homework diary ideas

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How to Start and Decorate a Diary

Last Updated: January 24, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by William Gardner, PsyD . William Gardner, Psy.D. is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice located in San Francisco, CA’s financial district. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Gardner provides individually tailored psychotherapy for adults using cognitive behavioral techniques, to reduce symptoms and improve overall functioning. Dr. Gardner earned his PsyD from Stanford University in 2009, specializing in evidence-based practices. He then completed a post-doc fellowship at Kaiser Permanente. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 138,570 times.

Diaries are a great way to record your daily life, thoughts, and feelings. They can also be used as planners to keep track of upcoming events. Unfortunately, a store bought diary does not always feel very personal. Luckily, this is easy to fix with some decorating and knowing how to start off. With some time and creativity, you are sure to end up with a unique diary that will be something truly special to you!

Decorating the Outside of a Diary

• Cover your finished journal with decoupage glue (such as Mod Podge) or contact paper to protect the paper from getting dirty or wet.
• If you want multiple colors, work with one color at a time. Let each color dry first before moving onto the next.
• Make sure that your sealer is glossy. If it is matte, your glitter won't sparkle anymore.
• Sealing the glitter is important. It will prevent the journal from shedding all over the place. Consider sealing the edges of the cover as well.
• Cover the spine of your journal with contrasting tape. For example, if you use patterned tape for the cover, use solid-colored tape for the spine.

Decorating the Inside of a Diary

• If you don't want to draw, you can always use colorful stickers instead!
• This is great for calendars. For example, if you have a party coming up, add a doodle of a cake, present, or balloon!
• Another idea is to glue items inside your diary that have something to do with the entry, such as maps, postcards, ticket stubs, and postage stamps!
• Try using caps, bubble letters, block letters, or even cursive.
• To create glowing text, write your word first, then trace over each letter using a highlighter. [6] X Research source
• Write "My Birthday List" using bubble letters, then draw a cloud-shaped outline around it using a highlighter.
• Turn the background into a banner by cutting a V-shaped notch into each end before putting it down.
• You don't have to decorate every page, nor do you have to use the same border each time.

Starting a Diary

• Write your name, the title of your diary in large letters.
• If you want, you can add a message that says "TOP SECRET" or "KEEP OUT", but be warned, if someone finds your diary, this will most likely make them want to read it even more.
• Use lots of bright colors. Sparkly or metallic gel pens are great for this!
• Decorate the corners and borders with doodles and stickers.

• You can find all sorts of writing prompts online.
• Writing your observations about the world and people around you are a great way to beat writer's block.

Community Q&A

• Don't ever write something that isn't true! Later on, you might think it was and make a mistake that could change your life forever. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• You can draw and write poems, stories, or lyrics in your diary too! Remember title and date! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Don't write very secret things if you know someone can easily get access to your diary! Make a fake diary and a real one. Write fake entries in the fake diary and leave it out in the open. When you catch him or her, it'll be very embarrassing for them to explain what they were doing. That'll teach them a lesson! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• If you want to be able to re-read your old diary, like in 10-15 years, writing in pencil is a no-go because it smudges and fades over time. Writing in pen is better for that. Some erasable pens fade in certain temperatures too, so you'll be better off doing research for long-lasting ink.

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing in a diary, check out our in-depth interview with William Gardner, PsyD .

• ↑ http://www.popcosmo.com/blog/2012/08/17/decorating-notebooks
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/shorts/hU3_DBLSfog
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGBNr1BZISk
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EHyE1YA6WU
• ↑ http://thetanglednest.com/2013/07/diaries-and-the-wild-mind/

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Homework Diaries: A Deep Dive into Their Role in Primary vs. Secondary Schools

The evolution of homework diaries mirrors the progression students make from primary to secondary school . These indispensable tools transform in complexity and purpose, just as students’ academic demands and capabilities grow. Here’s how homework diaries differ and prove essential at each educational stage.

The Role of Homework in the Curriculum and Beyond

The role of homework in the educational landscape extends far beyond mere academic reinforcement. Homework diaries, in particular, have emerged as pivotal tools in this context. These diaries not only help students organise and prioritise their assignments but also foster skills like time management, responsibility, and self-discipline. As students jot down tasks in their homework diaries, they’re not just keeping track of schoolwork; they’re cultivating habits that will benefit them in the curriculum and in life beyond the classroom. The significance of these diaries underscores the evolving nature of homework and its broader implications for holistic student development.

Purpose and Significance of a Homework Diary:

Homework, while often seen as a mere extension of schoolwork, serves profound roles that resonate beyond the classroom:

Reinforcement of Curriculum Content: Homework provides a platform for students to revisit and delve deeper into the curriculum content they’ve encountered during school hours. This reinforcement not only solidifies their understanding but also enhances the retention of key concepts.

