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Putting Together a Class Directory

Making a class directory for your child’s school can be a fun project, and the finished product is something that other parents will greatly appreciate. Here are a few tips on how to put together a great class directory.

1. Get Permission. If you are a parent who has decided to put together a class directory for your child’s school or class, it is important that you get the permission of school authorities before you begin compiling your information. Chances are, if no one at the school has taken on that task yet, they will likely be very grateful that someone is doing it, and will help you in any way they can. This will not only make the job much easier, it will make it a lot more fun as well.

2. Decide on The Scope. Are you going to create a directory for the whole school? The whole grade? Just the classes your child or children are in? You will have to decide on this, of course, as well as whatever other information you would like to include. It might be fun to have teachers and staff provide short bios, or to have other interesting information like trivia tidbits about the school’s history or a list of famous people who attended the school in years past.

3. Gather Your Info. One easy way to do this is to give teachers sheets of paper to hand out, and for the students to take home, asking for names, numbers, birthdays, and whatever other information you would like to have included. It is important to realize from the outset that you are not going to get 100% participation from parents in this regard, and that you must respect the wishes of those who do not want their contact information listed. In these cases, find out if it is all right to simply list the student’s name.

4. Put it All Together. Once you have the papers in hand of all who are going to participate, you can start entering sorting the information into your word processing software. It is probably best and easiest to list each class room separately, put the teacher’s names and information first and in bold, and to list the rest of the students alphabetically by first or last name after that. If you are including administrators and other staff’s information, you can put that in the front of the directory. Once you put all this together, you can decide on a cover. If the school has a logo, see if you can get hold of a digital version of it. It might also be fun to include little bits of clip art throughout the booklet.

5. Bind It. For larger projects and schools, you can take a look at binding styles such as plastic comb binding or spiral coil. The schools might even have these types of machines on hand for you to use. For smaller directories, you can use booklets makers that place two staples in the center of the documents. Again, there may be a chance that your school has these and will allow you to use them. A lot of these types of machines are relatively inexpensive to own, and can be used at home for future projects as well.

If you are interested in more information about how the right Booklet Maker, can help you create a great class directory, you might want to visit MyBinding.com. They offer a great price and Free Shipping on orders over $75.00. Plus, they carry a full line of Binding Accessories, of all styles, types and capabilities.

Teach English in Zambia

Named after the Zambezi River Zambia is celebrated for its vast array of lakes and waterfalls. One of the most famous of which is Victoria Falls, shared with Zimbabwe but a source of no less pride to the Zambians, it is known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means ‘the smoke that thunders’, which might have something to do with it’s impressive drop of 330ft into a narrow chasm at a rate of 550 million litres every minute, with a spray that can be seen 20 miles away! Zambia also has plenty of scenic views to offer, with almost a third of the country dedicated to national parks including; Kafue National Park, the second largest national park in the world, Kafue River, Mwaleshi river, Kasanka National Park, Luwombwa lake, Mindolo Dam Makwera Falls and Lake, Sumbu National Park, South Luangwa National Park and Lochinvar National Park on the southern edge of the Kafue Flats.

With such varied scenery and so many rivers throughout the country Zambia is a land full of opportunities for adventure! From bungee jumping off the 364ft bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe across the River Zambezi to abseiling or high-wiring down and across the gorge, there are more than enough activities to get your heart racing! Experience white-water rafting as never before on the Zambezi River itself where rapids are so turbulent they’re classed grade 5 and one of the best rafting experiences in the world. For those looking for something even more challenging there’s also the option of river boarding; which means surfing down the river with just your board, fins and a helmet! The falls also provide year round rainfall for the tropical rainforest in the Zambian gorge, which makes it a naturally diverse and wonderful sight for trekkers. Travellers who want to see wildlife as well as waterfalls will be able to find an abundance of different Safari tours in one of the countries many national parks and game reserves.

Zambia’s natural beauty is not, however, the only reason to travel in this varied country. With 60,000 years of history and 82 tribal groups living side by side, Zambians live peacefully and are proud of their cultural heritage. The central tribes are the Lozi, the Bemba, the Ngoni, the Tonga, the Luvale and the Kaonde, combining a mixture of traditions and the influences of several Africans countries. Despite a mixture of so many different nationalities, present-day Zambians believe in the importance unification. Experiencing so many different cultures is a unique experience and there’s no better way to enhance it than by living and working amongst the Zambians, travelling across the regions and learning a few dialects for yourself won’t do your language repertoire any harm either!

Culture

With a population of 11 million people, an annual population growth of 3.7% and 73 different native languages, Zambia is packed with different cultural experiences. The main languages are English, Bemba, Kaonde, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Nyanja, Tumbuka and Tonga. Though many of the languages seem similar they actually have huge differences which are reflected in the culture of the country, from trying nshima and relish to finding your favourite spot for a coffee in bustling cities like Lusaka. Though more rural and suburban areas have maintained elements of traditional and clan-like life, modern day Zambia is a heady combination of the old and the new. Larger, more urbanized cities have made commercial progression, particularly in regions where the countries main export, copper, is found.

