Writing lesson plans
Save time writing out detailed lesson plans by using the computer. Create a template for a week's worth of plans and save them as "template". Be sure to include your daily routines in the template so that all you have to do is change the daily objectives and a few specific procedures for each individual lesson. When it is time to write your plans for the next week, pull up the template and Save As "week ___". This saves time in the long run when you don't have to write the same details over and over again! Another way this saves time is when you have a substitute. If you already have detailed lesson plans ready, there will be no need to write out a separate set of plans for the sub!
Day of the Week Folder
Save time at the beginning of each day searching for your lesson plans and other needed materials. Take 5 manila folders and write the day of the week on each one (ie--Monday, Tuesday, etc.). Color code the folders and laminate them to last all year. At the end of each day, place your next day's lesson plans, copied handouts, and other needed materials, notes, etc. in the next day's folder. Place the folder on the middle of your desk. Voila! You are all ready to start the next day!
Roll Call
There are several different ways to save time with roll call. Here are a couple:
- Inside a manila folder staple a roll sheet (spreadsheet or copy from roll book) on one side and a copy of your seating chart on the other. At the start of class, glance to see who is missing using the seating chart, and mark them on the roll sheet. This is also helpful for a substitute and makes their job easier when you are out.
- If you have a special folder or notebook that students must keep in the classroom, set them out on a table near the door. Students need to get their folder as they enter the classroom. When the bell rings, go through the folders that are left and mark those students who are absent. Be careful that you check to see if the student is in his/her seat before marking them absent.
Use Helpers
Save time checking homework turned in by using a helper. Recruit 3 or 4 responsible students to take turns being the "checker". Copy a page from your grade book and staple it in a manila folder. Have your "checker" for the day gather the homework and check off those who turned in their assignments. Have them also make a list of those who are missing their work and give it to you so that you can hand out necessary consequences.
Use Absent Folders
Take several manila folders and label them "Absent Folder". When a student is absent, place this folder on their desk. Ask a nearby responsible student to act as a "scribe" and take notes for the absent person. Have your scribe take two handouts and place one of each handout in the absent folder. The scribe should copy down daily assignments, homework assignments, notes given in class (you can copy the scribe's own notes on the copier), events missed, and any other important information. All of this should be placed in the absent folder with the date clearly marked at the top of the page. When the student returns, everything he/she needs will already be in the folder so that you don't have to scrounge around for the handouts, notes, and assignments.