Skill Development: Homework transcends curriculum confines by fostering critical life skills. It cultivates attributes like discipline, responsibility, and perseverance, ensuring students are equipped for challenges both inside and outside the academic sphere.

Feedback Mechanism: Assignments extend a two-way communication channel. While students get to practice and internalize the material, educators receive insights into individual comprehension levels, facilitating tailored instruction.

Building Independence and Critical Thinking: Tasked with problems to solve away from the immediacy of the classroom, students learn to trust their instincts, seek out resources, and refine their decision-making skills.

Preparation and Anticipation: Homework often serves as a bridge to upcoming lessons. Preliminary tasks familiarise students with new topics, ensuring they step into classrooms with a foundational understanding, ready to absorb more.

Customising Homework with Diaries:

With the pivotal role that homework plays in academic development, it’s essential to manage and organise it effectively. Understanding how to make a homework diary can be a crucial first step. Homework diaries, whether tailored for primary or secondary students, serve as invaluable tools in this endeavor.

Primary School Homework Diaries: Building the Basics

Primary School Homework Diaries play a crucial role in laying the foundational skills for young learners . These diaries are more than just tools for tracking assignments; they’re instrumental in building the basics of organisation, time management, and responsibility. From the earliest stages of education, when students begin to record their tasks in these diaries, they’re introduced to the discipline of planning and the satisfaction of task completion.

As they navigate through their primary years, these homework diaries serve as a constant companion, guiding them in their academic journey and instilling habits that will benefit them throughout their educational trajectory. The emphasis on Primary School Homework Diaries underscores the importance of starting strong in the realm of academic organisation and responsibility.

Characteristics:

• Simplicity at its Best: Primary homework diaries prioritise ease of use, with an emphasis on straightforward task recording.
• Visual Appeal: Engaging designs, combined with vibrant colors, cater to young students, making the diary an appealing and inviting space.
• Parental Connect: Dedicated sections for parental comments build the bridge between home and school from an early age.
• Reading Records: Track a child’s reading progress, ensuring consistent growth and a love for literature from a young age.
• Schedules: Organise the week ahead, helping students anticipate important dates and build routines.
• First Step to Time Management: A homework diary can play a pivotal role in introducing young students to the principles of scheduling and task prioritisation.
• Strengthening the Home-School Bond: With sections specifically for parents, the diary fosters collaboration, deepening the family’s involvement in the child’s education.
• Cultivating Consistency: At this impressionable age, students are introduced to the importance of regular routines and responsibility.

Primary School Homework Diaries are not just a means to record assignments but a comprehensive tool that aids in the holistic development of a child. From instilling the principles of organisation, time management, and responsibility to strengthening the bond between home and school, these diaries are essential in laying a strong foundation for a child’s future. Moreover, the visual appeal, parental connect, and additional features like reading records and schedules make it an inviting and functional tool for both students and parents.

As children navigate through their primary years, the homework diary becomes a constant companion, guiding them on their academic journey and helping them cultivate habits that will benefit them throughout their educational trajectory and beyond. Therefore, the emphasis on Primary School Homework Diaries is not just about academic organisation; it is about shaping the future leaders, thinkers, and innovators of tomorrow

Secondary School Homework Diaries: Steering Towards Independence

Secondary School Homework Diaries play an indispensable role in guiding students towards greater independence and maturity . As adolescents transition from primary education, the challenges they face become more complex, and the need for organisation and self-management intensifies. A homework diary is not just repositories for assignments; they’re compasses that steer students towards self-reliance and proactive learning. By consistently using a homework diary, students cultivate the ability to plan, prioritise, and execute tasks with minimal supervision. They also develop a deeper understanding of their learning styles and academic strengths.

A Secondary School Homework diary are not just tools but catalysts, propelling students towards a future where they’re equipped to navigate the complexities of higher education and the world beyond with confidence and autonomy.

• Detailed and Defined: Secondary homework diaries come equipped with intricate sections for assignments, deadlines, and reflective notes, catering to the multifaceted academic requirements of older students.
• Streamlined by Subject: Segregated task sections based on different subjects allow students to keep a clear and organised academic view.
• Growth and Feedback Loop: Designated space for noting down learning objectives and areas where feedback is needed, turning these diaries into comprehensive tools that promote academic growth.
• Schedules: Detailed week-to-week or month-to-month schedules help students manage their growing list of commitments, from club meetings to exam revision sessions.
• Mastering Time Management: With intensifying academic demands, a homework diary act as students’ personal assistants, honing their scheduling and prioritisation skills.
• Evolving Ownership: The advanced features in secondary homework diaries empower students to take more control over their learning trajectory.
• A Prelude to Tertiary Education: Serving as foundational tools, these diaries prep students for the rigors and responsibilities they’ll encounter in higher education.

