What is a French Seam

What is a French Seam Learn How to Make a French Seam ChaptersWhat Is a French Seam?Why Use a French Seam?How to Make a French SeamWhat Sewing Equipment Do You Need?The Best Sewing Tutorials OnlineHow Can You Learn to Make a French Seam?Learning to sew can take some time.  However, once you do, you can make yourself a new wardrobe with a cute dress or by sewing a t-shirt.  Whether sewing a bag, customising your jeans, decorating a tote bag, or using a serger, there are many different ways to learn how to sew.Just like cross-stitch, crochet, knitting, embroidery, and patchwork, sewing requires dexterity and passion when it comes to folding, tracing, cutting, etc.So get a few free patterns, some fabric offcuts, crowbar, a thread, canvas mount, and a sewing kit and follow a few guides.Whether you’re starting a sewing blog, setting up a haberdashery, or just for yourself, here’s what you need to know about the French seam and some advice about it.make frequent use of your seam ripper and starting again - at the risk of damaging your fab ric, why not make the French seam a standard practice?Why should you choose this type of seam over another?This technique is useful for people who are sensitive to seams, like babies. As adults, we would be hard-pressed to feel the difference between a thread and a type of material but the youngest humans, with their brand new skin - so very sensitive is it, that they might compare the abrasiveness of thread to steel wool, especially next to the softness of terrycloth.Naturally, babies are not the only people with hyper-sensitive skin, as we've alluded to above. If you or anyone in your circle proves to have such a sensitivity, you may make them a few shirts or dresses with French seams because that type of  seam won’t directly touch their skin.Designers like incorporating the French seam in designs of clothing that doesn’t have a lining. The technique can be used to hide the seams in the same way that a second layer of cloth (a lining) would.As you might have intuited, today's fashions do not always permit a lining, so a French seam is the next best step to hiding seam flaws - yes, even designer labels sometimes bear minute flaws in their cutting and stitching!To say nothing of the fact that French seams are far more elegant than serged seams.Besides lending garments an obvious distinction, the French seam is really useful for thin, light, or even transparent materials. You may find it adds an extra layer of strength to your silk, jersey or nylon creations.In fact, most experienced seamstresses advocate for the French seam if you are working with silk!Although a serger has nearly the same effect - in that your edges won't come unraveled and that they can be ironed flat, they don't have the elegance, style and comfort that a French seam offers.But then, not everyone has such a machine; nor does everyone have access to one. Should that be your case, you may consider the French seam as a good alternative when you don’t have a serger.As the French seam allo ws for very smooth edges, if you get used to making them, you might find you don't need a serger at all!Even if you’re a novice to the needle arts, the technique involved in sewing French seams is quite simple.  It offers further benefit if you were to sew clothing that should have a lining; such ambitions projects call for skills that, perhaps, you don't yet have mastery of.Rather than attempting to marry two disparate fabrics together, say a cotton dress with a nylon lining, why no leave off the lining altogether and opt instead for the French seam? You can always learn how to add a lining later, once you feel more confident behind your sewing machine.There are so many online sewing tutorials you could learn the technique of executing French seams from! Naturally, we'll feature the best of them a bit later in this article but, for now, with your Superprof's help, it's time to try your hand at stitching a  French seam.Keep in mind that you can only really use a French seam on str aight edges like the shoulder, side or the bottom of a t-shirt. It’s almost impossible to use this technique on round seams like on a collar.Don't forget: be patient! This technique takes more time to execute properly than any ordinary seam does; you will have to sew, fold, iron, cut and resew - far more steps than regular stitching! Now, on with the lesson...Did you think that sewing was just for women?  If you don't like the look of the thread, you should choose a French seam. (Source: Bru-nO)However, as you are most likely much more interested in learning how to make a French seam than combing through Internet sites, we withdraw our challenge and present you with some of the best places you can get online tutorials for French seams and any other sewing quandaries you may have.Sewing.ComFrom their clever logo (the I is a needle and the O is a button!) to their informative, easy-to-digest articles, this site is a delight for anyone interested in plying a needle, be they new at th e art or a seasoned veteran with sewing room to work in.On their site you will find a complete guide to stitching, from basic stitches to the more difficult to execute pick stitch used for hemming quality garments.You will find a page of