Celebrations of culture and tradition are still, however, of great importance in the cities, the Kabwata Cultural Village in Lusaka is dedicated to the preservation of traditional arts, crafts and dancing. Modern festivals such as African Freedom Day and Unity are celebrated alongside more traditional regional ceremonies such as Kuomboka, which marks the move of the Litunga people to higher ground in the rainy seasons and Umutomboko, which commemorates the migration of the Kazembe Bemba people to Zambian ground.

Educational Standard

Education in Zambia is progressing but still suffers from a lack of teachers. A fall in revenue over the last few decades has left the government with a substantially smaller fund to devote towards education though current reforms are striving to improve the situation. In 2002 the government scrapped tuition fees, a move which massively increased the number of children attending school.

The increase in enrolment has contributed to a rather uneven student:teacher ratio, rising from 49:1 in 2000 to 56:1 in 2005. Although this it means more children are receiving a primary education, budgets for qualified teachers are small. The Zambian government is currently devoting more energy to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Education For All (EFA) objectives and plans to contribute 4% of the country’s GDP to education. Targets are set to ensure better results at the end of primary education, which will assist in getting children a decent secondary education.

Teaching opportunities

Though English is the official language, the vast number of different tribes and nationalities make its devlopment as a truly unifying language unlikely. However, English teachers are in very high demand in all areas of the country, especially in the cities and the central towns of the copper belt such as Kitwe and Ndola, due to larger populations and a higher possibility of government funding for public schools. Though most placements are voluntary or offer small salaries, Zambia’s natural wealth, picturesque landscapes and friendly people make living here an enriching and worthwhile experience.

English teachers are also needed in small towns like Monze and rural villages where life is more traditional and a good education is not always easily accessible. English is important for trade and education throughout the country and can improve the career prospects of children from rural areas. It’s also a great way to gain a truly off-the-beaten-track experience of traditional African life. Before you set off it is worth looking at visa requirements. Some nationalities will need a visa and a passport to enter the country and some placements will require a working visa, best to be prepared!

Facilities

Following an extended period of economic turbulence many areas of Zambia are still in the process of recovery, so don’t expect luxury accommodation. If you’re going through a volunteer company your accommodation will be arranged for you more often than not and as you’ll be usually be paying a fee, meals are also likely to be included. Most companies offer spaces in volunteer houses, guesthouses, homestays and hostels; facilities can vary depending on the area, in larger cities and towns such as Livingstone its more likely that you’ll have tv, the choice of a private room, bathroom and kitchen facilities and maybe even a few other luxuries like a swimming pool!

Not everywhere will have all of these facilities, though most accommodation will consist of a clean room and a basic place to cook and bathe; suburbs and villages far from the cities will generally offer comfortable but basic accommodation. If you’re arranging your own accommodation it’s a good idea to look at local hostels and guesthouses, not only to spare your budget reasons but for the chance to interact with the local community and develop a real understanding of your pupils’ way of life.

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Using Realia in the Classroom

What is Realia?

If you’re thinking the word ‘realia’ sounds vaguely Latin, then you’d be correct. In the TEFL classroom, the word realia means using real items found in everyday life as an aid to teaching English. Using realia helps to make English lessons memorable by creating a link between the objects and the word or phrase they represent. So how and why should teachers use realia in the classroom?

The Advantages of Using Realia

As English teachers, the use of realia is only limited by your imagination. It is possible to use realia to teach almost any subject. Using realia stimulates the mind, and is one way of encouraging creativity by involving the senses. Realia saves time, as recognition of an object is immediate and so cuts out the need for lengthy explanations and drawing funny pictures on the board. Elicitation becomes much easier and holding up the object with a raised eyebrow will usually result in the desired word being spoken.

Realia breathes life into new vocabulary, and the chances of your students remembering the new words you have taught them increases. Take the word biscuit: the probability of remembering it becomes much higher after experiencing the taste, touch and smell of the object! Realia doesn’t have to be limited to food or drink. Timetables, tickets, newspapers, clothes… in fact any object you can think of can be used as a teaching aid.

Won’t I look silly bringing teabags into the lesson if I’m teaching adults?

No! Adults are usually very receptive to realia, and find this approach unusual and refreshing. Bringing realia into your lessons is a great icebreaker, and serves as a useful tool to prompt conversation. It also takes some of the attention and pressure off you by concentrating the students’ minds on the object and word in question.

Many adults have had bad experiences of learning English at school, and often remember their English lessons as being dull and repetitive. Using realia and other visual aids will generate interest and help create an atmosphere conducive to learning.

