Taming that Paper Pile


For years, I would end up with a pile of ungraded papers that was a mile high.  This year I finally found what works for me!



This paper tray was used for many different things over the years and this year I decided to re-purpose it!

I don't collect math homework because it is for practice. I want the students to be able to ask questions about the problems they had difficulty with the night before which can't happen if I collect their homework. They do get credit for the homework, but it is based purely on completion.

I do collect science and social studies homework and of course I have tests and quizzes to grade.


The trays sit on the corner of my desk. I made mini signs, printed them on cardstock, laminated them and then attached them with double sided tape (use this all the time in my classroom!).

I use the top tray for tests and quizzes because I allow the students to make corrections to those and it is really easy for them to just drop the corrected papers on top.

I think being able to see exactly how many papers I have to grade for each subject area keeps me from putting off the grading (I don't know about you, but that is top on my list of things I don't like to do!!) and getting a pile a mile high.

6 comments

  1. Great, simple idea! Whatever works, right? I tried something similar with a labelled accordion file.

    Tammy @ Teaching FSL

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    1. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. Thanks for stopping by!

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  2. I think I may have to look for one of those!

    Terri Izatt
    KinderKapers

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    1. We have something called Teacher's Treasures where companies donate products (usually slightly damaged ones) and we get to go shop every couple of months. I got this there many years ago, but since it's metal it has lasted. Thanks for stopping by!

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  3. I need one of these! I get the work graded, but I tend to forget to pass it back. This might help!

    Sara :)
    The Colorful Apple

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    1. I've got two other paper trays for returning papers. The kids know that I hand them back on Monday with their weekly report, so they often remind me to get them passed back. Thanks for stopping by!

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