vintage patterns, some you can download for free and others that require payment of a small fee. Another page has helpful information regarding how to organise your sewing room, how to alter clothing and sewing your home decor.What we found most helpful is their page on sewing techniques.Under that tab, you will find a list of sewing hacks to make every project easy to sew. Do you have trouble sewing in zippers? Do your buttons always fall off? Are you perpetually frustrated when sewing elastics and gathering fabric? Sewing.Com has all of your answers and more.However, if you are a beginner at sewing, you would most likely be more interested in their Sewing for Beginners video tutorials that cover everything from   how to make a scented sachet to cr eating a lace skirt.You can do French seams either by hand or with a sewing machine. (Source: wnk1029)The National Sewing CircleThis is website curated by 4 wonderful and talented American seamstresses who have built a database of instructional videos; some you can watch for free and others for a small fee.Their 'Core Skills' section includes videos on topics that range from the technical - how to adjust the bobbin on your sewing machine, to the practical: how to sew invisible zippers.As your sewing skills progress, you may appreciate their Finishing Touches sector or browse through their Design Workshop. Of course, you may refer to their Tips and Techniques video collection at any time during your sewing experienceAt this point, you might be wondering why we haven't yet mentioned YouTube...There are indeed plenty of YouTube sewing channels; some of them demonstrating rather advanced techniques. However, what we've seen of them is such a hodge-podge of of the art; there seems to be no clear progression between threading a needle and finishing a garment. You would most likely end up going from video to video, wondering why it is so difficult to find easy-to-follow sewing lessons.We're not saying stay away from the site and don't watch any of what there is on offer there; we only wish to point out that there are better online tutorials  available to get you starting with your sewing projects.Much to our good fortune, several experienced seamstresses have put together compilations of the best online sewing tutorials, conveniently located on a single web page:Sew Some Stuff has put together 12 of the best sewing tutorials on the 'net in an easy to follow format.Not be be outdone, Seams and Scissors has compiled 10 videos of basic sewing skills, from sewing buttons to using bias tapeSeasoned Homemaker Leslie has foraged around as well; her site also boasts a list of instructional sewing videos!Profession Pincushion may just be the best site for online sewing tutori als!Sponsored by Spiegel, the online clothing retailer, Professor Pincushion has over 350 free video tutorials covering a wide variety of sewing-related subjects. However, it is their page titled Sewing Class  that really eliminates the competition.Professionally organised by topic - Thread 101 to What is a Tracing Wheel, these videos each last around five minutes, telling you all you could want to know about any sewing implement or technique. There is even a video on how to sew a French seam and a mock French seam!One word of caution, however: the videos are narrated in American English. You could encounter some terminology you might not be familiar with and the accent might make these videos a bit hard to understand.All over the Internet you can find sewing tutorials online but, overall, for quality learning, the best solution is always to find a teacher or mentor to work with.Getting together with others who are passionate about needle arts is a step in the right direction; you m ay find a group you click and, perhaps, even a mentor to learn from through The Sewing Group.How Can You Learn to Make a French Seam?If you’re worried about attempting your first French seam or you’d prefer to get to grips with the basics before you start, you can always get someone to help you.If The Sewing Group doesn't quite feel right, have a look around  for sewing workshops or sewing classes for beginners and start learning to sew and don’t forget to check out Pinterest for inspiration, too!A lot of sewing organisations offer lessons around certain themes (sewing for children, overcasting, zippers, customising, sewing a button, hems, choosing the right needles, etc.).  You can find courses that last just a day and learn how to do a French seam. It’s rare that they’ll last any longer than this. You’ll also learn how to follow patterns and the different steps involved.You could also choose a private tutor.  They’ll help you learn how to do a French seam as well as other sewing techniques. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or an expert, private tutorials can work around your schedule.There are also sewing tutorials, sewing blogs, and haberdasheries.  You have to choose which one works the best for you. Don’t forget that this is a technique that’s used a lot in haute couture and at respectable fashion houses, too!Discover sewing course from then to now  or take online sewing classes. You can also check sewing classes Glasgow, in Manchester or Leeds.Learn from the greats of the fashion world.

