SAT Math Prep. Final session of 3 which focused upon Trigonometry problems, angles in radians, word problems with data and statistics, and geometry similar figures.

SAT Math Preparation: Square Root Operations and Equations, Solving Rational/Algebraic Equations, Pythagorean Theorem, and Composite Geometric Areas.

SAT Math Prep and Review: Explanation of methods of solving Quadratic Equations, determining linear equations from data tables, and factoring trinomials/FOIL Method.

Joshua and I began by reviewing the formulas that would be helpful for Josh to know. We reviewed formulas for volumes of irregular shapes, we looked at midpoint and distance formulas, as well as different ways to write the equation of linear and quadratic functions. We looked over problems with trigonometry and advanced algebra.

Joshua and I started by discussing conic sections. We reviewed the equations for a circle, parabola, ellipse, and hyperbola. We identified how to recognize their equations by given their graphs (and vice versa). We recalled how to compute the vertex, axis of symmetry, how to determine if it has a reflection and vertical dilation. Next we pulled problems to practice. Joshua did excellent with this new concept. Next we looked at the ACT website with practice problems. We scanned to find the challenging problems. We were able to review the law of sines and cosines, some matrix problems, and algebraic function problems.

It was great to see Joshua today. We began with answering questions that Joshua had from his practice test. We covered a problem regarding triangles and considering how the sides would be proportional. Josh had the right idea on the setup, but was not correlating the correct numbers together. Once explained, he understood the error. Next, he explained that his loss of points came from the Algebra and Geometry section of the ACT. We looked at the breakdown of content within those sections and Josh said he did not have any understanding of matrices. So we looked at the types of problems that the ACT tests when it comes to matrices. We discussed how to add, subract, and multiply matrices. We discussed how to find a determinant. We worked on how to use matrices to represent systems of equations. Then, we pulled up practice problems on those concepts. Joshua did great. The last concept we need to cover before his next test is conic sections. I will come prepared with material on that subject when we meet next class.

Matthew was absent today.

Matthew was absent today.

Matthew answered practice questions online and we discussed how to practice good time management during the test.

Michael completed his assigned homework: a timed ACT science practice test. He was able to complete five out of the six science passages. Here are the results...
Passage 1: 100%
Passage 2: 67%
Passage 3: 100%
Passage 4: 83%
Passage 5: 83%
Passage 6: Did not complete since his 35-minute timer was up.

Michael and I reviewed his incorrect answers as well as passage 6.
Lastly, we reviewed passage 6 of a different science test since passage 6 is the most difficult passage within the science test. Michael scored 5 out of 6 for that particular passage.

Michael's comprehension of the passages and format of the questions increases each time we meet. I have already seen much improvement.

I assigned science practice test #4 (pages 640-651) for homework and asked that Michael once again time himself while taking that test. We plan to meet again next week. Time and day to be determined.