Backpack & Binder Check
What is one way to separate papers for different subjects?
Use folders, dividers, or sections for each subject.
What is a planner used for in school?
To keep track of homework, projects, and important dates.
What’s one thing you should pack in your backpack every night?
Homework, folders, planner, supplies (answers may vary but should include essentials).
How is middle school different from elementary school?
More teachers, changing classes, lockers, more homework.
If your backpack is messy, what is the first thing you should do?
Take everything out.
If you get a worksheet in math class, where should it go?
In the math folder/section of the binder.
Name one thing you should write in your planner every day.
Homework, tests, project due dates, or events.
True or False: It’s better to pack your backpack in the morning.
False. Packing at night is better.
Why does middle school require stronger organizational skills?
Because you have more classes, teachers, and responsibilities.
Name one problem that happens when your backpack is too full of loose papers.
Can’t find homework, papers get wrinkled/lost, things go missing.
True or False: You should keep old snack wrappers in your backpack “just in case.”
False. Wrappers should be thrown away.
If you have a test on Friday, when should you first write it down?
As soon as you find out about it (e.g., the day the teacher announces it).
Why does laying out clothes the night before help your morning routine?
Saves time in the morning and reduces stress.
You have 6 teachers. What’s one way to keep track of assignments for all of them?
Use a planner, binder dividers, or a homework folder.
True or False: A messy backpack makes it harder to find things quickly.
True
What does the “papers in, papers out” rule mean?
Put new papers in the correct folder as soon as you get them; take completed papers out once turned in.
Why is checking your planner at night helpful?
Helps you remember what’s due the next day and prepare ahead of time.
List two steps of a strong bedtime routine for school success.
Examples: Pack backpack, check planner, lay out clothes, set alarm. (Any two reasonable steps earn credit.)
If you forget your homework in your locker, what organizational mistake did you make?
Didn’t check planner/pack backpack before leaving school.
Your backpack has homework, old tests, and trash. What should you keep and what should you toss?
Keep current homework/important papers; toss trash/old papers.
Your binder is full of random papers. Explain step-by-step how you’d organize it to make studying easier.
Steps could include: take everything out → recycle trash/old papers → sort into subject folders → keep only current/important work.
Give an example of how using a planner could prevent you from forgetting something important.
Example: Writing down “bring permission slip by Friday” helps you remember to give it to your teacher instead of forgetting.
Design your own morning or evening routine in 3 steps that will keep you organized.
Answers vary—should include 3 steps that show planning (e.g., “1. Pack bag, 2. Lay out clothes, 3. Review planner”).
Describe a strategy for balancing schoolwork, activities, and free time.
Example strategies: use planner daily, set up a homework schedule, balance time with a calendar.
Explain how having a messy backpack could affect your grades and stress level.
Missing assignments, losing points on homework, feeling stressed, wasting time looking for things.