At the beginning of the year, ~~all of~~ most of my students are organized, prepared, diligent, and consistent in turning in their homework. Bit it isn’t long before restlessness sets in, pencils “walk away,” homework folders rip, and…chaos ensues. My lovely kiddos can sometimes start slacking in the homework department, so I’ve brainstormed ways to keep them accountable, let their parents know, and keep track without staying at school til 8pm each night.

Here’s one strategy I use for motivating my students to turn in their homework on time:
Students Who Need to KETCHUP!

Here’s the idea:
Put this sign on your whiteboard or on a poster board displayed in a prominent spot in your classroom. When students don’t turn in their homework, they get put on the Ketchup List, or a list of students who need to catch up (“ketch-up” – get it?!?).
When their work is turned it, they may erase their name.

Then
I put the small ketchup bottle on their desk – I bought it at the Dollar Tree –
to remind me that they owe me work.

For added accountability, I would also have the students fill out the “Uh-Oh” form, which includes space for the student to write the assignments, an action plan for turning in work on time, and a signature line for both the student and parents.