Realia for Young Learners

If you are going to teach English to young children, realia is a must. Young children are at the perfect age to learn a language and as visual learners, you should try to tap into their natural creativity. Bring in fruit, vegetables and lots of toys. Children love to role-play and enjoy playing games, so ask them to move animals onto tables, under tables, or around the farmyard. Make up simple stories using toy animals or puppets, and children will enjoy their English lessons, and be motivated to learn.

Using Realia for Learning Vocabulary/Grammar

It is unrealistic to bring real objects into your classroom for every single word that you wish to teach and some words will lend themselves better than others to using realia. Remember, realia can be used indirectly as a tool for teaching grammar; for example, items of food and drink are perfect for teaching uncountable and countable nouns.

Using Realia in Role-play

Don’t stop at using realia to learn vocabulary or grammar. Use objects in role-plays to make the situation more realistic. This could be something as simple as a mobile phone or your train tickets. Using realia is only limited by your imagination: here are some ideas on how to use realia in your lessons.

* Use your country’s flag and a map to show students where you live and to help them learn the names of foreign countries.

* Stage a fashion show after learning the vocabulary for items of clothing.

* Utilise toys such as plastic animals and toy cars in games for young learners.

* Bring in items such as biscuits and plastic cups to practise ordering drinks.

* Timetables, tickets and pedestrian maps of London are great for practising role-play scenarios such as asking for directions, or buying tickets.

* Teaching business English? Use mobile phones to create telephone conversations, practise giving numbers, arranging meetings, or discussing a new product.

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What Age Groups Can I Teach As an EFL Teacher?

It’s possible to teach English to every age group, from preschoolers through to adults. The chances are that if you join a language school, you may not have much choice and will probably get a mixture of abilities and ages. However, decide to teach at a state school or kindergarten and you’ll be teaching a specific age group. If this is your first shot at teaching, the chances are you’ll have had little, if any experience of different age groups. You may have strong ideas or feel unsure about the age groups you wish to teach; so getting a little experience will pay dividends.

Try ringing up your local school and volunteering your services as a classroom assistant. Interaction with pupils and observation of a qualified teacher should give you a much better idea of children’s capabilities in your chosen age group. If you can’t find a friendly school, try and contact local youth groups in your area, or contact the local scout/brownie group leader. This experience should give you more confidence, as well as impressing prospective employers.

Teaching preschoolers This is for the very active, and teachers who prefer kinaesthetic methods of teaching English. You need to have a sense of fun for this role, not to mention boundless energy! If you are employed full time at a nursery school or kindergarten, bear in mind that you’ll probably be expected to multitask. Working as part psychologist, part nurse, part dinner lady, not to mention part language teacher, are all integrated into the role of a kindergarten teacher! It is a hugely rewarding but demanding role, and not for the faint hearted!

Teaching preschoolers at a language school is a less demanding role, as the parents usually tag along too! Prepare yourself well and make sure you arm yourself with a variety of songs, action games, puppets, toys and pictures. Remember: young children of two or three have a very short attention span, so you will need to keep your activities short and snappy. Plenty of variety and routine are the keys to successful lessons.

Teaching primary/elementary school children - Many English teachers are required in primary schools. Children of this age are full of enthusiasm, and enjoy learning. Make learning English fun by including games, songs and stories. Sometimes you may be required to team-teach with another class teacher. Remember: be patient, and don’t expect all your ideas to be accepted immediately. Concentrate on building a good working relationship with your class teacher and then suggest new ideas gradually.

Teaching secondary/high school children - Teaching this age group can be challenging, as it is the age where children often become shy and self-conscious. It can take time and patience to establish a relationship with teenagers, so you shouldn’t expect immediate results. No matter how hard they try to make you believe otherwise, teenagers of this age are still children, and enjoy competitive games! You’ll need to show that you’re willing to connect with their world and interests, and don’t assume that pop groups and actors famous in the west are well-known in the country you’re teaching in. Teaching teenagers can be particularly rewarding as many are desperate to speak to a native English speaker, and have a genuine desire to learn English.

Teaching University Students - This is a privileged position, and universities often expect teachers to have an MA in linguistics, although this is not always the case. You’ll need a thorough knowledge of the English language, a love of English literature and be prepared to do a lot of marking! That said, this probably won’t be your first teaching role!

Teaching Adults - There are many benefits to teaching adults. For a start, you won’t have to worry about discipline as, having paid for the lessons, most adults are motivated to learn. However, even this age group has its disadvantages. Adults may have strong expectations and can even tell you how to do your job! In this case you need to be polite, but firm. Don’t let an adult undermine your authority, or take control of a class. Adults may also be much more resistant to trying new ideas, and feel that games or role-play are childish! Introduce new ideas slowly, and don’t be deterred if they don’t work out first time round. Remember, many adults have experienced boring English lessons at school, so this is your opportunity to make learning a positive experience for them.

