For the first hour, we worked on test preparation and test-taking strategies for the PERT. Using sample tests available online, Ayden read two reading comprehension passages (one fiction and one non-fiction) and answered 5-6 questions for each. The "test vocabulary" is a stumbling block for Ayden. For example, he did not know the terms "implied" or "setting." After reading comprehension, we turned to the writing section of the test, which focuses on grammar. I am pleased that Ayden has a good sense of proper grammar. Topics included the use of to, too, two, comma placement, and word choice.

For the second hour of our session, we worked on the Ready Player One essay. The prompt was as follows: Ready Player One presents a world in which people spend most of their time online in a virtual reality world called the OASIS, both good and bad. Discuss how the OASIS is good and bad, citing examples from the book to support your argument." We discussed the prompt and the structure of a five-paragraph essay. I helped Ayden to brainstorm ideas and then roughly categorize the ideas into personal identity, work, and school. Tomorrow Ayden will shape the ideas into paragraphs with my help.