Last week, Erica Foster P ’32, early childhood and lower school (ECLS) math differentiation specialist, brought a creative twist to math education by hosting the entire third grade in the Middle School Commons to teach modular origami. Third grade students learned sonobe modules, one of the many units to build modular origami.
Foster’s enthusiasm for teaching sonobe modules stems from its ability to connect the physical experience of learning with mathematical concepts. “The first time students fold a unit, it’s pure confusion. The second time, they try to remember what they learned, but it’s still a struggle. By the third time, they’re starting to get it, and the fourth time? That’s when the dopamine hits. It creates a sonobe-folding mania that lasts for weeks,” said Foster.
This hands-on activity combines artistry with precision, as students must carefully follow instructions and pay close attention to fine motor skills. Beyond the folds and creases, the exercise is rich with mathematical learning. Students encountered terms like parallel, rotational symmetry, right and obtuse triangles, and hypotenuse. They also explored concepts of fractions, angles, and rotations — including the pivotal 180 degrees.
“Modular origami is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a dynamic math exercise,” said Foster. It challenges students to think critically and practice foundational geometry skills in an engaging way. The progression from folding simple units to assembling intricate figures mirrors the journey of mastering complex mathematical ideas — one fold at a time.
At Wellington, math is a priority starting in early childhood and lower school. By introducing foundational skills and concepts early, students build a reservoir of knowledge they can draw upon in later years. Activities like sonobe folding are intentionally designed to make these early encounters with geometry memorable and meaningful.
Foster’s creative approach is a testament to the innovative ways Wellington nurtures curiosity and confidence in math. By blending hands-on activities with academic rigor, she ensures that students learn and enjoy the process of discovery. And with a bit of origami magic, math truly comes to life.