Is Nuclear Radiation Chemistry As Easy As You Think?

Is Nuclear Radiation Chemistry As Easy As You Think?If you are researching the effects of radiation on human health and want to become a radiation chemist, you will quickly find that there is a wealth of information available online. While there are hundreds of websites devoted to this field, what you find most frequently is information. This is great news for you, but beware: some of what you read may be misleading or just downright wrong.First, you need to understand that it's quite common for individuals to think that the 'dangerous isotopes' of radon gas are the actual ones that are responsible for cancer. The problem is that people don't know anything about this. It's true that some forms of radon gas are formed from radioactive decay of other radionuclides, but the concentration is so low that even then there's no guarantee that you'll actually contract cancer.In fact, there are many types of isotopes and a lot of differences between them. As a general rule, radon isotopes are often used in decontamination activities. When the liquid mix is first poured into the treatment tanks, the liquid is dissolved in it by the process of sublimation. The liquid passes through many layers of plates and even layers of filters before it reaches the main treatment tanks.In some cases, the liquid is extracted by the decontamination process into streams or solid sludge which are placed on the ground. The liquid is then sent through a series of additional filters which reduce the concentration of the radionuclide.The problem here is that this process is too cumbersome, and there is not enough funding to carry out all the various processes. In addition, some isotopes are more effective than others at reducing the concentration of the radionuclide. So, while decontamination could be beneficial, the major benefit comes from the reduction of exposure levels.So, you need to realize that nuclear radiation chemistry isn't quite as simple as it may appear. There is a big difference between the results of isotope removal and this kind of radiation research, as you can probably tell from the variety of disinformation which you will find online.So, be sure to do your research before deciding to move forward. It's certainly possible to make a substantial income from doing nuclear radiation chemistry, but it's a very specialized field and any knowledge that you acquire won't be widely available online.