What to Know About the SAT Subject Test in Spanish

What to Know About the SAT Subject Test in Spanish When diving into college admissions, SAT subject tests can play a significant role in your test prep schedule and acceptance chances. With many subject tests to choose from, the College Board gives students the unique opportunity to showcase their strengths in specific subjects. The SAT subject test in Spanish can provide many benefits to students hoping to further their Spanish studies at the university level. When understanding the SAT subject test in Spanish, its important for students to note the two available versions of the exam, the suggested prerequisite knowledge to take the exam, and how to best utilize prep time. Looking to pursue Spanish studies during college? Keep reading to learn what to know about the SAT subject test in Spanish. Know the different versions of the SAT subject test in Spanish The SAT subject test in Spanish contains 85 multiple-choice questions that must be answered in 60 minutes. Like other SAT subject tests, your score on this exam will range on a scale of 200 (lowest) to 800 (highest). Students should be aware that there are two versions of this assessment available: the Spanish test and the Spanish with Listening test. Below is a breakdown of the two exams: The Spanish test Contains reading questions Offered five times per yearAugust, October, December, May, and June. The Spanish with Listening test Contains both reading and listening questions Offered only in November In order to complete the listening section on test day, students must bring their own portable CD player with headphones. Before making your decision, examine your strengths and weaknesses in regard to this subject, and be honest with yourself about which version you may perform better on. [RELATED: How to Succeed on SAT Subject Tests] Know if taking the SAT subject test in Spanish is right for you Taking the SAT subject test in Spanish is recommended for students who have a strong academic background in Spanish, who have learned the language at home, or who wish to receive college credit toward a foreign language requirement. If your score on the SAT subject test in Spanish meets your schools requirements, you may have the opportunity to test out of introductory-level courses at your desired school. If you have questions about how taking this exam will influence your college courses, speak with an admissions counselor at your prospective college or university. [RELATED: Should I Take SAT Subject Tests?] Know when you should sit for the SAT subject test in Spanish If your motivation for taking this test is to showcase your skills to colleges, you should aim to take it before applications are due. If youre hoping to earn college credit, take the test as close as you can to the end of your most advanced Spanish class. This way, youre able to absorb the most information possible before sitting for the exam. Know how to prepare for the SAT subject test in Spanish Materials from your present and former Spanish classes are useful study guides for the SAT subject test in Spanish. Focus on topics that were especially problematic for you by reviewing graded tests and quizzes. Utilize strategies like flashcards to memorize vocabulary, and find unique ways to strengthen your listening comprehension ahead of test day, like Spanish audio books or television programs. Additionally, an SAT subject test in Spanish tutor can help you hone in on specific areas that could benefit from improvement. [RELATED: How to Make a Smart Study Routine] The SAT subject test in Spanish may pose many benefits to your college admissions goals. Research how your intended schools utilize exam scores, and honestly assess your current skill level in order to make the best decision for you. 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.

Teaching Children Strong Communication

Teaching Children Strong Communication Teaching Your Child to be a Strong, Effective Communicator Communication: its one of the most valuable skills a person can have throughout life. Effective communicators are better able to develop and maintain relationships with others, express what they know, ask questions in the classroom, at work and elsewhere, and advocate for themselves and others. And while you communicate each day with your child, are you teaching him or her to become a good communicator with others? Keep in mind that communicating is much more than just listening and speaking. Here are a few of the most important abilities and traits that strong communicators have: Actively engaged in learning Attentive Observant Clear and concise messaging Convincing when expressing an opinion Thorough when explaining something detailed or specific How can you help your child build good communication skills? Here are a few tips and suggested activities: Ask why. Children are born curious, and as a parent, its your job to nurture that curiosity. One way to do so is to encourage your child to express his or her opinions and ideas. Whether your child is talking about the solution to a math problem or a favorite football teams defensive lineup, encourage sharing thoughts and opinions. Dont stop at what your child thinks and why; ask your child how he or she knows something. Encourage your child to keep a journal. Journaling is an excellent way for children to hone the art of expressing themselves. Many children have school journals in which their teachers have them record observations or reactions to certain writing prompts, but a personal journal is a great way for children to put their ideas and feelings in writing, think critically about why they feel the way they do about things, build writing skills and much more. Get your child involved in extracurricular activities that build communication skills. Activities such as debate team (or similar programs for younger children) are great opportunities for students to form opinions, develop arguments to support those opinions and express them to others. Similarly, student council helps children build leadership and both oral and written communication skills. Model good communication. The primary way that your child will learn how to communicate is by observing you. So, be present when your child speaks to you. When interacting with others while in your childs presence, speak clearly and honestly, always saying what you mean in the most unambiguous manner possible. Talk frequently with your child about how to engage others in conversation, how to listen actively and how to get and keep someones attention (and how not to). Work together on good listening. Listening well is a critical part of being an effective communicator. Your child needs to understand that listening involves more than just hearing someone speak; it means focusing on the person speaking while simultaneously processing information. It means watching for non-verbal cues as well as listening to words being spoken. It means confirming understanding after a speaker is finished speaking. Encourage your child to think about others feelings and reactions. People who are self-aware and able to recognize how their actions and words impact othersin other words, those with high emotional intelligenceare generally well equipped to communicate effectively. Some of the building blocks for emotional intelligence include awareness of ones own (and others) strengths and weaknesses, perseverance, independence, and assertiveness when joining discussions or expressing ideas. Whenever possible, help your child practice these skills. Remember: communication is not inherent, but rather, a skill that must be strengthened over time. Work with your child on developing strong communication skills and you will help him or her build skills for lifelong success. No matter what your child does in life, knowing how to communicate with all different types of people will serve him or her well.

