We completed Drew’s homework. First we read algebraic inequalities and graphed them on number lines. Then we read number lines and determined the algebraic inequalities. Next we solved one step algebraic inequalities to determine the range of answers. We practiced by doing a few more of these out of another book. Drew has a good understanding that the closed circle includes that number on the graph of the inequality and the open circle does not include that number on the graph. We also practiced the idea that “and” between two inequalities includes numbers in between the two circles on a graph and “or” indicates numbers that do not overlap or are outside the two circles on the number line graph.Now he is proficient at graphing and reading inequalities.

Drew and I worked on using the distributive property to simplify algebraic expressions and combining like terms. He did very well with fractions and decimals. He has a better understanding of combining constants and only coefficients of variables with the same variable and exponent. He worked very hard on many problems to become proficient at this algebraic skill. We also worked on identifying equivalent algebraic expressions. He learned a few ways to ensure that every term is counted. He did very well on several of these type problems too.

Drew completed a reading comprehension story. He answered comprehension questions over the plot, vocabulary, characters, story details, sequence of events, and the author's point of view. He began writing a short story about replacing Santa.

We worked on simplifying algebraic expressions. We reviewed the terms constant, coefficient, and variable. Then we practiced using the distributive property and combining like terms. Drew needed to review multiplying by two and three digit factors. He forgot to leave a zero when you begin multiplying in the tens place and two zeros when the digit is in the hundred hundreds. We reviewed the fact that every whole number can have a denominator of one so when we multiply a fraction by a whole number the whole number is multiplied by the numerator of the fraction and the denominator is multiplied by the one in the denominator of the whole number. For example, 3 × 1/3 = 3/3 = 1. We also reviewed how to multiply decimals which requires counting the decimal places in the two factors from the right to the decimal and placing the decimal point that many decimal places from the right in the product. Drew will benefit from practicing using the distributive property with decimals and fractions like we did today.

We discussed the 4 types of sentences. He wrote the definitions for each one along with what punctuation mark followed each sentence into his notebook. He then completed an activity demonstrating his knowledge of the 4 types of sentences. He read a Portuguese fable about 3 lazy brothers who discovered 3 treasure chests full of gold. He created and wrote 2 entirely different endings for this story.

It was such a pleasure getting to know Drew. He is delightful and so very animated. We read and discussed a Folktale from China. We both decided that the ending was not the best. He decided to write his own version of the folktale. I was very pleased with his efforts. We discussed reading the book,"Indian in the Cupboard." It was a very productive session.

We warmed up with exponents to ensure multiplying the base by itself the correct number of times (not adding) and to help with the understanding that anything raised to the zero power is 1. Then we worked on finding the GCF and LCM through prime factorization. Next Drew learned that the order of operations is important because it guarantees that all people solve a problem in the same way. Without a standard order of operations, formulas for real-world calculations in finance and science would give different answers. Then we practiced evaluating numerical expressions.
Assignment: Drew was given 4 problems to solve using the Order of Operations.

Drew worked on exponents, prime factorization, and prime factorization to find the GCF. We read through some of his notes and completed some of his notes on prime factorization to find the GCF. Then we practiced performing the order of operations (PEMDAS) on several problems.