Pop-Up Constructions Motivate and Reinforce Science Learning for Upper Elementary Students

ABSTRACT

Pop-up boxes and folder constructions support student inquiry while integrating art, craft, spatial, and creativity skills. Step-by-step illustrated directions for constructing pop-up boxes are provided with example images of pop-up boxes focused on ecological issues. Teachers used these pop-up constructions to assist fourth- and fifth-grade students in understanding environmental problems with youth-implemented solutions. Classroom testing showed that combining art with science through pop-up constructions allowed students to be creative, to have both minds-on and hands-on activity, and to use motor and spatial skills in constructing the pop-ups, along with paper engineering concepts in their pop-up designs. Teachers reported strong student engagement, collaboration, and productivity during the lessons, with students expressing enjoyment in the activity. Examples of two additional pop-ups addressing the topic areas of simple machines and ecosystems are provided.

KEYWORDS:

• arts integration
• crafts
• creativity
• paper engineering
• pop-up constructions
• scientific inquiry
• spatial skills