What should I do if the age range I’ve chosen isn’t for me? Whichever age ranges you decide to teach, remember that establishing a relationship with a class takes time. Give yourself at least ten weeks before deciding that this age group isn’t for you, and always give at least a term’s notice if teaching at a school. Remember, finding a solution is always preferable, and if you don’t get on with one particular class or teacher, there is always the possibility that you may be able to swap classes with another teacher.

Honor Baldry ? Onlinetefl provide fulfilling and life-changing language teaching experiences to anyone with a desire to get out there and make a difference for the better. If you’re looking for a unique teaching abroad experience, look no further! Onlinetefl the perfect way to meet new people with our TEFL abroad & teaching jobs. Contacts: info@i-to-i.com

Teaching English in Europe

Jetting off to Europe may not sound like the most exciting of things to do but it’s all too easy to ignore the treasures on your doorstep! The Eiffel tower, the Vatican, the Saint Sophia Cathedral, the Sagrada Familia, the Brandenburg Gate and the Red Square to name a few, Europe is full to bursting with plenty of wonders and new experiences that will make living and teaching here an enriching experience!

The names may be familiar, but the sights themselves are startlingly beautiful, and with 48 countries (49 if you count the Vatican) there’s no shortage of diversity and cultural difference around every corner. Living and working in Europe’s cosmopolitan cities will give you a unique perspective and an insider’s knowledge that a package trip never could.

Europe’s teaching market is so broad that it’s best if we use a little geography to divide it up, so here we go…

Western Europe

Culture

Politics aside the countries generally included in the ‘west’ of Europe are the UK, France, The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg, West Germany, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Austria, Spain, Greece, Portugal and Switzerland. Quite a few there, and that’s only half of what Europe has to offer! Cultural experiences are available by the bucketload, whether it’s sampling ale at a German beer festival, trying your first wiener schnitzel in Austria or donning a mask for one of the world famous Carnivals in Italy or France. The people you meet will be more than happy to share their traditions with you and a little understanding of the language always helps!

Educational Standard

According to the fifth annual “indicators and benchmarks” report, drawn up by the commission’s Education Directorate General, the Western European countries with the best recent improvements in education are Denmark, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway and Iceland. Generally Europe has a high educational standard but language is always an area for improvement. Although most schools implement a second language into their curriculum, it’s not always necessarily English. As the language of international business and politics, there is always demand for English teachers both in specific language schools and as part of a thorough education.

Teaching Opportunities

France, Germany, Italy and Spain have the strongest teaching markets with plenty of jobs both in the major cities and in other areas throughout the countries. Visa complications are almost non-existent for EU citizens as you don’t need one, but beware: they do happen! Different countries have different requirements, so it’s a good idea to check requirements beforehand. Teaching for a few months will usually require mo moer than a TESOL certificate, but a little knowledge of business or IT can go a long way to securing a good placement, particularly in Germany. Pay will again be subject to where you work, but on average you’ll expect to earn US$1500 to 2000 per month.

Facilities

If you’re looking at paid work then you may also be expected to find your own accommodation. House shares, flat shares or sharing with a live-in landlord are sociable and cheap, but if you’re staying for a few months it’s worth considering staying in a hostel if your budget is tight! Standards are generally good, but be prepared for a few things you’re not used to, such as bidets and iron bars on bathroom windows!

Eastern Europe

Including far more snow capped mountains thzan its western counterpart Eastern Europe normally encompasses Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Yugoslavia and Albania. Turbulent pasts and the constraints of communist rule have left areas of Eastern Europe less affluent than their Western counterparts but no less culturally rich and visually stunning!

Culture

In a region so steeped in history, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of sights to see and interesting people to meet; whether you yearn to see the internationally-acclaimed Russian Ballet, feast your eyes on some traditional Polish folk art or take a wander through the old socialist buildings in East Germany, there are countless points of interest! Most locals will be happy to chat if you show an interest in local history, and they might help you find the best bistros and vodka bars to warm you up on a cold night!

Educational Standard

Education is of vital importance across Europe. Slovenia and the Czech Republic have made great progress with reading and keeping pupils at school longer, but the education system is still finding its feet. With the fall of communism the demand for English has become more apparent and many governments are working hard to bring about the necessary changes, but it can’t all happen at once! With improved economies, English teachers are needed across countries such as Russia but confused systems make placements hard to organise and volunteer work is more common. Some understanding of local language in places like Latvia, Estonia or even Georgia will prove useful in finding a place and you’ll find your pupils and the locals more responsive.

Teaching Opportunities

Not all areas are difficult to find work in and their stronger economies mean that the best areas are the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland. The EFL industry is just beginning to come into its own in these countries with foreign language schools popping up all over the place and private tuition becoming more popular as areas become more affluent. Being a non-EU Citizen is less of a problem here, as most countries aren’t yet EU members. Entry requirements are generally quite relaxed and in areas where English teaching is in high demand you’re likely to be accepted Pay does reflect the cost of living, so generally it’s unlikely to reach US$1000 per month.

