TutorChatLive.org

60 Second Good-to-Knows - November 6, 2012

2012-02-06T15:40:00.000-08:00

This week's topic: Gardening

If you're looking to create a garden this summer, perhaps try planting marigolds! The following video offers some tips on how to make sure these flowers thrive. Also learn what animals are enemies to these delicate flowers.

January 2012 Tutor Spotlight: Naomi DM

2012-01-30T15:47:00.000-08:00

This month in our Tutor Spotlight series we are featuring Naomi DM! Naomi joined our organization in November 2011 and has tutored for a total of 14 hours so far. She's featured for developing ways to share files with students.

Getting to know Naomi...

Q: Where do you hail from?
A: Northern Mariana Islands

Q: What’s your occupation?
A: Student

Q: Why do you tutor?
A: I would like to have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by using my intelligence and creativity to assist students in achieving their best academically. In addition, I believe tutoring others would enable me to explore diverse issues and situations where I can challenge myself as a learner.

Q: What did you want to be when you were 7 years old?
A: An Astronaut

Q: What is your favorite subject?
A: English

Q: What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
A: BBQ Sauce

Q: How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
A: A woodchuck would chuck as much wood as a woodchuck could chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood.

If you'd like to nominate a tutor for the tutor spotlight, let us know who and why at admin@tutorchatlive.org!

This Week in History - December 9, 2011

2011-12-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

This week marks the 110th anniversary of the Nobel Prize! The first prizes were distributed in the fields of physics, medicine, chemistry, literature, and peace. A prize for economics was introduced in 1968. The prize is named after Alfred Nobel, a Swedish innovator, who donated money after he died to establish the prizes. Past recipients include:

- Barack Obama
- Al Gore
- Jimmy Carter
- Nelson Mandela
- Theodore Roosevelt

For more information, visit http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/first-nobel-prizes-awarded.

Word of the Week - November 18, 2011

2011-11-18T12:18:00.000-08:00

Superfluous: (adjective) [soo-pur-floo-uh's]: being more than is sufficient or required; excessive

Example: A superfluous number of volunteers showed up for the beach clean-up effort on Saturday.

Try your hand at using superfluous in a sentence by commenting on this post!

Web Development Updates

2011-11-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Students,

Unfortunately, we have come across a few roadblocks on our path to updating the website. At this time, we will be indefinitely postponing our web development project that was scheduled for completion in January until we can secure enough funding.

We appreciate your continued support of our program, and we will continue to update you with our progress.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.

TutorChatLive.org Administration

What's All That Buzz? - November 11, 2011

2011-11-11T11:52:00.000-08:00

Rick Perry's GOP debate 'oops'

On Wednesday night at the GOP debate in Detroit, candidate Rick Perry made a big stumble when trying to outline the three governmental agencies he would eliminate. This stumble undoubtedly undermines his credibility as a candidate.

These debates are meant to present the top contending candidates for the Republican nomination to the public. The candidate that performs best in the state caucuses and primaries beginning in January will face Barack Obama for President of the United States next year.

Video courtesy of the Washington Post.

60 Second Good-to-Knows - November 2, 2011

2011-10-25T14:51:00.000-07:00

This week's topic: Spanish

This video, although longer than 60 seconds, takes a humorous approach to summarizing what one would expect to learn during their first semester of taking Spanish.

This Week in History - October 25, 2011

2011-10-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

This week marks the birth of Pablo Picasso who was born on October 25, 1881 in Malaga, Spain. Picasso is one of the world's most recognized and influential artists. Over an 80 year time period, he produced over 50,000 works including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Picasso continued to produce art until his death in 1973 at 91 years old.

For more information, visit "This Day in History" at history.com.

Open Letter Regarding Tutor Availability

2011-10-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Students,

We understand your concerns regarding the availability of tutors. Volunteer tutors are the backbone of our organization, and we realize that without them, you are not able to receive the homework help that you need. Know that it is certainly not our desire to not have a sufficient number of tutors online to accommodate our growing demand. We supplement our program with additional tutors every week, but given that we are a small nonprofit, we are constrained by very limited resources. Without these resources, such as sufficient funding, we are unable to do things such as hire additional support staff and actively pursue tutor recruitment through various channels.

We very much appreciate those of you who have contributed to our organization, and we look forward to continuing to foster mutually beneficial relationships in the future. Next year, we will be launching a new web site with more tools and resources including a new chat platform that should address many of the suggestions sent to us.

Thank you for your support of our program, and we hope you will continue to visit us for your tutoring needs.

Sincerely,

TutorChatLive.org Administration

Word of the Week - October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

Filibuster: (noun) [fil-uh-buhs-ter]: the use of irregular or obstructive tactics by a member of a legislative assembly to prevent the adoption of a measure generally favored or to force a decision against the will of the majority.

Example: Opposing political parties will often make long speeches as a filibuster against the passage of a bill presented by the other party.

What's All That Buzz? - October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Protests Emerge Around the U.S.

In recent days, the "Occupy Wall Street" protest in New York City against corporate greed has spread to other parts of the country.

From the Wall Street Journal:

"Demonstrators inspired by the Occupy Wall Street movement in New York protested in several cities around the United States on Saturday.

In Washington, D.C., the National Air and Space Museum was closed after demonstrators swarmed the building to protest a drone exhibit and security guards used pepper spray to repel them, sickening a number of protesters."

