How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Chinese Tutor on Italki?

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Chinese Tutor on Italki?Are you wondering how much it would cost to hire a Chinese tutor in an American forum such as talk? Whether you are interested in learning Mandarin Chinese or want to try it out for the first time, the following information should help you.Italki is the most popular place to learn Chinese. People from all over the world flock there to learn. You can also find forums in which Chinese tutors post their reviews about their services. Many of these forums can be used to find out how much tutors charge for their services.There are some factors to take into consideration when searching for a Chinese tutor. The first is the type of Chinese you wish to learn. If you plan on doing some short lessons to test your knowledge then you can get by with a cheaper Chinese tutor, but if you intend on going for longer courses with more complicated methods, you may want to spend a little extra money on your Chinese lesson.Second, determine what leve l of Chinese that you have already reached. If you have not learned much of the language yet, then you may need a bit more instruction before you start learning other Chinese terms.Third, ask around and determine what other people have learned from different ways of learning. That way, you will know which way you should go to the Chinese teacher.If you live in or near a city, then it is probably best to visit local tutors. People living far away from the cities might find visiting local tutors too expensive.The final thing to consider is the schedule. If you want to finish your lesson within a certain time frame, then you may have to take the lessons you desire very close to your time.Italki is a great place to meet others who are interested in learning Chinese. We suggest you visit the forums on the website to find out how much a Chinese tutor would cost you.

Passing Scores of PSSA Chemistry and Engineering

Passing Scores of PSSA Chemistry and EngineeringPass the PSPA Chemistry and Engineering PTA, which will be taken by incoming second-year students of chemistry and engineering, which are taken as elective subjects by the second-year students. In the class, students will learn the skills that are required to understand materials and their properties, how their composition may be modified through reaction, how they react with one another, and the importance of thermodynamics in chemical engineering.Students will also learn to apply the theories developed in the PSSA chemistry to chemical and physical phenomena. This will help them in considering practical problems and solutions and will be useful for students who want to get into a specific area of chemistry. The students may also find it useful to take a problem solving class which has been designed by expert teachers to help students solve problems of different types.The passing score for the exam does not necessarily mean that studen ts will be able to complete the course. Most students fail their courses because they are not able to complete the course after studying all the material thoroughly. Some students also stop taking the class after a few weeks. For the students who have passed the class, the passing score might be good enough but it is not necessarily the result they are looking for.There are a lot of other courses offered by the college that are open to students who have passed the class. These include biochemistry, material science, mechanical engineering, food science, nutrition and food systems and the environment, and materials science. Students can take these classes, even if they have not taken the PSSA chemistry and engineering class.Other than that, there are also other courses that the students can take. These include calculus, college mathematics, geology, and natural sciences. Most of these courses are offered online and students can select their preferred subjects after completing the PSS A chemistry and engineering class. The only drawback of these courses is that they are offered online but students can always choose to attend a campus-based class.It is true that taking advanced course also involves more work from the students and they need to put some efforts in this aspect. They can join the campus-based classes or they can opt for an online class where they will be able to study at their own pace. Online classes are also convenient for those students who are working on a daily basis or taking care of their families.In conclusion, students should take the PSSA chemistry and engineering class before they will be able to participate in the curriculum and can take it after they have successfully completed the course. This will allow them to explore their interest in various topics of chemistry and engineering. Students who feel they do not have time for getting their diploma are suggested to enroll for this class and complete it.

Chemistry Solvometry Problems and Their Solutions

Chemistry Solvometry Problems and Their SolutionsThere are several different types of chemistry stoichiometry problems. One type is the use of modality, which describes the chemical formula for a compound. The problem for this type of problem is the conversion from molecular weights to molar weights. Other problems involve the mixture of compounds or absorption.One of the most common solutions to these problems is mixing. In addition to clarity, the solution to the first problem involves setting up a molar solution that can be decomposed by hydrolysis to gain insight into a structure. Another problem is the decomposition of an aqueous solution, which involves mixing and either boiling or freezing. A very difficult situation occurs when one has a solid and a liquid at the same time.Mixtures of solids, gases, liquids, and solutes are known as stoichiometry problems. Common solutions to stoichiometry problems can include the use of different temperature conditions, variations in viscosi ty, or the elimination of solid or liquid phases. For example, solving a mixture of a solid and a liquid can involve using different temperatures and pressures to release or preserve the solids or liquid phases.Many of the chemistry stoichiometry problems require an understanding of absorption, inclusion, surface, etc. The methods used for solving these problems may also involve the addition of different elements to or from a solution. Other stoichiometry problems can involve dissolving, separation, or solubility. Solutions to these problems usually involve multiple ingredients or liquid and solid components.Solvents and solute-soluble gels are other solute-soluble gels. This type of substance must be mixed with another substance to form a layer that is solid or liquid. Other solute-soluble gels include Kraft paste, crack, fudge, ice cream, and baby powder.Solvents are another substance that can be used in chemistry stoichiometry problems. One example of a solvent is petroleum jelly , which can be used to create a solid and liquid solution. For example, many solvents have a different viscosity, hardness, and boiling point for different applications.As previously mentioned, there are many types of chemistry stoichiometry problems. However, the biggest one used in chemistry is the fractional distillation method. This method involves the addition of a higher concentration of a lower concentration of the sample for a specific temperature. The more than 70% yield of solids that comes from this method is considered a successful solution.

