Since Mr. Kevin was out, I let Teddy decide what he wanted to do for class. He asked if we could play Monopoly. While playing, I focused on counting skills including counting the number rolled on the dice, counting the number of spaces to advance on the board, and counting the amount of money needed to purchase a property. We had a nice time learning, counting, and playing Monopoly.

Richard and I played Jenga and built with magnetiles. He talked about his strategy for doing well in Jenga.

Richard discussed his strategy for an academic game at the onset of our session, and he advised me how best to apply it when competing against an opponent. We also discussed continents and Richard used a stopwatch to time me reciting them, although he did not wish to attempt it himself even when offered support. Richard suggested that administration consider purchasing additional playground equipment, and we drafted a letter to Ms. Judie with his proposal which will be typed up during a subsequent class.

After researching sewing patterns online, Richard itemized a list of materials he'd need to achieve his objective. We then moved onto engaging in academic games, upon which we both agreed, and Richard shared his strategies of play and the reasoning behind his choices. We discussed the character traits of fair play and those associated with being a good winner and loser.

Richard engaged in two critical thinking academic games on the computer. He demonstrated his skills and discussed his stategies as we engaged in interactive play.

We learned to play a new Brain pop addition game on the computer. He also learned how to create a maze and write the steps to negotiate the maze.

Richard discussed his strategies for playing games this fun Friday morning. We watched and discussed strategies in a game of ping pong and also discussed the techniques for increasing proficiency in the Japanese skill game/toy called 'Kendama,' a cup-and-ball game that uses a pair of cups and a ball that are all connected together on a string. Richard noted that his performance improved by slightly bending at the knees as he attempted to catch the ball on the cup or stick point. We even touched upon the basics of physics and motion as we experimented with different techniques. All in all, we enjoyed a fun Friday!

Richard and I took stock of our inventory of academic games. He vetoed several that I initially suggested but agreed to attempt a game called Quest for the Jewels, a cause and effect game involving logic and critical thinking skills. We used the question cards provided but amended the rules to enable 2-person play and reading comprehension skills.

Richard was engaged in a game of Go Fish with me and a peer. He explained the instructions very well and came in 2nd.

Spencer continued to participate in school wide activities this afternoon and then went out for free play.