Link to full article: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203476804576619440086145216.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

60 Second Good-to-Knows - October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

This week's topic: Anatomy

There are 27 total bones in the hand, the main bones of which are the carpals, the metacarpals, and the phalanges.

Listen to a student discuss the bones in this video:

This Week in History - October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

This week marks the initial construction of the White House in Washington, D.C. Free Masons laid the first cornerstone to the White House on October 13, 1792. Although the site of the house at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue was chosen by George Washington, the first president to actually live in the White House was John Adams, the second president of the United States, who moved in on November 1, 1800.

For more information, visit "This Day in History" at history.com.

Word of the Week - September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

Shirk: (verb) [shurk]: Avoid or neglect (a duty or responsibility)

Example: Because John couldn't get the help he needed, he shirked on his homework assignment.

What's All That Buzz? - September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

Nine dead in Reno air crash

From the USA Today:

"RENO, Nev. (AP) – The death toll rose to nine Saturday in an air race crash in Reno as investigators determined that several spectators were killed on impact as the 1940s-model plane appeared to lose a piece of its tail before slamming like a missile into a crowded tarmac."

Link to the full article: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2011-09-17/Reno-air-race-crash/50445398/1

60 Second Good-to-Knows - September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T06:15:00.000-07:00

This week’s topic: Math

The Pythagorean theorem is a hallmark of high school geometry classes. It is the most ultizied way to find the length of the sides of a right triangle. A right traiangle has three sides: A, B, and the hypotenuse. By substituting two lengths into the forumula below, it becomes very simple to find the third length:

A^2 + B^2 = C^2

If you want to put the Pythagorean theorem into use, try requesting a chat with one of our online tutors!

This Week in History - September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

This week marks the establishment of the Supreme Court of the United States. On September 24, 1789, then President George Washington signed the Judiciary Act of 1789 and nominated six justices to the court - John Jay (chief justice), John Rutledge, William Cushing, John Blair, Robert Harrison, and James Wilson. Today, nine justices sit on the high court.

The US Supreme Court, established by Article 3 of the Constitution, serves as one of the three primary branches of government. These three branches (the judiciary, the legislative, and the executive) enable the United States to maintain a checks-and-balances system through a separation of powers. The Supreme Court has the highest jurisdiction over all laws although they are selective in the cases that they choose to hear. Most cases involve questions of constitutionality.

Famous Supreme Court cases include Rowe v. Wade (1973), Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954), and Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). For more information, visit the "This Day in History" page on history.com.

...and we're back!

2011-09-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome back and we hope you had a great summer! On Monday, September 12, 2011, we will be resuming our normal schedule with a full staff of tutors. You can continue to look forward to the free, live, online tutoring you've come to expect with a few added features coming later in the semester.

Thanks and we look forward to helping you achieve success throughout this school year!

TutorChatLive.org Summer Session

2011-05-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

Beginning Monday, June 13, 2011, TutorChatLive.org will be entering our summer session until early September (date TBD). During this session we will still be offering tutoring services (don't fret!) but we will have a limited number of tutors on staff. We will also pause all tutor recruitment, the StudyBreak, and academic community blog posts.

From all of us at TutorChatLive.org, we wish you a safe and plesant summer vacation!

Study Break Answer

2011-05-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Did you guess Philadelphia for last week's Study Break?

This museum is located in which US city?

Our user SeptemberRea did. Congrats, you will be receiving 20 TutorPoints!

Given that the end of the academic year is rapidly approaching, we will be taking a StudyBreak break until September. Dont worry, we will still be offering tutoring services over the summer!

New Study Break!

2011-04-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in last week's Study Break! We've now posted this new one:

This museum is located in which US city?

All respondents receive 5 Tutor Points. Hurry! This contest ends
May 3, 2011. To participate, simply access our Study Break page and log into your TutorChatLive.org account. If needed, clues will be provided here in our blog.

Good luck!

Study Break Answer

2011-04-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Did you guess 6°12′S 106°48′E for last week's Study Break?

What are the latitude and longitude coordinates of this city?

For the first time in Study Break history, no one guessed the correct answer but all participants still received 5 TutorPoints!

We've now posted a new Study Break ending May 3, 2011.

What's All That Buzz 4-18-11

2011-04-18T23:12:00.000-07:00

A new study reveals that the “Alcohol-energy drink combo [is] riskier than booze alone.” The research consisted of splitting 56 college students between the ages of 21 and 33 into four groups in order to test the effects of the combination. The four groups were given an alcoholic beverage, an energy drink, a mixed drink consisting of both ingredients, and a placebo, respectively. The study concluded that even though all subjects who consumed alcohol showed impaired impulse control, those who drank the alcohol and energy drink mixture perceived themselves to be less impaired than otherwise. The influence of the alcoholic energy drinks could cause people to take more risks while drunk because they feel less impaired than they actually are.
To read more about this topic, please visit USA Today

This Week in History 4-18-11

2011-04-18T23:11:00.002-07:00

April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated in the United States. Earth Day was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. It is a day intended to raise awareness and concern for the Earth’s natural environment and to bring the issue of environmental awareness onto the political platform. In July of the same year, the Environmental Protection Agency was established by special executive order. As of 1990, more than 200 million people in 141 countries celebrated Earth Day.
To learn more about Earth Day please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 4-18-11

2011-04-18T23:11:00.001-07:00

This week’s topic: Math

Scalar- a scalar quantity can be fully described by a (signed) number with units

Vector- a vector quantity must be described by a number (its magnitude) and direction

Word of the Week 4-18-11

2011-04-18T23:10:00.001-07:00

Stenorian: (adj). Very loud or powerful in sound
Example: The opera singer’s stentorian voice amazed the whole audience.

