Folding Origami Classroom Training

This is a short 15-20 minute folding origami classroom training that I put together for an interview demonstration.

Today I’ll be teaching you how to fold origami.
Origami is the ancient craft of folding paper. It began in China over 13 centuries ago, not long after the invention of paper, and was soon brought to Japan, where it continues to be part of the Japanese cultural tradition. “Ori” means fold, and “gami” means paper – hence, origami!
Origami requires no tools – only a square sheet of paper, a few folding techniques, and a bit of patience. (For some advanced designs, you may need scissors to make small cuts, but not for what we’ll be doing today.)
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to fold an origami box – useful for keeping stray paper clips and rubber bands in a safe place on your desk or in a drawer, or even for wrapping a small gift (like jewelry, perhaps?).

[Pass out instruction sheets.]
First, I’ll demonstrate how to make a simple origami box. You can follow along with the instruction sheet as I explain each step.
Feel free to stop me and ask a question or make an observation as I’m folding – because next it’s your turn!
[Fold origami box, providing explanation of each step.]
What questions do you have for me? Are you ready to try it on your own?
[Answer questions as necessary.]

[Let participants pick 2-3 sheets of origami paper.]
Now, following along with the instructions I gave you, practice making your own box. Take 2 or 3 sheets of paper, so you can start over if you need to.
I’m going to fold another box along with you, and if you have any more questions, please ask.

[Let participants get more paper, if needed.]
This time around, you’re going to make one more box, and I’m going to watch to make sure you’ve got all the steps. Take another sheet of paper if you have run out.
[Clarify instructions and provide additional instruction if necessary, answering questions if asked.]
[Participants have completed the task if they successfully fold the box.]

You have learned how to fold an origami box! If you enjoyed this lesson, take as much paper as you’d like, and keep practicing your technique in your spare time (and filling your desk with paper boxes). As you practice more, your folds will become sharper and your designs will become more streamlined.
What questions or concerns do you have?
[Answer additional questions, if necessary.]
As you improve your skill, you can find many books and online resources with other origami techniques and make a variety of useful or decorative items.

Britne Jenke