History of Bass

History of Bass The History of the Bass Guitar ChaptersThe Bass, a Young InstrumentThe First Bass Guitars in the 20th CenturyDevelopments to the Bass Guitar in the 1970sChanges to the Bass Guitar in the 1980s“None of us wanted to be the bass player. In our minds he was the fat guy who always played at the back.” - Paul McCartneyA lot of aspiring musicians want to learn the guitar, the piano, or even the violin. However, significantly fewer people want to learn how to play the bass.Often, guitarists move to the bass but you don’t play a bassline like you would an electric or acoustic guitar.According to a survey by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), many people choose to learn the guitar, the bass guitar was popular amongst boys with 28% interested in playing it.Girls favoured the flute, recorder, violin, and viola.Are you interested in the bass guitar?Let’s have a look at its history. PeterGuitar Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EdgarGuitar Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PaulGuitar Teacher 5.00 (12) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToddGuitar Teacher 4.75 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamueleGuitar Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KurtGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RyanGuitar Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsThe Bass, a Young InstrumentTraditional African and Eastern music has deeper instruments with fewer strings that are played horizontally that predate the electric bass guitar.The Imzad, for example, is played by the Tuareg people in Africa or the Khalam in Senegal. Then there’s the Guembri played by the Gnawa people. The bass guitar was designed to be a lighter version of the double bass that could be amplified. (Source: pixelia)During the 20th century, double bass players were looking for a way to play more loudly.  In the 1930s in the United States, swing and jazz reigned supreme. Bands kept playing louder and louder as they travelled from town to town.Owing to its size, the double bass was difficult to lug around and it couldn’t compete with the volume from the now-amplified electric Les Paul guitar.  The electric bass, just like the electric guitar, was invented to make up for this lack of volume when it came to country, rock ‘n’ roll, and blues music.  Luthiers were looking for a more powerful instrument that was lighter than a double bass.In 1910, the Gibson company created the first acoustic bass. It was a prototype without an amplifier but it met the needs of musicians.That said, it wasn’t until the 1930s that the first electric bass was created. In 1933, the American Paul Tutmarc created the Model 736 Bass Fiddle in limited numbers.  It had a short-scale neck, a solid body, and an electromagnetic pickup.The next model was the same size as guitars, included frets, and could be played horizontally. Adding frets to the four-string model helped musicians play the instrument with greater ease and it was easier to hold than the prototypes.  Paul Tutmarc’s instrument wasn’t much of a success in the 1930s and manufacturers Gibson and Rickenbacker preferred to work on what they already had. But the idea wasn’t a complete failure.20 years later, Tutmarc’s idea would come back: the electric bass was born and music and American culture were about to drastically change.  The bass guitar arrived just in time to turn the world upside-down.The First Bass Guitars in the 20th CenturyThe electric bass is one of the only instruments to be originally designed with amplification in mind. The first electric bass guitar was quite different to bass guitars now. (Source: seriouslycr8ive)When Paul Tutmarc invented his electric bass guitar, it just needed the right conditions and a few changes to make it work.  Industrial processes and further innovations made the bass guitar more viable.Leo Fender (1909-1991) launched the first full-scale electric bass in 1951, the Precision Bass.  The frets made it easier to play the right notes and vibrations in the strings were turned into an electrical signal through the pickup.  This bass guitar became very popular with Jet Harris (The Shadows), James Jamerson (Motown), and Rocco Prestia.  It resulted in a very particular groove.In 1960, the Jazz Bass was released. There were new sounds available thanks to its two pickups and had a thinner neck than the Precision Bass. The pickup by the bridge offers better middles whereas the pickup closer the neck offers more bass.Throughout the 60s, plenty of manufacturers started making versions: Gibson, Höfner, Rickenbacker, and Fender all flooded the market. The electric bass, particularly Fender’s Jazz Bass were in every studio and at every concert.The 1960s marked the age of rock: The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, The Animals, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, The Who, The Doors, etc.  The post-war boom saw a huge cultural revolution which created a great opportunity for the electric bass to flourish. Preamps started to be included in the 1960s to boost the high and low ends. Great bassists like Marcus Miller and Jaco Pastorius used the Jazz Bass.In the same year, the following manufacturers were created:IbanezMusic ManDanelectroESP GuitarsGL InstrumentsBC RichCortAlembicWarwickBass guitars, which are tuned in fourths (E, A, D, G), slowly started to replace double basses as they were essential in genres like rock ‘n’ roll and pop and later heavy rock and metal.Discover the best basslines.Developments to the Bass Guitar in the 1970sIn the 1970s, some bassists went back to fretless basses. As music changed, so did the instruments. (Source: Free-Photos)Jaco Pastorius (1951-1987) was known for his fretless bass playing both while accompanying other band members or as a soloist. The fretless bass allows for warmer, rounder tones than with a fretted bass and allows you smoother slides and vibratos up and down the neck.Experimentation led to the creation of the six-string bass in 1974. The bassist Anthony Jackson asked the luthier Carl Thomson to make him one.Why?To play even deeper sounds, a fourth below the low E. The professional luthier added a low B string. He nicknamed this instrument the “Contrabass”.In the 1970s, rock music led to different woods being used for the neck: ebony, maple, spruce, rosewood, ash, etc.Luthiers started doing it all!Changes to the Bass Guitar in the 1980sThe digital age emerging in the middle of the 20th century helped create new musical styles thanks to electric instruments like guitars and basses.5-, 6-, and even 8-string basses were c reated. There were basses made from carbon, thick necks, flat necks, everything! While guitars tend to get most of the limelight, there are tonnes of different types of bass guitars, too! (Source: danpicasso2)Similarly, the 1980s saw new types of pickups, volume and tone dials, and improved nuts.Manufacturers also looked to broaden their offering to meet demand. Every musician had different tastes and they loved the choice. In the 80s and 90s, composers sought to express themselves further.This is why so many variations to the bass guitar were made. There were even basses tuned an octave lower than standard tuning. 5- and 6-string basses were used in Latin, jazz, funk, and metal music.At just under 90 years old, there are now sub-categories of bass guitar:Electric bassElectro-acoustic bassFretless bassesExtended range bass (ERB): 5- or 6-string basses.Nowadays, bassists have the choice of using combo amps, heads, amps with tubes or transistors with their bass guitars.Beware: Bass amps are different from guitar amps. They can’t handle the same frequencies.Now yo u should know more about the history of bass guitars. This should help you when it comes to learning how to play and choosing your first bass guitar.Find out more about the role bassists play.If you'd like to learn more, consider getting tutorials from one of the many talented bass tutors on Superprof. They can offer you one of the three main types of bass tutorials.Face-to-face tutorials are your traditional private tutorials between the student and a tutor. They're great if there's something specific you'd like to learn as the lessons will be tailored to you and your learning style. However, this bespoke service comes at a cost, meaning that this type of tutorial is usually the most costly.Online tutorials are also just between a single student and their tutor but their tutor won't be there in the room with them. Instead, they'll provide their tutorial over webcam. While this isn't always ideal for hands-on subjects, if you have a decent mic, a talented tutor can teach you how to play bass without even being in the room with you.Finally, you can also get group tutorials. With several paying students attending the tutorial, this type of tutorial tends to be the cheapest per person per hour. Of course, the tutor's attention is also divided amongst the students and they won't be able to tailor the lessons to a single student. However, in the beginning, this might be a good option as everyone needs to learn the basics and you don't want to spend too much money on a new hobby if you think you mightn't stick at it.Luckily for you, many of the tutors on Superprof offer the first hour of tuition for free. This is a great way to get to know your potential tutor, ask them about their teaching style, experience, and qualifications, and iron out the finer details of the kind of tuition you'd like.

