Friday, March 27, 2020

Soaps and Detergents Chemistry

Soaps and Detergents ChemistryThe most important ingredient of the soap is the acid, which is called the soap base. This may contain ammonia, sodium hydroxide, or lye or mineral spirits, depending on the brand. At least two of these acids must be present in the soap base in order to create a usable soap.The formulation process begins with the materials used to manufacture the formula. These can be natural substances or synthetic substances. Synthetic materials can be made in a laboratory, using manufacturing processes that are more refined than the ones commonly used in the marketplace. Natural ingredients can be manufactured and then combined with the right additives to create the most effective product.As in chemistry, the value of the components of a product depend on their composition. And like in chemistry, the acid and detergent used for the final product also depend on the method of making the formula. And in soap making, the methods include the addition of lye, the removal of certain proteins, and the use of sodium hydroxide as an impurity. The natural ingredients must be relatively stable, and they must also be of a suitable pH to make the formula.If a brand of soap contains no lye or sodium hydroxide, it will not be considered to be a soap. And if it does contain lye or sodium hydroxide, it may be considered to be 'peroxide-free' soap. Peroxide-free soap products will not have the desired properties of soap.But lye and sodium hydroxide have their place in soapmaking. For example, lye was used when the soap making process was common in England and other places of Europe. Lye and sodium hydroxide were two of the main agents used to melt and render fats into soap. In the U.S., the lye was replaced by potassium hydroxide.It is often necessary to reduce the fatty acid content of a soap in order to stabilize it. This can be done by dissolving the fatty acid with water or fat in order to cause the fans to turn from liquid to soap, to become soap liquid, to b e soap solid, or to both. This process makes the soap soft and creamy. Soaps with a high fat content will not be suitable for normal use.Soaps and detergents chemistry can be very different in nature. Sometimes a popular brand may change the chemical constituents in the formula, especially if the soap manufacturer changes in production methods. Soaps and detergents chemistry can be quite tricky and complicated. But a little knowledge can go a long way toward creating a luxurious bar of soap that will help you clean and beautify your home or office.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Six Skills Your Teen Needs for College Readiness

Six Skills Your Teen Needs for College Readiness If your teen is headed to college soon, its important to make sure he or she is prepared. College classes are a big step up from high school classes in terms of rigor and expectations, and your teen must have a range of aptitudes and habits to do well. What exactly does it take? Here are six essential skills your teen must have to be successful in college: Independence By high school, teens should be keeping track of homework and upcoming projects and tests all on their own. They should be in tune with their needs in the classroom so they can advocate for themselves. Your support in school remains important in high school but make sure your teen understands that school is his or her responsibility and that he or she is taking initiative to complete homework, study and manage all of his or her responsibilities. Time management The college workload can take many freshmen by surprise, and those who lack a good time management system tend to struggle. Teens must be adept at prioritizing their studying and planning ahead when they have big projects. If your teen doesnt use the planner faithfully, now is the time to start. Adaptability In college, there are times students get a lot of direction from professors and times they do not. A class projects scope or timeline might change. Its important to be able to adjust and pivot when a situation changes, new information is acquired or when faced with uncertainty. Encourage your teen to problem solve and stay calm in high-pressure situations. These skills go hand in hand with adaptability. Resourcefulness College students do a whole lot of research. They are frequently expected to develop written arguments on texts they read and other topics and must be able to supply evidence and support for those interpretations. And outside the classroom, students should be comfortable asking for help and identifying and taking advantage of the different resources available to them. Suggest that your teen do the same as a high school student. Study skills Good academic habits are essential in college, including studying smart, notetaking and planning out the study and homework schedule. Students are expected to be responsible and on top of all of their classes and responsibilities. Make sure your teen nurtures the study habits so that by the time he or she is in college, they are second nature. Critical thinking skills College professors want students to participate in class and articulate their ideas clearly. They expect that they are able to analyze new information, make connections about that which they learn and draw conclusions. As often as possible, encourage your teen to express opinions and the reasons for them and think through arguments. College success requires a combination of academic and other skills, and these final years of high school are your teens opportunity to strengthen them. Help your teen acquire the skills and knowledge he or she will need so that by the time graduation comes, your teen is ready to make the college years the best ones yet.

