13 Cheap and Easy DIY Halloween Costumes That Rock

13 Cheap and Easy DIY Halloween Costumes That Rock Megan L. So, what are you going to be for Halloween this year? Not sure yet? Youre not alone. To help you find the perfect costume this year, we put together 13 cheap and easy rockstar DIYs. Rockstars always turn heads wherever they go, and with one of these rockin costumes youre sure to do the same. Lets get this party started! Solo Artists These are great easy DIY Halloween costumes you can wear all on your own or with a backing band. 1. Paul Stanley Mastering the facepaint is key to getting the KISS frontmans iconic look. Once you have your face right, youll be instantly recognizable. Pair your perfectly painted face with black clothes for an easy look, or for a twist add a striped shirt and a beret voilà, French KISS. 2. Bruce Springsteen Its easy to be the boss for Halloween. All you need to get this look is blue jeans, a white t-shirt, and a red bandana. Break the ice with a cutie at the party by inviting them to dance on stage with you, just like Bruces Dancing in the Dark video. 3. Madonna Making a DIY Madonna costume couldnt be simpler. Head to your local thrift store and pick up a short 80s style dress, lace gloves, and lots of bracelets and pearls. For an added bonus, carry a microphone (or make one out of a paper towel roll). 4. 90s Grunge Look Depending on your lifestyle, this look might not be much of a stretch. But if you tend to be more polished and dressy, the grunge look could be a great change of pace for you. Channel your favorite alt rock stars of the 90s with oversized shirts and jeans, and of course lots of flannel. 5. Joan Jett Be one of the baddest women in rock and roll this Halloween with this simple, classic look. Pair tight jeans with a leather jacket, add a lot of attitude, and youve got this DIY Halloween costume down. Carry a guitar with you, and youre sure to be a runaway hit at the Halloween party. 6. 80s Glam Rocker Big hair and tight pants are what this costume is all about. Tease your hair or find a wig at the Halloween store, and dont forget to wear lots of eyeliner. Wear an old loose tank top or cut up a t-shirt to get this glam look on a budget. 7. Stevie Nicks Stevies signature style includes scarves, hats, and anything long and flowing. Wear your hair long and wavy and unleash your inner mystical wild child. If you have an old witch costume with a long skirt, you might even be able to repurpose it into a Stevie Nicks look. Dynamic Duos These DIY couples costumes are sure to make a splash. Pair up with your partner or a good friend and get to work! 8. Justin and Britney Bring some early 2000s nostalgia to the party and make a grand entrance with your partner in Justin and Britney inspired head-to-toe denim. 9. Weezers Buddy Holly Sick of homies dissing your girl? Show the world that you dont care what they say about you anyway with this easy DIY Halloween couples costume. All you need to do is pull together a couple of squeaky clean preppy outfits. One of you will need glasses like Buddy Holly, and for the other flipped hair like Mary Tyler Moore. 10. Hall and Oates Make your Halloween dreams come true with this easy DIY costume perfect for a fun-loving twosome. Head to a thrift store for 80s-style blazers and feather your hair. To make it a little more obvious, you can write Hall and Oates on your t-shirts. 11. Taylor Swifts 1989 Vs. Ryan Adams 1989 Got bad blood? Bring your rivalry out on Halloween with this timely costume. Get the polaroid look of the album cover by cutting frames out of large pieces of cardboard, and be ready to sing songs from 1989 all night long! 12. David Bowie and David Bowie Did someone say David Bowie? From Ziggy Stardust to Jareth the Goblin King, David Bowie has had more iconic looks than you can shake a spandex jumpsuit  at. Celebrate Halloween in style with your best friend or partner by dressing as some of David Bowies different looks throughout the years. 13. John and Yoko Dress as the original iconic rock and roll couple and make a statement this year. All you need is long hair, white clothing, and love. Or you can ditch the costumes and stay in bed for peace! So, what will you be? Tell us your favorite costume idea in the comments below! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