Learning How to Sing How Long Should My Voice Lessons Be

Learning How to Sing How Long Should My Voice Lessons Be Suzy S. Interested in learning how to sing? Private voice lessons are a great place to start. But with so many options out there for pricing, lesson length, and location, how do you know whats best for you? Read on as Hayward, CA and online teacher Molly R. shares her recommendation   So, youre signing up for voice lessons and see there are a few options, usually 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes. Which length do you choose , either for yourself or for your child/teen? The first factor to consider is definitely age. My rule of thumb is that lessons for those under 12 should always be 30 minutes. The reason why I believe this works best is because children tend to have much shorter attention spans it’s not necessary to go into as much detail regarding vocal technique and repertoire! It would be much harder to fully engage the student in a longer lesson. Also, keep in mind that when youre first learning how to sing, you are not a fully formed instrument yet: students this young really don’t NEED additional time! For now, it’s a matter of teaching just the basics of both technique and musicianship (while still keeping things fun!) The next thing to consider are your (or the student’s) goals. Are there particular things you aspire to do, such as rock an open mic night, or start auditioning for local musicals? If so, you may want to consider an hour-long lesson. Typically, I spend the first half on vocal technique, and then the second half on polishing your songs with you so you get to feeling that youre “ready for prime time”! But, suppose you don’t care about performing. No, not everyone who signs up for voice lessons dreams of being in the spotlight! Believe it or not, I work with quite a few adults that are terrified at the very thought of it. They take voice lessons with me just because they find it fun and consider it a hobby! In that case, I recommend going with whatever feels right to you, either 30 minutes or an hour. There really isnt a right or wrong. There is plenty you can learn in either time frame. Lastly, consider how quickly you want to make progress. Even if you’re not out to perform, perhaps singing is something you really want to master, just for you. I work with some adult students who prefer hour-long lessons even though they are beginners who don’t want to perform any time soon, if ever. They like longer lessons because they have plenty of time to practice at home and really enjoy the whole process. Likewise, I have students who are very busy and can only fit in 30-minute lesson every other week. These students still work very hard for those 30 minutes, and make the time here and there to practice (sometimes during their work commute!). Keep in mind that many teachers are willing to customize for you. Maybe you usually do 30 minutes, but once in a while you have an upcoming performance you really want to make solid and would like more help with your song(s). I always allow my students to mix it up, realizing that needs will certainly change. So, the short answer? It’s all up to you if you’re a teen or adult singer. We are all different, so there is no one way to do voice lessons when youre learning how to sing! Molly R. teaches online and in-person singing lessons in Hayward, CA. Her specialties include teaching beginner vocalists, shy singers, children, teens, lapsed singers, and older beginners. She joined TakeLessons in November 2013. Learn more about Molly  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 Penn State

What is a College Seminar

What is a College Seminar During college, you may encounter a specific type of course format: the seminar. College seminar courses are typically small, and are generally led by a professor. They are often higher-level classes that focus on a specialized subject area in a given major or minor. Students are expected to participate regularly in college seminars, including giving presentations and participating in discussions. There are many ways that students can succeed in a college seminar course, including emphasizing their participation, remaining distraction-free, and actively listening during class sessions. Keep reading to learn more about college seminars: Which majors rely on college seminar courses? Any major can offer a seminar course, but some specializations lend themselves more readily to this format. Others may lean toward classes that utilize lectures. You may encounter a seminar in: A language course A literature course A philosophy course And others. Higher-level courses are often focused on discussion and investigation, rather than simple mastery of information and skills. In such instances, a seminar class is particularly useful. [RELATED: What I Wish I Knew About Picking a College Major] How to succeed in a college seminar If youre used to lecture courses, or if youre a little shy, you might feel intimidated by a seminar class. But you shouldnt beanyone is capable of succeeding in a college seminar. Here are some tips for success: Focus on your participation in your college seminar In most cases, professors in seminars are looking less for right answers, and more for genuine engagement. Professors participation grades may be among the most highly weighted grades youll receive in a college seminar. So, focus on completing your assignments on time and being prepared for class so you can contribute to conversations in a meaningful way. [RELATED: Top 5 College Study Tips] Put any distractions away during your college seminar This means silencing your smartphone and putting it in your bag. Ensure social media websites and messaging apps are not open on your laptop or tablet. Because seminar class sizes are small, your professor will most certainly notice if youre not paying attentionand he or she will not hesitate to dock points from your final grade. [RELATED: Time Management Tips for Students] Listen to others while in your college seminar A conversation is all about give and take. This holds especially true in seminar courses, where youll be having lots of conversations with the people around you for the entire semester. Its easy to talk a lot during a college seminar, and less easy to listen to others. Try to balance your speaking with listening. Hearing others input will help you shape your thoughts and opinions more cohesively so you can more meaningfully contribute to the conversation. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us at blog@varsitytutors.com.

