Things You'll Need:
- Small box with a lid
- Origami paper
- Fine tip black marker
- Scissors
-
Step 1
Write "Secret Box" on the lid of the box. Some Montessori classrooms label their lessons, while others color-code them. Depending on your school's curriculum, you may need to make sure that the color of the box corresponds to the reading level of the words inside. Generally, pink is for beginners and blue is more advanced.
-
Step 2
Cut the pieces of origami paper into strips. The strips should be sized so that they will fit in the box without a struggle, and so that they can be folded easily in half. If you are using a paper with elaborate patterns, make sure that it is only patterned on one side so that you can write the words on the plain side and the child will not have trouble deciphering the writing from the decoration.
-
Step 3
Write practice words on the slips of paper. Each slip should have one word. It should be written so that when the paper is folded over, the word is completely on one side of the crease. The word should be written clearly and in proper handwriting. You can make anywhere between 6 and 12 word slips per box. Make sure that the words are consistent. For example, if you are writing beginning reading words, then you should not use words with phonograms.
-
Step 4
Fold each slip of paper in half. The fold should be parallel to the short side of the rectangle, and the paper should be folded sharply so that it is clear where the fold should be even when the paper is spread out.
-
Step 5
Place all the folded pieces of paper in the box. They should all be lined up the same way. When a student uses the lesson, they will pull out a piece of paper, unfold it and read the word to themselves. Then they will refold it and place it in the lid of the box.
-
Step 6
Keep the secret box lesson in an easily accessible location where students can use it to practice. They should be able to get the secret box and do the lesson without any assistance.
