Why Take Acting Classes

Why Take Acting Classes 3 Great Reasons To Take Acting Classes Chapters1. Learning To Act Is A Real Confidence Booster2. Learning To Act Enhances Listening And Negotiating Skills3. Drama Skills Can Increase Your Overall CreativityIf you have ventured onto this blog post, then it is likely that you are already interested in drama and the amazing possibilities, opportunities and benefits that acting lessons offer you. That is a good place to start!Now it is my turn to explain to you why investing in an acting workshop or seminar is something you should and must do, even if only to satisfy a hobby. Likewise, if you've dreamt of a life in the entertainment industry, then there are various acting classes just waiting to be discovered.First and foremost, let's explore what acting classes are on offer, what they consist of and roughly how much they cost.Types Of Acting ClassesThere are numerous  types of acting camps on offer  (aside from attending full-time art schools, or attending a postgraduate course that equips you with a bachelor degree in the p erforming arts) which can help you to develop different elements of the dramatic arts.Before you sign up for any class, you should familiarise yourself with the options available to you and decide on which is best suited for your own personal goals and financial budget.To save you attending expensive classes that don't meet your expectations, here is a list of just some of the courses you might encounter when looking around for acting classes to participate in.Acting Technique (High Importance For An Acting Career)The intensive Acting Technique class is the fundamental actor training  for an aspiring actor or actress with dreams of being a TV actor or going to New York City to mingle with film and broadway stars. Most serious actors will go to drama school but as someone who comes into drama later in life then this well rounded master class really is a must to give you a foundation in the industry.Individual classes will differ in layout and content due to different techniques and a pproaches used by teachers (i.e. they might adopt the Sanford  Meisner Technique, the Alexander Technique, Method Acting, Stella Adler or other) so take the time to investigate two or three classes if you know that you have a preference.Audition Technique (High Importance To Work In The Industry)Equally an important class to attend if you plan to audition for professional roles, the instructor in this lesson  focuses on the audition and callback process and how to be confident going into either scenario.Scene StudyThis training will introduce you to  studying, analysing and practising scenes off and on-camera. While it is important in understanding scenes for a play, film or television show, the class leader will still want you to draw on your acting techniques, like those learnt from the above classes.Sight ReadingAlso referred to as Cold reading, this class is great for improving in this discipline. It is best suited to those who are auditioning for roles that don’t offer much i n the way of preparation, like short adverts or brief appearances. It will teach you to quickly prepare a text and deliver it confidently, allowing you to spend more time thinking about your performance.ImprovisationThose presenting in the moment on live TV or on stage in front of thousands of spectators may have to improvise from time to time. Improv, as it is also known, is valuable for actors and comedians because it enables them to think fast, embrace spontaneity  and to be more aware of timing.Commercial ActingAnyone looking to appear in commercials should place this high on their list, but with improv being required for most commercial auditions, you shouldn’t rule out the above Improvisation classes too (with the first probably outweighing the second in terms of value).VocalVocal coaching is not just for people interested in singing; the voice is equally as important for actors in how they tell their story. This class is good for people looking to appear in stage production s, as they will be taught breathing techniques, how to sing and ways to control their vocal abilities.MovementThis is the physical version of the above course, i.e. with an acting teacher teaching you how to use your body and movement to evoke feelings in performances. It teaches you awareness of all aspects of your body, from your limbs to your facial expressions so is, again, good for those theatrical performances.ClassicalDesigned for trainees looking to appear in classical performances like Shakespearean plays, for example, in class you will learn about period acting, including dialect, accent and speech. Voice and movement techniques and other acting tips will make up part of this course, and you will be taught how to read and analyse the complicated English in classical literature.Classical acting refers to the method of learning to act out classical literature like Shakespeare's plays. Photo credit: EaglebrookSchool on VisualhuntVoice-OverThese are slightly different to vocal lessons because they focus on the specific branch of acting: voice-overs. These classes are only necessary for those wishing to pursue this as a career, so it isn't worth wasting your time and money on these lessons unless you have to master the technical aspects of this job.Highly Influential Acting TechniquesYou may have noticed that some techniques were referred to above.Just like the different movements in drama have changed throughout the years, there are also various types of acting techniques  that have come from strong and seasoned influences in the industry. Some have been around for a long time, whilst others have emerged thanks to modern developments in theatre.The Stanislavski MethodThe Stanislavski method  draws on feelings and experiences that are said to convey the truth about the characters being portrayed. The actors are encouraged to put themselves in the mindset of the person they are playing and to find links and things in common to make their performances feel more genuineClassical ActingThis term is quite broad and encompasses the expression of voice, body, imagination, improvisation (or improv) and script analysis. It is based upon the theories and principles of a selection of classical actors and directors from over the years, including Stanislavski.Method ActingMethod Acting is made up of a range of techniques formulated by Lee Strasberg in order to develop a cognitive and emotional understanding of the actor's character. The individual is asked to draw on their own experiences to identify with their role on a personal level, so it is also based loosely on Stanislavski's ideas too.The Meisner TechniqueThe Meisner Technique asks the actor to focus on nothing but the other actor or actors in the scene with them, as if nothing else in the world exists during that moment. The idea is that the intensity of the performance makes the scene feel more authentic and powerful. It has connotations with the Stanislavski method.Practical Aesthetics Last but not least, Practical Aesthetics is a technique that derives from a conception that David Mamet and William H. Macy came up with, based once again on the Stanislavski method, along with the Meisner technique and the philosopher Epictetus. The approach includes script analysis, repetition exercises and explores adaptability.Looking For Acting Classes In Your AreaNo matter where you live, you are sure to find an acting class near you. However, as you will have gathered from the above, there are many different branches of acting that you could choose to focus on.If you aren't fussy and just want to reap some of the rewards that drama classes offer, then you will be able to choose a workshop that is convenient and priced right for you. If, on the other hand, you want to learn a specific skill like improvisation, then you might have to do a bit more research, pay more for an acting coach or travel further afield.Regardless of which class you attend, the main thing is that you fee l comfortable in the environment and that it brings about positive feelings. It is okay to feel a little nervous at the start, and even to dread your first session, just as long as you can see how the class is or is going to benefit you in the long run.So don't hesitate to look up drama classes London and take the plunge into acting.How Much Do Acting Classes Cost?Drama schools will often have predetermined fees listed on their websites, updated annually, to give you an idea of how much tuition like this costs. Likewise, independent classes will advertise their prices on forums, websites and other listings but the challenge is working out what is cheap and what is expensive for adult classes!Some classes may only charge £45 for a single workshop, yet others may offer a block of three for £65. Meanwhile, some courses in central London or at acclaimed academies might charge hundreds of pounds - it really is a minefield!The best tip I can give you is to do your research and to trust your instincts. In most cases, elevated prices are due to the teacher being highly respected for what they do or because you are   likely to gain more skills from attending the workshop than other courses (which both mean better value for money). So if it is within budget and it gets you excited, then go ahead and sign up! CarlActing Teacher 5.00 (5) £55/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaActing Teacher 5.00 (8) £45/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ElifActing Teacher 5.00 (10) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors CalumActing Teacher 5.00 (15) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChristopherActing Teacher 5.00 (9) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LowriActing Teacher 5.00 (8) £85/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielActing Teacher 5.00 (6) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors CiaranActing Teacher 5.00 (5) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors1. Learning To Act Is A Real Confidence BoosterAnyone w ho has had even a minor, supporting role in a school or village play, or who has attended their first ever acting workshop, will admit that learning to act and to portray a character is a truly liberating experience. Not only is it time spent forgetting about all of your own financial worries, relationship troubles, work stress and other concerns, it is a time for you to soak up all of the energy and gusto of the person you are playing and transmit that to the stage.It is often said that some people 'are meant for the stage'. In fact, many parents and grandparents proudly talk of their younger generations being destined for life as a star, because of their wild imagination and 'don't care' attitude. While I do believe that some people are indeed born to be film stars, I am in no way saying that less self-assured human beings shouldn't even bother competing. Far from it!People often say that their children are destined for the stage, because they extrovert in a number of ways. Photo on VisualHuntI am a firm believer in taking yourself out of your comfort zone to really find a sense of accomplishment. That is why I think that acting classes are the perfect way to bring an introvert's personality and emotions to the surface and help them to realise that it is good to express themselves and to be heard (even if it is through the voice of their character initially!).But acting isn't only an activity that makes you seem more extrovert. Acting brings all of its participants a number of positive long-term effects.Firstly, taking part in acting classes and rehearsals means interacting with other like-minded individuals in the class and results in combating shyness or awkwardness in social situations, thus vastly improving social skills. When you join an acting class, you are more than likely going to develop new bonds and friendships that could wind up being relationships for life!Furthermore, acting classes encourage you to become focused on yourself and explore your own uniqueness and individuality. By learning to understand yourself better than ever before, you can also work on expressing yourself more effectively.Interestingly, performing in front of an audience can teach you more about yourself than you