Learn English Vocabulary Words connected with Shrove Tuesday

Learn English Vocabulary Words connected with Shrove Tuesday Pancake Tuesday is also known as Shrove Tuesday in the UK. Pancake (Shrove) Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent (40 days leading up to Easter). The name ‘Shrove’ derives from  old English word ‘shrive’ which means ‘confess all sins’. Lent always begins on Ash Wednesday, for this reason people went to confessions on the day before. This day eventually became referred to as ‘Shriven Tuesday’ and later on ‘Shrove Tuesday’.Here are some  common English expressions and words connected with that period. Pancake Tuesday is the more modern term for the day that the Christians commonly refer to as Shrove Tuesday.  It is the day when Christians start  their preparation  for the period of Lent (usually give up or stop doing something they like as a form of penance).  Pancake Tuesday originates from an ancient English tradition of using up most of the fattening ingredients at home before Lent. Pancakes are made from simple products, flour water and eggs. An easy recipe to get rid of  all these stocks was to mix all of them with a bit of flour to make pancakes. They are flat and made on a pan. It was to signify  the last of the dairy products that would be eaten before Easter. The tradition has been handed down  from generation to generation. The making of pancakes is simple and those with enough skill will flip  the pancake from the pan and catch it before it falls. This flipping or tossing the pancakes is not only fun but also ensures the pancakes are cooked evenly on both sides.The panc akes are eaten plain often (in my home) with a sprinkling  of sugar and a squeeze  of lemon juice. Don’t keep this to yourself. Tell the world. In many towns the old tradition was to hold pancake races. The chef (cook) would gather in the town square and race along the street constantly tossing and flipping their pancakes.Overseas  Shrove Tuesday is known as ‘Mardi Gras’, which means ‘Fat Tuesday’ in French and it also originates from the idea of using up  all the stocks before Lent.A lot of countries around the world have Mardi Gras festivities  and also carnivals. Some of the most well-known are in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and Venice in Italy.The day after Pancake Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday) is referred to as Ash Wednesday  the beginning of lent. Incidentally  the Americans refer to Shrove Tuesday as Mardi Gras. When I was a young boy we were encouraged to give up  for the 40 days of lent. This was often sweet things like cakes biscuits and sweets. A real tragedy (problem) for a young kid. Some people still stick to  this ritual. The exact date of Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday varies  from year to year as it is alw ays 47 days before Easter Sunday and as that feast varies then so do the dates of these 2 days. So it’s a moveable feast in every way.We have an expression in English a moveable feast. This refers to something that is not certain or the date is not fixed.For example: Is your friend getting married soon? I am not sure it’s a bit of a moveable feast.They do not seem to be able to make their minds up on the right day.The beginning of lent also signifies to me that winter is coming to an end and spring is not so far away. Here’s hoping! Online English Course Learn over 40 English Phrasal Verbs and English Idioms in context for FREE ENROL IN COURSE NOW FREE Learn New Vocabulary Words and Phrases to derive from   to come from, to originate fromto fast   to stop taking certain food or drink for a period of timeto get rid of   to dispose ofto toss   to tumble, to move back and forthoverseas   abroadto use up   to empty, to reducefestivities   celebrationto start preparation   to get readyto signify   to acknowledgeto hand down   to pass onto flip   to turn over by throwing it up in the airsprinkling   light dustingsqueeze (noun) small dropincidentally   as it happensto give up   to sacrifice somethingto stick to something   to follow somethingto vary   to change

