Being able to manage Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and two connection classes can be a lot for the new Middle School student. It would be hard for any adults that do not have time management skills. Today, I want to share with you what I think are easy to do time management skills that will allow Middle School students to get good grades and still have time for extracurricular activities. Remember nothing is free. You have to put in the work to make this work for you.
1.
MAKE A TO DO LIST
Making a simple to do list can get you organized heading into your day. When you complete a task check it off the list. This is the most simplest way to get yourself organized and to use your time the most effectively. It doesn’t have to be extremely detailed. You just need to write enough to jog your memory about what you need to get done.
2. Difficult items first.
Doing the difficult task first will allow you to start your day with a fresh mind and relaxed. I know sometimes it might not be easy to accomplish the hardest task first, but make an attempt and who know you might get it done and the rest will come easy. The task is to hard to finish then set it aside and go on to your next task. Just make sure you put it back on your to do list at the bottom.
3.
Use Time Wisely
Get the most out of the spare time that you have on your hands. If you have time between classes work on your other class work. Riding in a car going to dance class, use that time to get in some studying. Eating breakfast in the morning might be a good time to catch up on some study review for the day so you are prepared for class. Make the most of you time. Time spent on you phone in social apps can be used to get caught up on your studies.
4. Review your Notes Every Day
I mentioned this in the last time management tip, but I feel this one is vital to having a successful day. If you read over and review your notes daily, you will be prepared for class and you might impress your teacher. If all the students in the class were prepared for class the teacher might assign less homework because you actively listen in class and retain the information distributed in class.
5. It is okay to say “NO.”
If you are asked to do something and you do not think you will have enough time to do your assignments, it is okay to say no. There are only so many hours in the day and you have to prioritize what is the most important priority on your to do list. It might be a good time for you to ask if someone can help you if you do not think you can get it done by yourself.
6.
Finding out what works best for you.
Are you a morning person or a night person? Do you work better after eating a meal or on an empty stomach? Do you work better as an individual or as a team? These are a few of the questions that might come up as you figure out what works best for you. Sometimes you might have to think about things differently and consider ways to do the items on you to do list that will be the most productive.
6
7. Getting a good nights sleep.
Do you find yourself waking up looking at the inside of a textbook or next to your computer? You might not be getting enough sleep. You need good quality sleep. This should be a priority on your to do list. You need 8 or more quality hours of sleep every night. 8 hours means that if you have to be up at 6 AM you need to be in bed between 930 – 10 PM. It allows your brain an opportunity to reset and refresh for the start of a new day and the new challenges put upon you.
8.
Let Others Know when you are busy.
You have things you have to do to take care of yourself. You are no good to anyone else if you don’t do maintenance on yourself. It is okay to let others know that your schedule is full and that you cannot take on anymore tasks. Make sure you have “You Time” on your to do list, but not so much that you never get anything else done. You have to figure out the balance that is right for you.
9. Control your Time.
Figure out how much free time you have and give yourself some of that time. Use that time effectively. Set deadlines for yourself to get things on your agenda done. This might take some time to figure out but it will be worth it in the end. Time is money. Control you time.
10. Do not waste time agonizing.
Do not waste a entire evening agonizing over a task that you might be able to accomplish by your deadline. Make some phone calls or ask for someones help. Talk to your teacher about what they can do to help you understand what needs to be done. If you are putting forth the effort, any teacher will help you. Good time management skills will set you apart from the competition and show you have a burning desire to be more than average. Once again do not be afraid to seek out assistance from your teacher.
Starting in the 6th grade and understanding how to effectively manage your time will allow you to have a blast in middle school. You will have more time for yourself and the activities that you love to do when you can get your school work and chores done in a timely manner. Just try these tips and in no time you will be having more time on your hands.
coachjd
Adventures of a Middle School Physical Education Teacher and his hobbies 