Distracted How to Develop a Focused Study Plan

Distracted How to Develop a Focused Study Plan Improving Academic Performance So you want to learn how to study better and use your time wisely and effectively? You’ve got your books, pen, paper, computer, and mind to dig in for a solid chunk of time and maximize your study period? Well, think of it like exercise. Have you ever gone for a run? The first ten to fifteen minutes can be a real pain, can’t they? But once you get into the rhythm of it and your lungs and muscles are warmed up, it starts to flow. It starts to feel great. It even starts to be fun! And the payoffs are numerous. Below are some excellent tips for most effectively utilizing your study period while also taking care of your stress levels and well-being. Minimize Distractions First things first, folks. You’ve got to put the phone away. You know this. How can we really focus if we are distracted with reading texts, scrolling Instagram, and sending funny Snaps to our friends? Think of it like taking an hour to go for a jog or choosing a side salad instead of french fries once in a while - we make sacrifices because they are ultimately good for us and help us feel better. So know that when you go into a study period, whether it’s twenty minutes or ninety, that you are going to turn the phone off (or leave it downstairs), and view checking it when you’re finished as a nice little reward. (More on rewards in a bit.) If you need technology to study, I recommend using a laptop and disengaging text and email dings and logging off Facebook and other social media sites. The best of both worlds is to be able to have the temptation of technological distraction but not giving in! This really builds up strength in the brain. Make a time-management plan and reward yourself Focus on time-management. If you are a truly squirmy individual who can barely study for half an hour, I recommend breaking your study chunk into three or four segments - you can set a timer if you like, and every fifteen or twenty minutes take a stretch or drink some water or give yourself two minutes to goof off. And those rewards are essential. Yes, we are sophisticated human beings, but we are also animals, and much like Pavlov’s dogs we can train ourselves pretty quickly - in this case with rewards and self-soothing. Let’s say you put in a solid thirty minutes reviewing ACT questions or AP Composition rules. When that timer dings and you take a stretch, give yourself a reward that you find soothing and nurturing. It might be a little snack or warm drink, or perhaps a promise to yourself that you’ll get a massage or a do a relaxing meditation or buy that shirt you’ve been eyeing. I recommend small rewards for increments like twenty, thirty, and forty minutes and larger re wards when you’ve completed a practice test, essay, or done well on an exam. Know yourself Developmental psychologist Howard Gardner discovered and nurtured the idea of multiple intelligences and how most individuals tend to perform at a higher level in two or three categories (i.e. verbal, visual, logical, etc.), and a bit lower in one or two. This is, of course, not fool proof or set in stone, but it might help give you a better understanding of your natural strengths and areas where you can grow. (To learn more, click here.) Bottom line? Know yourself as a student. Know your strength as a studier. Do you benefit from flash cards? Online programs like Quizlet? Do you study better alone or with a partner? Does it help to talk out loud? Are you more of a verbal or visual person? All of these factors are important when it comes to studying and essential when it comes to overall learning. I am usually someone who works better alone, but I found in college that when I studied for larger exams with a partner from a class (not a close friend with whom I would just end up gabbing) I was more successful. The motivation and accountability of a study partner was a positive factor for me. I also knew that taking notes and using tools like flash cards were beneficial for me, whereas viewing clips and videos didn’t support my memorization process as much. You might find that forty minutes of studying each night is the sweet spot for you, or perhaps you have one of those very focused minds and can pull off a solid ninety minutes to two hours before needing a break. Maybe you prefer standing to sitting. Music to silence. Libraries to your desk at home. See what works for you and nurture that. Warm up to the tricky material Attempt at times to go for the jugular. It’s easy to focus when we study on the areas we like or know really well, but this can end up being a waste of time. Be willing to get uncomfortable and study the trickier concepts and shakier methods. Practice those. Then do it again. If, however, a concept is really stumping you or you are growing inconsolably frustrated, move on. Make a note that you’ll talk to the teacher or a classmate and gain more insight and clarity to what is confusing you. Don’t get discouraged - we all get overwhelmed and confused! (Here’s a great TED talk on growth mindset, which can often help motivate and inspire us when we are feeling stuck.) Take care of yourself! Most of all, take care of yourself. Don’t study when you are exhausted, hungry, or angry - studying will only make you feel worse, and you likely won’t retain the information as well. Make sure to get plenty of rest and drink lots of water, and study when you’ve had a snack and are in a relatively balanced mood. And cramming is so nineties, so don’t do it! Always keep a good balanced perspective and work on that growth mindset, and nothing can stop you from growing and succeeding as a student! Questions or comments? We would love to hear from you! Contact us here. About the Author Stephanie Ingraham is a former English teacher turned writer and tutor with a BA in English from UCLA and a Masters in Education from Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. She is deeply passionate about education, psychology, child and adolescent development, literature, and writing. She believes the education world can benefit greatly from the meditation world - mindfulness and self-compassion are key! In her free time she loves reading and writing, music, baking, yoga, dance, animals, and exploring new cities. She currently lives in Chicago, Illinois.