Thursday, March 5, 2020

Teach Away Telegram - December 2010

Teach Away Telegram - December 2010 Is there anything better than the gift of education? Other than chocolate, arguably the answer is no. As teachers, providing an education to those in need is a given; but for many of you, receiving an education is most likely a lifelong journey as well. From those first days of school to the crazy college years to those language classes you take after work, the gift of education is definitely one that keeps on giving. However, for those of us raised in countries where education is a right, it is easy to forget about less privileged nations, where regular people have little or no access to schools, and may go through great challenges just to get access to books.But let’s stay away from the Grinch-like gloom and doom this Christmas, and think about the positive! As an organization that works with international education programs and inspiring educators (yes, you!) day in and day out, Teach Away would like to take a moment to highlight an amazing program, The Afghan School Project, in this month’s Telegram. A dedicated group of Canadian educators have volunteered their time to implementing this education initiative in Afghanistan. Its purpose is to help educate young, Afghan women who would at best be refused entrance, or at worst, harmed for going in to school. So how can you help?When it comes to charities, every little bit counts. But as our wallets get lighter around the holidays, we aren’t necessarily motivated to empty them altogether. What if we told you that there were alternative ways to help give the gift of education to these young women? Whether you are a seasoned teacher who has long seen the value of education and would like to take part in this wonderful initiative or a recent grad who simply hopes to add some volunteer work to your resume, the Afghan School Project is a truly inspiring project to get involved with.As you begin thinking about your New Year’s resolutions this year, why not consider devoting some of your time in 2011 to an imp ortant project such as this one? How about seeking out a similarly inspiring volunteer organization to take part in wherever you happen to be in the world? Or you could simply brainstorm how you can make a difference for the children in your classroom, and actively implement your new ideas.If you want to do what you do best for a good cause, what better time than now to give the gift of education?Our Gift to You This Season: An Eggcellent Eggnog RecipeWhether you’re missing eggnog or wondering about this crazy yellow drink your North American friends keep referring to each December, we have an antidote for an eggnog-less December for you!A great way to beat a case of not-home-for-the-holidays blues is to introduce some of your own customs into your daily life abroad. Although you may have never considered making your own eggnog back home (Why would you when you can run over to the nearest supermarket for a creamy cup each December?), desperate times call for desperate measures.Alt hough it may take a few tries (and buff up your arm muscles in the process), once perfected, your homemade eggnog will ensure a very happy holiday season-no matter where you are in the world.How to make your own eggnog (borrowed and tweaked â€" from About.com)Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 1 hourMakes 12-16 eggnog servingsIngredients:• 6 large eggs plus 2 yolks• 1/2 cup, plus 2 tablespoons sugar• 1/4 teaspoon salt• 4 cups whole milk• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract• 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmegPreparation:Combine eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a heavy 3- or 4-quart pan, whisking until well-combined. Continue whisking while pouring milk in a slow, steady stream until completely incorporated. Turn on burner to lowest possible heat setting. Place pan on burner and stir mixture continuously until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be patient. This should take about 45 to 60 minutes.Strain mixture through a fine sieve into a large bowl to remove any acci dental small cooked bits of egg. Add vanilla extract and nutmeg, stirring to combine. Pour into a glass pitcher, decanter, or container and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate this egg custard mixture to chill at least 4 hours or up to 3 days before finishing.Serve eggnog in chilled cups or glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.Photo Contest - Winner December is almost over and a new year is just around the corner. No matter where you happen to be this holiday season, we hope you’ve decked your halls, hung some mistletoe, and have all your gifts bought, wrapped, and sitting under the tree!This month, giving takes on a whole new meaning in The Telegram. Learn about some unique gift-giving customs around the world and read about the gift of education in Afghanistan. For those teachers who find themselves far away from the comforts of home around the holidays, Teach Away is happy to give you the perfect recipe for Christmas cheer, so read on!Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanzaa! And a Joyous Holiday Season to All!-The Teach Away TeamIn this issue:Gift Giving Around the WorldThe Gift of EducationOur Gift to You: Eggnog RecipeAnnouncing Photo Contest WinnerGift Giving Around the WorldFor many people, ‘tis the season to find the perfect gift for friends and loved ones. For those living abroad, traditions which remind us o f home become all the more important at this time of year; however learning about the customs of one’s host country is an invaluable part of enjoying time away from friends and family. Whether or not you plan to partake in a gift exchange this December, read on to learn about some interesting gift-giving customs around the world!While we westerners tend to rip open our presents in frenzied excitement, in Japan, this behaviour is generally frowned upon. It is not uncommon to see young children delicately opening their gifts, demonstrating an appreciation for the work that went into the wrapping. Even before getting your hands on the gift, it is best to first ask for permission to open it. To do otherwise would be considered impolite. In the UAE on the other hand, the recipient will not hesitate to open his gift right away, and will go so far as to inspect it right in front of the person who gave