In summary, Secondary School Homework Diaries are more than just organisational tools ; they are catalysts for personal and academic growth. As students transition into adolescence, the challenges they face extend beyond the classroom, requiring a higher level of organisation, self-management, and proactive learning. The detailed and defined sections, subject segregation, and spaces for reflection and feedback in these diaries, not only help students manage their growing list of commitments but also empower them to take ownership of their learning trajectory. This, in turn, prepares them for the rigors and responsibilities of higher education and beyond.

Ultimately, by consistently using a homework diary, students are equipped to navigate the complexities of their academic journey with confidence and autonomy, laying the foundation for a successful future. Therefore, the emphasis on Secondary School Homework Diaries is not just about managing assignments; it is about empowering students to become independent, proactive learners, ready to face the challenges of higher education and the world beyond.

The journey from primary to secondary education is marked by significant changes in academic demands and student capabilities. Homework diaries play a crucial role in this transition, evolving in complexity and purpose to meet the dynamic needs of students at each stage. From fostering foundational skills like organisation, time management, and responsibility in primary students, to steering secondary students towards greater independence, proactive learning, and preparation for higher education, homework diaries are indispensable tools for holistic student development.

We understand the importance of these diaries and are dedicated to crafting fully customisable planners and homework diaries that align with your school’s unique requirements and ethos. By investing in tailored homework diaries, schools can ensure their students are equipped with the tools they need to navigate the academic landscape successfully and develop essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

In a world where academic success is intertwined with personal development, the role of homework diaries cannot be overstated. They are not just tools for recording assignments; they are catalysts for growth, guiding students towards a future where they can confidently navigate the complexities of higher education and the world beyond. Invest in your students’ success by choosing customised homework diaries that reflect your school’s values and support your students’ unique needs.

Empower Students with Customised Homework Diaries!

We recognise the distinct needs of every educational institution. Understanding that one size doesn’t fit all, we specialise in crafting fully customisable planners and homework diaries tailored to your school’s unique requirements.

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What is a homework diary, and how can it benefit my pupils?

As the UK’s top supplier of school exercise books , supplementary reading materials , personalised school books , and homework diaries ; and here at EPSL , we know that homework diaries are by far one of the most useful organisational tools that your pupils can own. They’re the perfect way of tracking out-of-school learning, and provide a clear line of communication between teachers and parents. So, what exactly is a homework diary?

A quick definition

Simply put, homework diaries are an organisational tool that allow teachers, students, and parents to keep track of home learning tasks. Our ‘My School Homework Diary’ has a timetable and space for recording homework, important dates and making notes. The diary also includes a list of multiplication tables, as well as room for each child to record their favourite books, CDs and films as a fun addition. Homework diaries are your pupil’s best friends from an organisational point of view.

How do homework diaries help pupils?

Homework diaries are essential pieces of equipment for pupils all the way from primary school age until sixth form or college. They provide students with a range of benefits, including:

• Development of organisational skills - a homework diary instils a sense of responsibility in pupils, as it gives them the opportunity to take control of their own home learning tasks. As they progress through the school years, they’ll be set with more homework, which will eventually turn into revision for exams. So, getting your pupils into the habit of keeping track of their home learning from an early age prepares them for exam life as they move through their education.
• Reduces stress - the primary aim of a homework diary is to help your pupils keep track of their home learning tasks, it’s also the ideal tool for helping students plan their time so they know when they can relax and unwind. If you give your students deadlines for completing certain tasks, then your pupils will be able to plan their time accordingly, and reduce their stress levels.

Where can I purchase a homework diary?

Right here of course! We can’t stress enough how important it is to get pupils used to recording their home learning in a diary from an early age - it’s an unbelievably valuable skill that will help them massively in the future when it comes to revising for exams, studying in university, and generally taking responsibility for their own time management!

It all starts with your influence in the classroom, and while you’re busy encouraging your students to make full use of their homework diaries, we’ll continue to produce our huge range of school exercise books, personalised exercise books, and supplementary reading material to students of all ages so they have everything they need to achieve greatness in the classroom. Take a look through what we’ve got available on our site - and if you have any questions, feel free to give us a call on 01254 686 500. We’re always happy to help!

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Homework Diaries

A homework diary is the perfect way to promote organisation skills and to communicate between school and home.

Our homework diaries are the perfect organisational tool for students, teachers and parents. With bespoke and ‘off-the-shelf’ options, there really is something to suit every school and budget.

Studies show that effective planning through use of a homework diary can be an excellent way to keep learners motivated and on-track. We give your students the tools they need to succeed.