Properties of Logarithms

Properties of Logarithms Logarithmic are the inverse of exponential functions. They are commonly used in many branches in math. Logarithms are written as f(x) = log b (a) such that b 0, b = 1 and a 0. This is read as log base b of a. Logarithmic functions have many properties and rule which are used to solve many questions: General properties (where x 0, y0) logb (xy) = logbx + logb y logb (x/y) = logbx - logby logb (xm) = m logb x logb b = 1 Example 1: Solve logx 27 = 3, find the value of the base x. Solution: The given equation is logx 27 = 3 Convert this Logarithmic equation to Exponential equation by using the formula, logb (a) = N; a = bN Hence logx 16 = 4 can be written as 27 = x3 Now we prime factorization of 27 = 3 * 3 * 3. Therefore, 27 = 33. This gives 27 = x3; 33 = x3. Hence x = 3 is the solution. Example 2: Solve logx 225 = 2, find the value of the base x. Solution: The given equation is logx 225 = 2. Convert this Logarithmic equation to Exponential equation by using the formula, logb (a) = N; a = bN Hence logx 225 = 2 can be written as 225 = x2. Now we prime factorization of 225 = 3 * 3 * 5 * 5. Therefore, 225 = 152. This gives 225 = x2; 152 = x2. Hence x = 15 is the solution.

Composite Function

Composite Function Composite Functions is the application of one function to the results of another function. Composition functions will not be commutative. This commutatively is attained only by particular functions and in special circumstances. Derivatives of compositions that involve differentiable functions can be found using the chain rule. Suppose result of 1st function f (x) is applied into the 2nd function g (x), this composite function is written as g(f(x)) or (g?f) (x). Composite functions are combination of 2 or more functions. We can say that it is a function that is expressed in terms of one or more functions. It may be noted that, (f?g)(x) (g?f)(x). Example 1: Simplify by Composite function f(x) = 2x + 3 Solution: First we will apply f and then apply f to that result = (f?f)(x) = f(f(x)) = (f ? f) (x) = 2 (2x + 3) + 3 = 4x + 9 = f ( f (x) ) = f (2x + 3) = 2 (2x + 3) + 3 = 4x + 9 Example 2: If f(x) = 2x and g(x) = 2^x, then what is (f ? g) (x)? Solution: The given problem we have = F(x) = 2x and g (x) = 2^x = When we do composite function (f ? g) (x) we get = (f ? g) (x) = f ( g ( x ) ) = f (2^x) = And f (2^x) = 2 . 2^x = 2^ (x + 1) = Answer: (f ? g) (x) = 2^ (x + 1)