Facilities

It’s true that accommodation isn’t what you’d expect at home, but it should still be comfortable. You’ll usually have the usual modern conveniences, but you should be prepared for very cold winters, so take a spare jumper or two! As with Western Europe accommodation may be provided by the company that places you; it may even be a homestay, which is a great way to live and breathe the local culture and sample the local cuisine. Longer placements might require you to find your own accommodation but the low cost of living shouldn’t make much of a dent in your pay, leaving you free to explore centuries of history!

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Teachers - Communicate With Assertiveness

As an educator, you will likely need to hone your communication skills in order to effectively communicate with your students as well as other educators, administrators, and parents during the course of your career. Most people are not “born communicators”, but rather learn their communications skills from their environment, upbringing, and of course, through studying communication and practicing various communications techniques. Assertive communication is ideal for teachers and educators because it allows them to convey their thoughts in a respectful manner while listening to the thoughts and opinions of others.

Assertive communication is not to be confused with aggressive communication which is a forceful communications style that is mainly used to get one’s way or to “divide and conquer”. Are you an assertive communicator? Do you bring the style of communication to the classroom, or to the parent conference, that conveys your thoughts in an assertive, yet understanding manner? Let’s look at some way that you can improve your assertiveness when communicating with students, teachers, and others.

Techniques for Enhancing Assertive Communication

· Observe other assertive communicators. Chances are that there are many of your peers who have developed an assertive communication style. Their requests, ideas, and thoughts are conveyed to their “audience” with respect, and they listen attentively to other people’s ideas and responses. Ask these great communicators what they do in order to prepare for an event, like a conference with parents or an important meeting. Pay attention to the nonverbal cues that they give off when communicating too and mimic this body language in your own communication style, including ways that they “hold their body”, and facial expressions that they employ.

· Watch your tone and your choice of words. Speaking neither too quickly or too slowly are hallmarks of assertive communicators. You want your speech to be perfectly executed so that you seem certain of what you are saying - if you speak too fast, you will come across as a “know it all” or if you speak too slowly, people may get the idea that you are improvising as you go along.

· Think before you speak, and prepare in advance when you know you will be speaking in a situation that requires assertiveness. Practice out loud a few times for very important conversations. Use a tape recorder or practice before a mirror.

· Be clear about what the main idea or request is that you want to get across when communicating assertively. State what you want. Be precise about your expectations. Let the other person know the specific task you are looking to accomplish.

· Listen. The very most important key element in any form of communication is listening. Becoming an effective listener is cornerstone to becoming an assertive communicator. You talk, you listen, even if you do not agree with or accept what the other person is saying. Listening is respectful and allows you to understand where the other party is coming from.

You will come across various situations during the course of performing your duties as a teacher or educator that require assertive communication. Practicing your skills in assertiveness will make you a more effective communicator.

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Let’s Discuss Instant Speed Learning

I have tried over the course of my life, which now is in its fourth generation, to be a continuous learner. Over these many years I have learned that it pays benefits many times beyond the time and energy one often needs to apply to learning new knowledge and skills. That viewpoint is one with which my children and grandchildren have become quite aware, and now I’m passing it along to my great-grandchildren!

However, I’m also very much aware that each generation has presented more difficulty for me to successfully communicate that opinion and get the listeners to accept it. I point to the increased conveniences that each generation has had and enjoyed over the previous as the main reason for this. After all, when I reflect on the process of learning as I’ve grown up with it, it does involve a certain commitment of time and mental energy applied toward such tasks as research, reading, thinking, writing, memorizing, demonstrating understanding and competency, and so on. In other words, there is some “work” associated with learning. And as the conveniences that define, assist, automate and fulfill our daily lives increase and evolve, the gap that prevails between work and pleasure grows wider and wider.

So what does the preceding diatribe have to do with the notion of instant speed learning? Well, recently I had an encounter with Tony McKenzie, author and creator of innovative learning systems, including the “Instant Speed Learning” system being reviewed here, and I was able to obtain some insights I’d like to pass along here.

J. Nelson: What are some of your achievements in the field of learning, learning systems, etc.?

T. McKenzie: Well, I’m probably best known as the author of the book You Were Born Invincible and creator of the McKenzie Mastery Process, which is a personal transformation program.

JN: Tell me about your process leading to the development of “Instant Speed Learning.”

TM: Sure. During the past 20 years, I’ve studied and practiced virtually every single accelerated learning method available, ranging from techniques such as speed reading and mind mapping to photo reading and mnemonics.

Although I found many of these techniques useful in helping me learn at a much faster rate , they always seemed to fall short of what I actually wanted. In fact, throughout my many years of study and research, I’ve wondered if it were possible to develop the kind of photographic memory and learning abilities that you only see in espionage movies, that would literally allow you to “snap” information and retain it in your mind.