What makes our Homework Diaries amazing?

Our homework diaries are incredibly popular at schools across the UK. Some of the top features include:

A range of sizes available

Quality full colour cover

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2 pages per week diary

Bespoke diary layouts available

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Student Wellbeing section

Suitable for daily use

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Simple to make bespoke with cover and content

Easily recycled

Encourages planning

Supports student wellbeing

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No two schools are the same, which is why we give you the option to add your own unique content. It could be your school’s wellbeing ethos, dress code, timetable, teacher details or things like term dates and IT policy.

Your bespoke cover, page content and diary style

Over 1000 pages of optional library options

7 different diary layout options

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BUILT TO LAST

Our homework diaries are designed to last a whole school year. Our durable bindings and covers protect each planner through the rigours of daily school life. They really are backpack-proof!

Tough, long-lasting binding options

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No quibble replacement if it falls apart prematurely

hundreds of options

Throughout the years, we have learned what makes a good homework diary – versatility! One school’s needs will not be the same as another school, that’s why we have a huge variety of different content options in our library.

Study Skills section for better revision and exam performance

A wellbeing section to develop awareness in mental health

3 reference sections (maps, periodic table etc)

Opportunities to create your 100% bespoke version

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A homework diary is an opportunity for schools to provide young people with a tool to support the learning experience. We do not want schools to miss this opportunity so have devised a way to make the process of designing a homework planner as simple as possible.

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15 Innovative School Homework Ideas to Make Learning Fun

Aashita Pillai

Aashita is a writer here at Suraasa and has formerly worked as a Teacher Mentor for a couple of years. She wields words like weapons to help readers get clear and concise information.

Introduction

General tips to keep students hooked to school homework, 15 innovative school homework ideas to engage your students, theme a: arts and crafts, theme b: physical and outside activities, theme c: digital activities, theme d: games, theme e: entrepreneurship.

“Hi teachers! I am your old friend, School Homework. Over time as education changed, so have I— thanks to the endless innovations that happened to me.  Let me take you through my life and the various innovations that made me your best friend- I was born in the 1920s to help students reinforce what they learned in class. Until the 1980s, I was basically just pen-and-paper-based assignments.  The Internet was born in 1983. From there onwards, I made my stride into the ‘digital era’.

Until the beginning of 2020, I was slowly being integrated within online platforms and technology to help students learn better. Then at the onset of 2020, the world plunged into the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools shifted to a ‘remote learning’ mode of education. During this pandemic, you and I became very crucial in ensuring the continuity of our students’ learning. You all embraced creative approaches to keep the students engaged. You leveraged interactive games, virtual simulations, & more to make me engaging. Gone are the days when you, my dear teachers, would limit your homework to worksheets, textbook questions, literature reviews, and reports. Today as we stand here in 2023, there is no limit to innovative and exciting homework formats! Well, that’s from me. See you in the classrooms!”

So teachers, we heard from homework about how it has evolved over time. As it said, many innovative ways have come up to reinforce our students' learning. So, are you ready to make your students fall in love with these new school homework ideas? Let’s begin with understanding some general tips to keep your students engaged with their school homework.

1. Make it Relevant and Meaningful 

Connect the school homework to their lives, interests, or current events to make it more meaningful and relatable. For example, if it’s Christmas time, you can ask your students to explore the themes of charity, storytelling, etc.

2. Give Them a Choice

Allow students to have some choice and autonomy in their assignments. Ask them to select the format (e.g. written format in the online medium, oral format in the offline medium) in which they want to submit their homework. When they feel a sense of ownership, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged. This is how you become a 21st-century teacher who uses differentiated learning. 

3. Celebrate Their Achievements

When children get appreciated for their achievements or good behaviour, it boosts their self-confidence. It encourages them to repeat those actions. This creates a positive learning environment. They are more likely to deliver results when appreciated for their actions. Hence, you can celebrate their achievements via small rewards, recognition or a display of their work in class.

Let's move to the next part of this blog, where we will share innovative school homework ideas that will turn mundane homework into engaging learning sessions!  After assigning any of these innovative homework ideas, you might never hear students’ innovative excuses to avoid homework! To give you a quick run-through, these ideas have been grouped under some common themes. Under each theme, you will learn how to use 3 ideas listed alongside relevant examples to comprehend it completely. Come along as we give the ratty old homework a MAKEOVER!

