Paper Bag Number Book, An Early Writing Activity
Directions on how to make and assemble the paper bag number book.
For the adult to make:
- Keep the 3 Paper lunch bags
folded. Cut the bottom of the bag off.
- Stack the bags on top of each other. Fold in half.
- Staple along the folded edge. A solid stapler will work better than my mini one as you are stapling though many layers.
- Then, cut the blank index cards to fit inside each paper bag “pocket.” Mine only needed a little bit off the edge to slide in.
- Write the title of the book on the top page. 0-4 Number Book.
- Write the words for the numbers: zero, one, two, three, four on the fronts of the remaining pages.
For the child to make.
- Read the number words.
- Have them write the numeral on the note card and draw a picture to represent that many objects. (let them choose! If they need a prompt, encourage them to think of shapes.)
- Then, have them write the word for the object they chose. We say the word s-l-o-w-l-y and listen for the sounds.
Hearts = hrts
Race-car = Raskr
Apples = aplz
Triangle = TRiNgls
This is often refered to as inventive spelling and is a GOOD THING. We are focusing on the ability to communicate thoughts and ideas through letters on a page, not correct spelling for this activity.
The above pictures are from my son, whom I would consider a reluctant learner. He was excited about this writing activitiy because
- he had the choice of what he wanted to draw and write about
- it involved numbers and he is more confident in math.
- the pull out pages are a lot of fun and make writing a little more interesting.
- the activity was challenging, but I stayed beside him to help sound out words
- he received immediate positive feedback on his inventive spelling.
“WOW, you wrote the word apple.” I said, pointing at his letters apl.
“You could read that mom?” he appeared stunned.
“Yes, I could. I looked at the letters and said the sounds they made in my head. Well done.” I replied.
For younger children: Have them sound out and write the first letter.
For older children: Encourage them to use known work patterns, the word wall, or dictionary to assist in correct spellings of unknown words.
LOVE the kid writing!
I love how you used paper bags to make the book and the little pockets for index cards!
What a fantastic idea – I'm going to have to buy some of the paper bags to do with with my kids.
The paper bag idea is great! I love to recycle materials in our projects. We'll be doing this activity in our home!
love the idea of using a paper bag. Like the kids writing also, I enjoy reading what the words sound like to them verses the actual spelling.
The paper bag pockets are really fun. Our kids will love this!
This is the first time I have ever seen this type of book and I LOVE IT!!! Can't wait to get some paper bags!