could have discovered on your own!The way that you react and interact with an audience says a lot about the way you engage and connect with those around you. That is why some actors and actresses have stood out in history as being so electric to watch on stage or on screen, with the legendary Audrey Hepburn being a perfect example.Finally, if you are a beginner in the world of acting, then any small accomplishment (like walking through the door on that first day!) can feel like you have overcome a big hurdle. Reaching new goals and challenging yourself culminates in a great sense of achievement and is often the best cure for low self-esteem and conquering your fears.2. Learning To Act Enhances Listening And Negotiating SkillsNo matter your li ne of work, communication skills are absolutely necessary for success. What kind of employee are you if you can't listen to even simple commands and what sort of manager would you be if you didn't listen to the concerns of your faculty?Drama classes are a great way to fine tune your communication skills, and particularly to enhance your ability to listen. This does not mean your ability to simply hear and process an instruction, it means to receive an instruction, truly understand it and respond to it in an appropriate manner.There is nothing more frustrating than having to repeat yourself over and over again before you are finally understood, so don't be that person who doesn't fully engage in conversations or who is easily distracted.Similarly, don't be that individual who is having an intense chat with a friend, nodding along, but in reality is thinking about what they are going to eat for dinner. Listening is just as important in enriching your personal life as well as advancing in your professional one.Many would say that speaking and listening are skills that are dying out thanks to digital communication, but when it comes down to it and technology fails us, our personal interaction is always there and ready for action. And, truthfully, there are few scenarios in life where it is better to put something down in writing to convey a really important message.Listening is a vital skill for any performer, especially those who are often involved in improvisation work and must react quickly and feed off of others' comments. Plus, actually listening to your co-star talking transforms a scene into a more authentic performance, as opposed to just standing and waiting for cue line.As a result, the scene becomes a true conversation instead of a rehearsed set of lines.Moreover, any person who watches a performance on-stage or on-screen benefits from being a good listener because it allows them to really appreciate and get the most from what they are watching.In addit ion, educational establishments are aware of the positives that drama classes bring to their pupils and their ability to communicate and interact in other academic lessons on the curriculum.Learning to listen can bring joy to many parts of your life. Photo on Visual HuntActing classes teach you about physical movement and expression, which includes helping you to show that you are listening as well as helping you to actually listen.During your acting workshop, you will learn about body language and posture (like smiling, making eye contact and nodding your head as nonverbal cues) as well as vocal coaching tips which help you to master the art of timing (i.e. not interrupting, summarising and paraphrasing).3. Drama Skills Can Increase Your Overall CreativityThe arts, with drama included, have a huge effect on mood, and happiness goes hand in hand with creativity. As such, doing something creative like taking on acting roles can make one feel feel happy in that moment. This euphoric f eeling can often last long after the experience and turn into excitement for the next time that they take to the stage.Just like doing creative activities can make someone feel happier, such distractions can also play a part in preventing someone from feeling sad. Research by Boston College has shown that acting classes can help people prone to depression or unhealthy behaviours to adopt healthier attitudes and more positive emotions.How can drama improve your creativity skills?Many youths and adults suffering from anxiety or depression showcase introvert traits and characteristics, almost as if they are being suppressed or inhibited. By learning how to act, these people can turn this around and counter any negative feelings by learning from the characters that they are portraying.It may seem counter-intuitive but by placing a drama student in a role playing a troubled personality can help them to better understand their own reactions and sentiments.Other reports have shown that tee nagers in acting classes not only became more confident, but they also grew in other ways. For example, they became more empathetic and thoughtful, which in turn means that they broadened their creativity and imagination.But will adult acting classes benefit you as much as after school activities help teens? Very much so.Drama skills are a fantastic addition to any person's resume, as they not only show your employer that you have interests outside of the workplace, but they also bring with them a range of additional, versatile (and very useful) skills. We have already mentioned that acting classes can teach individuals about the art of listening, but they also encourage self-expression, confidence and creativity, all of which can really benefit most workplaces.Not only could a sharper and more creative mind come up with better ideas and suggestions for improvement, they can also be far more influential over their peers. This is why so many corporate team building activities involve role-play - this and acting are one and the same!So if you are impressed by the astounding knock-on effects that a bit of drama training can have on all aspects of your life, then why not go to your manager and suggest that the company considers booking acting workshops for staff to improve productivity and creativity, or get yourself down to your nearest drama class to see and experience the full effects for yourself here and now!