What's All That Buzz 4-11-11

2011-04-12T00:25:00.001-07:00

Japanese authorities raised the severity level of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear crisis from level 5 to level 7, the highest level on an international scale and on par with the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. The level 7 ranking signifies a “major release of radioactive material with widespread heath and environmental effects.” Taking into account that radiation leaks are 10 percent that of Chernobyl, the Japanese authorities called for a 19 miles evacuation zone.
To read more about this topic, please visit The Washington Post

This Week in History 4-11-11

2011-04-12T00:24:00.002-07:00

April 11, 1814, Napoleon Bonaparte, the emperor of France, was forced to abdicate the throne and was banished to the Mediterranean island of Elba. Napoleon was born on August 15, 1769 on the Mediterranean island of Corsica. A brilliant military commander, Napoleon rose to become Napoleon I, the Emperor of France. The invasion of Russia in 1812 marked the decline of his fortunes. His forces were defeated the following year. The Six Coalition invaded France and forced Napoleon to abdicate. He was exiled to the island of Elba. Napoleon escaped Elba a year late, only to be defeated once again at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Napoleon spent the rest of his life on the island of Saint Helena.
To learn more about Napoleon’s exile to Elba please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 4-11-11

2011-04-12T00:24:00.001-07:00

This week’s topic: History

Oracle-bone inscriptions refer to the ancient Chinese oracle bone writings found on animal bones and turtle shells used in divination rituals during China’s Bronze Age. The bones and turtle shells were inscribed upon using a bronze pin, and then heated, and cracked. These inscriptions are important historical records that confirm the existence of the Shang dynasty.

Word of the Week 4-11-11

2011-04-12T00:23:00.000-07:00

Choleric: (adj). Easily angered; bad-tempered, extremely irritable
Example: The ill-tempered football player has a choleric disposition.

Study Break Clue

2011-04-10T05:21:00.000-07:00

Here's a clue for this week's Study Break: "What are the latitude and longitude coordinates of this city?"

The city in in question is located in Southeast Asia.

Good luck!

What's All That Buzz 4-4-11

2011-04-04T21:09:00.000-07:00

Edging closer to the next election season, President Barack Obama faces the challenge of voters’ anger about gasoline rising near record high again. During a speech at Georgetown University, President Obama called for reducing oil imports by one-third by the year 2025. Obama pointed out that the United States cannot continue to depend on the oil-rich Middle East and emphasized the need for energy independence.
To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times

This Week in History 4-4-11

2011-04-04T21:08:00.004-07:00

April 5, 1614, Pocahontas, the daughter of the Powhatan Indian confederacy, marries tobacco planter John Rolfe. In spring of 1613, Pocahontas was taken hostage by English Captain Samuel Argall in order to negotiate a permanent peace with her father Chief Powhatan. During her captivation, she learned the English customs, converted to Christianity, and fell in love with John Rolfe. Their marriage brought years of peace between the English colonists and the Powhatans.

To learn more about Pocahontas’ marriage to John Rolfe please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 4-4-11

2011-04-04T21:08:00.003-07:00

This week’s topic: Geology

Earthquakes are sudden movements in the earth’s crust that occur along faults (planes of weakness), where one rock mass slides past another one.

Epicenter= point on surface above earthquake
Focus= actual spot in Earth of earthquake slippage

Word of the Week 4-4-11

2011-04-04T21:08:00.001-07:00

Je ne sais quoi: (n). an indefinable, elusive quality, esp. a pleasing one
Example: She has a certain je ne sais quoi that charms everybody.

Guest Post: Modern Technology and the Japan Earthquake

2011-04-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

Anna Her, a California high school student, has some interesting thoughts about modern technology and its use in the aftermath of the recent earthquake in Japan:

Looking around my room, I see my cellphone, iTouch, house phone, and laptop, on which I am typing this. Within these last few decades, the advances in technology have changed the way we communicate with others. Are we relying on these convenient means of communication too much? Japan has recently been struck with a 9.0 magnitude earthquake, leaving 27,000 either dead or missing. Among the casualties were the modern communication networks. In a tech-crazed society where there are plenty of instantaneous ways of contacting people, the sudden loss of connectivity proved to be frightening. The Japanese people have turned to many old-fashioned alternatives, such as radio, notices on bulletins, newspapers, and even the use of human messengers. “Cellphones and the Internet were the first things to go...Thankfully the old technologies were still around.” said Eri Itobata, a high school student. As Mr. Itobata mentioned, old technology still proved to be useful in times of disaster.

What do you think about the invention of cellphones and computers? Do we take modern communications too much for granted?

To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times.

New Study Break

2011-03-29T14:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in last week's Study Break! We've now posted this new one:

What are the longitude and latitude directions of this city?

All respondents receive 5 Tutor Points. Hurry! This contest ends
April 12, 2011. To participate, simply access our Study Break page and log into your TutorChatLive.org account. If needed, clues will be provided here in our blog.

Good luck!