What Does it Take to Become a Session Musician

What Does it Take to Become a Session Musician Suzy S. Want to earn money playing and performing music? Set yourself up on the path to success with these career tips from Corona, CA music teacher  Milton J. Many aspiring musicians dream of being discovered and becoming the next best superstar. However, many others must also face the music that there is a certain amount of luck and chance in getting that seven-figure record deal. In lieu of sitting, waiting, and wishing for that big break, creating smaller breaks for yourself could make that eventual discovery much easier for AR representatives and record executives, not to mention creating a source of income for yourself in the industry you love. Some of your interests may include songwriting, producing, band leading, or being a creative manager of a music project. These roles often define the dynamics of a band or production, and can help you achieve your eventual goal of sustained financial gains and fame. They also own the most profitable portions of the music industry copyrighted songs and publishing and performance royalties. Yes, that means the person who writes the lyrics and the melodies can potentially earn just as much or more than the artist who sings and performs it. If you have an interest in instrumental or supportive work in a band as opposed to or in conjunction with songwriting, session musicianship would be a perfect launching pad for you. Musicians who choose to engage in session musicianship work with lots of different people, which makes for a successful career by sharing technical and musical expertise with many walks of life in the music industry. In order to do this successfully, you need to build yourself a good reputation and network constantly to create as many connections as possible. If this appeals to your twinkling piano or guitar fingers or tickles your vocal cords, here are some helpful tips on readying yourself to be a successful session musician! Be Technically Proficient Whether for recordings or live gigs, you need to be able to get it right, and fast! Sight reading or the ability to pick up songs by ear are very useful in this case (that means private music lessons with your local TakeLessons teacher are a must!). Be Stylistically Versatile Being able to play in multiple genres of music will increase your possible session gigs, which will lead to more opportunities and financial gains! Be a Diplomat Give your opinion if someone asks for it, but don’t overstep your boundaries, as you’re there to help fulfill a vision. Be Picky To begin, accepting session gigs from anyone from various genres will help to build your name and enhance your session workshop aptitude, but after a while you should focus on choosing bands that are professional and give you an element of security in terms of work, tours, earnings, and payouts or shares of future royalties. Be Flexible With Your Time and Money You have to be prepared to be away for an extended period of time at the drop of a hat if youre asked to go on tour with an artist. Also, sometimes you may have a downturn in potential session gigs, and you’ll need to be financially prudent. Prepare yourself for these possibilities with your housing, bills, and finances. Become a Multi-Instrumentalist Being able to play multiple instruments (I personally play guitar and piano in addition to vocals) gives you more opportunities to help out and fill in with various roles, which can both set you apart from other session musicians and lead to increased pay. Know Your Gear Being knowledgable about â€" as well as owning your own â€"  equipment is important. It makes everything easier if you show up ready to go with all your gear, and you know what to do with it to help provide the sound the lead artist is looking for. Know Your Rights Make sure you have clear and written-consented agreements on recordings about any royalty entitlements. Frequent a Place With a Thriving Music Scene Although the Internet surely helps to solve this problem to an extent, it’s a good idea to frequent an area where you know and work with the local music scene and/or touring acts, which could lead to more work opportunities and good honest connections. Identify With Your Music This will make your career much more fulfilling, and will show the best and most expressive side of your musicality. Isnt this what its all about? If this sounds like something you would like to pursue, then the world is truly your oyster. Time is of the essence to channel your love for music into your job! Milton J. teaches guitar, piano, singing, music recording, music theory, opera voice, songwriting, speaking voice, and acting lessons in  Corona, CA. He specializes in classical, RB, soul, pop, rock, jazz, and opera styles.  Learn more about Milton here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo  by  L. Bernhardt, Resident Loon

How to Measure the Success of Your Childs Tutoring Program

How to Measure the Success of Your Child’s Tutoring Program Suzy S. How do you know if youve chosen the right tutor for your child? Check in with these helpful guidelines from  San Diego tutor  Natalie S If you’ve arranged for your child to receive academic tutoring, you’re already well on your way to ensuring your child’s success in school. But how can you tell if your child’s tutoring session is on track, or if you are wasting your time and money? Whether your child is working with a tutor in one specific subject, for a particular test, or just for general upkeep and review of material, it can often take a while for you to see tangible results. Here are some quick, monthly check-in tips to help you identify if your child’s tutoring program is a success. One Month After initially finding a tutor, one of the first things you and your child should do is create a list of realistic and specific goals. For example, if your child is getting assistance with essay writing, one of the goals might be to clearly write a thesis that includes all of the necessary elements for a cohesive statement. At the one month mark, check in to make sure your child is making progress toward these goals. Having a physical list of what your child wants or needs to accomplish will help you determine if your tutor is truly helping. Three Months Check your child’s academic grades, and review your tutor’s study tips and teaching process. Part of the reason you initially started to work with a tutor is presumably to improve your child’s grades or test scores. After he/she has spent a few months with the tutor, take a look at exams, essays, and homework during that time. Are your child’s scores improving? Does your child connect with and respond to the tutor’s teaching practices? If so, then your child and tutor are probably right on track. Remember to be realistic with the amount of improvement you expect after only three months. Remember, academic improvements take time! Six Months By this point, the majority of your child’s major tests, homework assignments, or classes are close to finishing for the school year. This is a good time to revisit that list of goals your child made at the beginning of the tutoring process. Has your child accomplished or come close to accomplishing all of the goals? Has your child been able to implement on his/her own a few of those study tips that the tutor has provided? If not, discuss with your child and his/her tutor, and make a plan together for how to successfully move forward and accomplish all of the goals. One Year The number one way you can check the success of your child’s tutor after a year of working together is to simply talk with your child. Ask him/her if the last year’s worth of tutoring sessions was helpful, and check in to see if he/she is interested in extending the sessions into the next academic year. Subject matters change from school year to school year, and it’s possible your child won’t need a tutor anymore. However, if they find having an outside source to be helpful, then you know that your child’s tutoring program is a success. Ready to connect with a tutor now? Check out TakeLessons  to  find a tutor with the qualities and credentials that meet your and your child’s needs. Natalie S. tutors English, ESL, History, Phonics, Reading, andTest Prep in San Diego, as well as through online lessons. She received her BA in English Education at the University of Delaware, and her MA in English Literature at San Diego State University.  Learn more about Natalie here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo  by  wecometolearn