By infusing the joy of arts and crafts into school homework, you can tap into the innate curiosity and imagination of your students. And you never know, you might end up being the person that shaped the next Da Vinci! So, let’s get right into it:

1. Create Your Storybook

We all have heard stories. We have loved them and adored them. So why not give our students a chance to write one?  After the students submit their storybooks, you can review their stories and give personalised feedback. Such feedback addresses each student’s individual needs, strengths, and areas for improvement. This fosters a student-centric learning environment.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

2. Make Your Own Board Game

Do you remember the joy of gathering around a table, rolling a dice, and playing Snakes & Ladders? As kids and even as adults, many of us love spending our time playing board games.  Now, picture becoming the teacher that integrates school homework with a board game! Students can design board games and incorporate artistic elements into their theme, board layout, cards, etc. They can become architects of fun and learning!

Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

3. Construct a Birdhouse

Now, let’s tap into the sweet nostalgia of DIY(Do it Yourself) Projects. It could be something as simple as bedsheet forts or something a little more complex like a birdhouse 🙂 Won’t it be wonderful to watch your students feel a sense of accomplishment when they build their own handmade creations?  Let’s focus on the idea of constructing a birdhouse. By assigning students this homework, you’ll additionally be encouraging kinesthetic learning . 

Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

Students love spending their time outdoors. Assigning school homework that requires them to be outside is a big plus! It will also help them apply what’s taught in class in real-life situations and promote active learning.

4. Participate in a Scavenger Hunt

Everyone loves a good old mystery! Give your students the chance to be modern-day ‘Sherlock Holmes’ as they set out on scavenger hunts.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

5. Maintain a Physical Activity Journal

In this digital age, where mobile and laptop screens often dominate, the majority of the students lead sedentary lifestyles. School homework which encourages physical activity, can be a game-changer! And what better than maintaining a physical activity journal that helps with it? Additionally, it will also promote the healthy habit of having an active lifestyle among students.  Getting students to journal can seem tough, but with the right motivation & incentives, it can be done. Additionally, this can also be a fun summer holiday homework, where students can keep track of their activities all summer! Encourage them to document their daily exercise triumphs. Push them to go beyond their own records! Ask them to explore science concepts- BMI, heart and pulse rates, diet, and nutrition! Once you do this, exercise will not just be about breaking a sweat anymore. It will also be something that incorporates learning! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

6. Conduct a Survey at a Local Supermarket

This outdoor activity is an extremely fun option for school homework. Most kids love running through the different aisles in a supermarket. Introducing a concept like surveys here gives them a chance to do some ‘real-life’ work and also provides much-needed relief to their parents!  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

In the age of tech-savvy students, we often find parents complaining about the excess screen time with their kids. But what if you could harness the untapped potential in technology? Today's kids are already immersed in the digital world, so why not tap into their enthusiasm and merge it with learning?  Let’s look at some innovative methods of assigning digital activities for school homework:

7. Record a Virtual Job Application

This can be a fun homework assignment for students of all grades. One thing that we often forget as teachers is that school is not just about the present; it's also about the future. But often, we don’t discuss the future. This results in students being almost lost when it comes to their future career opportunities.  This is exactly where this school homework activity helps. Assigning school homework related to professions is a great chance for students to explore their career options. This, in turn, will help them be better prepared for life after school.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

8. Participate in Online Collaborative Projects

Online projects are a catalyst for active learning and student engagement. They can be a tool for you to create a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Additionally, these activities enhance digital literacy and empower students to leverage technology for learning. Working on online collaborative projects will also help students learn how to function together as a team. This is something that also prepares them for life beyond school, where it’s crucial to learn to work together.

9. Virtual Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange events open doors to new horizons, offering students a unique chance to explore diverse cultures. By immersing them in new traditions, you develop acceptance, and empathy in your students. You give them a chance to have a broad and more inclusive perspective of the world. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

Game-based school homework is one of the best ways to engage your students. Integrating learning within games creates a powerful synergy where education and entertainment merge seamlessly.  It’s time to tap into your students’ natural love for games and leverage it!

10. Use Minecraft as a Learning Tool

Ah, Minecraft! A name that brings back memories of endless adventures in pixelated landscapes. It’s a game that is a nostalgic reminder of our childhood.  But did you know that Minecraft can be more than just a game? It can be a powerful learning tool to level up the educational experience of your students.  💡Learn how to leverage Minecraft to make your classrooms more engaging! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

11. Encourage Role-Playing Games

Lights, camera, action! Role-playing games(RPGs) let students step into the shoes of a character and bring lessons to life. Even though RPGs are not typically classified as games, their unique blend of learning and fun makes them ideal for educational purposes.  You can assign students to act out roleplays based on a historical event, scientific concept or work of literature. They can develop characters, write dialogues, and present this to the class. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

12. Online Challenges

You can introduce online challenges like coding of varying difficulties for different grade levels. Platforms like Scratch or Code.org can be helpful for this purpose. Coding challenges offer hands-on experience to students. It allows them to practice coding concepts and algorithms in a practical and engaging manner.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

In today's competitive world, students who embrace innovative thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset stand out. As a teacher, you can nurture these qualities in your students via thought-provoking school homework. Such assignments can ignite students' passion for problem-solving, creative thinking, and strategic planning. Let’s look at some of the ideas below.

