High School Organization Tips
Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius wrote, "The secret of all victory lies in the organization of the non-obvious." Organization is an important lifelong tool for success. The earlier it is learned, the easier it is to implement and remember.
Organization becomes important in high school, when students are given more latitude and freedom. Four things are required: a method of organizing papers and notes for each class; a method of keeping track of assignments; a to-do list; and a willingness to use the organizational system once it's in place.
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The Three-Ring Binder System
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Buy a different three-ring binder for each class. In lower grades, students may get away with using one large three-ring binder for all their subjects. In high school, each class is more comprehensive and needs its own binder.
Consider buying a different color binder for each class, or decorating each one in a different way, for easy recognition.
Dividing the Binders
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Place the class syllabus at the front of the binder. Read the syllabus and decide how the class should be broken down into dividers. Generally, each class needs to have a homework section and a class notes section, but each course has its own requirements.
For example, a chemistry class may need these sections: Periodic Table of the Elements; Class Notes; Homework; Lab Notes; Science Fair. A literature class may require sections named Homework, Term Papers and Class Notes.
Add pockets to hold take-home papers, if desired, and lined paper for each section.
Computer Calendar Organization
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Computer programs are also useful in organization. Many cell phones have calendar applications, allowing students to input upcoming assignments or club meetings.
A calendar like the one available in Microsoft Outlook can track assignments and meetings and be sent to cell phones or shared with others.
Paper Calendar Organization
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Use a small day planner calendar or large desk calendar to jot down assignments, short and long term. Write the assignments down as soon as they are given out, so if more than one class has papers due on one day, the work can be planned ahead.
Master the To-Do List
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Have one master to-do list. Keep it in the same location every day, whether in a notebook, in a day planner or in a cell phone. At a glance, the to-do list explains what the day's priorities are and allows no forgetting of special projects or notes.
Review Every Day
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All this organization does no good unless it's used. Review notes from each class every night and plan what needs to be accomplished the next day. A little bit of work and preparation each evening will keep work from piling up.
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