Study Break Answer

2011-03-29T14:42:00.000-07:00

Did you guess Oceania Cruises for last week's Study Break?

This ship is a member of the fleet of what cruise line?

Our user Arjoyce15 did. Congrats! You'll be receiving 20 Tutor Points.

We've now posted a new Study Break ending April 12, 2011.

What's All That Buzz 3-28-11

2011-03-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

Zoo officials continue to search for the poisonous Egyptian cobra that escaped on Sunday from New York’s Bronx Zoo. The venomous Egyptian cobra can kill an elephant in three hours and a person in 15 minutes. Staff members quickly closed of the reptile house. The 20-inch cobra is believed to be contained in a nonpublic, isolated area of the building.
To read more about this topic, please visit CNN

This Week In History 3-23-11

2011-03-28T18:37:00.000-07:00

President Reagan shot

March 30, 1981, President Ronald Reagan was shot in the chest outside the Washington Hilton Hotel after addressing a labor meeting by John Hinckley Jr. Hinckley fired six shots, hitting President Reagan, White House Press Secretary James Brady, Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy, and District of Columbia policeman Thomas Delahaney. Reagan was rushed to the hospital with a collapsed left lung, but listed in good condition after the surgery. Arrested on March 30, 1981, John Hinckley was later found not guilty by reason of insanity.

To learn more about the Attempted Assassination of President Reagan please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 3-28-11

2011-03-28T18:36:00.002-07:00

This week’s topic: Geometry

Volume:

Cube: s^3
s: length of one side

Rectangular prism: l × w x h
l: length
w: width
h: height

Irregular prism: b × h
b: area of base
h: length of height

Cylinder: πr^2
r: radius
h: height

Sphere: (4/3)πr^3
r: radius

Cone: (1/3) πr^2h
r: radius
h: height

Word of the Week 3-28-11

2011-03-28T18:36:00.001-07:00

Sedentary: (adj). Characterized by or requiring much sitting
Example: Due to the office worker’s sedentary lifestyle, he gets little to no exercise.

What’s All That Buzz 3-21-11

2011-03-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Traces of radiation from the tsunami stricken nuclear power plant has drifted eastward on prevailing winds. First reaching the West Coast of the United State and now diluted concentration is detected along the East Coast. However, heath experts said that the enormously diffused radiation, with its low concentration, should pose no health consequences in the United States.

To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times

This Week in History 3-21-11

2011-03-21T19:04:00.002-07:00

Stamp Act imposed on American colonies

March 22, 1765, the British government imposed the Stamp Act on the colonies of British America in order to raise money to pay off debts and fund expenses of defending new territories won from the French in the Seven Years’ War. The Stamp Act was a direct tax upon printed materials such as legal documents, newspapers, magazines, and other types of paper used. Following the Sugar Act (1764), Currency Act (1764), and Quatering Act (1765), the Stamp Act provoked protests throughout the colonies. October, 1765, nine of thirteen colonies sent representatives to the Stamp Act Congress, where the “Declaration of Rights and Grievances” was drafted. The Stamp Act was abolished the following year.

To learn more about Stamp Act please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 3-21-2011

2011-03-21T19:04:00.001-07:00

This week’s topic: Environmental Science

Hydrologic Cycle Model: The bulk of all precipitation that falls on land is derived from evaporation of ocean water, the Earth’s main repository of H2O; most of the water evaporated (78%) falls back into the ocean and 22% falls on land.

Work of the Week 3-21-11

2011-03-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

Carte blanche: (n.) - Unconditional authority; full discretionary power.
Example: A sheet of paper that is blank except for a signature and given by the signer to another person to write in what he or she pleases.

Study Break Clue II

2011-03-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

In addition to last week's clue, we're posting another one.

Here's the new clue:

The cruise line is known for their restaurants named the Polo Grill and Toscana.

Submit your answer on our Study Break page at http://www.tutorchatlive.org/study_break.php?pageId=7.

Good luck!

What's All That Buzz 3-14-11

2011-03-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Following Japan’s 9.0-magnitutde earthquake and devastating tsunami, the situation at a damaged nuclear plant continues to remain unstable. Radiation levels at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant rose to “levels that can impact human health.” While crews are attempting to contain the crisis, the possibility of a meltdown remains feasible.

To read more about this topic, please visit CNN

This Week in History 3-14-11

2011-03-14T21:16:00.002-07:00

Albert Einstein born

On March 14, 1879, the famed theoretical physicist Albert Einstein was born in Germany. The son of a Jewish electrical engineer, Albert Einstein was the man responsible for the discovery of the theory of special and general relativity. Known as the father of modern physics, Einstein made radical contributions to the field of quantum theory, which eventually led to the development of quantum mechanics.

To learn more about Albert Einstein please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 3-14-11

2011-03-14T21:16:00.001-07:00

This week’s topic: Biology

The only way an individual can trace their ancestral lineage is through mitochondrial DNA. Supposedly the Y- Chromosome mutates over generations, making this chromosome useless as an indicator of where your ancestors are from. The mitochondrial DNA that is only passed down by women has stayed in tacked perfectly throughout human evolution and is a perfect instrument for use when trying to locate your ancestral origin.

Work of the Week 3-14-11

2011-03-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

Fester: (v.) - To undergo decay; rot.
Example: The negligent groundskeeper allowed the once beautiful park to fester.

