Folding in Social Studies

OK - it's not a Math Journal Sunday ... but I've got a FANTASTIC foldable to share with you today.  I saw this idea on A Teacher's Treasure a few weeks ago, and as soon as I saw it, I knew I HAD to do it with my class.  This is called the Secret Door Foldable.  You've got to head over to Mor's blog to see it - she even has a great video to show you step-by-step how to complete the template.  The minute I finished watching her video, I ran to get two pieces of paper to try it out for myself ... and then I had to get a few more pieces to make some for my girls.  Be sure to have some paper nearby ... I know you're going to want to try it, too.


We used the Secret Door Foldable for our culminating Social Studies project.  Our last unit was First Nations People and European Explorers.  I had students go through their notes and assignments, and choose the most important information (integrated the reading strategy of determining important ideas) to summarize on their foldable.  They also needed to organize their writing into paragraphs with subtitles.  Social studies mark - check, reading mark - check, writing mark - check!  PERFECT!!!

They drew a title page for the cover of the assignment.

They summarized their information on First Nations People on the inside foldable.  They also had to draw a picture or colour the background for visual appeal.  LOVE how this students added text features to his summary of information!

They then summarized their information for European Explorers inside the Secret Door.  They students LOVED this assignment, and it was so evident from the quality of their work.  Impressive!!!  A few of my students told me they had to make these foldable templates for their little brothers and sisters at home.  Too cute!


While you're visiting A Teacher's Treasure to see how to make these foldable templates (and I know you're going to), be sure to check out Mor's giveaway for tickets to the Everything's Intermediate Expo.  This expo is geared specifically to intermediate teachers and will focus on interactive notebooks (more foldables!!!), integrating technology, making math more meaningful, and more.  Check out the details HERE.

And, while I have your attention ... Krystal, from Lessons in the Middle, is having a Spectacular Spring Giveaway at her blog.  There are over $250.00 worth of prizes and materials in the giveaway (including my Fictional Narrative Writing Workshop Unit).  It gets even better - Krystal has a grab bag of products she'll send you just for entering her giveaway!!!  Check it out and find some time-saving materials by clicking on the button to the right.