9 Sticky Note Teacher Hacks

Photo courtesy of: Scara; courtesy of: Pixabay

The little sticky squares, used by thousands of people every day, were an essential tool in my teaching itinerary. They were all over my classroom.

To stay organized, I bought different colors, shapes and sizes and used them for many different reasons. I'd like to share nine of them with you now.

1. Tabs for notebooks or binders

Write the name of the topic on the sticky note and place it either on the top or along the side of your book.

2. Cubby Labels

There are so many cute shaped sticky-notes that will match your classroom theme.

3. Reminders

Write the subject of your reminder on the note then stick it in a place where you're sure to see it. I put mine on my calendar or in an unusual place where it will stand out.

4. Anecdotes

Whether it be for an academic subject or a behavior concern, teachers need anecdotes for their students. 

Pop a pad in your back pocket for the moment note taking arises. When you get a minute, file the notes wherever you keep your anecdotes.

5. Student Check-Ins

Sticky notes are a quick and easy way to have children interact with an anchor chart. I used them all the time for yes or no questions or for surveys like "What's your favorite color?"

Write your target question at the top, make your columns then have students put their labeled sticky note in the column where it belongs.

6. Read-Alouds

Before you read a book to your class, write your comprehension questions on sticky notes and put them on the page they pertain to. It's a great way to make sure you hit all of your target questions.

7. Use different colors and sizes.

Color code your notes for easier accessibility and to keep track of things.

8. Book Markers

Rather than dog ear your favorite read-aloud or reference book, slap a sticky note on the page you want to save for later.

9. Personalized Sticky Notes

As a small token of friendship for a grade partner, give them a pack of sticky notes with their initial on it. Oh, and don't forget to add a chocolate bar or a cup of their favorite coffee. Oh, or maybe a fresh pack of pens to replace the ones they lost. Pens are very hard to keep track of in a busy classroom.

I'd love to hear how you use sticky notes in your classroom.