Phylum Mollusca

Phylum Mollusca Mollusca is an ancient group of animals which have lived on earth since the last 500 million years . It is the second largest phylum and includes more than 600,000 species. They are soft bodied animals. General characters: 1. Mollusca are essentially aquatic, mostly marine, few fresh water and some terrestrial forms. 2. The body is soft, unsegmented, triploblastic, bilaterally symmetrical, and consist of head, foot, mantle, and visceral mass. 3. The body is clothed with a one layered often ciliated epidermis. 4. Body is commonly protected by an exoskeletal calcareous shell of one or more pieces, secreted by the mantle. 5. Head is distinct, bearing the mouth and provided with eyes, tentacles and other sense organs. 6. Ventral body wall is modified into a muscular flat or plough like surface, the foot which is variously modified for creeping,burrowing and swimming. 7. Mantle is a fold of body wall that leaves between itself and the main bod mass, the mantle cavity. 8. Visceral mass contains the vital organs of the body in a compact form taking the form of a dorsal hump or dome. 9. Body cavity is haemocoel; the true coelom is generally limited to the pericardial cavity and the lumen of the gonads and nephridia. 10. Digestive tract is simple with an anterior mouth and posterior anus. 11. Pharynx contains a rasping organ the radula. 12. Circulatory system is open except in cephalopods which show some tendency towards a closed system. 13. Respiratory system consists of numerous gills or ctenidia usually provided with osphradium at the base. Lung is developed in terrestrial forms. Respiratory pigment is haemocyanine. 14. Excretory system consists of a pair of metanephridia. 16. Sexes are separate but some are hermaphrodite. 17. Fertilization is external or internal. 16. Development is either direct or with metamorphosis.

3 surprising scientific facts about intrinsic motivation - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 3 surprising scientific facts about intrinsic motivation - Introvert Whisperer 3 surprising scientific facts about intrinsic motivation Home to office and office to home â€" that is what life is these days. With our days being so mundane and monotonous, it sure becomes challenging to stay motivated. And if that wasnt enough to make you sulk, the superficial and condescending world out there is waiting to get your blues up and your morale down. Personally, Ive always struggled with motivation â€" be it in my career as a writer or at the gym while doing a lap. Thanks to the saturnine cloud of pessimism that hovers over me, I have always been the under-confident one. But I never wanted to be that way. None of us does actually. We all want to feel up and about and enjoy life. We all want to leave our houses every morning with the zest to conquer the challenges that the world throws at us. We all want to grow an appetite to learn more from life. So where do we drive inspiration from? Well, thanks to groundbreaking research on the science of motivation, we now have a more logical and practical answer. 3 SCIENTIFIC TRUTHS ABOUT MOTIVATION Let us unravel the mysteries of motivation and delve deeper into the enigma that motivation is. 1. It is all in your head The sceptre rests in your hand. How you perceive a task and think about it has a lot to do about how you deal with it. Telling yourself that you do not want to do the job, and then goading yourself to do it brings down your level of enthusiasm. In the book Science of Motivation, author and motivational keynote speaker Brian Tracy explains the three primary factors that come between us and motivation. It is upon you to identify these factors and change your thought processes to feel the positive push. They are: I have to If you think that you are being forced to do something, it naturally brings down your level of gusto. Sometimes, you may have to do certain things as a workplace or domestic obligation even when you are not exactly keen about it. Remember one thing â€" it was you who had made the choices because you wanted the perks and benefits. You get up every morning and go to your workplace because you need financial security. I don’t feel right If a task is opposed to your values or beliefs, you are less likely to find enough zeal to do it. Back when I had my 9 to 5 job, this often happened to me. Every time I was asked to work overtime, I sulked at my workstation, which brought down my productivity by notches. With time, I learnt the art of realigning my tasks so that I was at the winning end. Wondering how? The next time you had to work some extra hours, try to trade it for some time off  on another day. And if you are a money person, then you could use the financial incentive on a nice vacation or a nice dress that you had your eyes on. I can’t do this Confidence and motivation go hand in hand â€" that is no rocket science. If you are engulfed with self-doubt and feel that you would surely fail if assigned the task, things would go even more downhill for you. And how can you possibly know that you would fail if you don’t take an attempt at solving it? So consider it as one of the many challenges that life hurls at us and try to beat it. If you need help, ask for it. Tell a colleague to help you out with the work reports. Take assignment help if you cannot understand how to go about the essay. But do not stop yourself from doing it. 2. Dopamine has a role to play Although usually associated with pleasure, Dopamine  has a more significant role to play when it comes to motivation. Scientists have found that Dopamine responds to emotions other than pleasure. The neurotransmitter generally goes down at times of pain and loss as opposed to firing up when one is happy and confident. But it isn’t as easy as it seems. A behavioral neuro-scientific research found out that Dopamine is independent and dynamic. To put it in simple words, the organic chemical acts up differently in different kinds of people according to the choices they make. In the research, neurosurgeons used brain-mapping technology to analyze the brain patterns of several human subjects and found out that there were two kinds of people. They are: The go-getters are people who are willing to work for rewards. The research team observed that such people had higher levels of Dopamine in the striatum and ventromedial prefrontal cortex â€" the area in the brain that is responsible for practical and rational thinking. The slackers are the people who arent affected by materialistic rewards. On the other hand, they are more moved by recognition. In the case of the emotional section of people, the higher level of Dopamine was associated with the anterior insula â€" the area responsible for emotions and risks. This makes it imperative to understand how to target the right areas of the brain for dopamine production according to the kind of person one is. 3. Right eating habits can motivate you We often don’t pay heed to our lifestyle and eating habits. You need to remember that the food you eat has a more critical role to play in your overall life than just acting as the fuel for your body. Junk food doesnt just mess up your metabolism. It affects you mentally too. The right kind of food can help you control stress and fight depression, thus boosting your willpower. Here are some of the doctors-prescribed food items that have been scientifically proven to boost your morale. Tuna The sea-based protein contains B6 â€" the vitamin that is used to prevent and treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Since tuna helps to keep inattention and impulsivity in check, it automatically helps you in staying more focused, thus motivating you to accomplish your tasks faster. Spinach The Harvard Medical School has proved that green leafy vegetables such as spinach improve learning capacity and motor skills. With better skills, you become more confident, thus providing you with more motivation. Blueberries Blueberries can act as one of the most lethal weapons when it comes to gaining focus and engagement. And when you are more engaged with your work, it becomes easier for you to stay motivated throughout. Pecans A favorite among sportspersons (who need motivation more than anyone else!), pecans can help you deal with depression and post-workout fatigue due to its high levels of choline levels. It also increases endurance levels, which in turn, motivate you to work more. Greek Yogurt All types of yogurts are rich in the amino acid called tyrosine that produces Dopamine. And you already know what Dopamine can do to your levels of motivation and energy. However, I suggested the Greek version because its packed with protein and calcium too. Green Tea Green tea is like the mom in the family â€" one who has a solution to all your problems. Thanks to catechins, green tea helps you reduce mental stress. A cup of the green manna can also help you develop a positive outlook, thus boosting your morale. Coffee Your morning cup of joe just doesn’t wake you up. The caffeine present in coffee can increase levels of Dopamine in your brain and gives you that extra push. So every time you feel low, just hit the cafeteria and drink up! Avocado A research by Kansas State University has proved that avocados keep brain cell membranes flexible, which in turn regulates healthy blood flow. So, dip deep into the guacamole spread next time you sulk. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is the MVP here. It prevents cancer, promotes weight loss, is an aphrodisiac, and it tastes yum. And that is not where it ends. The content of cocoa helps produce endorphins and serotonin in the brains, which not only makes you happy but also helps you stay focused. Water So you know what happens to your body when you dont drink enough water? You become lethargic and distracted, which of course, messes up your zeal. So make sure you drink  at least  2 liters of water each day. Staying motivated is a choice that you need to make. And now that you know the things that can help you retain your gung ho attitude, better get moving! So start over anew and make it fun this time. And in the end, always remember that you are stronger than you give yourself credit for. Author Bio: Sienna Brown is a behavioral analyst and a self-growth writer. She also acts as a student’s counselor for academic sites like MyAssignmenthelp.com. She is an active blogger and certified yoga instructor. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer

Famous Russians

Famous Russians Who Are the Most Famous People in Russia? ChaptersFamous RussiansThe Great Russian Political FiguresEssential Russian ArtistsOther Famous Russian Figures“I love your country, Russia, its people, its historyc, its writer. My father was a communist at the time, he listened to Radio Moscow! It’s my culture, too.” - Gérard DepardieuAre you completely lost when we mention the Soviet Union, communism, or Leningrad?We’re talking about famous Russians, of course.Did you know that there were only 28 Tsars in charge of Imperial Russia from 1547 and 4 Presidents since the creation of the Russian Federation in 1991?While Vladimir Putin has spent over 5,000 days in charge of the country, political figures aren’t the only famous Russians worth talking about.In this article, we're going to look at famous Russian political figures, historical figures, artists, and the Russians that everyone should know if they're studying Russian culture or learning the Russian language. LavaRussian Teacher 5.00 (8) £25/h1st lesson free!Discove r all our tutors LarisaRussian Teacher 5.00 (2) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors InaRussian Teacher 4.88 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors IrynaRussian Teacher 5.00 (8) £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EvgeniaRussian Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AnastassiaRussian Teacher 5.00 (2) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NikolaRussian Teacher 5.00 (4) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MargaritaRussian Teacher 5.00 (3) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsFamous RussiansIvan the Terrible, The First Russian TsarIvan IV Vasilyevich was commonly known as Ivan the Terrible because of the regime he put into place during the 1560s. He led military campaigns against the Tatars, the Polish, and the Swedish. He remained head of Russia for nearly after that.Ivan the Terrible appears regularly in the arts, even in the West. He’s appeared in everything from a painting by Ilya Repin to the video gam e Age of Empires.  He’s an important figure who's responsible for starting the Tsarism in Russia.Peter I or Peter the Great, the Emperor of All RussiasThen there was Peter I (or Peter the Great), who became the Tsar of Russia in 1682, then the Emperor of all the Russias in 1721. He is famous for wanting to bring together the clergy and nobility.Saint Petersburg was named after Peter I. (Source: fitzgeraldbc)The name of the city of Saint Petersburg was inspired by this leader who founded the city and made it the capital in 1703.To show off his power, he tried to get closer to the West. Following the Great Northern War, which ended with the Treaty of Nystad, Peter gained control of the Baltic Sea and the title of Imperator.Learn more about Russia with Russian language lessons.Russian Empress Catherine the GreatCatherine II, nicknamed “Catherine the Great” was Empress of all the Russias from 1762 and was part of the Romanov Dynasty. She was married to Peter III of Russia and is o ne of the most famous women in Russian history.Did you know that Catherine II was raised by a French Huguenot, Babette Cardel, who taught her the customs of the French court?She’s known for both her foreign and domestic policies as well as all the things she mentioned in her memoirs.Nicholas II of Russia, the Last Imperial Head of StateThe last Tsar in Russia history, Nicholas II, or Nikolai Aleksandrovich Romanov, reigned from 1894 to 1917. While the Soviets have a negative view of the tsar (owing to his opposition against the Bolsheviks), he was nicknamed Saint Nicholas the Passion-Bearer.In the animated Anastasia film from 1997, the protagonist's father is Nicholas II. Of course, the story is completely romanticised but there are several theories that Anastasia survived despite the other Romanovs being murdered in 1918.Under his reign, Russia grew economically, politically, and culturally.The Great Russian Political FiguresLenin, the Creator of Soviet RussiaVladimir Ilyich Ulya nov, also known as “Lenin”, was the most famous revolutionary in Russian history. He was one of the leaders who created a Soviet Russia founded on socialism, an evolution of communism. The Marxist theorist became famous following the October Revolution in 1917 that overturned the imperial regime.Lenin played a huge role in Russian history. (Source: Niko_Shogol)Lenin was also famous for his skills as an orator. In 1918, when he was on a train that was stuck in the snow, he gave a speech about the proletariat that motivated the passengers to dig the train out of the snow.Pretty convincing, right?The bloody events of the resulted in Lenin taking the role of head of state of the new Soviet Russia. He created the communist block in 1919 and installed a single-party dictatorship. He died in 1924 following an illness.Stalin, the “Dear Father” of RussiaStalin was the ideological (and elected) successor to Lenin. However, Stalinism was different to Leninism, especially with the arriv al of Gulags, the Soviet forced-labour camps. Joseph Stalin had many affectionate nicknames, including “Dear Father”.The term “Destalinisation” came about following his deaths.  