And so, I searched high and low, desperately looking for clues and sources that would lead me to the secret of how I could develop genius-level learning abilities. I searched every single bookstore, internet site and research study I could find that might provide me with the vital clues to unlocking the secret to having a phenomenal memory.

JN: And did you discover the great secret about your memory…

TM: Yes! Studies have shown that individuals regressed through the use of hypnosis find that they can recall the sights, sounds, smells and tastes locked within memories that are decades old. Professor Wilder Penfield, a Canadian surgeon, made an interesting discovery while performing a medical procedure on several of his epilepsy patients; it involved examining the brain tissue of his patients while they were under a local anesthetic.

He was amazed to find that when he touched certain individual cells, his patients would suddenly recall experiences from their past. The patients would later say they didn’t just recall the experience but relived it as if they were actually there, complete with tastes, smells, noises, colors and feelings. The clarity of the memories was the same regardless of whether they were a few hours or many years old.

Professor Penfield suggests that within the individual cells of the brain are the perfect memory of every event in our lives, and if we can find the right stimulus we can experience each one all over again

And a year ago I finally figured out how right he was!

JN: OK, just what was your breakthrough?

TM: Amazingly I discovered that I had been looking in all the wrong places for the answers to how to rapidly master information and retain it. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the specific learning systems, genetics or altered states that gifted memorizers had but rather their “belief” in and complete acceptance of their ability to almost instantly assimilate new information at phenomenal speeds that made the difference.

So in a moment of inspiration I posed a simple question; the answer to that question proved to be the turning point in my research and it led me to develop a solution by using a cutting-edge auto-conditioning subliminal program that literally rewires the mind to accept a new reality as the absolute truth!

JN: Wow! Well, why is this program so radically different from any other accelerated learning program on the market?

TM: In this powerful new learning system there are no link methods or mnemonic systems to learn nor do you have to master any new speed reading techniques. The unique aspect of this system is that it requires nothing more than a simple hand gesture and you can begin learning at genius levels of understanding with incredibly clear recall of the material after only being exposed to it once. This system is so simple to learn that even a child can use it and start applying it to school work almost immediately. You’ll be able to apply this system to virtually any learning situation you encounter; it requires no technology to implement and it will be with you for the rest of your life!

JN: Huh! Tell me about some of your research and case studies you conducted.

TM: Well, I can tell you that after carefully carrying out my first few tests of this program, I was stunned!

One particular test case was so good at recalling the information from a written piece of text I thought he was cheating, he was literally recalling word for word and he had a thorough understanding of what he had read, days and even weeks later.

In another example a participant had attended a meeting while using the ISL? method and discovered when asked by a colleague that she could recite virtually every single topic covered in the meeting!

A fifteen-year-old teenager was amazed to discover that after reading a particular text he could literally see the words on the page and could even pick out specific parts of the text to focus on.

Similar results were demonstrated over and over again by people from all walks of life and as time passed their self-confidence increased immeasurably.

JN: This all seems too incredible, almost like a movie or TV script!

TM: Actually, several years ago I did become fascinated by a TV show called The Pretender. It followed the fortunes of a man called Jarod, a super genius with the ability to assume any identity and learn any skill.

I loved this show because each week Jarod would come to the aid of someone in need in the guise of a variety of professions, ranging from fireman, doctor, surgeon or photographer, to pilot, lawyer, or even a sex therapist.

What was interesting about each show was the fact that Jarod didn’t just pretend to be these characters, he literally became them from the inside out and did so by mastering the skills, knowledge and mindset of these professions, within days.

Although this show was presented as pure science fiction and dismissed as the fantasy of a TV script writer . . . I knew differently!

With the ISL? system you can become one of the rare individuals with the ability to master virtually any information 1000 times faster than the average human being!

JN: Oh, come on, you can’t expect me to believe hype claims like that!

TM: Make no mistake, you’ll be able to master the ISL? within 72 hours of purchasing this program, all from the comfort of your PC! Within minutes of downloading this unique training program you’ll be able to access a special audio program from within the eBook that will program your mind to respond to a specific physical signal and rapidly absorb new information like a sponge. There will be no 30-day wait for proof that this program works, you’ll be experiencing the results within the next three days!

JN: The possibilities after acquiring capabilities like that are fantastic!

TM: Being to easily remember facts, ideas and concepts can give you a tremendous edge in business. Just picture the dramatic impression you can make when you can quote specific facts, prices, client information, product details . . . with ease! Most of your business or work colleagues probably have the same skills and education as you, so acquiring the powerful ISL? system will set you apart and put you in a unique position; it will allow you to develop a new level of confidence in your skills and abilities as your specific expertise grows exponentially. In the constantly changing business world, being able to adapt, change and learn new skills is an essential skill that cannot be ignored. Having a powerful memory is the key ingredient to being able to stay ahead in the constant battle for sales, clients and market position.

JN: Right! And how about students in schools everywhere?