Is there Alien Life in the Universe

Is there Alien Life in the Universe Are Aliens Real? Yes â€" Of course there’s Life on Other Planets. ChaptersHave We Ever Seen Alien Life?What Actual Evidence Do We have for Extraterrestrial Life?Where Might Aliens Be Living?Why Can’t We Find Aliens?The question of life existing somewhere beyond our planet Earth is one that has focused minds for centuries. Whilst the idea gained currency after the so-called Copernican revolution â€" back in the sixteenth century â€" there is evidence that even the ancient Greeks were considering the idea of alien life millennia ago.It’s an idea that has fascinated us â€" we humans who have always lived our lives as the strongest creatures on the block. The notion that there are other forms of life with greater intelligence than ours, living somewhere in the more than a hundred billion light years of the universe, fills us as much with horror as it does with excitement.However, the universe, as you’ve just seen, is pretty damn big. We can’t even imagine the distance of a light year, let alone a hundred billion of them. And this, really, this is the main argument in favour of the hypothesis that humans are not the only intelligent life in the universe.Think about it. The chances of there being only one habitable planet in all of this massive space is teeny-tiny. If there can be life here, why can’t there be life on another planet too?Well, indeed. This is why astrophysicists are so excited about the possibilities for life in another part of outer space. And whilst we might not be talking about little green men and Martian UFOs, something that we can say is living is almost certainly somewhere out there.Here, we’re going to have a look at some of the most fascinating aspects of the discussion around alien life. And if you have any more, just ask.Find out everything about astronomy - and the differences between cosmology, astrophysics, and astronomy! PetarPhysics Teacher 5.00 (11) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MyriamPhysics Teacher 5.00 (13) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Dr parikhPhysi cs Teacher 5.00 (8) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RubenPhysics Teacher 5.00 (1) £15/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors FrankPhysics Teacher 5.00 (8) £90/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JidePhysics Teacher 4.80 (5) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DorothyPhysics Teacher 5.00 (5) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RahulPhysics Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsHave We Ever Seen Alien Life?As a kid, you’d often go around the playground asking each other, ‘do you believe in aliens?’. And certainly, amongst everyone in your school, there’d be one person who would claim to have seen them.Lots and lots of people have made such claims. From those who claim to have been abducted and examined medically by extra-terrestrial life, to those who report seeing ‘flying saucers’ and other types of UFO sightings, there have been thousands of supposed sightings of aliens. However, pretty much all of them remai n unconfirmed â€" or can be explained by other means.This has never stopped anyone believing in these things, however. And there is almost no chance that you will have missed out on the major conspiracy theories relating to aliens. From Area 51, in Nevada, USA, housing the ruins of unidentified flying objects, to governments around the world suppressing information regarding aliens, there are plenty of them.Get a maths physics tutor here. Do aliens live on Mars?Ancient Astronauts.All of this comes from that original fascination with aliens. And modern scientists and writers have sought all over the world for further evidence of human contact with life beyond earth.One of the most enduring controversies around alien life is in the interpretation of ancient texts and artworks. Some people claim that evidence of ancient human contact with aliens is evident from cave paintings in Val Camonica, Italy, from the hieroglyphs on the Egyptian pyramids, and from ancient Japanese figurines.Indeed, some have even suggested that our modern day religions were born through contact with the extraterrestrial â€" with the idea of a god coming from the awesome power of some life beyond our planet.All of this, however, is speculation.Find out about the major milestones in astronomy!What Actual Evidence Do We have for Extraterrestrial Life?The most important question for any astrophysicist interested in the hunt for alien worlds regards th e proof of alien life: what actual scientific evidence do we have that aliens exist?And the answer to it may well be a disappointing one. There isn’t any conclusive evidence that points to the existence of life anywhere in our solar system, the Milky Way, or anywhere else in our universe either.What Maths Suggests about the Chance of Alien Life.The primary evidence for that we are not alone in the universe is a logical one â€" that the chances that there is only life on Earth in the whole of the universe is extremely slim. There are thought to be about forty billion Earth-size planets in the Milky Way galaxy that are in the habitable zone of stars.And whilst this doesn’t mean that any of them have the right conditions for life, there’s quite a high chance that one of them might â€" even if we don’t recognise its life as life (see more on this below). And that forty billion are only those planets that are in our galaxy. There’s a lot of