Study Break Clue

2011-03-11T11:07:00.001-08:00

Here's a clue for this week's Study Break: "This ship is a member of the fleet of what cruise line?"

This ship became the fourth member of the cruise line's fleet last month.

Good luck!

What's All That Buzz 2-28-11

2011-02-28T18:20:00.000-08:00

Friction arose as Chinese officials accused the foreign media of overreacting to a small scale attempt at protest in Beijing. According to Chinese officials, only a handful of ordinary citizens responded to the call for protest in Beijing and Shanghai, and that the number was at all times outnumbered by foreign journalists. In contrast, American ambassador Jon Huntsman condemns “the detention and harassment” by the Chinese police of foreign journalists.

To read more about this topic, please visit The Economist

This Week in History 2-28-11

2011-02-28T18:15:00.000-08:00

Watson and Crick discover chemical structure of DNA

February 28, 1953, Cambridge University scientists James D. Watson and Frances H.C. Crick announced their discovery of the double-helix structure of DNA. They determined that the structure of DNA is a double-helix polymer, a spiral of two DNA strands wound around each other. This extraordinary discovery solved question of how genetic information is able to be passed down from one generation to the next.

To learn more about the discovery of the chemical structure of DNA please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 2-28-11

2011-02-28T18:14:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: Physics
Frictional force: The force between two bodies in direct contract; parallel to the plane of contact and in the opposite direction of the motion of one object relative to the other.

Kinetic friction: The force of friction resisting the relative motion of two objects in motion with respect to each other.

Static friction: The force of friction resisting the relative motion of two bodies at rest with respect to each other.

Word of the Week 2-28-11

2011-02-28T18:13:00.000-08:00

Bequeath: (v.) - To pass (something) on to another; hand down
Example: The parents bequeathed to their children a respect for hard work.

Celebrating our First Year in Service!

2011-02-23T07:57:00.001-08:00

TutorChatLive.org is proud to announce its first anniversary! Exactly one year ago, company Directors, Matthew Capeletti and Diana Kattan, watched with excitement as TutorChatLive.org launched, and its very first users received free, live, online tutoring. Although 2010 proved to be a rough year for the organization, given the economic downturn, we nonetheless acquired over 35 tutors and over 9,000 site users. We are very happy to be in service and to offer students a convenient, out-of-the-classroom academic resource. We hope that this new year brings us greater prosperity and that we can improve and grow our services with our users' support.

New Study Break

2011-02-22T14:25:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in last week's Study Break! We've now posted this new one:

What are the latitude and longitude directions of this city?

All respondents receive 5 Tutor Points. Hurry! This contest ends
April 12, 2011. To participate, simply access our Study Break page and log into your TutorChatLive.org account. If needed, clues will be provided here in our blog.

Good luck!

Study Break Answer

2011-02-22T14:15:00.001-08:00

Did you guess Secretary of Education for last week's Study Break?

What is this man's position?

Our user Vicky did. Congrats Vicky! You'll be receiving 20 Tutor Points.

We've now posted a new Study Break ending March 14, 2011.

What's All That Buzz 2-21-11

2011-02-21T23:44:00.000-08:00

According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, more than 4,400 of the nation’s 85,000 dams are considered susceptible to failure. The failure of these dams would undoubtedly cause enormous damage to life and property. However, the potential repair costs are also staggering. State dam safety officials’ group estimates a total cost of $51 billion to rehabilitate all dams. However, the question is who would pay for these costs. Two-thirds of all dams are private. The remaining dams are owned by state and local governments. During this recessionary era, nobody seems to be willing to finance such enormous projects.

To read more about this topic, please visit the New York Times

This Week in History 2-21-11

2011-02-21T23:43:00.000-08:00

Malcolm X assassinated

On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X was assassinated by the members of the rival Black Muslim organization, the Nation of Islam, in New York City. Born as Malcolm Little, he was raised in an environment advocating black pride. Malcolm’s father, a Baptist preacher who advocated black nationalist ideals, was murdered by the white supremacist Black Legion. Taken away by welfare caseworkers, Malcolm became involved in criminal activities in Boston and New York. In 1946, he was sent to prison, where he a member of the Nation of Islam and took on the last name “X” to symbolize his stolen African identity. Conflict between Elijah Muhammad, the head of the organization, and Malcolm X led to him quitting the organization in 1964. After returning from his pilgrimage to Mecca and travels throughout Africa and the Middle East, Malcolm X was shot to death by Nation of Islam members on February 21, 1965.

To learn more about Malcolm X’s assassination please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 2-21-11

2011-02-21T23:42:00.002-08:00

This week’s topic: Economics

Public Goods: A public good is both nonrival and nonexcludable. A public good can be consumed simultaneously by everyone, and no one can be excluded from enjoying its benefits.

Private Goods: A private good is both rival and excludable.

Common Resources: A common resource is rival and nonexcludable. A unit of a common resource can be used only once, but no one can be prevented from using what is available.

Word of the Week 2-21-11

2011-02-21T23:42:00.001-08:00

Impugn: (v.) - To attack as false or questionable; challenge in argument
Example: The presidential candidate impugned his political opponent's record.

What's All That Buzz 2-14-11

2011-02-14T13:11:00.001-08:00

According to the preliminary census from January, the number of poor people in the U.S. is millions higher. According to the report, 1 in 6 Americans are struggling in poverty due to the current economic conditions as well as rising costs of living, especially costs of medical care. Senior citizens 65 years old and older are even more likely to fall into poverty. A new revised census formula reported overall poverty rate of 15.7% for 2009 compared to the 14.3% reported last year.