13. Pitch Your Business Idea

Have you watched shows like Shark Tank or Billion Dollar Buyer? Have you been completely captivated by the business pitches on these shows? Now, imagine doing the same for your students— unleashing their entrepreneurial spirit. It’s time to bring the hustle of the business world into your classrooms! Encourage students to develop a business idea and create a persuasive pitch. They should research their target market, competitors, and unique selling points. In fact, students can present their pitch using multimedia tools, such as slides or videos, highlighting the problem they're solving and the value their business brings. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

14. Design a Mobile App

Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. Think about the countless hours that you spend on your smartphone, exploring different apps that make your life easier. This is a practice growing like fire amongst kids as well and is cause for serious concern! What if they spend time on their phone and learn at the same time? This homework assignment encourages students to apply their creativity and technical skills to develop a concept for a mobile application. Additionally, you can also assign this as a holiday homework assignment and let students go wild with learning during summer! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

*Technologies like designing mobile applications can be too complex for the primary school. Hence, we focus on this idea only for middle and high school students.

15. Set up a Stall at the School Fair

This homework acts as an Introduction to Business 101 class for students of all grade levels. Students get to decide what stall to put up, then work on the logistics and finally manage the stall and finances on D-Day. This will teach students real-world skills and give them a feeling of ownership. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

Grade-Specific Tips to follow while Preparing School Homework ‍

1. primary school students ‍.

• Keep it Interactive and Hands-on Younger children thrive on tactile and interactive experiences. Incorporate more of arts and crafts, storytelling, etc., to make homework enjoyable for them.
• Use Visuals Vibrant colours will capture their attention and make tasks visually appealing.
• Keep it Short Primary school students have limited attention spans. Give them small tasks that they can accomplish in a limited timeframe. ‍

2. Middle School students ‍

• Offer More Choices Middle schoolers are often teenagers already on the precipice of changes beyond their control. They will appreciate having some control over their learning. Allow them to choose topics or formats that align with their interests.
• Incorporate Technology Middle school students are often technologically savvy. Utilise online resources, interactive platforms, and digital tools to make homework more engaging and relevant to their interests.
• Encourage Independent Research Foster their curiosity by assigning research-based projects. Encourage them to explore various sources and present their findings in creative ways. ‍

3. High School Students ‍

• Encourage Critical Thinking and Analysis High schoolers are capable of higher-order thinking skills. Assign tasks that require critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Encourage Self-expression Offer creative assignments that allow them to express their thoughts, opinions and ideas. Remember that they are young adults finding their voice in a loud world. Encourage them to write essays, create multimedia presentations, or engage in spirited debates.
• Push for Practical Application Assign tasks that connect to real-world situations, allowing them to see the relevance and importance of their learning. ‍

How to Improve Your Homework and Other Teaching Strategies?

Do you want to learn about more strategies to improve school homework? What if you could upskill and improve all your teaching strategies- classroom management, assessment, and lesson planning, among many others? Book a call with a mentor to get dedicated teacher counselling on upskilling and improving your teaching strategies.

In a world where school homework is generally met with students’ whining, you can use these approaches to turn it into a gateway for innovation! By infusing ideas such as game-based learning, digital activities, and arts and crafts, you can help students engage with school homework meaningfully. This will foster a lifelong love for learning among your students, ultimately helping them succeed in and beyond the classroom. Want a short compilation of all the amazing school homework ideas? Click the button below

Meet Suraasa, the World’s First Career Growth Platform for Teachers.

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Free Bullet Journal Printables

15 Lifesaving Homeschool Bullet Journal Page Ideas

Sharing is caring!

With the pandemic upon us, many more families choose to homeschool their kids.

Therefore today, I’ll be sharing with you homeschool Bullet Journal page ideas to make this whole endeavor more fun, productive, and altogether pleasant for the little ones and you!  

Ok, Extra transparency here – I don’t have kids, and therefore I don’t actually use any of these pages. The most I did is using my Bullet Journal for school .

However, I did some extensive research and talked to a lot of people who actually do homeschool, including my beloved nephew and niece, whom I live with these days.

So I know these pages are useful and will help you to get organized and feel a bit less overwhelmed.

At the end of the post, I also included some resources for homeschool pre-made planner pages and printables in case you need a quick start.

This post may contain affiliate links. They will be of no extra expense for you, but I receive a small commission. Please see my  Disclosure  for more details. Thank you for supporting Masha Plans!