it to himâ€" especially if a man has been presented with silver jewellery. Because gold jewellery is considered a gift choice for women only, this inspection is a search for a proper government mark which tells him that his jewellery is, in fact, silver and not an effeminate white-gold.An interesting wedding tradition in Korea finds parents of newlyweds giving them a variety of gifts; however, to be on the safe side, they will make sure not to present the groom with a pair of shoesâ€"just in case he decides to use them to run away before the big day! In Japan, on the other hand, even numbers are a no-no when choosing a wedding gift. Forget those dinner settings for a family of four; five plates is much more acceptable for the simple reason that an even-numbered gift can be split evenly, and this is considered a symbol of separation or divorce.Don’t bring a typical bottle of wine or framed portrait to a housewarming party in Korea. When someone moves into a new home, it is much more appropriate to bring over something practical, like toilet paper! And when moving in to a new place in Japan, don’t expect your neighbours to appear at your door to welcome you with a platter of cookies; instead, you should take it upon yourself to be nice and neighbourly with a knock on your neighbour’s door, a brief introduction, and a gift of dish soap or laundry detergent. Don’t try this in Saudi Arabia, where it is common to only give gifts to very close friends. Presenting a neighbour or an acquaintance with a gift would be so embarrassing that it would border on offensive.The Gift of EducationIs there anything better than the gift of education? Other than chocolate, arguably the answer is no. As teachers, providing an education to those in need is a given; but for many of you, receiving an education is most likely a lifelong journey as well. From those first days of school to the crazy college years to those language classes you take after work, the gift of education is definitely one that keeps on giving. However, for those of us raised in countries wh ere education is a right, it is easy to forget about less privileged nations, where regular people have little or no access to schools, and may go through great challenges just to get access to books.But let’s stay away from the Grinch-like gloom and doom this Christmas, and think about the positive! As an organization that works with international education programs and inspiring educators (yes, you!) day in and day out, Teach Away would like to take a moment to highlight an amazing program, The Afghan School Project, in this month’s Telegram. A dedicated group of Canadian educators have volunteered their time to implementing this education initiative in Afghanistan. Its purpose is to help educate young, Afghan women who would at best be refused entrance, or at worst, harmed for going in to school. So how can you help?When it comes to charities, every little bit counts. But as our wallets get lighter around the holidays, we aren’t necessarily motivated to empty them altogethe r. What if we told you that there were alternative ways to help give the gift of education to these young women? Whether you are a seasoned teacher who has long seen the value of education and would like to take part in this wonderful initiative or a recent grad who simply hopes to add some volunteer work to your resume, the Afghan School Project is a truly inspiring project to get involved with.As you begin thinking about your New Year’s resolutions this year, why not consider devoting some of your time in 2011 to an important project such as this one? How about seeking out a similarly inspiring volunteer organization to take part in wherever you happen to be in the world? Or you could simply brainstorm how you can make a difference for the children in your classroom, and actively implement your new ideas.If you want to do what you do best for a good cause, what better time than now to give the gift of education?Our Gift to You This Season: An Eggcellent Eggnog RecipeWhether youâ €™re missing eggnog or wondering about this crazy yellow drink your North American friends keep referring to each December, we have an antidote for an eggnog-less December for you!A great way to beat a case of not-home-for-the-holidays blues is to introduce some of your own customs into your daily life abroad. Although you may have never considered making your own eggnog back home (Why would you when you can run over to the nearest supermarket for a creamy cup each December?), desperate times call for desperate measures.Although it may take a few tries (and buff up your arm muscles in the process), once perfected, your homemade eggnog will ensure a very happy holiday season-no matter where you are in the world.How to make your own eggnog (borrowed and tweaked â€" from About.com)Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 1 hourMakes 12-16 eggnog servingsIngredients:• 6 large eggs plus 2 yolks• 1/2 cup, plus 2 tablespoons sugar• 1/4 teaspoon salt• 4 cups whole milk• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract• 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmegPreparation:Combine eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a heavy 3- or 4-quart pan, whisking until well-combined. Continue whisking while pouring milk in a slow, steady stream until completely incorporated. Turn on burner to lowest possible heat setting. Place pan on burner and stir mixture continuously until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be patient. This should take about 45 to 60 minutes.Strain mixture through a fine sieve into a large bowl to remove any accidental small cooked bits of egg. Add vanilla extract and nutmeg, stirring to combine. Pour into a glass pitcher, decanter, or container and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate this egg custard mixture to chill at least 4 hours or up to 3 days before finishing.Serve eggnog in chilled cups or glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.Photo Contest - WinnerCongratulations to Sarah Van Kruistum for getting a whopping 58 votes for her gorgeous 'First Impr essions' photo (shown right)!Sarah was the lucky winner of a Polaroid digital camera, compliments of Teach Away. We look forward to watching some of your videos of your life in the UAE, Sarah!Honourable mention goes to Kate Rehbock who came in close second with 39 votes. Thanks for participating, Kate!