He is well known for a dark period in Russian history owing to the nationalisation of land and the Great Purge (also known as the Great Terror). That said, he is still a hugely influential and famous figure.Mikhail Gorbachev, the USSR’s Last PresidentGorbachev was the leader behind the end of the Cold War as well as responsible for ending the Leninist and Stalinist communist regime in the USSR. He created economic, cultural, political programmes dubbed Perestroika and Glasnost.  Somewhat paradoxically, the Russian people hold a generally negative view of one of their most democratic leaders...He was a philanthropist, pacifist, environmentalist, and a staunch critic of the Kremlin.You should know that we won’t be talking about Putin in this article. We’ll probably have to save that for another a rticle.Find out more about Russian TV.Essential Russian ArtistsAlexander Pushkin, the Franco-Russian PoetA 19th-century Romantic poet, playwright, and novelist, Pushkin is famous for the following works:The Fountain of BakhchisarayPoltava, 1828.Mozart and Salieri, 1830.The Captain's Daughter, 1838.The Russian language and civilisation institute is called the Pushkin State Russian Language Institute.Dostoevsky was also one of Russia's most famous artists. (Source: jackmac34)Nikolai Gogol, a Russian-Speaking WriterNikolai Gogol was a Russian writer of Ukranian origin who often wrote about Saint Petersburg.The Tale of How Ivan Ivanovich Quarreled with Ivan Nikiforovich, 1832.Nevsky Prospekt, 1835.The Portrait, 1835.Mirgorod, 1835.His earlier works were signed under the pseudonym V. Alov.  His work Revizor (18360) brought him literary fame.The Countess of Ségur, a Writer of Russian OriginBorn Sophie Rostopchine, the Countess of Ségur was her literary name. She was from a noble family and she spent her youth in Russia before marrying a French ambassador.  Her works reflect her ideology of “write what you know”.Her works help us to see the links between Russian and Western European culture.Other Famous Russian FiguresThe Myths Surrounding RasputinRasputin was a Russian mystic and is famous for influencing the Russian court.  He commonly appears as a character in the arts, be it in cinema, music, or video games.However, a lot of his life is shrouded in mystery. This has led to myths including one that claims he was the Devil in human form sent to kill the Tsars.Take a Russian course London.Olga Khokhlova, an Influential Russian ballerina.Khokhlova was one of the most influential Russians of the 20th century. She was the star dancer of the Ballets Russes directed by Sergei Diaghilev.Did you know that she was Picasso’s mistress and then his wife and had two children with him?She also inspired the painting Olga Khokhlova in the Mantilla, one of Picasso’s most famous paintings.Yuri Gagarin was also huge celebrity in Russia and is still famous today. (Source: snow-dog)Andrei Sakharov, the Most Famous Russian ScientistBorn in 1921, Andrei Sakharov was a Russian nuclear physicist who was famous for having worked on the atomic bomb. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975 for his work in fighting for human rights in the USSR (a prize that he was not allowed to go and collect so his wife had to go in his place).Did you know that the Sakharov Prize was created in 1988 by the European Union for organisations that promote human rights?For one reason or another, you should know of these famous Russians.Did you know them all? Who are the most famous?Learn more about Russian radio.If you're interested in learning more about Russian culture, you should learn more about the Russian language. Since Russian isn't the most commonly taught language in British schools, you should consider learning it through private tutorials.With private tutorials, you can get bespoke tuition and learn about all the aspects of the Russian language, culture, and history. There are three main types of private tutorials offered on Superprof: one on one private tutorials, online tutorials, and group tutorials.Private tutorials are usually the most expensive option but they also offer a bespoke service. Online tutorials are cheaper because the tutor has fewer overheads in terms of travel and can schedule more tutorials throughout the day. Finally, group tutorials are cheaper because the cost is divided between the students. However, this final option won't give you a completely tailored service.If you speak Russian and would like to tutor, it's very easy to create your profile on Superprof. Many tutors on the platform also offer the first hour of tutoring for free to entice students.

