We began today by doing some ACT Prep. We covered a geometry and algebra problem. Next we moved back into our Trig content. We continued with the lesson yesterday, however today we worked on given a trig functions ratio, using it to find all the other 5 trig ratios. Matthew had to set up a triangle, and label the sides according to the given ratio. Then he used the Pythgorean theorem to find the third side. From there, he was able to determine the other 5 trig ratios.

JPaul was absent for class. The class time was used to prepare materials.

Joshua and I discussed Pythagorean Identities. First, we proved the identities by starting with the Pythagorean theorem and the Unit circle. Then we used reciprocal identities to derive two more Identities. Next we practiced using those identities to perform trig proofs. This was the first time Josh said, "I like it!" in a while! Things have been tough lately, but I think he found some appreciation in the the puzzle-like nature of these problems.

Kellan dictated a story for me to type for him.

Kellan wrote sentences for his spelling words. We read his new Dog Man book and discussed it.

Kellan practiced what he is learning in PE class.

Richard used rubber stamps to practice words with igh. We played Bingo to practice CVCe words. He read books with words he can read.

Ben and I began a new chapter today. We discussed the idea of a polynomial. We discussed the difference between a variable and a constant. Then we discussed what the degrees are. Then we talked about classification. I wrote on the board a graphic organizer with the classifications of polynomials by number of terms: monomial, binomial, trinomial, and polynomial. I gave Ben examples of each so he could differentiate them. Next we discussed their classification by degree: constant, linear, quadratic, cubic, quartic, quintic. Next I gave Ben the activity of classifying polynomials by both degree and number of terms. It was a good vocab lesson but Ben needs more practice tomorrow.

Kaitlin wrote her spelling words in her journal and highlighted letters to remember. She made a game to identify the literary elements of 1984. We read the book and discussed it.

Austin arrived a few minutes early and changed into his hockey outfit which he wore during our session. He was very happy to see that his poster of Frank Lampard had arrived and asked if he could take it home at the end of our session. We then got to work and discussed an assignment on which he needs to work for school. The topic he chose, Cristiano Ronaldo, did not surprise me as it is another one of his favorite socceer players. He explained that it is an expository writing assignment, so we reviewed the main precepts of expository writing. We discussed purpose, focus, and organization; providing evidence and elaboration; and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the conventions of English grammar. We then began by researching the player. Austin formatted his composition cleverly, by dividing it into Cristiano Ronaldo's early years, which he categorized as from birth to 10 years of age, his middle years - from 10 to 18, and adulthood, from 18 on. We then began researching the defining factors in Ronaldo's early childhood, noting the most significant achievements and experiences that Austin felt factored into making him the athlete he ultimately became. We prioritized the events in his life and the major accomplishments of each stage. I afforded Austin help writing his words on paper and he agreed to type it for his report. Austin read the report and made minor changes to more clearly express the main points he wished to convey and emphasize in the composition. He was pleased with the outcome of his efforts and we completed the first three main parts of his report. When it was time for him to leave and go to hockey with Kim, Austin took home the picture of the soccer player, and commented that he was looking forward to continuing to come to tutoring later this week. Austin said he felt he had accomplished a lot and I agreed that we enjoyed a productive session.