Paper
structures.

Explore how a fold gives a sheet strength, shape and a place to stand.

Level: Introductory
Duration: 90 minutes, illustrative
Format: Shared table, adult learners

From flat
to standing.

In this sample session, you’ll test a plain sheet, add a fold and compare how the shape changes. The goal is to explain a decision, not to copy a finished object.

What you’ll explore

How a crease changes a sheet’s stiffness.
What repeated folds do to a standing form.
How to compare two versions fairly.

Bring and expect

Bring a notebook if you like. The sample plan uses paper, a pencil and a ruler. A real host should confirm supplied materials, access arrangements and the full fee before booking.

Enquire about this course

Make a fold.
Find a fraction.

A five-minute paper exercise. Work at your own pace. The hints stay beside the problem.

The problem

Fold a rectangular sheet into four equal strips. Open it flat. How many strips cover three quarters of the sheet? Explain how you know without using a ruler.

You need one scrap sheet. No scissors or specialist tools.

Hint 1: Start with halves

Bring one short edge to the opposite short edge and crease. Keep the sheet folded and repeat in the same direction.

Hint 2: Count the spaces

Open the sheet. The three crease lines divide it into four strips. Each strip has the same width, so each is one quarter.

Hint 3: Build three quarters

Mark one strip, then a second, then a third. Count the marked strips and compare them with all four strips.

Worked solution

Three strips cover three quarters. Two folds made four equal strips; each strip is 1/4 of the whole. Three strips give 1/4 + 1/4 + 1/4 = 3/4. One unmarked strip remains.

Check: fold the sheet back along its creases. The four strips should line up. If they do not, refold and compare again.

Before booking

Confirm the date, venue access, total fee, cancellation policy and whether the format meets your needs with the actual provider. See enquiry guidance