Astronomer Anton Shows The May 2016 Sky

Astronomer Anton Shows The May 2016 Sky Astronomer and tutor Anton showed TutorZ team members and their friends as well as students the night sky during their outing in the evening of May 2016. This was the second event of this kind. The first took place in April 2015. Because we learnt so much interesting information about astronomy that we decided this could be an annual event. Our long-term TutorZ employees Maya (with here husband Michael) and Dirk already enjoyed the excursion last year. But for Natalie, Andrey, Sasha with Alyona and friends Amina, Tauhid and Shkebab it was the first time they saw the night Sky through the 12 inch Carl-Zeiss telescope. Our group of stargazers met at sunset at the Nikolayev observatory. Astronomer Anton had a few words about the history of the observatory. We already could see the silver moon near the zenith with Jupiter nearby. Unfortunately, an thickening layer of cirrus clouds hampered the observation. But in the moments when the cloud layer opened we rushed to the telescope to enjoy the sight of Jupiter and the Moon. The moon was clearly the most spectacular object. Amina took some stunning pictures with her cell phone. In doing so she acted like real optical astronomer. Here captures can be seen next. Thank you Amina! Dirk together with Anton succeeded in capturing Jupiter with 3 of its moons, probably Ganymede, Europa and Io. Here is their picture. Finally there are some pictures of this fine group of stargazers (Andrey, Tauhid, Shkebab, Sasha and Dirk. TutorZ Marker Maya at the small telescope looked at by her husband Michael (to the left). Dirk and Natalie looking great together. Dirk, Alyona and Amina in front of the 12 inch Carl-Zeiss telescope. If these pictures captured your interest about astronomy you might consider learning more about this fascinating subject from our astronomy tutors.