Like every other Bullet Journal, you should start with a key . In your homeschool journal, though, you might need completely different signifiers.

Try creating different symbols for important things for homeschooling, such as assignments, field trips, an activity that might need some extra budget, and so on.

Try to use color-coding either by subject or by the student if you have more than one little one to teach.

It’s always nice to have a yearly overview in a future log , and a homeschool Bullet Journal is not an exception.

Use this to mark special dates (like big holidays requiring a special themed activity), field trips, vacations, deadlines for exams, and such.

It’s always good to see a big picture like that when you prepare.

Big Picture Spread

Speaking of big pictures, you might want to create a separate spread for it.

Let this be kind of a huge brain dump for all the things you want to do with the kids this year. Add here different projects, field trip ideas, online courses, and documentaries.

Whenever you find something you think kids might like and will be useful for them – just add it here. When you plan your lessons, just look back to see if you can use some of the ideas you had before.

Attendance Tracker

Depending on where you live, you might require to track attendance by days or by hours.

This will guide you on what kind of tracker you might need. You can create a huge annual tracker if all you need is tracking days – it’ll be really so convenient to have a complete overview of the yearly attendance.

You can also go month by month or semester by semester – whatever you feel like is easier and more convenient for you.

I love how this spread is so neat and clear to understand.

Before Classes Begin

There’re lots of preparations you and the kids should do before they start classes: get all the supplies, clean out an area in the house for studying, research different programs, and so on.

Just to be sure you’re staying on top of this – create a list of things to do before you actually sit down to teach.

Monthly Planning Page

It’s easier to plan small, so start by creating a monthly homeschool spread.

This of all the things you want to cover with your kids this month. Add here any projects and trips if needed.

Weekly Study Plan

This is the heart of your planning – your weekly study plan.

Day by day, write down what subjects you covered, what assignments you had, and so on. 

Just be flexible, especially if you have smaller kids. Things might not go according to plan and some subjects might take longer to cover. Always leave some extra time.

Such a detailed plan, and it looks so neat and well-organized.

I’m also really loving color coding here; that definitely helps with understanding it all.

Unlike the previous one, this is not planned as you go; this one obviously has a weekly plan before starting.

I’m also loving you can track the assignments on this page as well.

Curriculum Checklist

Since you’re probably working off some kind of curriculum, it would be nice to have a checklist so you can see how far along you went with your studies.

If you’re working off books, it can be even easier; you could simply track chapter by chapter as you move along.

Books Read / Movies Watched

Apart from your usual curriculum books and documentaries, there will probably be some extra ones you’d like your kids to read and watch to widen their horizons.

Create a separate collection spread for those, so you see which ones you have already covered. Might be useful to add a little rating to it to see in the future what material resonated better with your children.

Assignment Tracker

This is something you could add to your weekly plan, but since it’s already probably filled with your daily classes schedule, – you can move the assignments to a separate spread.

Track the assignments, the deadlines by which they need to be completed, and the assessments on how well your students did.

It could be also beneficial to add a little space for notes to self if you see the kids struggling with certain things.

Teaching Strategies

There are many ways to teach, and as you discover them one by one, you will see what strategies work best for what kids.

The benefit of homeschooling is that you can actually give individual attention to every kid’s needs, so it could be helpful to have a special spread with notes on what kind of teaching works best for your kid.

Running To-Do List

There are so many things to remember when you homeschool – courses to register for, test signups, and supplies.

Create a separate spread with a running to-do list, so you’re always on top of things.

And in case you want to create one decorated like this, be sure to check my post with Stationery Bullet Journal Doodles for step-by-step tutorials.

Homeschool Budget

Speaking of supplies – you’ll need a lot of them, not only for kids but for teaching as well.

Plus field trip expenses, extra projects, and so on.

To make sure your study program doesn’t bankrupt you – be sure to create a budget for all the things you need and want to do.

It will help you not only stay organized with your finances but also reevaluate what things are worth doing and what things can be replaced by something equally fun but substantially cheaper.

For more budget-related pages check my post with Bullet Journal Page Ideas To Manage Your Finances .

Daily Routine

As I always say – having a routine is the key to success. This of actual schools – they have routine kids follow every day, so they stay organized and keep learning.

You need to create a similar routine for your kids when homeschooling. Establish the wake-up time, class time, fun time, but also homework study time.

If kids have already set a routine, it will be easier for them to just follow it and stay organized. This is huge when we talk about homeschooling because studying from home is no easier than working from home and we all need an extra structure for that.

It might be fun to create a huge board with the routine so kids can see it and follow it. This might also be a fun game when you would ask them what we do next, and they try to figure out the time and the task they are supposed to be doing.