What Makes a Sonnet a Sonnet

What Makes a Sonnet a Sonnet Sonnets: Shakespeare's Favourite Poetic Form ChaptersSo, what is a Sonnet?The Most Important Features of a SonnetThe Main Types of SonnetThe Main Types of Sonnet: A SummaryPlaying with the Form: Other SonneteersWriting Your Own SonnetA Step by Step Guide to Writing a SonnetFind Out More about Different Poetic FormsIf you are studying poetry, Shakespeare, or English literature at any level, you will inevitably have to grasp with this thing called the  sonnet.  Any idea what this might be? No worries if not, because we are here to walk you through all aspects of this poetic form. By the time you have finished this article, you'll be able to identify the main features - metrical, thematic, and rhymed - of this literary form, and you'll be able to consider how to write your own!We hope you find it helpful!Find some fun poetry lessons on Superprof.Secondly, the sonnet, given its brief length, is great for expressing a feeling, thought, or idea. The brevity facilitates the communication of a strength of feeling that can be lost in lo nger forms.Thirdly, whilst the sonnet is traditionally known for focusing its attentions on the theme of love, the form allows for a great flexibility in its content. You will these days see sonnets written on everything from politics to war to ice cream. What makes this possible is the form's argumentative structure, which, as you will see below, is an essential part of the sonnet.The Lady of Shalott, though not a sonnet, makes use of the iambic pentameter Source: Pixabay Credit: MZ Matuszewski0The Most Important Features of a SonnetAs we saw above, a sonnet is simply a poem written in a specific form. But to recognise a sonnet when you see one, you need to know the specific characteristics of that form. So, to summarise, here are the need-to-know features of a sonnet.The Sonnet's Main FeaturesFourteen linesGenerally, all sonnets have fourteen lines. You will find some exceptions, but the poets will do this deliberately.VoltaThe fourteen lines are divided into two sections, usually of eight lines and six. The break between the two parts is known as the volta.Iambic pentameterThis is what we call the metre of the poem: the number of syllables in each line of the poem. An 'iamb' is a set of two syllables, the first unstressed and the second stressed. 'Pentameter' shows that there are five of these 'iambs' in a line. So, you have ten syllables: unstressed, stressed; unstressed, stressed, etc.Rhyme schemeDifferent types of sonnets have different rhyme schemes, and some don't rhyme at all! You'll see more about this below.Let's Add a Little More Detail...So, to flesh this about a bit, let's pay a bit more attention to each feature.Lines and StructureWe've just noted that a sonnet has fourteen lines. But what you need to remember is that depending on the type of sonnet, these lines are arranged in different ways.So, in a Petrarchan sonnet (we told you he'd come up again!), the lines are grouped into two: an octave (that means a group of eight lines) and a sestet (a group of six).In Shakespearean sonnets and Spenserian sonnets, on the other hand, you have three quatrains (four lines) and a couplet (two lines). You'll find more on how these lines rhyme in the sections on each type of sonnet below.The VoltaWhilst you will find a volta in many other forms of poetry, they are really quite important to the sonnet. What do we mean by the volta, then? In Italian, this word means 'turn' - and, in the sonnet, this is the moment at which a change occurs in the poem. This change might be in tone, argument, or thematic focus - but it is very rare to find a sonnet without one.As we note above, these usually occur after the eighth line of the poem - for Petrarch, after the octave, whilst for Shakespeare and Spenser after the second quatrain. You'll notice this change quite easily, as they are usually signaled with a 'but', 'however', or 'and'.Iambic PentameterThis may look like a scary poetry word, but don't worry about it too much. Let's break it down.'Met re' refers to the rhythmic structure of a line in poetry: how many syllables, how these are grouped together. 'Penta-' comes from the Greek word for 'five'. So, from 'pentameter' you know that the metre of a sonnet has something to do with five.As we said above, the word 'iamb' refers to a group of two syllables, one unstressed and one stressed.  There are five of these in each line when we talk about iambic pentameter. As all English literature teachers will tell you, the line will scan like this: dee-DAH  dee-DAH  dee-DAH  dee-DAH  dee-DAH.To see this in action, look at this line from Shakespeare's famous Sonnet 18, in which we have highlighted the stressed syllables:Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?Count the syllables in the line (there are ten!). Now, count the stressed syllables (there are five!).But if we switch the stressed syllables with the unstressed ones, we can see how the line becomes a little clumsy:Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?The Sonnet SeriesOne of t he main historical conventions of the sonnet is that they usually come in series. Think about Shakespeare's poem above. Why is it called 'Sonnet 18'? He didn't name it that. Rather, because he wrote 154 sonnets, each individual one is known by its number.A lot of people have written sonnets in sequences. The most famous early sonneteers all wrote series: Philip Sidney's Astrophil and Stella; Shakespeare's  Sonnets; Spenser's  Amoretti.  This convention has remained with us, as, in the twentieth century many other writers have composed sonnet sequences: Rainer Maria Rilke's  Sonnets to Orpheus,  John Berryman's  Sonnets.  These are the things that have developed the association of sonnets with the theme of love - as all of these sequences deal with a passionate speaker talking to a loved object.The Main Types of SonnetIn the English-speaking world, we usually refer to three discrete types of sonnet: the Petrarchan, the Shakespearean, and the Spenserian.All of these maintain the featu res outlined above - fourteen lines, a volta, iambic pentameter - and they all three are written in sequences. The primary difference is the rhyme scheme.We'll look at these three types of sonnet, and then finally consider some of those that don't really fit into the structure we have all been taught.Petrarchan SonnetThe first sonnet is the Petrarchan, or Italian, sonnet. Named after one of the form's greatest practitioners, the Italian poet Petrarch, the Petrarchan sonnet was the earliest strict sonnet form (he lived from 1304 to 1374).As we noted above, the Petrarchan sonnet is divided into two stanzas: the octave (the first eight lines) followed by the answering sestet (the final six lines). Let's take a look at a Petrarchan sonnet, by the English poet William Wordsworth (as this is easier than reading medieval Italian!).London, 1802(A) Milton! thou shouldst be living at this hour: (B) England hath need of thee: she is a fen (B) Of stagnant waters: altar, sword, and pen, (A) Fire side, the heroic wealth of hall and bower, (A) Have forfeited their ancient English dower (B) Of inward happiness. We are selfish men; (B) Oh! raise us up, return to us again; (A) And give us manners, virtue, freedom, power.