TM: If you’re currently enrolled in college or university and finding it stressful, this program is the answer to your problems; with the ISL? system you’ll be able to learn more while studying less and this can start within the next 72 hours. You’ll focus better, learn more while taking fewer notes, have better retention of lectures, books and study guides, and experience a dramatic improvement in your exam results and test scores. As a student you owe it to yourself and your academic future to get this program and boost your learning abilities today!

JN: What about learning a new language?

TM: Maybe you’ve already tried to learn a language in the past but gave up in vain; well with this program you’ll be able to learn a new language with ease within 30 days. Whether it’s for business or pleasure the ISL? system makes language learning a breeze as it easily adapts itself to the in-depth memorization of audio language courses. But you don’t have to stop there, you can literally acquire a new language each month by simply following the simple technique outlined in the eBook. Just imagine being able to travel anywhere in the world and speak multiple languages with the minimum of effort!

Well, that essentially covers the information that I obtained from Tony Mckenzie about “Instant Speed Learning” . I hope it has been as enlightening for you as it was for me. If:

- reading more effortlessly and with much better understanding,

- having a better memory and sharper concentration,

- radically improving your productivity, and

- getting through information much faster…

are abilities you’d like to have, then I encourage you to learn more about “Instant Speed Learning” at JuJamVideoReview.com! I know that I have more reasonings available for when I engage in future conversations with family and friends on the topic!

James Nelson has accumulated almost 40 years of successful business experience, and much of it has been based on the maxim, “Do what you do do well, then find others who can do the rest best!” You can learn more about “Instant Speed Learning” at http://bit.ly/b1DU89. Mr. Nelson is currently President of JuJam Enterprises Incorporated where they focus on ?Helping People Help Themselves.? Previously, together with his wife, Judy, he owned and operated Lakewood Lodge, a family recreation resort in northern Minnesota. Prior to that he completed 23 years in various sales and marketing management positions at AT&T. He earned a Bachelor of Science (Business) degree from the University of Minnesota with Distinction in 1975. Before attending college under the GI Bill, he served 10 years in the U.S. Navy.

Daycare Centers Are In-Demand

Many families are being forced to change their way of life because of many social and economic influences of modern life. Mothers who usually stayed at home to take care of their kids are now finding it necessary to seek employment outside their homes to supplement their husbands’ income. In addition, the high rate of divorce in the country also contributes to the situation wherein mothers are forced to take jobs to feed her children. These scenarios and more make daycare centers a necessity for children of pre-school age who will otherwise be left without anybody who will take care of them at home. Older children may also be included when they are not in school. They still need to have summer school activities or before- and after-school programs.

Industry experts believe that this demand for daycares will most likely increase as the country continue to experience economic difficulties and major social changes that affect the family. They say that opening a daycare business will be a profitable venture for years to come as more and more parents, especially mothers, find it necessary to earn by having a regular job.

You can start your own profitable daycare center and take advantage of the growing demand for trustworthy and reliable daycare centers. Social scientists have discovered what mothers already knew: a child between the age of one and six is in the most important years of his or her development as an individual. The child’s exposures and experiences where he or she lives, the habits he or she develops and the teachings the child receives are factors that will affect the child’s capacity to adjust his or her behavior and learn new things that the child will need in the future. For this reason, it is important that daycare centers offer more than baby-sitting services. You can set up your daycare center so it offers a proper learning environment for children under your care. It is a very rewarding business since you will be helping children to grow and learn important new skills. Many of those who have been working with children will testify to the fact that they often benefited a lot too as they have improved their own communication and learning skills.

Many companies are now establishing their own daycare centers in their efforts to lure and keep the best people in their business. These companies have realized that lack of child care services is an important hindrance to many parents who want to be employed, and that spending money to provide one will go a long way in increasing the productivity and moral of their employees, especially the qualified women. However, studies among married employees with children have shown that they prefer to have their children taken cared of in daycare centers that are nearer to their home instead of leaving them at their office daycare center. This should assure you that even if the companies in your community provide their own company-operated daycare centers, you privately-owned daycare center will not suffer any lack of parents willing to leave their children with you.

Loren Yadeski, author of this article is also interested in day care and recommends you to please check out own a day care if you liked reading this information.

Boss’ String of Pearls

Kokichi Mikimoto is definitely seen as the father of modern day pearls as the creator of the beautiful Akoya pearl. His Akoya pearls, farmed exclusively off the coasts of Japan, are among the most beautiful and high quality pearls in the world. They have a gorgeous luster and are the perfect pearls for stringing long strands together. Akoya pearls are known all over the world, as is Mikimoto.

Mikimoto spent years perfecting the growth and harvesting of the Akoya pearls. He loved his pearls and had a passion for creating beautiful jewelry. Over a period of ten years, Mikimoto hand picked some of the best pearls that came through his farms. With these pearls, he designed a graduated pearl necklace that is of the utmost beauty. The necklace consists of 49 pearls, graduated in size with the center pearl 14mm in diameter. All of the pearls on this necklace are shiny, pearly white and almost perfectly round. His creation was given the nickname of the “Boss’s String of Pearls”. This necklace is on display to this day at the Mikimoto Memorial Hall in Toba, Japan.

