Time Saver: Absent Folder

I LOVED this idea once I put it into practice.  Most of my school's math department used it, and after visiting their rooms during standardized testing, I decided to give it a try. 

For each of your class periods, post a folder.  I actually stapled file folders to a bulletin board to make pockets, but you could use a different system such as stacking bins, a binder, or other folder system. 

During "attendance" collect a set of the day's handouts for each student who is absent.  If there are multiple handouts, paper clip them together.  Write the students' names on the handouts / groups of handouts.  Then put these into the folder.  Whenever a student is absent, it is his job to go to the folder to get the handouts. 

Here are a couple ways to make it work even better:

• Put paperclips on the edge of the folder to hang notes to students who are out. These notes could be about a missed test or quiz, a reminder to turn in textbooks, or a note to see you to pick up graded work.  
• You can put graded work in the folder, but stick to work with only feedback, not actual scores.  The only time I broke this rule was if I found the work on the floor. 
• Write up a summary of class or type up notes.  Print copies for absent students and put them in the folder.  (You can make this a student's job each day, too).  Having notes and summaries like these are also useful for students with certain learning disabilities, helicopter moms, and a binder you keep in the classroom for you and your students to reference.