7 Top-Rated Apps to Learn Italian Like a Pro

7 Top-Rated Apps to Learn Italian Like a Pro Jessica Dais If you’re looking to pick up some basic Italian or advance to the next level of fluency, there are many useful apps that can help you achieve this goal! The flexibility and convenience of downloading an app on the go makes learning fun and affordable.   It’s important to keep in mind though that apps shouldn’t be your sole method of learning a language. No technology can beat the personalized instruction and guidance of an experienced language teacher. (Apps aren’t a substitute for real-life conversation practice either)! With that in mind, here are the 7 best Italian apps to supplement your learning. The 7 Best Apps to Help You Learn Italian 1. Mondly With a 5-star rating, Mondly allows you to study Italian vocabulary and phrases through interactive games and graphics. The app is free for In-App purchases and also available for the Apple Watch! Mondly allows you to collect points and compete with other users from across the globe. Students who face challenges learning Italian verbs can also benefit from the app’s 3D conjugation tables. 2. Busuu Of all the apps to learn Italian, Busuu was the first one to allow users to have verbal conversations with native speakers from all over the world. The app offers students direct communication with new pen pals right from their phone or iPad. Busuu also teamed up with McGraw-Hill to enable students to obtain an official learning certificate. The app has a  4+ star rating and allows for family sharing! 3. Learn Italian, Speak Italian This helpful app was rated by Google as the “Must have app for Android.” Lessons are created by a team of language experts and teachers, with over 150 topics and over 3,000 vocabulary words. If you’re a beginner, tourist, or business traveler, use this app to test your knowledge with fun quizzes. The Android app also allows you to record yourself so you can keep track of your progress! SEE ALSO: 10 Podcasts for Learning Italian 4. Italian by Nemo This app allows for hands free interaction, so you can practice your Italian skills while you walk, exercise, cook, or commute! Italian by Nemo is the perfect companion for busy students who only have a minute or two to spare throughout their day. You can download the app for free in either the Apple store or Google Play. It has a 4.3 star rating from users. 5. Learn Italian by Bravolol Learn Italian features a friendly, animated cartoon parrot guiding you on your way to mastering Italian. With engaging and interactive flashcards, this app will help you pick up commonly used Italian phrases and words. An awesome perk of the app is that it can be used without an internet connection! If you are traveling to Italy, make sure to bring this fun app with you on the plane to brush up on your skills. It’s available in the Apple store and Google Play. 6. Easy Talk The Easy Talk app comes with an Italian travel phrasebook, sample dialogues based on real life situations, and multiple search functions to select and keep track of your favorites. Another perk there aren’t any drills or boring grammar exercises! The app can also be used as a personal, pocket translator. It’s available for Android phones for a purchase of $3.99. 7. TakeLessons For easily accessible Italian lessons on the go, the TakeLessons app is the perfect resource no matter your skill level. Find experienced Italian teachers in your area, or connect with one digitally via the app’s video chat feature. With the TakeLessons app, you can learn Italian from a professional no matter where you are. You can also join in on free, group classes for your first month as a new student. The app is available for both Android and iPhones. It’s often said that when learning a new language like Italian, practice makes perfect. Any one of these apps to learn Italian would make an excellent tool to help you practice your skills! Impress your language teacher and your friends with how quickly you’ve learned. Ready to get started with private lessons? Schedule a one-on-one lesson with an Italian teacher today to start speaking, writing, and reading Italian! Need Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Post Author:  Liz T. Liz T. teaches Italian, ESL, as well as a variety of musical subjects! She is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music with a B.M in Vocal Performance and she currently performs all styles of music including Musical Theater, Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop, RB, and Country. Learn more about Liz here!

[Infographic] American vs. French Culture 8 Things Every Traveler Should Know

[Infographic] American vs. French Culture 8 Things Every Traveler Should Know Sign up successful Share this Image On Your Site pstrongPlease include attribution to TakeLessons.com with this graphic./strong/pbr /br /br / pa href=https://takelessons.com/blog/french-culture-differences-z04img src=https://takelessons.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/america-vs-france-infographic.png alt=American culture vs. French Culture width=720px border=0 //a/pbr /br /br / p American Culture vs. French Culture: Things You Need to Know 1. Driving America:  The majority of Americans travel by automobile, even in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. In fact, three out of four Americans drive to work, while a mere 5.2 percent take mass transit. France:  You won’t see roads full of  SUVs in France, as the country is known for having an excellent public transportation system. Most people use the underground subway systems and tramways to get around. 2. Dining France:  In France, there’s no such thing as a meal on-the-go.  Rather, people take their time eating and typically don’t eat dinner until around 8 p.m. America:  It’s not surprising to see someone eating a slice of pizza while rushing to get to their next destination. Typically, Americans eat much earlier and faster than the French. 3. Fashion France: The French wouldn’t be caught dead wearing sweatpants and sandals in public. People take pride in their appearance and dress more moderately compared to Americans. America: While every city has its styleâ€"for example, New York is more high-fashion, while California is laid backAmericans are all about comfort and being casual. Swim trunks and a t-shirt on a hot day are A-OK in their book. 4. Drinking America: Americans are more apt to reach for a refreshingly cold beer. Over the past years, however, wine has become increasingly more popular. While not celebrated, public intoxication isn’t rare. France: The French have a reputation for drinking in moderation and their drink of choice is typically wine. After all, you can find a wine bar at just about every corner. In French culture, public intoxication is heavily frowned upon. 5. Dating America: Americans are all about playing the field. It’s not uncommon for a stranger to ask someone  out on a dateâ€"which typically includes some sort of meal or outingâ€"if he or she is interested. France: The French don’t date. In fact, there is no real word for “date” or “dating” in the French language. People get to know each other through social circlesâ€"and exclusivity is always implied. 6. Communication America: Americans are super friendly and outgoing. They are likely to greet friends and acquaintances with a big hug. You could say that communication is very informal, whereas the French are more formal. France: Hugging is sometimes considered more intimate than kissing in France. The French don’t use the first name of a person unless they are invited to do so. What’s more, speaking too loud is considered a sign of anger and impoliteness. 7. Body language France: When it comes to body language, the French are quite reserved. Placing your hands in your pockets or slouching are big no-nos.     America: Oddly enough,  both American and French culture are very similar in this category. Americans value their personal space and don’t respond well to unnecessary fidgeting.   8. Small Talk America: People in the U.S. are very open and polite. It’s not uncommon for someone to ask  his or her  mailman or pharmacist how his or her family is doing or what his or her plans are for the weekend. France: Stick with small talk. It’s okay, for example, to talk about the weather, but anything beyond that isn’t normal in the French culture. Tip: 50 French Phrases You Need to Know Before Your Trip to France Happy Travels! Now that youre up to speed on the French culture, youre ready for your trip. Dont shy away from meeting locals, as immersing  yourself in the French culture will ensure that you make the most of your trip! Do you live in France? If so, share your advice for traveling in the comment section below. Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

