One solid tip for organizing papers & homework

Here’s a video that just might have some great insights for you. It’s about one of my favorite systems I help students develop. I call it “the queue.” It’s a simple, powerful method of tracking everything important, homework or otherwise, in one centralized place. As one of my students said, “it feels harder in my head when my important papers are all spread out in different folders.”  Most of my students are able to apply this easily and consistently, it works!

How to set it up:

1. First, set up your entire organizational system. This may include 3-ring binders (typically the worst system for right brained learners, but some work with it just fine), an accordion folder or a simple folder system (my favorite approach.) Color code and label everything, etc.. 2. Get a different looking folder. Perhaps it’s red, a great ALERT color. Perhaps it has a distinctive design. Either way, make it easy to visually identify. 3. Label the folder. Write QUEUE in huge letters across the front. Put your name on the front and back. 4. Put post-it “flags” inside the folder so they are ready to go.

How to use it:

1. The queue is for all papers that are current, or “active.” It can include: —Homework that needs to be done —Finished homework that needs to be turned in —Study guides —ANything that needs to be signed, etc.. —Anything important, active and current 2. Flag it with a labeled post-it. ex- “MATH TURN IN!” 3. Simple. Do it or turn it in. 4. When you get home every day, the first thing you should do is, at least, open your planner and open the queue. It would be best if you planned the night as well.

When done:

1. Throw away returned papers if you don’t need them. 2. Archive papers that are sentimental or that you might need. 3. If you still need it for another reason, throw it in your class folder.

Note:

As with ANY system someone suggests, tailor it to your needs. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it! If you want to tweak it, by all means do so. The point is that students take ownership in developing customized systems that work for their brain, NOT that they use a “tested” cookie cutter solution (especially for outside-the-box learners).