space left beyond the Milky Way.The D rake Equation, proposed by Frank Drake in 1961, comprises the different numbers that are needed to calculate the chance of life in the Milky Way. And whilst these are hugely disputed, it seems more likely than not that there is â€" or there has been â€" life elsewhere.Learn about our solar system! Is this where the government is hiding aliens? - Image from BBC/Getty Images.The Case of Mars.Mars has always been the planet most commonly associated with the search for extraterrestrial life. And that’s simply because it’s the closest to us.Yet, there have been a whole load of recent breakthroughs that suggest that, yes, indeed, Mars may well have had the conditions that make life possible.These include water â€" with the 2013 NASA mission to the Red Planet suggesting that there was once a large freshwater lake there. There is also evidence of river beds, polar ice caps, and minerals that depend on the presence of water.These days, NASA is putting a lot of effort into their missions to Mars, looking for evidence of fossils and organic carbons.Why is Water Important in the Search for Alien Life?The search for water on Mars has taken up a lot of our research into the planet. And you may well wonder why.What we know about life on Earth is that it depends on water. Water makes up w hat we are chemically â€" and the chemical reactions that produce us are heavily dependent upon the relationship between water and solvents.Whilst there is the trouble that life could exist in a gazillion different chemical ways across the stretch of the universe â€" and that the search for water is based only on our experiences of our own life â€" water makes a pretty good starting point for science. Go with what you know, as they say.Where Might Aliens Be Living?Which brings us to our next question. Scientists have to go with what they know when doing their research into the possibility of alien life â€" and into the possible habitability of other planets. This is pretty much the basis of how science has always worked.As such, the search for life has developed from the study of planets that are most like ours. They might be at a similar place as we our to our sun. They might be of a similar size. Earth-like planets might, as we have seen, have water on them.These are the most like ly places that aliens would live in the universe. And this is where scientists look for signs of life. Europa â€" one of the moons of Jupiter â€" is one such place that is thought to be potentially habitable.Find out about the life cycle of a star! Some images of space are just jaw-dropping.Why Can’t We Find Aliens?This is not the fairest of questions, honestly. Because, in the great scheme of things, we haven’t really been looking for aliens for very long at all.A better question might be what might prevent us from finding aliens? Or even, why haven’t we found aliens so far? Both are good questions, but they are the sort of questions that have a million possible answers.The most likely answer is that, given the age of the universe and given its size, there is really very little chance that any aliens we might meet would be on the same historical trajectory as we are.They might still be just little microbes â€" or they may well be hugely technologically developed and are even now flying around the universe in machines we couldn’t possibly understand.Other theories suggest that many potential places for extraterrestrial life are in subterranean lakes, like on Europa. It may well just be pretty hard to physically see thes e things â€" even if they are there.Would We Even Recognise Alien Life if we Saw it?The most important point remains: would we even know an alien if we saw one?As we’ve said above, human science is based upon what we know â€" and a methodology such as this will only produce results that we can recognise.However, the truth is that life may be living all over the place in forms that we just don’t recognise â€" as we believe life to be this thing.In that case, we may never find aliens at all.

Public School Admission Interview Questions Revealed

Public School Admission Interview Questions Revealed Being a tutoring company with some of Britain’s best educators we have got our hands on the tutor’s holy grail - a certain, very exclusive list of interview questions for public school 13+ admission. We have anonymised them but know they will be very helpful with interview season almost upon us. Enjoy! 1.Why do you want to go to a single sex / co-ed school? 2.Why do you want to go to a boarding school? 3.Why do you want to come to this school? 4/ 5.What is/ are your favourite sports? 6.What is/ are your favourite subjects? 7.What is the last book you read? 8.How many sibling(s) do have? 9.What are your other interests? 10.What do you dislike the most? 11.Do you enjoy travelling? and which countries have you recently visited - what can you tell us about your favourite places of interest 12.Who is the PM of England? 13.What recent news has disturbed you the most? 14.Do you know any boy(s) who have been to this school or currently here with us? 15.Where do you live? 16.What do your parents do for a living? 17.What would you like to do when you grow up? 18.How far is your house to this school?- how have you travelled here today? 19.What is your worst subject(s) at school? 20. How tall are you and how much do you weigh? 21.Tell us/me a bit about yourself? or Give us three words that your friends would use to describe you. 22. What other schools have your parents applied to for you - or you would like to go if we do not offer you a place here? 23. Did your parents or anyone prepare or tutor you for today’s interview? Looking for a tutor? You can search  Tutorfair and our fantastic selection of Admissions tutors. We also have  experienced 11 plus tutors. Check out more great  Tutorfair blogs  for 11 plus admissions: How to get into St Paul's School-Stage 2 Top 15 Books for 11 plus students

Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids Helpful for Kids and Teens with ADHD

Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids Helpful for Kids and Teens with ADHD Behavioral treatments and ADHD medications are the frontline evidence-based interventions recommended for kids and teens with ADHD. While many kids and teens respond well to these treatments, not everyone has a strong response or even has access to these interventions. So, its not surprising that many parents explore alternative treatment options, like supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids. But what exactly are omega-3 fatty acids, and can they really help treat ADHD symptoms? Omega-3 fatty acids are at type of fat that our bodies need to survive, and are found in foods like fish, flaxseed oil, and other plant-based foods. Fish oil supplements are a popular source of omega-3s. There are three types of fatty acids included in the omega-3 cluster: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) found in fish, and alpha-linolenic (ALA) found in plant oils, like flaxseed oil. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in the body, influencing the development and healthy functioning of cells in our eyes, brain, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, and more. When it comes to ADHD, there is a theory that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA and DHA), may help reduce ADHD symptoms by boosting the level of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, minimizing oxidative stress, and/or reducing inflammation. Recent studies have found that some individuals with ADHD have low blood and plasma levels of omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to the theory that boosting blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce ADHD symptoms. While the theory is promising, studies examining the effect of omega-3 fish oil supplements on ADHD symptoms have shown mixed results. Some studies have found decreases in ADHD symptoms following supplementation, while others have not. In studies where symptom improvement was found, symptoms were not normalized meaning that while symptoms decreased, these kids and teens were still impaired relative to kids and teens without ADHD. In a placebo-controlled study published last month in the Translational Psychiatry, researchers found that supplementation with a high dose of EPA (one of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil) taken daily for 12 weeks improved ADHD symptoms in children and teens who had low blood and plasma levels of EPA at the start of the study, but did not significantly affect the ADHD symptoms of children and teens whose blood and plasma levels of EPA were normal before supplementation.1 This may explain some of the mixed findings observed in earlier research. With this mixed evidence, should parents consider providing omega-3 supplements for their children and teens with ADHD? In 2018, a meeting was convened by 8 international ADHD experts to create omega-3 supplementation guidelines for health care professionals who treat children and teens with ADHD.2 The panels consensus is that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may lead to small behavior gains for children and teens with ADHD, and that if these supplements are used they should be used only in conjunction with other interventions, like ADHD medications and behavioral treatments, and not as a stand-alone treatment. If you are considering adding omega-3 fatty acids to your child or teens ADHD treatment plan, consult with your pediatrician to discuss the proper supplement dose and possible side effects. 1Chang J.P.C., et al. (2019). High-dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) improves attention and vigilance in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Translational Psychiatry, 9, Article number: 303. 2Banaschewski, T. et al. (2018). Supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Nutrition and Health, 24(4), 279-284. 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.

How to land an English teaching job in Japan

How to land an English teaching job in Japan Lusting after a well-paid English teaching job in the Land of the Rising Sun? You’re in luck! Japan has long been a prolific employer of overseas English teachers, and that’s not about to change any time soon. Not only is English taught as a compulsary subject in the Japanese public school system, but enrollment in private language schools for kids and adults has skyrocketed across the country in recent years. Meaning: You’re virtually spoilt for choice when it comes to English teaching job opportunities in Japan. Japan is also one of our most highly recommended countries to teach English in the world here at Teach Away. Many of our placement coordinators have lived and taught there and rave about their experience. Japan has a climate, a culture and a history all its own, so be prepared for a truly unique and memorable experience. Without further ado, here are the steps you can take to make that leap to teaching in Japan this