5 Great Reasons to Learn Italian

5 Great Reasons to Learn Italian Why Learn How to Speak Italian? ChaptersItalian: An Easy Language to LearnItaly’s Exceptional Cultural HeritageHow Learning Italian can Land you a JobThe Role of Cuisine in Italian CultureWhere to Learn ItalianIf you’ve always dreamt of experiencing one of the world’s most culturally rich, naturally beautiful countries which boasts some of the finest cuisine, why not learn the language that goes with it?Of course, we’re talking about learning Italian!Being able to speak even basic Italian will open up many doors for you, and as the language of love, learning Italian could be the reason you meet your future amore.If you’ve always fancied learning Italian as a foreign language but still need some convincing, we’ll try to win your over with these five fantastic reasons to study Italian.The Ray-Bans that you sport in the Mediterranean sun on your holiday and the Colnago that makes all of your cycling pals jealous are just two of the many famous brands to come out of Italy.Even the famous hazelnut spread, Nu tella, is made by Italian company Ferrero, and how could we forget Ferrari?Knowing how to speak Italian and being familiar with the county’s culture will put you a step ahead when it comes to finding a job, regardless of whether it’s in the UK or in Italy.Once you’ve got yourself a position in a company, networking and negotiating will become significantly easier, even if you only speak conversational Italian as a bare minimum - though taking Italian courses London or another town near you can improve your chances of success.In order to give yourself the best chance of success in landing a job with an Italian company, don’t be afraid to put some effort into how you present yourself â€" the Italians love people with good fashion sense!The Role of Cuisine in Italian CultureIf you’re a fan of Italian cuisine and enjoy a good glass of wine, Italy is the place for you!Italy’s food and its exports are famous all over the world. It inspires pasta lovers, pizza fanatics and thos e who love seafood. Bruschetta with olive oil, antipasti, seafood spaghetti, pesto, there is so much to fall in love with.Italian dishes are often balanced in terms of nutritional value, and fresh produce is mostly used to create them.Fall in love with Italy's cuisine ¦ source: Pixabay - klausneuItaly is also famous for its wine culture. Its white wines such as the Trebbiani d’Abbuzo, a dry wine from the Abruzzo region, or the Soave, which comes from Veneto, very dry and less fragrant, go perfectly with Italian specialities such as fried scampi and grilled lemon chicken.Those who prefer red will be fond of Barbaresco or Barolo, which has aromas of cacao and spices.Tuscany is also famous for its red wine production. Brunello di Montalcino has a powerful and complex aroma â€" and let’s not forget Chianti, probably the most well-known of the Italian wines.Speaking the language has undeniable advantages when it comes to discovering the local gastronomy. You’ll have the tools to b e able to discuss how the food is cooked and the wine-making process with those who are directly involved.Where to Learn ItalianItalian is offered in some of the UK’s secondary schools, however, it is quite rare as languages such as French and German tend to take centre stage.School pupils usually choose their GCSE options before they start year 10, and schools usually encourage them to choose at least one language course.Sadly, Italy’s status as a minor language (compared to the likes of French, Spanish and German) means few people are qualified to teach it in the classroom, and therefore, fewer people learn it.However, studying Italian proves to be a great asset in the world or work, particularly when dealing with international business.Learning to speak Italian, or learning a new language at all can often be considered as an opening of the mind.Today, most major UK cities have organisations dedicated to teaching languages, and even though they may not be a part of the nationa l curriculum, their teaching is just as effective as the teaching in schools.Here are just a few ways you can learn Italian outside of school:at a language schoolan Italian cultural centreat evening classesthrough private tutoringThe quickest way to get started and make progress in your Italian learning is to find a one to one Italian tutor who can meet you in person or help you learn Italian online via a webcam connection.Find the best places to live and study as an Italian student in Italy.Learning a language demands regular practice and a good level of motivation, and finding an Italian tutor will give you the best chance of achieving this, as you prepare you Italian grammar exercises and listening comprehension homework every week.

