Today, we first worked on space science. I used some of James's knowledge of chemistry to talk about how fusion in stars causes heavier elements in the universe to form. James and I also discussed the impacts of the moon and sun on the tides. Next, we discussed how algebraic expression with two variables such as x and y can be solved with exactly two equations James used isolating a variable in the first equation and substitution of the isolated variable into the second equation we worked on numerous practice problems.

Today we discussed Statistics and Data Analysis (Chapter 9 in Math). We went over the meaning of the terms mean, median, and mode, and range. We also went through the use of bar charts, box plots, scatter plots, and line graphs. Next, we discussed Motion and Force (Chapter 9 in Science). We discussed the differences between velocity, acceleration, and momentum and the units used to measure these components of motion. We also discussed the difference between speed and velocity, gravity as a form of acceleration, and the difference between mass and weight.

This lesson was rescheduled to Wednesday, March 18. James and I worked on principles of Algebra and Chemistry. We talked and worked through problems dealing with cartesian (x-y) coordinate plane. We discussed using equations to describe a straight line and find the y intercept and slope of a line. In addition, we discussed ways to use ratios to work out real world problems. Half way through the lesson, we switched to working on understanding types of energy, and the difference between exothermic and endothermic reactions.

Today, James and I worked through some of the ways to identify variables in word problems, cross multiplication for determining ratios and equivalent fractions. James also decided to diverge from math to look at several subjects in science. We discuss ions (i.e. charged particles) and their relationship to atoms. We also looked at the definitions of atomic number and atomic mass, and how this relates to density. James discussed difficulty in understanding the use of beakers and measurement devices and way to use math to find equivalent proportions for science and other purposes. This was related to our work on ratios. I will work to prepare some simple yet effective problems regarding the use of ratios and units of measure in science and their relationship to many fields of study (ex. cooking, engineering, etc...)

James and I met for this session at his house off Broward Road. We began work together on Algebra for the GED. James needed assistance with understanding variables and when to use them. I explained that a variable is any number that we do not know. I explained that math problems with 1 variable only require 1 equation to solve for the variable, whereas math problems with two variables need two equations to solve. We also discussed some of the common algebraic terms including integers, whole numbers, natural numbers, and absolute values of numbers.