Exploring Origami – The Art of Japanese Paper Folding

Process

Teachers Note: Introduction to Origami. Begin by showing examples of origami animals and explaining their cultural significance.
Share a brief history of origami, emphasizing its global influence and the creativity it inspires.

1. Choose a Template:

   1. Students will select an origami animal (e.g., crane, butterfly, or frog) and pick a paper color of their choice.

2. Step-by-Step Folding:

   1. Guide students through the folding process, demonstrating each step clearly. Encourage patience and precision as they create their designs.

3. Add Creative Details:

   1. Once the animal is complete, students can personalize their origami using markers to add eyes, patterns, or other details.

4. Create Hanging Ornaments (Optional):

   1. For an additional craft element, use a thumbtack or hole puncher to make a small hole in the finished piece. Thread a string through the hole, tie a loop, and turn the origami into a hanging ornament.

5. Showcase Creations:

   1. End the lesson by displaying the students' creations and encouraging them to share what they enjoyed or learned about origami.

Terminology

• Origami: The Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures.

• Geometric Shape: A shape with defined edges and symmetry, such as squares, triangles, and rectangles, often used in origami designs.