year. Step 1: Meet the requirements We’ve written a whole other blog on the requirements for teaching in Japan so we won’t go into every single detail here. Just know that you will need to have English profiency and a bachelor’s degree in order to qualify for most English teaching positions in Japan. Like most other ESL hotspots in Asia and elsewhere, employers have a strong preference for applicants who are TEFL/CELTA certified. Read this: Can you get a job teaching in Japan if you don’t have a college degree? Step 2: Start saving! While many teaching programs and language school English teaching positions in Japan will help you out by covering your flights and offering free (or subsidized) housing in tandem with your generous teaching salary, you will still need to set aside some money to cover daily living expenses until that first paycheck hits your bank account. We recommend you bank anywhere from $2,000 - 4,000 USD, depending on the local cost of living where you’re planning on teaching. Sign up to Teach Away today for access to the latest teaching jobs around the world. Step 3: Kick off your job search Figure out what kind of teaching job you’d like, keeping in mind that the volume of open positions will fluctuate depending on the time of year. While it’s true that many companies do hire all year round, January and July tend to be peak hiring times for many English teaching jobs in Japan, as schools kick off their recruitment drive roughly three months before the start of each semester. Option A: Apply to a teaching program The JET Program (one of the best teach abroad programs in the Asia, if not the world) hires hundreds of foreigners to work as Assistant Lanuage Teachers (ALTs) every year. Because you get lots of support throughout the application and hiring process, JET is popular with new grads who are looking for their first real job after college. Read this: Teaching English in Japan with the JET Program: Derrik’s story However, competition for these positions is stiff. What’s more, the hiring window for the JET program is pretty narrow, meaning you may not have the freedom to make the move whatever time of the year you choose. One other potential downside with going the JET route: You won’t get to choose where in Japan you’re placed. So, if you’re set on one particular city or region, your best bet may be to: Option B: Apply to a private English school These are calledeikaiwas(or conversation schools) and they’re great entry-level jobs for fresh grads who didn’t major in education.Eikaiwascater to kids as well as adults. Some of the more well-knowneikaiwachain schools that regularly hire teachers for English positions across Japan include Aeon, Amity and ECC. Whileeikaiwateaching jobs are often concentrated in urban cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and Fukuoka, you can also find English teaching jobs scattered throughout smaller towns and rural areas in Japan. Option C: Apply to an international school If you have a teaching license and classroom experience, you’re eligible for better-paying English teaching jobs at Japanese international schools, so you might want to focus your job search there. Option D: Apply to a university or college If you’re an experienced ESL teacher with an advanced degree, then there are plenty of English teaching openings at universities and colleges in Japan, where your English teaching know-how is in huge demand. One last word of advice for your English teaching job hunt in Japan? Figure out how long you’d like to teach for before you start applying for jobs. Most private language schools (as well as JET) require candidates to sign a minimum one-year contract. If you’re looking to teach in Japan as more of a short-term move, this will help you narrow down your options. Check out the following sites for the latest English teaching jobs in Japan: Teach Away Go Overseas Japan English Teacher Transitions Abroad Interac As you’re looking through job descriptions, job down some notes so you can tailor your resume to fit common requirements of the job. Bonus: Here’s where you can show off that shiny, hard-earned TEFL certification! Step 4: Work on your interview skills Most employers in Japan are happy to hire in advance. For more guidance on interviewing for teaching jobs abroad, check out these handy blogs on that very topic: 6 interview tips that will get you the job - straight from a teach abroad recruiter 11 tips for a successful teacher phone interview Depending on your employer, you might also be required to travel to a major city in the US or Canada for an in-person interview (an expense that you’ll be on the hook for). Step 5: Go through the visa process After you’ve signed your contract and the ink has dried, your employer, as your visa sponsor, will be able to help you with getting all your documents in order. One thing to be aware of - Japan is pretty strict on granting visas to candidates with a criminal record. Age limits imposed by Japanese authorities might limit you, too. Step 6: Pack your bags! Packing essentials for teaching in Japan run the gamut from universal power adapters, to comfy walking shoes shoes and prescription medicine. And (of course) your visa and passport! Oh, and maybe your pet, too. While this all sounds like a lot of work, the thousands and thousands of new grads and experienced teachers who make the move to teach in Japan are proof that you really can do it. So if you’re truly passionate about making a change, stop making excuses and take the first step!