To read more about this topic, please visit USA Today

This Week in History 2-14-11

2011-02-14T13:10:00.002-08:00

St. Valentine beheaded

According to legend, on February 14 around the year 278 A.D., holy priest Valentine was executed during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. Claudius II, also known as Claudius the Cruel, directed Rome through many unpopular military campaigns and therefore needed to maintain a strong army. In order to recruit more soldiers into his military leagues, Claudius banned all marriages and engagements in Rome in order to cut men’s familial ties. Valentine defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages in secret. When his actions were discovered, Claudius ordered Valentine to be put to death. (In reality, the exact identity of St. Valentine is unclear.)

To learn more about the St. Valentine please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 2-14-11

2011-02-14T13:10:00.001-08:00

This week’s topic: Physics

Laws of Thermodynamics:
1. First law of thermodynamics: The change in the internal energy of a system U plus the work done by the system W equals the net Heat Q added to the system: Q = ΔU + W
2. Second law of thermodynamics:
a. Heat flows spontaneously from a hotter object to a cooler one, but not in the opposite direction.
b. No machine can work with 100% efficiency: all machines generate heat, some of which is lost to the surroundings.
c. Any system tends spontaneously towards maximum entropy.

Word or the Week 2-14-11

2011-02-14T13:09:00.001-08:00

Encumber: (v.) - To put a heavy load on; burden
Example: The hiker was encumbered with a heavy pack.
Try creating your own sentences using the word EMCUMBER and share them here!

What's All That Buzz 2-7-11

2011-02-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

According to a Brookings Institution analysis of the census data released Monday, whites continues to decline as a portion of the American population in 2009. Whites are now the minority in nursery schools, preschools and kindergarten in eight states- Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas. The percentage of whites in all school enrollments falls from 64.6 to 58.8 nationally. The recent population growth has come from Hispanics, blacks and Asians, as the older white population continues to age, causing ever more diversity in America’s youth population.

To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times

This Week in History 2-7-11

2011-02-07T22:13:00.000-08:00

Nelson Mandela released from prison

February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela, an anti-apartheid leader and later President of South Africa from 1994-1999, was released from prison after 27 years. Mandela joined the African National Congress in 1944. In 1952, he became the deputy national president of the ANC. In 1962, Mandela was convicted of sabotage along with other charges and sentenced to life in prison. He served 27 years in prison before his release on February 11, 1990.

To learn more about the Nelson Mandela please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 2-7-11

2011-02-07T22:12:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: Physics

Reflection: When a wave hits a barrier, it will reflect, reversing its direction and orientation. Some part of a wave will also reflect if the medium through which a wave is traveling changes from less dense to more dense.

Refraction: When a wave encounters a change in medium, part or all of it will continues on into the same general direction as the original wave. The frequency is unchanged in refraction.

Diffraction: The slight bending of a wave around an obstacle.

Word or the Week 2-7-11

2011-02-07T22:11:00.000-08:00

Nouveau riche: (n.) - One who has recently become rich, especially one who flaunts newly acquired wealth.
Example: The nouveau riche of the 1920s spent money conspicuously.

New Study Break!

2011-02-04T11:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all participants in last week's Study Break! The correct answer was Cornell. Congratulations to ryanlro for correctly guessing the answer. You will be receiving 20 Tutor Points!

We have now posted this new Study Break:

What is this man's position?

Hurry! This contest ends February 21, 2011.

2011-01-31T18:24:00.001-08:00

NASA’s Ames Research Center, located at Moffett Field, California, is the home of the Kepler Mission. The 600 million dollar satellite observatory, named Kepler, is sifting through the stars in search of the most Earth-like planets. In order to answer the age old question of whether we are alone in the universe, a team of scientists programmed Kepler to detect planets in the “Goldilocks” zone where water could potentially exist. Though we may not find the answers to our questions within the next few years, this mission certainly takes us a step away from earth and into space.

To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times

This Week in History 1-31-11

2011-01-31T18:23:00.000-08:00

Truman announces development of H-bomb

January 31, 1950, President Harry S. Truman announced his decision to support the development of the hydrogen bomb five months after the Soviet Union detonated its own atomic bomb and after British and U.S. intelligence’s conclusion that a top scientist in the U.S. nuclear program was a spy for the Soviet Union. Exacerbating the American-Soviet arms race, Truman approved massive funding to develop the first H-bomb. On November 1, 1952, the United States detonated the world’s first hydrogen bomb on the Elugelab Atoll in the Pacific Marshall Islands.

To learn more about the development of H-bomb please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 1-31-11

2011-01-31T18:22:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: Environmental Science

Acid rain:
Coal has sulfur in it. When rainwater runs through coal mines, pits, or tailings fields, the sulfur turns into sulfuric acid in the water. The effects are detrimental to nearby creeks and streams. If the sulfur escapes up the stack during burning, it acidifies the rain and lakes downstream. The problem can be ameliorated by use of “scrubbers” to remove 90% of SO2 from stack gases. They are now required on all new coal plants in US.

Word of the Week 1-31-11

2011-01-31T18:21:00.000-08:00

Limpid: (adj.) - clear, transparent, or pellucid, as water, crystal, or air
Example: We could see to the very bottom of the limpid pond.

