officer, Golding writes: Percival Wemys Madison sought in his head for an incantation that had faded clean away. The long and upper-class name is merely a distant ‘incantation’ â€" something magical and never understood. But it is the tragedy of Golding’s story that civilisation is actually ineffective at combating savagery.   Samneric may be a good friend, but his support for Piggy and Ralph is weak.   When Jack is confronting them, Golding mocks his character: ‘Samneric protested out of the heart of civilization. “Oh, I say!”’ Closely related to the loss of innocence, the loss of rules is somehow even more awful, perhaps because the boys need them so desperately. Diversity and Conformity There is a strong latent discussion of the place of the individual in society within the book, usually overlooked in favour of the simpler themes outlined above.   Piggy has several traits that mark him out as different, and he is punished for his natural non-conformity by taunts and bullying throughout the story.   But when Ralph insists upon the rules in the first assembly, Jack undoubtedly reacts against it because he wants the freedom to live differently.   He loves the idea that he is free to do as he wishes, to ‘hunt it down! We’ll close in and beat and beat and beatâ€"!”’   But he also needs the ideal of Ralph’s society to react against. Ironically by the end of the book, the biggest crime that Ralph and his supporters have committed, in Jack’s eyes, is to refuse to join in with the new conformity: “ What d’you mean by it, eh?” said the chief fiercely. “What d’you mean by coming with spears? What d’you mean by not joining my tribe?” Golding is observing that as the majority shifts, human morality can be entirely redefined. The Conch The conch is mentioned 180 times in the book, first as ‘interesting and pretty and a worthy plaything’.   Even after it has been destroyed by the same rock that kills Piggy, it is still mentioned five times as Ralph remembers it, now emblematic of everything ‘solemn’ and proper: There was no solemn assembly for debate nor dignity of the conch. The phrase associated with the shell is ‘I got the conch’.   The simplicity of this is itself a warning: the boys think that authority can be bestowed by possession of a special object.   However, the conch is meaningless without the respect for the ideal of the conch.   In some ways the boys did an amazing thing to create this symbol that is heard ‘all across the island’ â€" and far beyond the book â€" but it is a fragile thing, easily broken. Piggy’s Glasses Piggy’s glasses are also fragile, yet they control the fire and the power goes with it.   The glasses are mentioned 42 times in the book, often described as ‘flashing’ in the steady tropical sunshine.   They are a mark of Piggy’s vulnerability, an artefact of civilisation, a tool and a displacement activity (Piggy is forever cleaning them).   Key scenes to consider are the second part of Chapter Two, when the fire is first lit, the end of Chapter Four, when one of the lenses is broken when Jack hits piggy, and the moment at the end of Chapter Ten when the boys realise why Jack and his hunters made their attack. The Beast The beast is only an imaginary creature, yet the word appears 113 times in the book.   To begin with, the boys talk of a ‘beastie’ â€" the diminutive suffix implying a childish, silly bogey â€" the fear of the ‘littluns’.   However, the word ‘beastie’ doesn’t appear after Chapter Five.   Although Simon identifies that the ‘beast’ may in fact be real, but be a part of ‘darkness of man’s heart’, this thought itself is too abstract for many of the boys, and Jack diverts attention with profanity. After Jack kills a sow and makes an offering, Simon looking at the head of the pig speaks to and hears from a voice that Golding identifies as the Lord of the Flies.   And although this voice says that it intends to ‘have fun’, this moment and the seriousness with which a reader chooses to take it really decides your reading of the whole book. To write an essay response to the story it is essential that you really do hold an opinion and your own reaction.   The simplest way is to consider this scene and to ask yourself, how real is this ‘beast’ within?   Do I believe that Golding’s story is realistic, or purest fantasy? Need an extra hand with some English? Why not book private GCSE English tuition to boost your learning. You can find the right tutor for you from the Tutorfair website. More GCSE analyses: Animal Farm and Of Mice and Men