A Practical Guide To Cities In Germany

A Practical Guide To Cities In Germany Must See Historic And Modern Germany Cities ChaptersThe Must-See Cities For Your German ItineraryThe Capital City Of Germany: Berlin,The City Of Bavarian Beer: MunichCity Of History And Modernity: HamburgGermany's Oldest City: CologneThe Economic Centre Of Germany: FrankfurtA German Town Between Two Shores: DüsseldorfA Spa Town In The Middle Of The Black Forest: Baden-BadenWhen you are planning to visit Germany, as with any country in the world you have to make a plan about what it is that you want to do and what do you want to experience while you are there. Germany is a country with a long history and a culture that has integrated itself outside of Germany too.Going to Germany is an excellent idea if you love German culture or just want to find out more about it. But one thing is for sure that you will have a unique trip and you may be lucky enough to discover some new things too. Germany located in Central Europe and shares borders with 8 other European countries. It is one of the wealthiest countries in Europe economicall y and culturally speaking, not to mention German cuisine and snacks, which are always a real treat!Germany has lots of great attractions and attractive architecturally rich cities which are perfect for sightseeing. No matter which city in Germany you go to, you are bound to find something exciting and culturally intriguing.Superprof has prepared a list of the must-see German cities that you should try to visit during your stay in Germany. They are guaranteed to help you to discover the German culture and heritage.Shopping trips, scenic parks, monuments, King Ludwig ii’s castles and palaces, Oktoberfest, cultural excursions, gastronomic tastings, evening entertainment,  and wine tasting tours. Are all the things you can add to the daily itineraries of your tour of Germany.If you only have time for a short city tour, you would do well to visit Berlin. Photo Source: Unsplash SönkeGerman Teacher 5.00 (5) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ClaudiaGerman Teacher 4.89 (9) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SefaGerman Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HilaryGerman Teacher 5.00 (16) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LisaGerman Teacher 5.00 (8) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChrisGerman Teacher 5.00 (19) £39/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors WendyGerman Teacher 5.00 (2) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HowardGerman Teacher 5.00 (6) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsThe Must-See Cities For Your German ItineraryNo matter where you go when you travel to Germany you will pass through one of the big cities of the country. Cities like Stuttgart which is the epicentre of German culture, Nuremberg which is famous for its world-renowned Christmas market, Dresden which is the city of art in Germany or The Old Town of Rothenburg, which looks like a place frozen in time.German cities are full of history, culture and traditional German heritage, while also being modern and cosmopolitan. Let’s take a look at some of the best cities in Germany for travellers to visit while travelling through the country.Check out even more German courses on Superprof.The Capital City Of Germany: Berlin,We can not and should not talk about Germany without mentioning its capital Berlin. Berlin is Germanys biggest city and is a melting pot of culture with a very international vibe. Like all large cities, it has all of the modern conveniences that you can expect like transport, Universities, banks, embassies etc. Politically it is the most critical place in the country, as the seat of the German government and house of parliament are there.As well as modernity and government, there is also history, you can visit many monuments all which tell a story of Berlin's history and German history collectively. Some attractions worth seeing when you visit Germany are:The Brandenburg Gate,The Reichstag Palace,The Victory Column,La place Gendarmenmarkt,The Berlin Wall Memorial,La Po tsdamer Place,The TV Tower,Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom).Berliners are as friendly and open-minded as their city which means a high majority of people speak English. Which makes it a perfect place to visit for any city trip or as part of a more extended holiday within the country. You need at least a few days to explore Berlin city, it is a fantastic bustling destination.The City Of Bavarian Beer: MunichAs the third largest city in Germany, Munich has several assets which entice you to discover it on your trip. Like the castle of Nymphenburg, the cathedral of Munich or the Marienplatz. Munich is famous in Bavaria for Oktoberfest festival, which is an end of the year German beer festival, which has folk culture at its root. It is the perfect place to enjoy the very best of German beers and to have fun.Dresden is the capital of Saxony, in eastern Germany. Photo Source: Unsplash SönkeGerman Teacher 5.00 (5) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ClaudiaGerman Teacher 4.89 ( 9) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SefaGerman Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HilaryGerman Teacher 5.00 (16) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LisaGerman Teacher 5.00 (8) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ChrisGerman Teacher 5.00 (19) £39/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors WendyGerman Teacher 5.00 (2) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HowardGerman Teacher 5.00 (6) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsCity Of History And Modernity: HamburgHamburg is a city in northern Germany, which is located on the river Elbe and close by the North Sea and the border of Denmark. Hamburg has a functioning international port as well as significant historical heritage. Indeed, with its many canals and period buildings, the beautiful city of Hamburg has a charm that may loosely remind you of Venice.Sign up for many German courses London here.Visiting the stunning city of Hamburg will give you a different idea of Germany as it is one of the only cities that connect the sea and river waterways. As well as having numerous islands to discover with the many River cruises on offer. This allows you to experience a different side of Germany, especially if you visit in the summer where you can partake of the beautiful River cruises without freezing. Between the cultural visits, parks, scenery and nightlife, the culinary specialities of the region and island discoveries. There is a lot to do in the beautiful city of Hamburg including:Le Zoo Tierpark Hagenbeck,The fish market,The district of Saint Pauli,The telecommunication tower Heinrich Hertz,The Museum of Fine Arts Hamburg,The Saint Michel church,Park Planen a Blomen,The harbour and the Hamburg beaches,State Opera Hamburg.Hamburg offers an unmissable experience!Germany's Oldest City: CologneIn the West of Germany, in the Rhine Valley, lies the city of Cologne, which is a major European metropolis. Tourists will love the activities offered by the city including Cologne Cathedral - an architectural and heritage wonder, several museums such as the Chocolate Museum and the Ludwig Museum. Finally, there is lots of fun for the family too, Cologne also has an amusement park named Phantasialand just 10 km from its centre!Other things to do in Cologne:Cologne is also famous for its specialities like the famous Eau de Cologne.The city of Cologne is also very close to the city of Bonn, the hometown of Beethoven!Finally, do not hesitate to taste Cologne's traditional beer, Kölsch!This place has plenty to occupy the travelers with its many tourist attractions. Photo Source: UnsplashThe Economic Centre Of Germany: FrankfurtFrankfurt is one of the reasons that Germany has a reputation for being one of Europe's leading powerhouses. Frankfurt is undoubtedly the economic and financial heart of Germany. It is a business city, home to the largest airport in Europe and it also has a lot to offer the average tourist.Frankfurt city sits on the r iver main, towering over the waters with its modern architecture. One of the buildings called the ‘Main Tower’ allows visitors a panoramic view of the entire city. But despite its modernity, Frankfurt also has a historical part that is worth visiting. The Römerberg or historic centre of Frankfurt, located in the district of Sachsenhausen has various taverns. Where it is possible to taste a kind of local cider, called Apfelwein.A German Town Between Two Shores: DüsseldorfDüsseldorf is an eclectic city with a mix of historical and modern architecture, separated by water the city is kept connected 7 landmark bridges. Half of the city can be defined as current with futuristic constructions and the other side as full of historical heritage. The historical side includes the old port which is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.As well as being an exciting city, Düsseldorf is also the fashion capital of Germany with the Königsallee, a luxury shopping paradise which lies in the old town.Dusseldorf is also a city where you can have fun during pleasant evenings and where you can try the best in German food and German wine. Best of all if you visit Dusseldorf in late February and early March you will get to visit the Rhine carnival. You can not get more German than that, Come on, visit Düsseldorf!A Spa Town In The Middle Of The Black Forest: Baden-BadenAlthough not officially a city it is a must mention bonus. This town which is something between a spa and forest resort, Baden-Baden has something extra special to attract tourists who want to relax and melt away stress and strains of life. Unique in Germany, Baden-Baden is set between the Rhine Plain and the Black Forest.The city is famous for its hot healing baths, but that is not all, it is also renowned for its casino, palaces and museums. Baden-Baden is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany with its picturesque scenery and charm all nestled into the enchanting setting of the forests trees, h istoric bridges and the flowing river. Finally, if you want to take a walk or hike, you can walk to the edge of the city and find yourself surrounded by nature. Take a walk in the National Park of the Black Forest to and try to imagine Hansel and Gretel leaving their breadcrumbs there.The places in Germany are endless, and there is so much to see, to suit all travelers tastes and all types of holiday styles. Of course, there are many more spectacular cities (Hannover, Heidelberg, Augsburg, Aachen, Mannheim or Saarbrücken) in Germany that you can explore and discover. But I hope this gets you started, on your discovery to Germany and its treasures. If you need more inspiration, you can take a look at the German Tourist board. There is so much to enjoy, Have fun!.

