This afternoon's session would include developing a checklist for Bobby to use day before he and after he leaves for school.

This morning we were able to begin the process of setting up each of Bobby's subject notebooks. This was a short session and we were only able to complete the math notebook. More will follow.

Over the course of the last two weeks, we have witnessed Bobby's lack of organizational proficiency manifested by forgotten homework, textbooks left at home and the manner in which he "organizes" his loose papers and handouts. I have ordered five one-inch three ring binders for Bobby as well as five tab dividers which we will use to set up individual notebooks for each of his core subjects. I have explained to Bobby that this is imperative for his growth and development and will be required at the Pine School or elsewhere. The notebooks/dividers should arrive by the end of the week.

This afternoon we practiced our note taking skills while watching the documentary "The Deep Ocean". Bobby is doing a good job of applying the basic skills but much practice is needed in learning how to distinguish between a relevant factoid and 'ground clutter"- meaningless information that does not align with the main theme or topic. On several occasions, Bobby (and I) were distracted by the interesting content/visuals and missed an important piece of information.

Bobby and I discussed his need to assemble a one inch three ring binder for each of his subject classes. Each notebook should be divided into five sections- handouts, homework, graded papers, class notes and clean, blank notebook paper. Bobby MUST construct a Backpack Inventory Checklist that he should post on the refrigerator at home, on the wall in his room and should be followed each morning before getting into the car. The checklist should include- homework, subject area text books and daily planner which must be updated daily.

This morning we reviewed what we had learned during the video on Fossil Blunders. We reviewed most of the individuals that were prominently featured in the video while identifying those that were not. We are getting ready to complete the worksheet using our notes and making sure that our index cards are accurate and complete. Homework: study index cards

Kai did not come.

We took this opportunity to practice our note taking skills by picking up where we left off with the LIFE video. We reviewed our responses from the Fossil Blunders assessment and discussed how we might improve the level of detail in our notes. no homework

Today, we worked on Josh's math assignments. He has missed the last week and a half of school b/c he broke his arm. Today was his first day back. We worked on two of his assignments that are due in the next 4 days, and we completed them so he has gotten practice and does not have to stress about them as he catches up in all of his subjects.

This was an introductory session. We got to know each other and mom Kai's strengths and weaknesses, as well as all of Kai's courses, teachers and resources. We made a plan to work on study skills, note taking skills and reviewing skills both in and out of class. Kai will try to stay focused in class and ask questions when he needs clarification. Flashcards and graphic organizers may help during the year. We will continue to work on skills as needed. We had a great session.