Final answer:
The phrase is likely used to recap or review content that has previously been discussed. In an educational context, it typically prefaces a summary of key points or examples that serve to clarify concepts covered in a session, meeting, or class.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sentence 'During the past hour, you and I have discussed …' could serve as a lead-in to a summary or review of content that has been discussed, such as in a classroom, meeting, or tutoring session. This phrase seems to be preparing a listener or reader for a recap of previously covered material. For instance, a tutor might use this language to go over key points discussed during a session, ensuring the student has a clear understanding of the concepts before moving forward. Similarly, in the context of a meeting, it could be a preface to the minutes or critical takeaways.
Examples in educational contexts vary widely, but typically include illustrations or instances meant to clarify or demonstrate a concept, such as mathematical problems, grammar exercises, or historical events. Within an English class, you might discuss grammar structures, as suggested by review questions about comma placement. Alternatively, connecting literature and history might involve examining how historical events have influenced literary works. Within language studies, you might dissect the construction of words to understand prefix and suffix usage, as in the analysis of words containing 'pp'.