Study Break Clue II

2011-01-30T07:57:00.001-08:00

So far, no one has guessed the correct answer to this week's Study Break. Here's another clue:

The school is a member of the Ivy League.

Good luck and remember, the contest ends February 1, 2011!

What’s All That Buzz 1-24-11

2011-01-24T22:28:00.001-08:00

The president of the European Central Bank, Jean-Claude Trichet, signals that facing mounting inflation fears the ECB could raise interest rates in the future. While the globe is still recovering from the latest global economic crisis, inflation is already accelerating. Rising prices of raw material and volatile commodities such as food and energy became more evident in recent months. Trichet reasons that budget discipline and sound fiscal policies rather than renewed stimulus will help economic recovery in Europe.

To read more about this topic, please visit The Wall Street Journal

This Week in History 1-25-2011

2011-01-24T22:27:00.000-08:00

World’s largest diamond found

January 25, 1905, a 3,106-carat diamond weighing 1.33 pounds was discovered at the Premier Mine in Pretoria, South Africa. The mine’s superintendent, Frederick Wells, spotted the diamond 18 feet below the surface. The diamond was sold to the Transvaal provincial government, which in turn presented the diamond to King Edward VII of Britain for this birthday. The Cullinan diamond was cut into nine large and about one hundred smaller stones. The largest stone, called the “Cullinan I,” is mounted in the British Royal Scepter.

To learn more about the World’s largest diamond found please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows 1-24-11

2011-01-24T22:25:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: Environmental Science

The study of the earth and its environments in four large systems:

1. Atmosphere- the gaseous envelope of the planet
2. Hydrosphere- water in its many forms; oceans, rivers, lakes, ice (glaciers), water vapor
3. Lithosphere- the hard rock of the planetary body itself; more specifically the crust.
4. Biosphere- the thin film of life that lives on the surface and in the oceans

Word of the Week 1-24-11

2011-01-24T22:22:00.000-08:00

Pièce de résistance: (n.) - An outstanding accomplishment
Example: "The bison is an evolutionary pièce de résistance, the result of thousands of years of genetic development under the toughest weather and geographical conditions" (B.J. Roche).
Try creating your own sentences using the word PIECE DE RESISTANCE and share them here!

Study Break Clue

2011-01-21T09:00:00.001-08:00

Here's a clue to those struggling with this week's Study Break. The school is located in the northeastern part of the United States. The answer, therefore, is not Oregon State.

Good luck!

Tutor Profile: Matthew S.

2011-01-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

Every other week we will be profiling one of our fabulous TutorChatLive.org tutors. This week, meet Matthew S.!

ABOUT ME

WHY DO I TUTOR?: Because learning is the most important thing.

HOMETOWN: Boston, MA

LAST BOOK I READ: The Never Ending by Andrew Hudgins

EDUCATION AND WORK

HIGHEST EDUCATION: Master's of Fine Arts

CURRENT WORK: Poet

FUN STUFF

DREAM VACATION: Alaska

FAVORITE TIME PERIOD: North America, pre-Columbus

WHAT I WANTED TO DO AT AGE 7: Astronaut! I still want to go to space someday!

FONDEST HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: I was very happy to graduate, it was a lot of hard work, and everything got better afterward. I got a better job and got into college, and I loved college.

What's all that buzz? 1-17-11

2011-01-17T20:33:00.000-08:00

Five thousand red-winged blackbirds fell from the sky one evening in Arkansas at the beginning of the month. As some proposes conspiracy theories such as secret military testing, biologists believe that human disturbances instead of government conspiracies are responsible for the incident. Every year approximately 72 million birds die directly from pesticides, 60 million from cars, 174 million from high-tension transmission lines, and 97 to 976 million from building windows. However, the most detrimental factor is lost of natural habitats.

To read more about this topic, please visit The New York Times

This week in history 1-17-11

2011-01-17T20:29:00.002-08:00

Edgar Allan Poe is born

January 19, 1809, American writer, poet, and literary critic Edgar Allan Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts. After being orphaned at age three, he was left in the care of his godfather, John Allan, a wealthy tobacco merchant. Poe attended the University of Virginia for eight months before leaving due to a falling out with John Allan. He also briefly attended West Point. After marrying his 13-year-old cousin Virginia Clemm, Poe moved to Philadelphia, where he became known for his “direct and incisive” literary criticism as well as his horror stories. Some of Poe’s well known stories and poems are “The Fall of the House of Usher,” “The Tell-Tale Heart,” and “The Raven.” Poe died in a hospital in Baltimore after being found incoherent in a gutter in 1849.

To learn more about Edgar Allan Poe please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second good-to-knows 1-17-11

2011-01-17T20:29:00.001-08:00

This week’s topic: Science

Scientific methodology steps:
1. Gathering of data and observations ( measurements)
2. Generation of a hypothesis (an idea or model) to explain a pattern or an anomaly seen in the data
3. Testing the hypothesis- designing an experimental program or data-gathering strategy to see if predictions made by the hypothesis are false (Results should be verifiable, and independently tested.)
4. Refinement of the hypothesis as further data is gathered and observations interpreted
5. Publication of data and results of hypothesis testing
6. If the hypothesis can be generalized to fit a wide variety of situations, it becomes a theory.

