Today, Oliver and I began class by using a number of beads to talk about ratios. We found the ratios between black magnetite beads and the other beads included in the kit I brought for Oliver. I explained to Oliver ways that magnets can be made from the magnetite mineral. We discussed different patterns possible for putting the various beads onto a thread. Oliver and I worked on understanding the use of a colon to show a ratio. We discussed how ratios are similar to fractions, and how we can simplify ratios just like we can simplify fractions. Finally, we began a discussion of adding, subtracting, and multiplying decimals. Oliver was able to fairly easily add and subtract decimal numbers. He also showed some ability to multiply decimals by a whole number, however he needs more practice to master this skill.