The best places to teach English abroad in 2020 [+job postings]

The best places to teach English abroad in 2020 [+job postings] With a new year comes a new chance for you to finally turn your dreams of teaching English abroad into a reality! You may have been contemplating moving overseas for a while. Now that you’re committed to going, you still haven’t settled on where to go. Figuring out where to go when uprooting your life is, understandably, one of the hardest and most important decisions to make while planning your new adventure. There are simply so many options and different factors to consider, such as income, budget, location and culture, just to name a few. So, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Luckily the Teach Away team is here to make that tough decision a little easier for you! Last year we rounded up the top countries to make the most money teaching abroad.This year we’re listing the best places to teach abroad in 2020 based on where you can earn the most and where you have the best chance of getting hired abroad. Let’s dig in and break down the top countries to teach abroad this year! Where are the best places to teach English abroad in 2020? China Japan Taiwan United Arab Emirates (Dubai) Kuwait Saudi Arabia Teach in China - Earn up to $3830 USD It’s no surprise that China tops this list since it offers some of the best ESL teaching opportunities. With over 300 million English language students, the demand for English teachers is growing fast. On top of the lucrative pay of up to $3,830 USD per month, teaching jobs in China also offer competitive benefits, paid vacation, free flights to and from China, as well as help with housing. With a relatively low cost of living, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable standard of living, save money, travel and also have plenty of fun in your free time. And who doesn’t want to indulge in one of the world’s most diverse, vibrant and interesting cultures? China has it all! Want to teach in China? Teach Away’s Explore Program only requires a Bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification. Check out the Explore ESL Job for all job openings and details. Teach in Japan - Earn up to $2400 USD As a top teaching destination, Japan has so much to offer. From ESL and licensed teaching opportunities, to specialized teaching English jobs for young learners, teaching in Japan, is a great opportunity for everyone from new to very experienced teachers. Full of incredible culture, food, sites and experiences, Japan tops the ranks of teaching abroad destinations because of all it has to offer and its growing population of keen English learners! Most teachers will require a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certification, such as a TEFL certification, is often preferred but not required. There are usually two options for those looking to teach English In Japan: the ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) teaching jobs within the public school system or teaching jobs as private language schools or institutes (more commonly known as English conversation schools or Eikaiwas). Sound like the right place for you? Get started today by checking out our current vacancies in Japan: Early Childhood English teacher English Language Instructor Part-time Online ESL Teacher? Online English Teacher? Teach in Taiwan - Earn up to $2700 USD Taiwan is a place of wonder and opportunity with its lively cities and spectacular sights. Whether you’re a city dweller who loves arts and culture or an outdoor enthusiast looking for mountains to scale, Taiwan has it all! English teachers in Taiwan can make up to $2,700 per month. Most schools also offer performance bonuses, complimentary flights, vacation time, health benefits, and help with finding accommodations. First-time teacher? Private schools in Taiwan encourage new teachers to apply and gain valuable experience in the classroom. It’s also worth noting that candidates are not required to have a TEFL/TESL certificate or have prior teaching experience. Interested in teaching in Taiwan? There are endless teaching opportunities with the HESS International Educational Group. They’re currently looking to fill hundreds of vacancies for English (ESL) Teachers. Sign up to Teach Away today for access to the latest teaching jobs around the world. Teach in the United Arab Emirates - Earn up to $4100 USD The United Arab Emirates is a top teaching destination for those looking to land licensed teaching jobs abroad. And it’s no surprise with a salary range up to a hefty $4,100 USD. For example, a job Teaching in Dubai offers a compelling salary, competitive benefits package and the opportunity to live in a world-class city â€"tax-free! Teach Away is always offering a