I made this file folder game to help with basic addition. It was very easy to make and they kids have really enjoyed it!
Materials Needed:
- a file folder
- black & red cardstock
- 9 pocket page protectors
- circle punches (I used my Creative Memories circles & blades)
- googly eyes
- tape
- glue stick
- dry erase markers
- printable addition cards from About.com
To make the game: Cut a large circle out of the red cardstock and draw a line down the middle of it. Cut a medium sized circle out of the black cardstock and position it behind the red circle. Glue and add goggley eyes. Cut a bunch of smaller circles for the spots.
Next, tape one of the 9 pocket page protectors onto the other side of the folder. (I used a strip of tape across the top. Be sure to NOT tape the top inserts closed.) You will also need to cut down one of the pages so that you can use just one of the pockets below the ladybug. (You will be able to insert the addition cards and write the answer using a dry erase marker.) I found that it was easier if you cut the single pocket so that the top and right side open up and bottom and left side stay closed…this makes it easier for little hands to quickly insert and remove the cards. Glue the single pocket below the ladybug.
Finally, print out the addition cards and store them in the page protector. These fit perfectly!
How to use the game: Choose an addition card and place it inside the single pocket below the ladybug. Place the appropriate number of dots on each side of the ladybug. (See the photo above.) Now count up all the dots and use a dry erase marker to write the total on the card. Erase your answer and move on to the next card.
That’s it! This is a great way to add some fun math to a unit on ladybugs as well! I got the inspiration to make this cute little game from Michelle’s “L is for Lemonade and Ladybugs” post at Delightful Learning!