Designing beautiful jewelry was almost as big of a passion for Mikimoto as the pearls themselves. As his Akoya pearls began to make a name for themselves around the world, Mikimoto began to share his treasure with aristocrats everywhere. It wasn’t until after a member of the Imperial household however took pearls as gifts to the Count of St. James that Mikimoto really began to focus on his jewelry designs. In 1906, he opened the first jewelry store that specialized in pearls. His store and designs quickly gained worldwide attention.

Mikimoto is credited with the not only the creation of a fine, high quality cultured pearl but also for making them accessible to people all over the world. Before Mikimoto came along with his Akoya pearls, this gemstone was somewhat of a luxury only worn by the members of highest society. For centuries, pearls represented a person’s status in the world and some countries even banned lower class people from wearing the gemstone at all. By creating a high quality, beautiful cultured pearl, Mikimoto was able to mass produce pearls, therefore making them more affordable for people from every walk of life.

You can find Mikimoto’s Akoya pearls from many reputable dealers from around the country and even online. Beware however of dealers claiming to have a piece of jewelry that are true Akoya pearls. Japanese Akoya pearls are only sold to factories, not directly to retailers. When the pearls are sold to factories, they are polished, bleached and drilled – ready for stringing. Since Akoya pearl farms don’t sell pre-strung strands of pearls to retailers, many factories who purchase these pearls mix the true Japanese Akoya pearls with Chinese Akoya pearls. The Chinese Akoya pearls are still of high quality and most consumers would never know the difference. So be wary of any dealer who tells you that a strand of pearls is 100% Japanese Akoya because these are very hard to come by.

Piper Smith is the VP of Marketing for Museum Way Pearls, a leading provider of pearl jewelry such as Akoya pearls, pearl necklaces, and pearl earrings. Museum Way Pearls can be found online at: MuseumWayPearls.com .

Duchess of Windsor Pearls

There are many wonderful stories associated with gems and jewels - pearls in particular. We have accounts of pearls that dated back to ancient time, pearls that belonged to Katherine the Great, and pearls that belonged to Elizabeth I. A more modern tale is just as interesting.

The name Calvin Klein is one of the most famous names in fashion to this day. He has created cutting edge fashions for the everyday consumer and has built a fashion empire. With his fashion empire comes certain perks like a set of diamond and pearl jewelry that was put up for auction at Sotheby’s in New York in 2007. They offered up three gorgeous and historically significant pieces of jewelry at the auction and they were predicted to fetch an astronomical sum.

The first piece in the auction was a single strand of natural pearls and diamonds. This piece, along with the other two in the auction were purchased by Kelly and Calvin Klein back in 1987 when Sotheby’s had their legendary auction of The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor. The necklace is a single strand of 28 graduated white pearls ranging in diameter from 9.2mm to 16.8mm.The oval clasp is set with 2 emerald cut diamonds accented with other smaller diamonds totaling about 3 carats. The Duchess of Windsor loved this necklace and was often photographed wearing it. The single strand necklace was estimated to bring in about $1.5 to $2 million.

Another piece offered up for auction by Sotheby’s was the pearl and diamond pendant also owned by the Duchess of Windsor. The Duchess loved wearing this exquisite pendant as a drop on the single strand pearl necklace. The pendant consists of a baroque shaped pearl about 18.4mm in diameter. This huge pearl is capped off by single cut and round diamonds with a stirrup-shaped diamond encrusted fitting. At the auction, this pendant alone was expected to fetch $400,000 to $600,000. This piece was a highly treasured item by Kelly Klein.

The final piece put into the Sotheby’s auction by the Kleins was a pair of black and white pearl and diamond earclips. These earclips were purchased by the Duchess of Windsor in the same auction as the other pieces. The earclips are mounted in white gold and are set with a black pearl measuring 18.2mm and a white pearl measuring 18.1mm. The pearls are surrounded by 32 pear-shaped diamonds and 64 round diamonds weighing 9.25 carats. These earclips were estimated at $300,000 to $500,000.

When the Kleins purchased these jewels back in 1987, the entire lot of the Duchess of Windors’ jewelry was up for auction. This auction set a record for a single sale of jewelry at $50.3 million. The romance of the Duchess and Duke of Windsor was regarded as the romance of the century and her jewelry collection brought this fairytale to life. This is the main reason why the Klein’s picked up these three fabulous pieces. They represented a simpler time and had classic beauty that could persist the ages.

Piper Smith is the VP of Marketing for Museum Way Pearls, a leading provider of pearl jewelry such as pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, and Tahitian pearls. Museum Way Pearls can be found online at: MuseumWayPearls.com .

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