Chicago

Chicago Only in Chicago is a Tommy Gun Glamorous ChaptersChicago: PrologueChicago, the MusicalProduction NotesProductions, Revivals and AwardsSeen by most as a sardonic look at life in the Roaring Twenties in Chicago, possibly attempting to immortalise the era of Al Capone, the American musical Chicago… wasn’t meant to be a bit of musical theater at all.In fact, what we know today as a Tony Award-winning stage show tells a story apart from the singing and dancing and the lines crafted so carefully by its playwright.Maurine Dallas-Watkins, a reporter for the Chicago Tribune newspaper, was assigned to report on cases litigated in court.Was she appalled, amused or astounded at the people brought up on charges of murder, rape and theft? Was she most outraged at crimes committed by women â€" especially murder, in a town where murder was so commonplace?Whatever her personal opinions were, she saw fit to weave the entire story into a play which met with international success in 1926. A little more than a decade later, the show was mad e into a film, reaching audiences across the US.Remember, at this point, Chicago is still not a musical; it is a cleverly-crafted play.Superprof now gives you the 411 (the information) on Velma, Roxie and Billy Flynn, along with Mama Morton and the poor slob, Amos, and how they all came to be on stage together. TraceySinging Teacher 4.92 (13) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PortiaSinging Teacher 4.91 (11) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicolaSinging Teacher 5.00 (11) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JazzSinging Teacher 5.00 (6) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PerrineSinging Teacher 5.00 (3) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TiemSinging Teacher £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TomSinging Teacher £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MiriamSinging Teacher 5.00 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsChicago: Prologue The playhouse version of Chicago is far more tame than the musical! Source: Wikipedia Credit: Cheryl Sue DolbyMs Watkins certainly meant for her work to be satirical but it was based on facts.Beulah Annan, accused of the murder of Harry Halstedt, listened to the same foxtrot record for two hours before calling her husband in a breathless panic to say she had killed a man.Her husband, Albert, cleaned out his bank account to pay for her defence.Imagine how he must have felt when she dumped him the day after her acquittal!Belva Gaertner was a cabaret singer accused of murdering a man named Walter Law.Two policemen witnessed her getting into her vehicle; shortly afterwards, they heard a gun go off twice.Mr Law was found dead in the driver's seat, along with a bottle of gin and a gun.By no stretch of the imagination could any of these stories be the cause for merriment and glee, especially remembering the status of women a century ago.They had just won the right to vote but were still pre tty much house-bound; a woman on her own was generally treated as a less-than-reputable character and was considered ‘up for grabs’ - with said grabbing often being her body parts.Did you know? A similar storyline plays out in The Lion King… believe it or not!In short, the Roaring Twenties was still very much a time when what men said went and women were seldom permitted a voice.You might argue that that sword cuts both ways.Women were often seen as frail and weak, in no way capable of committing murder; a perception that no doubt helped their defence.In a sense, the social climate of the day makes Chicago an even more remarkable story.Not only was there murder to report on â€" murders committed no doubt by women as well as men, but it was a young woman from the Kentucky countryside who reported on them.Maurine Dallas-Watkins was a woman much ahead of her time.She attended Butler University in Indiana before continuing her education at Radcliffe, an exclusive women’s univers ity in Massachusetts. She then left Radcliffe and moved to Chicago, working for a time in advertising before landing the news reporter job.It’s a wonder she didn’t also write a script for Mad Men!In short, her life was varied and ever-changing; after the fame she garnered from Chicago, she went to Hollywood and wrote screenplays for several successful films… all in a time when women were generally not seen as equal and a woman on her own was considered fair game.Through shrewd investing and careful spending, along with royalties from her ever-popular Chicago, she ended up independently wealthy.So, when Bob Fosse, the Broadway producer, asked permission to make Chicago into a Broadway musical, she demurred. Besides the fact that she had no need for money, the reason she refused to sell the show’s rights might surprise you…Interviewing both women at length before their trials, she came to believe that they were both guilty but, through her writing â€" intended to be bitingly caustic, she believes she inadvertently swayed the public to sympathy for the murderesses.Maurine Dallas-Watkins, believing she was the reason those two women escaped justice, could not bear the idea of giving them any more exposure.It was only after her death in 1969 that her estate negotiated the sale of the script.Once it landed in Mr Fosse’s hands, he immediately turned it over to the powerhouse composers Kander and Ebb, who soon had the show ready for its off-Broadway run.Hush now! The curtain is about to go up!Don’t forget to preview one of the most enduring theatrical ventures: Les Miserables... Chicago enjoyed a long run at New York's Ambassador Theatre Source: Wikipedia Credit: OptimumPXChicago, the MusicalIndeed, the story centres around the two women and their deeds.Roxie is brought into the prison under the predatory gaze of one Velma Kelly, currently the most glamorous prisoner on the cell block. She worries that her star treatment will now be directed to the block’s newest murderess.She was soon proven right. Lawyer Billy Flynn looks right past her to the latest waif in prison garb, much to Velma’s distress.Roxie is rude and vulgar; pretty, yes, but what kind of witness would she make?It turns out, quite an inventive one. Although she has trouble learning her lines â€" Billy worked hard to coach her on her appearance and language, there was no end to her deviousness.Lawyer Billy’s interest in representing Roxie wanes in direct proportion to Amos’ (Roxie’s husband) ability to pay his fees. It didn’t hurt that another high-profile murderess had just been bro ught into the cell block â€" and she was demonstrably rich!Billy, not caring about anything but money, is brought sharply back into focus by Roxie’s assertion that she is pregnant. He sees headlines praising his efforts at earning justice for the young mother-to-be…Meanwhile, Roxie is making other plans.Knowing that she can’t rely on anyone but herself, she and Velma strike a deal. They will make the most of their fame together even though they despise one another.And so the story goes, with All that Jazz.Get on board with your creative team: how would Roxie have fared with The Phantom of the Opera?Production NotesIn a lot of ways, Chicago made audiences uncomfortable; it was a garish display of American celebrity culture wherein the actors spoke directly to the audience â€" breaching the so-called fourth wall.This musical comedy featured songs that were asides to the audience, making theatregoers feel like they were consorting with criminals.For that reason and for its bawdin ess â€" the Cell Block Tango alone was seen as outré and distasteful; kinky, even. Patrons hesitated to buy tickets.Especially as A Chorus Line premiered in the same year and swept the awards ceremonies.The Broadway production Chicago seemed doomed, especially when the actress playing Roxie accidentally swallowed a feather and had to have emergency surgery.Just as the artistic director and music director were going to throw in the towel, Liza Minnelli offered to fill in for Roxie; suddenly, you couldn’t find tickets for Chicago anywhere!And then, Ann Reinking reworked the choreography so that it was less vaudeville and more in keeping with other Bob Fosse Broadway shows.Mr Cellophane would have approved.Can you think of two more disparate shows than Chicago and Cats? The original cast poster was a bit more racy than 1970s America was ready for! Source: WikipediaProductions, Revivals and AwardsIn spite of all of the strange, coincidental happenings mentioned above, the Broadway show closed after a respectable 936 performances and debuted almost two years later, in London on the Cambridge musical theatre stage.There, it entertained audiences for about 600 performances, earning the Best Actor and Best Actress Olivier awards.  It was also nominated for Best Musical.Do you know other popular musicals that won awards in that category?It then made its way around the world, landing back on Broadway for a revival in 1996. By that time, it was a well-polished show; it went on to win six Tony Awards â€" a record that stood unbroken until 2008.Chicago still holds the record for longest-running revival on Broadway; its success today is due, at least in part, to changing social values in the US.After the 1995 OJ Simpson trial â€" a real-life celebrity crime, A merican audiences were more enthusiastic about a bit of vaudevillian dancing and Razzle Dazzle.The proof of that assertion is found in the awards Chicago has earned.The original Broadway show (1975) garnered a lot of nominations but only one win: a Drama Desk Award for Best Lighting. Conversely, the 1997 revival swept both the Tony and Drama Desk awards ceremonies!As Broadway musicals go, Chicago is no My Fair Lady â€" and not even in the same stratosphere as Beauty and the Beast.  Those characters are some of the most sympathetic in Broadway history, don’t you think?Still, you can’t help but care, at least a little bit, for Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, even as you chuckle uneasily about the Matron (splendidly played by Queen Latifah in the film version!).Those women were a product of their time, making the best of what they had, much like Oliver Twist did in his time.If the story behind Chicago the musical is as gripping as the music and lyrics and story the show presents… now you know why!Now discover the show everyone is talking about: Hamilton

