January 27, 2010 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 11 Schools Now Registering Getting organized aids students’ success in school Students’ success in school is based on a number of factors. One of those factors is how organized they are with assignments, including homework. Students with unruly notebooks and torn or crumpled papers in their backpacks, desks, or lockers could find it’s harder to make the grade. A little time spent getting organized can go a long way toward improving grades and performance at school. Use color. Color-coordinate binders, notebooks, folders, and textbooks so it is easy to grab items needed for specific classes. Purchase a three-hole punch. Punch holes into handouts from teachers and file them accordingly in a threering binder. Create to-do lists. Use an assignment pad, day planner, or a piece of paper to keep track of assignments that are complete. Use one side of a folder for items that are not yet completed, and the other for completed work. Take notes. Pay attention in class and take dated notes. This will make it easier to study for a specific test. Organize books to your schedule. For example, if your class schedule begins with language arts, then math, then science, stack your books in your desk or locker in order. Follow teacher-recommended supplies. Use the list that the teacher supplies as a guideline for what needs to be purchased. Package pens, staplers, pencils, and other supplies in one case so that they are easily accessed in a book bag. Keep a spare set at home so the same tools are available both in and out of the classroom. Prioritize tasks. Complete the short-notice tasks first while continuing to complete parts of long-term tasks. Also, work on homework assignments that are a struggle first and breeze through easier assignments at the end of a homework session. Leave enough time. Rushing around in the morning to catch a ride or school bus to school may cause you to forget important items at home. Leaving enough time to get ready to head out to school is a major organizational step. Keep on top of clutter. Go through compiled papers weekly to see what can be tossed. Save only necessary items for studying. Get enough rest. A well-rested body and mind is much better equipped to handle the daily stresses of school life. Trying to be organized while scatterbrained is no way to start out. Schedule consistent study times. Plan to study or do homework at the same time each day so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Reward yourself for a job well done. It’s much easier to stay on track if you have a goal. Work toward that goal, and reward yourself when you achieve it. A good grade -- plus a day out with friends -- is a nice treat. Welcomes your press releases photographs ��������������������� � �������������������������������������� ����������������������������� ������������������������������������� 1-17-10 janine StElizabeth4x9(1-27-10)