Class sizes - too big or too small - Tutor Hunt Blog

Class sizes - too big or too small Class sizes - too big or too small? Class sizes - too big or too small?SchoolsWhat is the ideal class size? Thirty seems to have become the normal number of pupils - but could this be too high, and even prove an impediment to effective teaching? How can one teacher possibly educate such a large number? Can they gauge the understanding of each and every pupil? There will surely not be enough time for them to attend to each and every student`s needs - and so their teaching manner will tend to assume that any one who doesn`t courageously ask for assistance has completely understood the lesson.In an ideal world perhaps each pupil would have their own teacher, or even a host of teachers. With this focused attention the lessons could be moulded to suit their character. We all learn differently, and with time to spend teaching just one pupil, teachers would be able to pinpoint just what parts of the lesson their student is having trouble understanding.This ideal of one to one teaching is of course unlikely to become a reality any time soon - though it could be argued that home schooled children, and indeed those receiving regular private tuition, do enjoy some aspects of it already.The latest Labour party press release has stated that 12% of primary schools have class sizes of between 31 and 35. Government figures revel that 1% of primary school pupils are in classes of 36 or more. The education sector has ruled that no key stage one child (age five to seven) should be taught in a class with more than 30 pupils. This is supposed to be a strict ruling, allowing exceptions only in rare cases, such as twins or siblings wishing to remain in the same class, or when a child who has been placed in care requires a place.The 2016 school census shows that the majority of KS1 classes contain 29 or 30 pupils; and of those with more than 30, 95% have no more than 32 pupils. In secondary school class sizes remain roughly the same, averaging around 30 pupils. By Keystage five however, it is not uncommon for classes to be drastically smaller, especially at A level. In my history class there were only four of us. I can well remember the striking contrast between my general studies class, which had about 25 boisterous pupils, and my history lessons, which were conducted in a relaxed and rarefied atmosphere. I felt somehow more valued as an academic, learning in this environment, where the teacher called us by our first names, and would be able to spend considerable time with each of us, if we found ourselves struggling over a certain topic. No time was wasted with petty classroom disturbances: the preceding general studies lesson was always marred by some recalcitrant pupil causing disruption. The four of us we were always on our best behaviour - indeed, we were eager to learn, to take part in the spontaneous discussions that were a feature of most lessons, and which the teacher always encouraged. Was Napoleon a hero, or a tyrant? Did he betray the libertarian values of the French Revolution by cro wning himself Emperor? By debating such topics we took an active role in our own education, found our own confidence, our own voices. In a class of thirty such debates would probably have got out of hand, and the teacher would be reluctant to try such an unconventional teaching method.What must not be forgotten is that acquiring social skills at school is just as important as the academic learning that takes place there. We can enumerate the benefits of smaller class sizes, and even one on one home schooling; but if we reduce the number of peers children are interacting with, we may well be denying them the opportunities to develop necessary social abilities. Besides this, many influential studies, conducted by respected organisations such as the Grattan Institute, McKinsey and a good pupil may still excel even if their class increases in size. 2 years ago0Add a Comment

When Should You Consider Getting a Math Tutor Chat?

When Should You Consider Getting a Math Tutor Chat?The number of parents nowadays who consider having a math tutor assistant is growing every day. If you are willing to undergo the course work in this aspect then it is very vital that you understand that getting a tutor chat service is actually possible.This tutor chat service is ideal for those who are in need of a math tutor and do not want to spend the money for one. However, even if you have the money to spend for your tutor, it would be a good idea to do a little research first to see if you can get the same service that you need in an online tutoring service. Some companies offer online tutoring as well so do not forget to check these out.Getting an online tutor chat is ideal for those who prefer to work from home. With this method, you can also gain much-needed work from home experience by yourself. In addition, if you are working with a tutor then you will know what it is like to have a tutor and not have to ask for help all the time.There are many places where you can get a tutor chat. For example, you can find a tutor on a specific website or maybe through a recommendation. If you do not know where to look then you can search the internet for tutors, ask around among your friends and take a look at advertisements or classifieds.If you are thinking of hiring a tutor chat, you should look for a company that has the maximum number of rated tutors. These certified tutors can give you a sense of trust and confidence when you are working with them.In addition, you can use this service if you have never had a math tutor before. As you know, in any situation, you may find yourself in a difficult situation but you do not know how to solve it. With a tutor chat, you can ask questions and they will help you with the answers.If you are thinking of getting a tutor chat, then you should definitely consider getting one now. You will realize that you did not waste your money on such expenses.