English Conversation Class Can Art Change the World

English Conversation Class Can Art Change the World The topic for our first group English conversation class is, which will take place on Wednesday, March 16 at 9 PM GMT, is: Can Art Change the World?This topic was inspired by the 2011 TED Prize winner, semi-anonymous French street artist JR. JR started out as a on the streets of Paris, where he began photographing fellow graffiti artists, and posting the photos in public spaces as illegal street exhibitions.His projects became more and more ambitious over time. In 2006, he enlarged photos of thugs from the suburbs of France after large riots there, and posted them on walls in wealthy neighborhoods.A photo of JRs Face to Face project in the Middle East. © jr-art.netIn 2007, he created the largest illegal photo exhibition ever, entitled Face to Face. For this project, he photographed Israelis and Palestinians that worked in the same professions, then posted the portraits next to each other on either side of the wall that separates Israel and Palestine.Since then, JR has continued to c reate interesting and daring art projects around the world, often in places that are considered too dangerous to visit. After winning the TED Prize, the TED Foundation gave JR one wish, which it then uses its resources to help fulfill.JRs wish is to do a massive art project, in which people from all over the world can send him photos, that he will then have printed, and mail back for people to create their own JR-like street art exhibitions.Below you can watch a video in which JR himself explains his work and the project. Youll also find several links to additional reading about his work and the TED project. Click here to register for a group English conversation class about JRs work, and the question: Can Art Change the World?Read more about JRs work, and the TED Prize here.Click here to become part of his art project.

Breaking Down the LSAT Reading Comprehension

Breaking Down the LSAT Reading Comprehension LSAT Law School Blog Since the beginning of your education, you have had to read passages and then answer questions about them. In that respect, the LSAT’s Reading Comprehension’s format will be familiar. But you know that there’s a catch, right? As tempting as it is for prospective law students to focus more on other subjects, overconfidence about the LSAT’s Reading Comprehension is a big mistake due to the complexity of its questions. The LSAT’s Reading Comprehension mirrors the study of law where dense reading material must be dissected often under rigid time constraints. In order not to lose crucial points, you’ll need to understand: the author’s attitude and the primary purpose of the passage reasonable inferences analogies meaning from context For success on the Comparative Reading Comprehension section, you must: ascertain the relationship between two passages infer the authors’ views compare and contrast the two passages As a tutor for LSAT prep in Chicago, I've witnessed a common mistake. After not scoring well on practice tests, many students then overcompensate and focus on every word of the reading passages, whether important or not. This method is a catalyst for the new problem of running out of time. Only with practice will you be able to conserve time while simultaneously reading with insight. Tips: The only way to triumph over overconfidence and time management problems is to study for this subject Your goal is not to get all the answers correct. It’s to get as many correct answers within the 35 minute testing period. Develop a consistent system of notation (underlining, highlighting, writing in the margin, or circling)which will illuminate important sections of the passages. The “hunt and peck” method, where you scan the passage for words from the question, will not be sufficient for a good score. Critical reading consists of separating the wheat from the chaff â€" pay attention to clues like transitions and adjectives while disregarding any superfluous details.

