14 June, 2012

BEE Binders


click on pic to download free labels
Do you use organizational binders? I have always had some sort of reading folder and reading bag but a couple of years ago I switched to a 3 ring binder. This was the BEST tip/Organization idea I’ve ever done for my classroom.  Before binders, I was using plastic folders. I had folders for reading, folders for spelling, folders for homework. It was complete CHAOS! It was too confusing for the kids. I have found that I really like using the flexible plastic binders rather than the hard ones. I like using all one color and have found them for under 2 bucks at Wal-Mart. The only downfall is a cute spine and cover but not to fear you can still print out cute labels. Either way a 3 ring binder is the way to go! Many teachers have short catchy names for binders. I use B.E.E binders. BEE stands for Bring Everything Everyday. My students are great at remembering to bring their binders every day. When they arrive each morning, they take out any notes/money and homework and put their binders in the filing cabinet. Now what goes in this great binder?

3 hole Binder Pouch: I always find mine at Wal-mart for around .59 cents. This pouch is great for holding money, notes, and even small leveled books.

Plastic Folders-This is where their 100 book log is stored along with their guided reading book for the night.

Page Protectors- I have their monthly lunch menu, spelling lists, class list, and any other important information in page protectors.

How do you store 18 plus binders? I have a small 2 drawer filing cabinet that stores mine but you could easily use file folder storage crates. I put hanging file folders inside of the filing cabinet so the students place their binders with the spine facing upwards. My students know exactly where their binder belongs because they each have a specific color hanging folder with their number on the front. I also put their class number on the spine of their bee binder.
Click on the picture to download my BEE intro.

More BEE items



15 comments:

  1. These are some great ideas! My students had EAGLE binders because it was our school mascot. It stood for Everything A Good Learner {needs} Everyday. They got them out in the mornings and stored them in their desk during the days.

    Katie
    Dirty Hands and Lesson Plans

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  2. Oooh I love the idea of the 2 drawer file cabinet!! How do you label the hanging file folders so the students know where to put their binder?
    Michelle @ Smitten With First

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    1. Michelle,
      Great question!
      I use different colored hanging folders which also has their class number on a label. My students know which color is their slot. Each student also has their class number on the spine of the bee binder.

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  3. I use binders too!! :) I was surprised to hear that they fit into a file cabinet?!? I would assume they would be too large. Thanks for the idea :)

    Kimberly
    The Learning Tree

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  4. Maybe because they are the flexible ones? I love having them concealed.

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    Replies
    1. Oh, ok...that makes sense. I use the hard ones. Maybe I should try the flexible ones next year. I would love to hide them! Right now I have them in a large bin but I just saw them put into a corner shelf {on pinterest} and liked that too! If I could get them to fully hide for the day that would be the best!

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  5. I like the flexible ones, too. Sometimes Staples has them for $1.50. I used them with one of my classes to make writing scrapbooks. I loved them!

    April @ The Idea Backpack

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  6. Always looking for ways to get more organized! Thanks for sharing your ideas!

    NotJustChild'sPlay

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  7. Oh I love the BEE binder! I tried something like this a few years ago, but did an iPod binder (I am Prepared and Organized Daily). I'm just soooo unorganized myself that it was hard for me to keep up with it. Looking at yours though, maybe there IS hope for me!!! I love it!

    Amanda
    Ms. Wilkie's Second Grade Class

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  8. I have always wanted to use binders. I am so afraid of them trashing them before the end of the year.
    Do you happen to have the exact number of the flexible ones? I'd like to check them out :)
    Thank!
    My Second Sense

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  9. I love love love these! My theme is bees so this will be very handy!

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  11. I love these! I was planning on using them if I was back in the classroom, but now I'll just pass it along to other teachers! Thanks so much for the freebie!

    Buzzing with Ms. B

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  12. I ran up on your blog while researching the Bee Binders...........love your blog. Our team is going to try the binder with fifth graders........thanks for the info.
    Donna
    working5to9math.blogspot.com

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  13. Hello! I recently stumbled upon your blog and I'm absolutely loving all the great ideas you have! The 'BEE' Binders sound excellent; do you have the kids turn them in at the end of the year?

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