variety of teaching jobs in Dubai, from Kindergarten and primary school to middle and secondary school. Not to mention for those looking for something more education administration related, there are often jobs ranging from department and faculty head roles to vice-principal and principal positions. With so much variety to offer, teaching in the UAE continues to top the ranks of great places to teach abroad. Apply to one of our vacancies for English Teachers with Emirates National Schools! Teach in Kuwait - Earn up to $3500 USD If going on fun desert adventures, shopping excursions and experiencing Arabic culture sounds good to you, then Kuwait is the perfect place! If you’re a licensed teacher with classroom experience, we promise you Kuwait should be at the top of your job search hunt. Teachers in Kuwait, depending on experience, can make up to $3,500 USD a month. Plus these jobs normally come with great benefits as well, including airfare, housing or an accommodation allowance and health insurance. And as luck has it, American Creativity Academy has a few current ESL teaching job openings with August 2020 start dates. Teach in Saudi Arabia - Earn up to $3455 USD If you’re really looking to shake things up, then why not head to one of the world’s wealthiest countries that also offers a unique cultural immersion experience? You’ll get to learn all about Middle Eastern and Islamic traditions and culture in a historically significant country. Teaching in Saudi Arabia offers a comfortable lifestyle for teachers who can earn a salary of up to $3,455 USD per month. Plus, you don’t have to pay any income tax in Saudi Arabia! With that kind of tax-free income, you can enjoy a great standard of living and still be able to set asidesome money for the future. Not only will you be able to make a great income, but you will also be able to experience a country with surreal desert landscapes and natural scenery. Saudi Arabia is home to a diverse geographical landscape that includes desert plains, beautiful mountainous regions and many sunny beaches dotted along the coastline. Want to teach in Saudi Arabia? Great! Because there are plenty of teaching opportunities available for ESL and Licensed Teachers at primary, middle school and secondary school levels. Check out a few current job openings for English teachers and apply! Teach anywhere in the world in 2020! Teaching English overseas opens a whole world of possibilities. There is no better time than now to make your dreams of teaching abroad a reality. So get started this year and don’t wait any longer. Once you’ve registered on Teach Away and have a completed profile, you’re set to start applying to jobs. One great option for seeing what’s available is applying to an online job fair. But don’t wait because spots are limited!

italki Raises Angel Financing

italki Raises Angel Financing We’re delighted to announce that we’ve raised a new round of angel funding to help more language learners connect with teachers around the world! Over the past few years, we have been working hard to improve the website, and expand the italki community. We have now brought over 900,000 students and teachers together for language teaching, language exchanges, and community services. Whats most encouraging for us is that every month more and more students sign up to take online lessons. As we move into this next phase of italki, we are planning many improvements, including new partnerships with content publishers like Oxford University Press. We’re also planning to expand into mobile to allow language learners to study and connect on-the-go! This milestone is also an opportunity for us to thank all of you the italki community for all of your support in creating this fantastic learning platform. We look forward to making italki an even better place for you to learn a language. Read the text of the official press release. The italki Team italki Raises Angel Financing We’re delighted to announce that we’ve raised a new round of angel funding to help more language learners connect with teachers around the world! Over the past few years, we have been working hard to improve the website, and expand the italki community. We have now brought over 900,000 students and teachers together for language teaching, language exchanges, and community services. Whats most encouraging for us is that every month more and more students sign up to take online lessons. As we move into this next phase of italki, we are planning many improvements, including new partnerships with content publishers like Oxford University Press. We’re also planning to expand into mobile to allow language learners to study and connect on-the-go! This milestone is also an opportunity for us to thank all of you the italki community for all of your support in creating this fantastic learning platform. We look forward to making italki an even better place for you to learn a language. Read the text of the official press release. The italki Team

7 Schools That Offer Sizzling Summer Language Programs

