Improve Student’s Organization Skills

  • Situation

    I have a student who frequently comes to class without her textbook. If she remembers her book, she’ll ask to go back to her locker for her folder. She always seems to be forgetting some necessary material which means she’s missing valuable class time by returning to her locker so much. How can I help her remember to bring everything she needs to class?

  • Summary

    Post a color-coded schedule (*see Process below) inside her locker and review it with her. Add a magnetic pocket for other necessary tools.

  • Definition

    The Locker Organization Color-Coding strategy is a system coordinating a student’s classes and necessary materials on a color-coded schedule posted inside his/her locker. Each class and its corresponding textbook, notebook, or folder is assigned a different color which is listed on the locker door.

  • Quick Facts

    • Child's Age: 11-13, 14-17, 18+
    • Planning Effort: Moderate
    • Difficulty Level: Easy

  • Pre-requisites

    Color coordinating folders, notebooks, book covers, magnetic pocket

  • Process

    1. Assign a different color to each class. Cover textbooks with plain paper and write class name on spine in corresponding color. (i.e. Math in red, English in blue, etc.)

    2. Use corresponding colored labels for notebooks and folders.

    3. Use same color for each class when creating schedule.

    4. Review schedule with student and practice collecting necessary materials for each class.

    5. Attach a magnetic pocket for extra pencils, calculator, and other tools to keep them accessible.

  • Documents and Related Resources

    organize.com (sample retail site to purchase items to assist in locker organization)

    This resource was authored by Watson Institute Special Education Consultant, Lisa Plastino, M.Ed.

    If you have questions or concerns about the Watson Institute’s use of this information, please contact us.