Finally, it can be a very fun idea to encourage your kids to set their own goals .

Setting and achieving goals is very motivating and always creates that extra feeling of accomplishment and pride.

Sit down with the kids, talk about what you’ll be learning, and encourage them to set study goals for themselves. It can be very fun and motivating for the kids,

Homeschool Planner Printables

Since I know sometimes you might just not have time and want something already pre-made. Or maybe you wanna take a look at these planners and copy some of the ideas to your homeschool Bullet Journal.

So here are a few cool things I found for you.

In my research on using BuJo for homeschooling, I stumbled upon Megan from The School Nest .  She seems like a total pro in homeschooling.

On her site, she offers printable weekly lesson plans and a few other things that I’m sure your kids will find pretty fun.

Shining Mom offers a huge free printable homeschool planner with sections like a lesson plan, weekly plan, activities plan, exams schedule, and more.

Living Life and Learning has another free printable homeschool planner with pages for curriculum plan, weekly lesson plan, field trip plan, and so on.

Ed Snapshots offers a free printable planner, which is pretty straightforward and allows you to plan for the month, week, and day.

5 Js free homeschool planner includes 200 pages and is very very detailed. It breaks down each day with assignments, activities, and daily schedules and includes tons of other collections like books read, assignment tracker.

Hope all of this prepared you for homeschooling!

Do you use your Bullet Journal for homeschooling? Which pages do you find most useful? Share with us in the comments!

Hope this post was interesting if you find it so, please share! If you enjoy my content and want to show your appreciation, please consider supporting me with a  cup of coffee .

And remember: Keep Bullet Journaling, and Don’t Be A Blob.

We just wrapped up our 4th year of homeschooling, and I am still figuring out what type of planner or record book works for me. I’m going to try a bullet journal for our next school year and I am excited about it! These pages are awesome examples!

Thank you!! I hope this works well for you.

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Homework Diary 

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Fun, fresh & funky design! 

• Our new Homework Diary is an easy-to-use weekly diary for children 
• The diary includes space for parents and teachers to write short notes 
• The Wellbeing Tips and Bullying advice give extra support for children 
• Includes a map of Ireland, useful Irish phrases and a maths tables page 
• As well as a helpful timetable template and a section to mark special dates in each month 

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7 Student Diary Cover Designs for Schools

• November 23, 2021

A student diary is pivotal for staying on top of homework, exams and important dates. But equipping students with diaries is only half the challenge – they also have to want to use them!

While most essential content will go inside your diary , a great cover is vital, too. Designing a diary cover that appeals to students, is practical, and reflects your school identity can be tricky. That’s why we’ve rounded up 7 student diary covers from our clients to help inspire!

Student Diary Designs

Westlake Girls High School 2020 diary

A school diary cover doesn’t have to be boring or predictable! This contemporary cover for Westlake Girls has abstract shapes and cursive text, bringing some fun to those to-dos!

Carmel College 2019 diary

This Carmel College diary has a simple colour palette with high contrast that commands attention! The school name and logo are displayed proudly, so there is no way you’d forget what school it belongs to.

Northcross Intermediate School 2019 diary

Want to ensure nobody takes home the wrong diary? This Northcross Intermediate cover is simple but very practical! The blue border frames the front, with plenty of room for contact information.

Westlake Girls High School 2021 diary

This Westlake Girls diary combines a purple colour gradient with geometric shapes – an almost futuristic look, fit for 2021! The school logo remains large and clear but doesn’t compete with the bold design.

Northcross Intermediate School 2020 diary

For Northcross Intermediate, this diary cover is both artsy and practical. While the design is unique and busy, it also includes space for student contact details.

Northcross Intermediate School 2021 diary

Don’t forget about the back of your school diary. Why not carry artwork and borders around to the back for a cohesive cover that looks good from all angles!

Carmel College 2015 diary

This rainbow diary cover for Carmel College is hard to miss! The design itself is simple but made interesting through the use of bright colours.

How to Add Black and White Photos to Your Design

How to succeed with script fonts.

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Diary Layouts

Communication Notes

Irish Diaries specialises in producing high quality Homework Journals for the Primary School educational sector.

Our contemporary upgraded Homework Journal features include:

• Full colour diary (Week Beginning)
• Variations of full colour contemporary covers
• Perforated “Letter of Absence” Notes
• Perforated “Permission to Leave School Early” Notes
• Personalised School Information Pages (Policies, etc)
• School Calendar
• Full colour Educational Section to include Addition and Multiplication, Subtraction, Spelling Rules, Irish Verbs, Presidents of Ireland, Healthy Eating and Climate Change.

Our service team members are available at 01-8414825 to discuss any queries you may have regarding our products.

At Irish Diaries we deliver on budget and on time.

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