Starting the new school year off on the right foot

Most high schoolers will only receive a school supply list once they meet each new teacher. For some, this can be stressful. Why not get a head start? Go through the supplies that you have at home and see if some can be reused. Then, make a list of missing items that you’ll absolutely need, such as:

• Pencils and pens

• Highlighters

• Lined paper

• Ruler

• Erasers

• At least 2 binders

• Pencil case

• Dividers

• Backpack

• Calculator

• Etc.

Having some school supplies ready before the school year starts will ease some of your worries. Don’t forget: Bring a pencil case, writing material, and some paper on the first day!

As your sense of autonomy grows, it’s important to have your own personal space for homework. If you don’t have your own room, that's okay! Try to find a quiet spot in your home, away from the noise and bustle. Clear out all unnecessary items, and make sure that you have a desk or table. Then, spruce up your new homework station! You can visit thrift stores, garage sales, discount stores, and online marketplaces to find storage and organization materials and decorations. Alloprof has many printable tools and posters for you, too!

The beginning of the school year is a great time to make some resolutions. Why not focus on getting organized? Having the right school supplies is only the first step. Thinking about your routine and study habits, both of which might have gotten rusty over the summer, is a crucial next step. Here are some things to consider:

• Use your school agenda or a calendar. Today, many teachers choose from a variety of online platforms to post assignments, tests, and due dates, upload lessons, and send messages. But using something concrete, like your school agenda or calendar, allows you to keep track of important dates. By writing down tasks and other commitments (extracurriculars, for example), you get a clear picture of what’s ahead. This makes it less likely that you’ll forget something crucial. Keep in mind, however, that you need to be realistic about your time. Remember to give yourself study breaks. Try our Motivational Timer, which allows you to customize your homework period, schedule breaks, and earn some fun rewards, including games and video exercises.

• Establish routines. Routines are a part of everyday life; they help us stay focused and get things done. Routines related to school are no different. It can be helpful to give yourself a before-school and after-school routine, as well as a homework routine.

• Understand how to prioritize. Being able to classify tasks based on their importance is a learned skill. You may want to get familiar with the Eisenhower Matrix, which you can read about in our procrastination article. It will help you figure out how to prioritize tasks effectively, both inside and outside the classroom.

In charge of your own lunches? Great! Look up some quick, easy, and inexpensive recipe ideas. Canada’s Food Guide is a great place to learn about healthy eating habits, find tips, and discover new recipes. You can also check out your social media for some fun and creative lunch and snack ideas. Remember, an empty stomach makes it harder to concentrate in class!

A new school year can bring about a variety of emotions: anxiety, excitement, dread, hope, etc. Why not look on the bright side? The beginning of the year also means new opportunities. Maybe join a team or club, or start your own. Interested in the performing arts? Try out for band or join the drama club. If you're worried about making friends at school, reach out to someone in your class who looks lonely. You could also organize activities to strengthen old friendships or form new ones! This year, you might even be old enough for your first job. Who knows, maybe you’ll bond with your coworkers, and some of them will become your friends.

Alloprof has tons of free resources to help you throughout the new school year.
When you visit Alloprof, you’ll find a variety of resources that can help you review and practise your skills:
 

• Concept sheets

• Exercises

• Videos

• Games

 
If you need a little more support, check out our help services:
 

• Help Zone. In this collaborative forum, you can ask school-related questions and get explanations. You can also reply to questions posted by other students.

• Ask a teacher. If you need individual help, you can always speak with our teachers. They’re available by chat, email, and phone Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Alloprof: Another tool to help you thrive and succeed throughout the year!