Organize and Prioritize By: Ms. Freeman

Organization Use a planner Write things down so you don’t forget them Color code your school materials for each class Write your name, teacher and subject on each notebook/folder Keep your locker and backpack in good shape Throw away trash and file old assignments

Organization Make a home study area Find a place in your home where you’re comfortable and there are ZERO distractions from family. Have your materials in this study area (pens, pencils, calendar, computer, writing space, bookshelf for homework,etc) Have some snacks in this area that are close at hand (cashews, fruit snack, fruit by the foot, etc.)

Staying Personally Organized Have something to eat before you start any homework/assessment (ENERGY) Get a good night’s sleep EVERY NIGHT Set a time that you will be in bed to relax and go to sleep (make it a routine)

Three important tasks Write three important tasks you need to accomplish Ms. Freeman’s My homework Put clothes away Get material ready for back to school night

Develop Develop each of those three tasks into three steps: My homework On my preps At home tonight On Sunday Put clothes away After school on Monday and Tuesday (after work) Back to school night material Has to be done by Tuesday

Urgent vs. Important Urgent=immediate attention Getting materials ready for back to school night Work, if not completed that day, will have serious negative consequences (not doing hw due tomorrow, finishing part of a group project, etc. Important=tasks that you have to do, but can wait until the next day Do you meet with that class tomorrow? Can you wait one day to do that subject’s homework OR do you have so much that you need to do half today and half tomorrow?

Know when to cut After you prioritize your tasks and look at your estimated time on each one, cut the remaining tasks from your list Focus on the priorities you know you must and can complete for the day

Take a deep breath If you find yourself overwhelmed there are different types of techniques to help you relax and clear your mind, such as: Take a slow, deep breath in, hold your breath for four counts and then slowly release the air from your mouth Repeat four times and the feeling of being overwhelmed dissolve with each long exhale

Relaxation Techniques Meditation Exercise (walking, dancing to your favorite song, a quick jog, etc.) Spend some time with your pet (if you have one) Petting/playing with your pet boosts your mood! Change your surroundings Go outside for a few minutes to enjoy sunshine Stop at a park instead of going straight home