I have one child in 2nd grade and one in 4th. I'm eclectic- so use a weird combination of stuff to teach I'd REALLY like to save some of our resources (paper etc) so I can reuse it with dd later. Saving books is a no brainer. Workbooks are cheap enough they can be replaced. But how do I save the crazy mix of paper stuff? Does someone have a great method? I'm hesitant to just save it on my computer- too many crashes in the past, too much other stuff lost. Thanks
Same here. I have the kids' old math books hanging around "just in case" we need to take out an unused page for review. I have never actually done it. And it's been years. What are some examples of your "paper stuff"? Times tables, cursive handwriting worksheets? Coloring pages? Just curious, as that may help others to help you better.
Let's see... Some is worksheets, but mostly I'd like to save the 'units' (not really units, more like info packets) that I make up. Today I made one on Reptiles. Maybe not top quality but worth reusing- represents a few hrs' worth of work to me. Ditto on the one for state history (that one especially), Dinos, and some other stuff. Each one is probably 10? pages long or so. Maybe just a labeled box or something? I don't mind the single sheets/maps/etc stuff- I can laminate so it stays nice.
I like using binders and transparent page holders (can't remember what those slip cover thingies are called???) for things I want to pull out and use occasionally. I'm a visual person, so it helps me to be able to see through rather than using a folder. I also like the binders that have the clear view outer cover so I can make my own covers for them.
I would suggest saving it on your computer, but using a backup service to protect them. My favorite (and I've tried several) is Trend Micro Safe Sync, which I got free to try as part of a BzzCampaign. I really love it, I back up all videos, files, and pictures to their service and I can access my files from any computer, iPod, iPad, iPhone, netbook, laptop pretty any internet ready device. The best part is that 20GB of space is only 19.95 a year! If you are interested PM me and I can give you my referral link
Most of my paper I keep in a file cabinet. This comes from when I had a classroom, so I saved and filed everything. I actually only have one drawer for school stuff, but it has lots in it. So if I were to teach a unit on apples, I have a big file on apples. Same with our state, etc.
I have originals in 9x11 manilla envelopes with the title printed on front. Granted, I don't have tons of materials that I saved so this works out fine for me.
I'd do the 3 ring notebook thing. One notebook for each subject, files for grade levels or whatever other divisions you may have (science may have life, physical, earth/space, and chemistry for example). I like the page protector idea too. One unit per protector. YAY! Then you don't have to thumb through the entire unit before you see what's behind it. Can I come help you? I love doing stuff like this. LOL (Although my stuff is not done like that for teh most part, and I also have things I've never used. ARG!)