7 Schools That Offer Sizzling Summer Language Programs 7 Schools That Offer Sizzling Summer Language Programs The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you. â€" B.B. KingSummer with its long, lazy days and spare hours to fill calls to us as sweetly as one of B.B. King’s legendary guitar riffs, doesn’t it?Images of all sorts of amazing things to doâ€"or not do, if youre feeling less ambitiousâ€"fill our heads almost as soon as the first dandelions appear.Spending time in the sun, lounging on the grass, finally reading that book youve been meaning to get to all yearThats all well and good, but if youre picturing lots of wasted time youd better check out those mind pics again.Wasted summer time? Not at all!Let’s face it.Summertime is the perfect language learning time.All those unclaimed, warm, peaceful hours? They just beg to be filled with blissful language study!Okay. Right. I hear your concerns.Youre guessing its going to be a headache to find schools that offer summer language programs.Think again.Weve got some super schools below that offer summer langu age programs that will build your fluency, add fun to your days and maybe even some sizzle to your sultry summer nights.Lets check them out! Why Summer Is an Excellent Time to Focus on Language LearningFor those lucky enough to have summers off, summers unstructured, spare hours mean theres loads of time to concentrate on wants instead of mustsâ€"and if youre here, it means you want to power up your language skills. Brilliant!Summer, with its abundance of light-filled hours, warmer days and slower pace, is oh so casual. And that translatesâ€"in any languageâ€"to lots less stress. I dont know about you, but I definitely learn with less trouble when Im not stressing about things. Low stress equals high concentration potential for a lot of us!Many language learning programs are only available during the summer, so if you want to grab the goods from one of those, summer is your only option.Typically, summer programs are geared toward intensive learning. What does that mean to you, the language learner? Well, its great news because it means many summer courses are designed to help students gain skills more quickly!The cherry on the cupcake, as far as summer being an epic time to grab some language learning, is that there are even  some summer programs that are held in the target-language country. You do know what that means, dont you? Thats rightâ€"immersion! Language, culture, warm days exploring another country and warm nights practicing your language skills at trendy clubs, sporting events or sidewalk cafés. Whats not to love? And immersion isnt limited to programs abroad, as many more intensive programs offer an immersive environment in the classroom.Finally, even if you dont have the time or cash to spare on one of the programs below, FluentU  is a complete, affordable language learning option that can add structure and enjoyment to your summer, regardless of what your schedule looks like.FluentU makes it possible to learn languages from music videos, comme rcials, news, inspiring talks and more.With FluentU, you hear languages in real-world contextsâ€"the way that native speakers actually use them. Just a quick look will give you an idea of the variety of FluentU videos on offer:FluentU really takes the grunt work out of learning languages, leaving you with nothing but engaging, effective and efficient learning. It’s already hand-picked the best videos for you and organized them by level and topic. All you have to do is choose any video that strikes your fancy to get started!Each word in the interactive captions comes with a definition, audio, image, example sentences and more.Access a complete interactive transcript of every video under the Dialogue tab, and easily review words and phrases from the video under Vocab.You can use FluentU’s unique adaptive quizzes to learn the vocabulary and phrases from the video through fun questions and exercises. Just swipe left or right to see more examples of the word youre studying.The progra m even keeps track of what you’re learning and tells you exactly when it’s time for review, giving you a 100% personalized experience.Start using FluentU on the website with your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes store or Google Play store.And besides, theres always next year!7 Schools That Offer Sizzling Summer Language ProgramsYaleIf youve ever dreamed of attending prestigious Yale University on the idyllic Connecticut campus, you might want to consider taking one of their summer session language courses.There are two five-week-long summer sessions offered. Theyre open to undergraduates who wish to satisfy degree requirements, earn credit toward their major or just experience life in residence at the liberal arts college.Yale offers not just regular classes, but  several language programs across the globe, including some study abroad courses combined with courses on the Yale campus, but be advised that theyre truly intensive. These cou rses tend to fit an entire semesters worth of learning into a few weeks, so be prepared to learn, learn, learn!   Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, English and Arabic are all on the course schedule.Learn Portuguese language and cultural facts in Brazil. Nail down some complex Spanish skills in Ecuador. Intermediate and advanced French students have an option to study in Paris (ooh, la, la!), and intermediate German students can learn in Berlin. No worries if Italian is on your summer scheduleâ€"there are courses in Siena that will accommodate your thirst for language. And Russian in St. Petersburg or Arabic in Morocco? Both epic options for summer learning!Columbia UniversityNew Yorks Columbia University has some incredible summer language courses that are open to high school students. There are for-credit courses for juniors and seniors (grades 11 and 12) in Spanish, Russian, Latin, Hindi-Urdu, French, Arabic and more.These include intensive courses designed to give high school students an edge on their college careers with the opportunity to earn