Setting Your Child Up for Success When they need an Assessment

Setting Your Child Up for Success When they need an Assessment In my last post I discussed talking to your child about ADHD in a way that is supportive and helpful. But what happens when your child needs an assessment for academic challenges or ADHD symptoms? Many parents worry that their child will find the evaluation process intimidating, or wonder if their child will think they are being tested because there is something wrong with them. Other parents have concerns about how their overly active, distractible, or anxious child will tolerate the testing especially if their child struggles to stay on task under normal circumstances. The good news is that the psychologists and educators who conduct these assessments have a great deal of experience working with kids who have academic and attention problems. They typically love working with kids like yours! The positive one-on-one attention that your child receives during the evaluation process will help make it go smoothly and maybe even be fun for your child! And as a parent there are some thin gs that you can do to set your child up for assessment success: Work with a professional who you like and respect. If you respect and enjoy the psychologist or educator who is conducting the evaluation, then theres a good chance that you child will too! Kids and adolescents pick up on social cues from their parents, and if you seem to be at ease with the process your child will feel much more relaxed themselves. Discuss your concerns with the professional. Share your concerns with the professional who is conducting the evaluation. Ask them what types of strategies they use to help kids like yours have a positive evaluation experience. If you have suggestions for what might help your child, let the professional know. They might be able to use some of these same strategies during their testing sessions. Create positive expectations for your child. Have your child start off on the right foot by letting them know that youve met with the doctor (or educator), and you really enjoyed meeting with them. Tell your child that you think theyll like the doctor/educator too, and that you think theyll have fun during the appointments. Focus on learning styles. When talking to your child about the evaluation it can be very helpful to describe it as a process that will help you and your child figure out how they learn best. Let them know that everyone learns differently. For example, some kids learn best by watching a demonstration of how something is done, other kids learn best by reading about things, while others learn best in a hands-on way by doing things. In addition, let your child know that it will help everyone understand which subjects are harder and easier for your child, and how they can help your child be successful in the areas that are more challenging. Even resistant kids can enjoy the process. If you have a child who is resistant to going to an evaluation appointment, try not to worry too much. Just because your child might not want to go doesnt mean that theyll have a bad experience once theyre there. Ive had plenty of kids and teens come into my office feeling reluctant or even upset about having to attend the appointment (especially when its on a Saturday). But once things get started and we get to know each other, the kids settle in and forget that they didnt want to come in the first place. Usually they are even happy to come back for a follow-up appointment. After all, its not often that kids get so much uninterrupted time from an adult who is so interested in what they have to say! Assessments can be powerful tools for learning about your childs strengths and weaknesses, and the things you can do to help them succeed academically. Proactive and positive communication before and after the assessment are key to helping your child feel comfortable so you can both get the most out of the evaluation process. 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.