(C) Thy soul was like a Star, and dwelt apart: (D) Thou hadst a voice whose sound was like the sea: (D) Pure as the naked heavens, majestic, free, (E) So didst thou travel on life's common way, (C) In cheerful godliness; and yet thy heart (E) The lowliest duties on herself did lay.So, here, in the first line, we've added markings to highlight the stress of the iambic pentameter (try it for yourself in the rest of the lines!).And we've neatly highlighted the volta after the eighth line (do you see how the poem's tone changes - from a critique of England to a celebration of Milton?). In Petrarch, the volta usually separates the shift from an argument or question in the octave to a resolution in the sestet.But what do those letters mean before each line? This is how we refer to rhyme scheme, in which A rhymes with A, B with B, and where each new sound requires a new letter. So, what do we have here? ABBAABBA, CDDECE.The Petrarchan sonnet will almost always begin with that ABBAABBA octave. However, the rhyme scheme of the sestet can change - so watch out. Here, Wordsworth uses CDDECE, but the most common rhyme schemes in Petrarch are CDECDE or CDCDCD.After the Petrarchan sonnet was first brought to England by Sir Thomas Wyatt, Henry Howard began translating and writing his own versions of Petrarch. His works were considered more faithful to the original than the work of his English counterparts. He made modifications to the Petrarchan sonnet which then became the structure of what we know as the Shakespearean sonnet.This structure was established to better suit the English language which was somewhat lacking in the rhyming words that Italian boasts.The Shakespearean SonnetShakespeare's sonnets are famous worldwide (Source: Pexels)The Shakespear ean, or English sonnet, follows a different set of rules. Here, there are usually three quatrains and a couplet following a rhyme scheme like this: ABAB, CDCD, EFEF, GG. This is the primary difference between the Petrarchan and the Shakespearean sonnet. Let's take a look at Shakespeare's Sonnet 130:(A) My mistress' eyes are nothing like the sun; (B) Coral is far more red, than her lips red: (A) If snow be white, why then her breasts are dun; (B) If hairs be wires, black wires grow on her head. (C) I have seen roses damasked, red and white, (D) But no such roses see I in her cheeks; (C) And in some perfumes is there more delight (D) Than in the breath that from my mistress reeks. (E) I love to hear her speak, yet well I know (F) That music hath a far more pleasing sound: (E) I grant I never saw a goddess go, (F) My mistress, when she walks, treads on the ground: (G) And yet by heaven, I think my love as rare, (G) As any she belied with false compare.Much like in the Petrarchan sonne t, the Shakespearean sonnet contains a volta. There is a difference here, however. The volta can either come after the first eight lines or, as in Sonnet 130,   at the beginning of the couplet. Here, it is used to signal a conclusion, explanation, or counterargument to the previous 3 stanzas.In Shakespeare’s Sonnet 130 the first twelve lines focus on the speaker’s mistress, comparing her unfavourably to nature. But the final couplet changes the tone completely, that despite all of her flaws he does love her.Shakespeare uses Sonnet 130 as a satire of other poets who compare their loves to nature’s beauty. In fact he takes it to the extreme nearly leaving the mistress completely unlovable!The Spenserian SonnetA contemporary of Shakespeare, Edmund Spenser lived from 1552 to 1559. His sequence,  Amoretti, was his main engagement with the sonnet form - and his other works included  The Faerie Queene, an allegory about Elizabeth I, and  The Shepherd's Calendar, a poem about shepherd s, surprise surprise.The Spenserian sonnet has a similar structure to a Shakespearean one, with three quatrains followed by a couplet. The interesting thing about the Spenserian sonnet is, of course, the rhyme scheme. Let's take a look at Spenser's Sonnet 75.(A) One day I wrote her name upon the strand, (B) But came the waves and washed it away: (A) Again I write it with a second hand, (B) But came the tide, and made my pains his prey. (B) Vain man, said she, that doest in vain assay, (C) A mortal thing so to immortalize, (B) For I myself shall like to this decay, (C) And eek my name be wiped out likewise. (C) Not so, (quod I) let baser things devise (D) To die in dust, but you shall live by fame: (C) My verse, your virtues rare shall eternize, (D) And in the heavens write your glorious name. (E) Where whenas death shall all the world subdue, (E) Our love shall live, and later life renew.So, what do we have here? Remembering that Shakespearean sonnets follow the ABAB, CDCD, EFEF, GG form, the Spenserian sonnets are slightly different: ABAB, BCBC, CDCD, EE. So, the second rhyme of the first quatrain is taken to be the first of the second quatrain. Again, it ends with a couplet.Where's the volta? Look at line nine, the first line of the final sestet. 'Not so', says Spenser, introducing a contradiction. As in Shakespeare, the volta either appears here or at the beginning of the final couplet.After first octave.ShakespeareanABAB, CDCD, EFEF, GGAfter first octave or beginning of final couplet.SpenserianABAB, BCBC, CDCD, EEAfter first octave or beginning of final couplet.Playing with the Form: Other SonneteersWhilst what we have just covered are the main historical types of sonnets, lots of poets have decided to take the basic structure of the form and change its content. Consequently, whilst these above are important to know, it is worth stressing that they are not the only forms of sonnets around.Let's take a look at just a handful of different sonnets that play w ith the conventions of the form.Carol Ann Duffy's  Anne HathawayA poem which, if you are studying literature in the UK, you will definitely confront is Carol Ann Duffy's  Anne Hathaway.  Take a read and see what she does with the sonnet form.The bed we loved in was a spinning world of forests, castles, torchlight, cliff-tops, seas where he would dive for pearls. My lover’s words were shooting stars which fell to earth as kisses on these lips; my body now a softer rhyme to his, now echo, assonance; his touch a verb dancing in the centre of a noun. Some nights I dreamed he’d written me, the bed a page beneath his writer’s hands. Romance and drama played by touch, by scent, by taste. In the other bed, the best, our guests dozed on, dribbling their prose. My living laughing love â€" I hold him in the casket of my widow’s head as he held me upon that next best bed.So, what's important here? What is one of those key features of the sonnet that is missing here?You should have notic ed: it is the rhyme scheme! Does the poem rhyme? Only in the final two lines. Other than that, the iambic pentameter is still there, as well as the volta.Elizabeth Bishop's  SonnetCaught -- the bubble in the spirit level, a creature divided; and the compass needle wobbling and wavering, undecided. Freed -- the broken thermometer's mercury running away; and the rainbow-bird from the narrow bevel of the empty mirror, flying wherever it feels like, gay!Now, how is this a sonnet? Is it a sonnet, and why? The poet, Bishop, clearly intends it to be so, entitling the poem the way she does. What do you think?E.E. Cummingshere's to opening and upward,to leaf and to sap and to your(in my arms flowering so new) self whose eyes smell of the sound of rainand here's to silent certainly mountains;and to a disappearing poet of always,snow and to morning;and to morning's beautiful friend twilight(and a first dream called ocean)andlet must or if be damned with whomever's afraid down with ought with b ecause with every brain which thinks it thinks, nor dares to feel(but up with joy;and up with laughing and drunkenness)here's to one undiscoverable guess of whose mad skill each world of blood is made (whose fatal songs are moving in the moonBesides the lack of capital letters and spaces (all of which are intentional), E.E. Cummings is known for his experiments with poetic forms. Can you recognise what he has done here to the form of the sonnet?Writing Your Own SonnetOf course if you’re writing your own sonnet you can choose any style you like. But seeing as it lends itself better to the English language and we all know many of them, our guide will stick to writing a Shakespearean-style sonnet.When writing a Shakespearean-style sonnet, there are several rules you need to keep in mind. This style of poetry follows a specific format including length, rhythm, and rhyme scheme.To write a sonnet according to these rules, follow this process: - Select a subject to write your poem about (Shakespearean sonnets are usually about love). - Write your lines in iambic pentameter (duh-DUH-duh-DUH-duh-DUH-duh-DUH-duh-DUH. - Structure the sonnet using 3 quatrains followed by 1 couplet. - Compose your sonnet as an argument that builds up as it moves from one metaphor to the next, until you counterargue this argument in the concluding couplet. - Make sure your poem is exactly 14 lines long.Try your hand at writing your own poem (Source: Pexels)A Step by Step Guide to Writing a Sonnet1. Find InspirationWhereas Shakespeare’s sonnets generally revolve around love, you could, in fact, choose any topic for your sonnet.  