college credits before formal college enrollment! There are requirements for each courseâ€"that vary according to languageâ€"so check the listings if youre considering enrolling.Columbia also has a summer program for students who want the immersive experience of studying Spanish in Barcelona. The Spanish Workshop features experiences designed to improve conversational, reading and writing skills.EF Language SchoolsEFs Summer Abroad program is based on course curriculum that has been implemented successfully for decades. They strive to give students experiences abroad that broaden global perspectives and introduce new cultures while teaching languages.Their language schools offer Spanish, Japanese, Italian, French, German and Chineseâ€"and to make the courses truly cozy, they limit class size to 17.Learn Spanish in Madrid or Barcelona, Japanese in Tokyo, Italian in Rome, French in Nice, German in Berlin or Munich, or Chinese in Beijing.These summer abroad courses are open to college students, and this immersive experience offers both homestay or student residence options so individual preferences can be accommodated!The University of ChicagoThe summer language programs at the University of Chicago entice a diverse group of language learners.Courses are open to currently enrolled University of Chicago students interested in continuing their academic careers over the summer months, high school students getting a jump on their college experiences, professionals honing language skills as well as undergraduate and graduate students from other colleges and universities.Courses do require students to take proficiency tests to gauge their language ability prior to placement in courses.They also  offer both beginning and intermediate intensive courses, so testing makes it possible to choose the optimal course of study for each individual student.Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japa nese, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, Spanish and Turkish are all in the summer course catalog.Residence hall housing and private apartments offer accommodations to students. Theres also a building called The International House where students from around the globe reside in an informal, family-style setting. Space is at a premium so applications to stay in The International House must be completed and turned in prior to securing a place there.The University of WashingtonSeattles University of Washington is one of the countrys largest summer language program providers.They offer both intensive and non-intensive language programs. What does that mean for learners? It means there are options (some summer programs only offer intensive coursework) and that its up to individual learners to decide whether they want the intensive (long hours, lots of material in a short period of time) or non-intensive (more relaxed, with less hours and less material) experience.Both campus and off-campus hou sing is available.Courses are open to everyone, including high school students.The language list for summer study is impressive! They offer Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Swahili, Turkish and more. Whew!There are a few online course options  as well.University of California at BerkeleyThe University of California at Berkeley summer foreign language courses are open to everyone, including international students, high school students, university students and community members. Financial aid  is available to facilitate coursework availability to everyone.Courses are targeted for intensive language immersion over a short time span (all sessions of summer courses begin and end in an approximately 10-week span).Summer language classes bring a semester or, in some cases, a years worth of learning into the abbreviated summer session, so theyre definitely intensive courses.Arabic, Chinese, Filipino, French, Germ an, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Persian and Spanish are on the summer language schedule. Levels offered range from beginner to advanced.Indiana UniversityIndiana Universitys Summer Language Workshop has been in operation since 1950. It gives more than 200 students per summer the ability to gain a full year of college language instruction in eight- or nine-week summer sessions. No doubt about it, thats a pretty impressive endeavorâ€"for both students and the faculty!All languages include beginner level so no previous language skills are required to participate. Graduate, undergraduate, professional and international students attend the Workshop. High school students are considered for acceptance, as well, although this is on a very limited basis.Arabic, BCS (Bosnian-Croatian-Serbian), Chinese, Estonian, Georgian, Haitian Creole, Hungarian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Kurdish, Latvian, Lithuanian, Mongolian, Pashto, Persian, Russian, Swahili, Turkish and Ukrainian are t aught.Workshop participants are offered housing on site, meal plans are available and there are credits earned for taking part in this exciting summer event!Guitar great B.B. King was right: No one can take learning away from you.Its all yours, regardless of when or where you acquire your skills.Summer is the perfect time to study languages. Theres no need to waste precious time, especially on sunny days that are so invigorating and just invite adventure!So learn a new language or increase proficiency in a language youve already begun studyingâ€"its entirely up to you. All of these schools offer excellent options.The key is to learn and make your language skills sizzle!