One way to increase student engagement is by making foldable books in the classroom, such as an exploding book! There is always a wow factor when the kids open and close these squash books.
Best of all, this hand-on activity is simple to do. Most importantly, you can use this at any time of the year but also with any subject. Who doesn’t love that?
Besides, it is affordable to make these adorable foldable because you already have the materials needed.
That is why I have put together a simple tutorial with tons of pictures to walk you through making an exploding book.
What is an exploding book?
An exploding book or squash book is a three-square foldable book made from paper. Trust me, the definition of an exploding book is way harder than it is to create one.
What’s more, making an exploding book in the classroom is one way for upper elementary kids to practice their fine motor skills.
How to make an exploding book
Materials
Here is a list of materials you need to make an exploding book.
- Three sheets of regular paper (8.5 by 11)
- Scissors
- Glue
Step #1
First, fold each sheet of paper diagonally and cut the excess part to make the paper square.
Step #2
Next, fold each sheet of paper horizontally and vertically.
Step #3
Then, fold the upper left corner diagonally and push the edges inwards.
Step #4
In this step, line up, the three sheets of paper, and turn over the middle paper.
After, slide in the middle paper with the other pages.
Step #5
Next, flatten the papers, and glue the second paper’s side flaps to the corner of the first and third sheets of paper.
Step #6
Finally, follow the creases of the paper to fold the accordion into a square.
How to use exploding books in the classroom
Exploding books are fun and straightforward to do in the classroom. Undoubtedly, the kids get excited when they see what their booklet can do. Apart from this, I love them because I can include them in any lesson or subject.
Besides having an impressive effect, exploding books have many uses in the classroom. For example, you can add them to interactive notebooks and decorate bulletin boards.
Final Note
To sum it up, exploding books is an easy and budget-friendly activity to do with kids anytime throughout the school year. By implementing it in the classroom, it has become a go-to activity to bring a magical touch to many of my reading and writing lessons.
What are some of your favorite book foldables for the classroom?
