Tales from the science classroom

Last week I was kind of losing my mind over organization in my classroom. I had a system that worked well last year, but I just couldn't seem to get it going this year. So last Friday, when I posted, I spent the day grading and getting all caught up on that. Then I went in on Saturday for a couple of hours and spent the time just organizing. I took a serious look at what I needed/wanted near me and when I needed it. I then looked at what I had to work with and came up with a system that I think will work - at least it worked this week. Here's what I got: As you walk in the door, there is a table to the right where the handouts are put. I started this at the beginning of the year and it generally works out well, not perfect, but well. Also over there, on top of an old desk, is a crate with files for things the students need almost continously. I keep extra periodic tables there as well as bellwork sheets for my 9th grade class. Then there is my front table. On the ...

I'm having planning issues and much of them are of my own making. Let me explain. I feel like I haven't been able to get ahead this year. Since the year started, I feel like I'm constantly playing catch up. I find myself working every prep to prepare for the rest of the day's classes. I hate that. Towards the end of last year, I developed a system where I would go in on the weekends and copy/prep everything for the coming week. I haven't been able to get that going this year and we are almost at fall break. Then, and this really pissed me off, last weekend I sat and planned this whole week out. I had lessons for every class, every day along with handouts and power points. Then, yesterday, I spent my entire prep preparing for Concep. Science only to find I had a plan in my book that I had forgotten about. UGH!!!!! I know it's because I haven't been able to get ahead all quarter. Last week, when I would have worked on Friday to get ready, we had a meeting in...