Ask A Nerd! International Baccalaureate Program

Ask A Nerd! International Baccalaureate Program Ask A Nerd! Q: What is the International Baccalaureate Program? Brief: The International Baccalaureate, or IB, is an educational foundation to help students ages 3 to 19 learn in a global environment. IB works with 3,968 schools in 147 countries to serve over 1.2 million students worldwide. Answer Students who enter the Middle Years Program are ages 11 to 16 and can receive a curriculum and guidelines for academic and life skills that requires them to go above and beyond the traditional school subjects. Students ages 16 to 19 can enter the Diploma Program, which is a highly competitive two-year curriculum that culminates in rigorous final examinations. Students who complete the IB Diploma Program can use it to enter top-tier universities across the globe. IB students are encouraged to be internationally minded. Theyre expected to have a deep understanding of their own culture and national identity while at the same time learning a second language and developing social and academic skills that will enable them to work with people of all nationalities. The IB Program is also research oriented and requires students to use critical thinking skills and ask questions rather than just listen. Community involvement and service is also a large part of IB (READ: College Application Crunch Time). The Typical IB Student So who is the typical IB student and what type of student will benefit from entering the International Baccalaureate program? According to the IB learner profile on the official website, IB learners strive to be inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk takers, balanced, and reflective. As youll notice this is not a short list. Students who successfully complete the IB program go above and beyond the traditional school environment in multiple ways (READ: Ask a Nerd! Taking the AP Exam'). Someone who is naturally curious and wants to know about the world and others is considered to be an inquirer. A student who is knowledgeable will want to explore a range of fields and learn about many different subjects and their global significance. IB students must also utilize creative thinking and be able to express themselves confidently and successfully in at least two languages our Irvine foreign language tutors can help with that. IB students are also expected to act with integrity and honesty and have a sense of justice, fairness and dignity. The IB student should be open-minded by nature and appreciate both their own values and the values and traditions of other cultures and nationalities. The IB student is expected to be caring and show empathy. IB students are meant to be leaders, not followers, and be able to take a risk and show determination to reach their goals. IB students are also encouraged to be reflective and think about their own ideas and examine their own strengths and weaknesses to aid in self-improvement. Encouragement To Be Balanced The most unique aspect of the IB educational program is that it encourages students to be balanced. IB students are inspired to learn how to balance their lives: the intellectual, physical, and emotional. Theyre expected to recognize that their personal well-being and happiness is important. This is not often found in the fast-paced, sink or swim traditional school system. Students who are part of families who move frequently from country to country may find that its very difficult to adjust to new school systems multiple times. Attending an IB World School can help a multi-national student maintain a streamlined curriculum and be eligible to attend college or university in almost any country. Students who wish to learn more should visit the website:  www.ibo.org. Have a question for one of our nerds? Tweet it to us @TutorNerds. Give yourself the TutorNerds advantage by checking back often for the latest in our “Ask a Nerd” series. All blog entries, with the exception of guest bloggers, are written by Tutor Nerds. Are you an education professional? If so, email us at pr@tutornerds.com for guest blogging and collaborations. We want to make this the best free education resource in SoCal, so feel free to suggest what you would like to see us post about; our Orange County private tutors are full of right answers.