You could even look to modern pop songs for inspiration!Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off is a prime (and fun!) example of iambic pentameter usage in a modern context.Other songs sung in iambic pentameter include:One Direction â€" HistoryAlessia Cara â€" Here (a particularly good example as she gives each foot’s downbeat extra stress)Halsey â€" New AmericanaG-Easy/ Bebe Rexha: Me, Myself and IGranted, not one of these songs is a sonnet but they do provide you with a way to get the feel of the iambic pentameter and different ways it can be used.If you wanted to see popular songs in sonnet form... some ingenious and creative soul has taken lyrics from the likes of Beyoncé and The Backstreet Boys and turned them into sonnets!2. Master the Iambic PentameterInternalising the iambic ‘beat’ is no chore; you could practice it while walking â€" left foot unstressed/right foot stressed, by clapping your hands (soft-LOUD soft-LOUD), drumming your fingers... any type of rhythmic activity.Mastering the iambic pentameter is vital to writing a sonnet with proper flow.Once you have found a topic to write about and internalised the iambic beat, writing a sonnet is a breeze!Remember that the first quatrain introduces the situation and, at least as far as Shakespearian sonnets are concerned, follows an ABAB pattern â€" meaning that the third line should rhy me with the first and the fourth with the second.Here is an example of just such a quatrain:Ago, I saw you walking fair one day Though fear forbade my presence should come near. Froze, the words that I could never say Though in my heart remain so very dear.Does it meet all of the criteria for a proper iambic pentameter quatrain and the opening verse of a sonnet? Let’s see:Each line contains five iambic feet (in other words, five duh-DUMs).Line three rhymes with line one and line four rhymes with line two.It outlines a situation (we wonder why the speaker fears approaching and what s/he wanted to say)3. Play with Words.You’ll note that there are several words in this stanza that generally would not be used in normal conversation, at least not in the form or in the place they are used here.Poetic license gives you permission to convey meaning by bending common language rules and expanding word meanings.Our great bard Shakespeare was famous for perverting the meaning of words; his frequent use of anon is the perfect example of such.The word anon dates back to 12th century English. Its original meaning was straightaway, or forthwith. Through Shakespeare’s persistent misuse of this word, it has come to mean the exact opposite: soon, or in a while.We can see why he loved that word: it is compact and convenient, subjecting itself neatly and repeatedly to the iambic pentameter. And it’s easy to rhyme!Make Ample Use of Poetic License â€" so long as you don’t completely vandalise the language!Poetic license permits the use of  froze instead of frozen to describe those unuttered words. Doing so even lends urgency to the situation by implying the words froze upon the sight of the person in question.4. Depict a Complete Scene in 14 Lines.To do that properly and effectively, you should use as many words and phrases that would call up visual imagery as you can.The phrase ‘fear forbade my presence to come near’ conveys so much more than ‘I had an anxiety attac k and couldn’t approach you’, even though they represent essentially the same concept, right?This stanza causes us to see fear as a looming, frightening, domineering entity denying the speaker the privilege of approaching the person in question. By contrast, ‘anxiety attack’ sounds paltry, doesn’t it?The QuatrainOur first quatrain has us off to a great start! We have the right number of feet and the right rhyming pattern; we have visual language that has outlined a situation. Now it is time for quatrain #2:Delight in how the sun kisses your cheek; Tortu’r in how I wish that it were me! Mere audience with you is what I seek As though your heart were once again trusting.Can you identify the components that make this a valid quatrain?Now we know a bit more about the situation: the speaker has apparently broken the subject’s heart and is well aware of the fact. S/he is bitter about the supposed lack of potential trust; we see this in the last line. Imagine that line spat out with self-loathing!And we know that it is a sunny day.This build-up of information leads us directly into the next quatrain and, finally the couplet; the denouement of the situation:Ago, I saw you walking fair one day though fear forbade my presence should come near. Froze, the words that I could never say though in my heart remain so very dear. Delight in how the sun kisses your cheek; Tortu’r in how I wish that it were me! Mere audience with you is what I seek As though your heart were once again trusting.Ne’er! Your cry strikes such a cruel blow! Ne’er! Your mien doth passion-tly aver! How did I force love’s door on me to close When soul and mind, it all I gave to her?And then, Divine, the hand that turns your face! Our eyes, searing, questing, entwine, embrace.Note the rising passion throughout; the third quatrain full of fury and agony until the last two lines; a conclusion in direct contradiction of the rest of the poem.Also, there is an escalating use of poetic l icense. In fact, the more ardent the situation becomes the more license is given to express it all!Feel free to use helpful resources to find just the right words for your sonnet! Source: Pixabay Credit: Truth Seeker08A Helping Hand in Sonnet WritingInternalising the iambic pentameter and employing poetic license is child’s play compared to mastering the vocabulary necessary to write in this manner.Fortunately, in most cases you only need to know the words for what you want to say; a thesaurus and a rhyming dictionary can help you find the right words to tell your story in sonnet form.Some of the better ones we know of are:https://www.rhymezone.com: perfect for finding just the word you’re looking for! https://www.synonym.com: you can also find antonyms, should you know the opposite word of what you’re trying to express https://dictionary.reverso.net/english-synonyms more than just a dictionary; it also offers meanings for common phrases! https://www.thesaurus.com: the simples t and perhaps easiest to use!Fortunately, we don't have to write with a quill pen, as Shakespeare did! Source: Pixabay Credit: Andreas160578Find Out More about Different Poetic FormsThe benefit of poetry is that there are lots of different styles  once you have tried sonnets poems. Give the other styles try, Limericks are light-hearted poems, historically  Japanese Haiku poetry is traditional, to show a feeling  an Epic style poem  would work well, Adding music? then the Ballad poetry style is  for you, If you are looking for a show of Friday night  visit a slam poetry  show or  listen to free verse poetry style. So many kinds of poetry, meaning you will find your best style of poetry.