Faculty Publications

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

Document Type

Article

Keywords

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

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Science Activities

Volume

50

Issue

4

First Page

119

Last Page

133

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.

Department

Department of Educational Psychology, Foundations, and Leadership Studies

Original Publication Date

11-18-2013

DOI of published version

10.1080/00368121.2013.846899

Link to Full Text

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