It’s no secret that I think foldable activities are great for science lessons! They are a popular and versatile tool for creating revision notes and interactive notebooks with older students, but can they be used successfully with younger children? Definitely! This blog post outlines 5 benefits of using foldable activities (or foldouts) with primary-aged students and younger.
What is a foldable activity?
Foldouts are a hands-on way for children to organize their thoughts or information around a particular topic. There are several formats you could use, from simple lift-the-flap style templates to foldout accordions and mini booklets.
If this is a new concept to you, check out my previous blog post, 5 foldable activity ideas for science lapbooks, for some examples.
Which science concepts can foldable activities be used for?
You could use foldouts for most areas of science teaching. Here are some examples:
-Sequencing and processes (e.g. life cycles, food chains, ordering moon phases)
-Classification and sorting
-Comparing and contrasting
-Presenting scientific vocabulary and definitions
Why should I use foldouts? The benefits!
A hands-on way to learn
Foldable activities are a fun alternative to a standard worksheet. Their hands-on nature makes them engaging for younger learners and adds an extra element of interactivity.
Information is presented in a clear and organized way.
Children develop knowledge around scientific concepts in a highly visual way. This can help with information retention and understanding.
Can be used for continued reference
Once completed, a foldout can transform a science notebook from flat and basic into fun and interactive! Unlike a worksheet which may end up crumpled at the bottom of a school bag, foldouts presented in an interactive notebook can be referenced throughout a topic or unit.
Suitable for assessment
Finishing a topic and wanting to review your kids’ learning and understanding? Instead of a test or quiz, try using a foldable activity for assessment.
Develops additional skills
For younger students, a foldable activity is a great way to practice scissor skills, fine motor skills (as children fold their templates), and hand-eye coordination. It also helps with understanding and following directions, reading, and writing.
Extra tips for foldable activities with younger children
-Some children may require extra support with folding their templates. A pre-made example can help with this as well as modelling to children in real-time.
-Use paper instead of card as this is easier for beginners to fold.
-If your students are new to using foldouts, start with a simple template. Children can practice and get to grips with it, before building up to the challenge of something a little more complex further down the line.
– If glue is involved for sticking components togther then you may want to have a break between gluing and folding. This makes it much easier and cleaner to fold!
Where can I try foldable activities?
Want some science foldable activities that are ready to print and go, with full instructions? Visit my TPT store for life cycle, earth science and human body foldouts.
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