The Teach Abroad Experience Kazakhstan

The Teach Abroad Experience Kazakhstan Canadian teachers, David and Zora, began their Teach Away placement with Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools in Kazakhstan in January 2015. We caught up with them to learn how they're enjoying her teaching abroad experience in Pavlodar so far.What initially interested you in teaching abroad?My wife and I are both long-time teachers, and we both love adventure. We have taught in the UAE twice, in several parts of Canada, and now in Kazakhstan. Teaching abroad was a natural choice for us.Why did you decide on Kazakhstan and the NIS program?The NIS program came to our attention through my contact with Teach Away on another possibility. We leapt at the chance and don’t regret it!Describe the school that you teach at.The school is great, and the kids are amazing! I have taught in many different environments, and I have never met a group of students who are ALL so eager, friendly, welcoming and extremely nice. It is a genuine pleasure being in a classroom with these kids!What does the typica l workday look like?We (the international teachers) teach 18 40-minute periods in a five-day week, Monday to Friday. We also have to make up a number of hours of ‘extra-curricular’ activities. These may include English lessons with our co-teachers, tutorial sessions, clubs, or other activities. This year, my classroom time consisted of three Grade 8 classes with a Russian-speaking co-teacher, and one Grade 9 class with a Kazakh co-teacher. Class time was roughly split between us, usually in our relative languages. My co-teaching experience has been wonderful this year … classes were a real combined effort, both in planning and delivery. Between classes was time for lesson prep, personal responsibilities such as banking, medical appointments, etc. and collaboration. We are required to be in school from 8am to 5pm, with one hour for lunch between 12 and 2. There are also some required cultural events to attend on the weekends, but these are usually great fun. There are also Kaza kh and Russian language lessons once a week.What's the cost of living like in Kazakhstan?We are living in Pavlodar, and the cost of living is pretty low. We understand that it is more expensive in big cities like Astana or Almaty. Also, we have been told that the salaries are higher outside of the big cities. It doesn’t really matter to us, because we don’t like city living and LOVE Pavlodar! We have been to more cultural experiences in four months than in four years teaching in Northern Alberta. The kinds of events we’ve been to include some excellent Russian dance troupes (look up Todes), a jazz evening, concerts, the ballet, and more!Do you have any tips for teachers who are looking to apply to teach abroad or for the NIS program in particular?It is a wonderful experience! Kazakhs are a lovely, warm and welcoming people. NIS seems to be a super place to work. I highly recommend working abroad, in general, and working for NIS in particular. However, to anyone who is used to a set plan/schedule and is ‘rigid’ by nature - you really must be totally flexible, and ‘go with the flow’ to survive. Any final pieces of advice or suggestions?Yes! Where do I start… 1) You are paid essentially for an 11-month year. Paid leave days are accrued and can be applied either to Christmas or summer vacation. Remember the rest of your leave is unpaid. 2) In terms of medical and dental care, you are covered for most things if you go to an approved clinic. You will have to locate one yourself and take a translator. It has often been easier to just find a good one close by and pay ourselves as health costs are quite low compared to home. 3) You MUST keep original receipts (preferably credit card statements) and original boarding passes in order to be compensated for travel to Kazakhstan and for vacations. I had a huge problem because I paid cash, and had only my boarding passes and e-tickets, which was not considered enough evidence.Long and short, we love it here, both working and living, and although there are little idiosyncrasies to overcome, we recommend it very highly!Inspired by David and Zora's experience? Take a look at our current teaching positions with NIS.

Staying connected with loved ones back home while teaching overseas

Staying connected with loved ones back home while teaching overseas For many teachers, a big consideration when heading overseas to teach for any length of time is how far they will be from their friends and family back home. We understand that it’s easy to feel divided when the people that used to make your day-to-day more fun and familiar are half a world away, but we’ve compiled some tips from current and past international teachers to help mitigate how much you miss your loved ones while teaching in another country. Maintaining good, healthy relationships with the people that you love back home will, in large part, dictate how successful your overseas move is. If you feel lonely and distant, it will be difficult for you to want to connect with locals and other expats in your new country. So use these tips to keep current with your family and friends! Be patient with yourself as you adjust to your new life teaching overseas. It will take some time for you to get into a good rhythm of regular communication with loved ones back home. There’s a lot to consider: time zones, work schedules, and making enough time to get out and experience some local culture too. Let your family and friends know back home that for the first little while, you’ll be adjusting to a reasonable schedule and sorting out a regular communication schedule will take some work. You’ll eventually get into a rhythm that suits you. Schedule time to see each other’s faces. Exchanging emails and providing your loved ones with the URL to your blog are both great things, but they shouldn’t replace the important face-to-face time that is very possible now thanks to Skype, FaceTime, Google hangouts, and Facebook video chats. Even the good old-fashioned telephone is better! Just remember that actual human connection is really valuable and taking the time to hear the other’s voice will go a long way. Understand that you’ll likely have to do a lot of the heavy lifting. Your family and friends back home know that you’ve gone to teach abroad for a new adventure. Some will want to give you some space so that you can reach out when you’re available, and others just won’t be good at keeping in touch with distant friends. This means that you’ll have to do much of the reaching out when you’re interested in speaking with your family and friends back home. Don’t let this get to you! If you can, visit. Or let them visit. Like we stated above, face time is critical to keeping your relationship strong. Many international teaching contracts will offer you two round-trip tickets over the course of your contract, so make sure you use them! Go back for a visit whenever you can find the time, or invite your friends and family to visit you and experience some of your life. Being able to show them around your new city and introduce them to your new friends is such a great feeling, and it also gives them a little more insight into your day-to-day when you Skype them back home! Do you have any tips for keeping in touch with family and friends while you’re teaching overseas? Have you received any great advice? If so, share with other teachers in the comments below!