Word of the week 1-17-11

2011-01-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

Repository: (n.) - A place where things may be put for safekeeping
Example: Vatican library is a repository of information.

New Study Break!

2011-01-14T11:49:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in last week's Study Break contest! We loved reading your responses. It was tough, but the chosen winner is RoYaLxChickyy who wrote "Where's nemo? I have his Christmas present!"

We have now posted this new Study Break:

"The person below started which school?"

Remember, the winner wins 20 Tutor Points and everyone who participates wins 5 points!

Good luck!

What's all that buzz? 1-10-11

2011-01-12T14:58:00.000-08:00

According to an annual study of the United States’ most literate cities, Washingtonians topped the list. The study examines whether people do participate in reading rather than if the people are able to read. The results show disturbing trends including the decline in “newspaper circulation,” “book-buying,” slow growth in “educational attainment” even when taken into consideration the increase in internet usage and availability of libraries.

The top ten cities in 2010 rankings are Washington, Seattle, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, St. Paul, Denver, Portland, Ore., and St. Louis.

To read more about this topic, please visit USA Today

This week in history 1-10-11

2011-01-12T14:55:00.000-08:00

Prohibition takes effect

January 16, 1919, the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol, was ratified. The 18th Amendment was in response to the temperance movements of the early 19th century when some Americans were concerned about the adverse effects of hard liquor and alcoholism. However in 1933, the 21st Amendment was ratified, repealing the prohibition of alcohol.

To learn more about the Prohibition please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second good-to-knows 1-10-11

2011-01-12T14:54:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: Math

Exponents:

Exponents are shorthand for repeated multiplication of a number by itself.
For example:
1) 4^3
= 4x4x4
=64
2) 1.5^5
=1.5x1.5x1.5x1.5x1.5
=7.59375

Word of the week 1-10-11

2011-01-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

Wheedle: (v.) -To persuade or attempt to persuade by flattery or guile; to obtain (something) by artful persuasions.

Example: I wheedled a new car out of my father.

What's All That Buzz? 1/3/11

2011-01-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

Iraq continues to be a dangerous place after the end of war. Sunni-Shia rivalry continues, suicide-bombings still occurs from time to time, and political stability is not yet achieved. Even after the official departure of the American combat troops in August 2010, 50 thousand American soldiers remain stationed in Iraq. Despite instabilities, oil companies are increasing investments. Oil production is predicted to return to pre-2003 levels of over 2.5 million barrels a day. In sum, the future of Iraq rests on many factors including religious rivalry, regional diplomacy, foreign influence, and more.

To read more about this topic, please visit The Economist.

This Week in History: 1/3/2011

2011-01-04T21:34:00.000-08:00

First U.S. presidential election

On January 7, 1789, the first presidential election of the United States of America was held following the ratification of the Constitution in 1788. At the time, only white, male property owners were allowed to vote within the Electoral College system. In this election, George Washington became elected as the first president of the United States, and John Adams became the first vice president. Washington was sworn into office on April 30, 1789.

To learn more about the First U.S. presidential election please visit This Day in History at History.com.

60-Second Good-To-Knows: 1/3/2011

2011-01-04T21:30:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: United States History

The Oregon Trail:

The Oregon Trail was originally a series of unconnected trails used by the Native Americans. In the early 19th century, fur traders expanded the trails to transport pelts. By the 1840s, the Oregon Trail became a two thousand mile historic overland migration route from Missouri to Oregon and California. For two and a half decades from the 1840s to the 1860s, the Oregon Trail served as the main route for travel to the western United States.

Word of the Week: 1/3/2011

2011-01-04T21:28:00.000-08:00

Redolent: (adj). - Having or emitting fragrance; aromatic, suggestive, reminiscent

Example: The candidate is conducting a campaign redolent of machine politics.

Try creating your own sentences using the word REDOLENT and share them here!

60-Second Good-To-Knows: 12/13/2010

2010-12-17T12:09:00.000-08:00

This week’s topic: International relations

Membership in the United Nations Security Council:

The United Nations Security Council is composed of five permanent members –China, France, Russian Federation, United Kingdom, and United States- with veto power and ten elected non-permanent members with two-year terms.

Word of the Week: 12/13/2010

2010-12-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

Gargantuan: (adj). - Gigantic; enormous; colossal

Example: The military commander assigned the soldiers a gargantuan task.

Try creating your own sentences using the word GARGANTUAN and share them on our forum!

New Study Break Contest!

2010-12-08T12:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in last week's Study Break. You're right, the answer is Facebook. The first user to guess the picture was DallasK, who will be receiving 20 Tutor Points! Everyone else will receive 5 Tutor Points. Check your profile after you login for your Tutor Point balance.

Now that we are approaching the holidays, we have posted a new holiday-themed Study Break!

The best caption wins 20 Tutor Points! Hurry, TutorChatLive.org judges will be picking a winner on Monday, December 27, 2010.

What's All That Buzz? 12/6/2010

2010-12-07T21:43:00.000-08:00

The United States and other nations are pressing Iran to assure the international community that the country does not intend to build nuclear bombs. Iranian officials declared that Iran does not intend to compromise on its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. However, given the country’s history of concealing nuclear development, military programs, and refusal to obey the U.N. Security Council, the United States and other nations may have reason to doubt Iran’s intentions. The Talks are scheduled to continue Tuesday, December 7, 2010.

This article was a courtesy of The New York Times.