What advice do you have for supporting 5th graders that are have a hard time learning to keep track of assignments/homework as they prepare for middle school?
We encourage kids to find what works for them by introducing them to multiple methods. Our upper grade elementary students are provided with a paper planner. Since we are 1-to-1 iPads, students are also encouraged to take photos of assignment boards. Finally, our learning management system, Canvas, has a calendar function that students can use. Hopefully kids will find something bc that works for them.
If kids continue to struggle, conversations with parents can help. You can also develop a Google Form to have students reflect on what they can do differently to remember homework on a daily basis. Parents can receive a copy of their student’s responses.
Color coding can help. Developing a color-coded folder system (e.g. red for ELA, blue for math, etc.) is a readily transferable skill for when they transition to MS. This can help students practice storing materials in a specific location. Some may utilize the two sides of the folder, too (e.g. left for homework, right for class assignments).
Digital tools have been highly helpful in my class as well. Google classroom and Showbie have been particularly helpful. I also don’t use the storage parts of desks as many things become lost in there. I use folders in rolling carts instead.
We have planners that the students have to write in daily. We do a lot of modeling showing the students how to use the planner as a check off sheet. When the assignment is completed, it is checked off. Parents also have to sign off on the planner as well. I also send out emails to the students and they are required to reply. I give extra points to the students that are responsible. It just takes a lot of training.
