LAPBOOKS AND DIORAMAS IN THE CLASSROOM -FAQs
BY Despina Karamitsou
Lapbooking is a fairly new teaching tool in foreign language learning that provides children with creative ways to learn.
A “Lapbook” is a collection of mini-books, pictures, graphs and/or “foldables” which are multi-dimensional graphic organizers gathered, designed, drawn, glued, and creatively displayed in an inexpensive file folder that fits in your lap.
Lapbooks can be used at any age (K-12) and any level and suit all learning styles
Each lapbook is an original creation, will be different according to topic and creator, and will be a treasure for years to come. There is no right or wrong way to lapbook.
Why should I use lapbooks in my classroom?
1. They are FUN & INTERESTING
2. Lapbooks combine scrapbooking with learning
3. Students love the process of making them
4. They help children become independent learners
5. They are interactive which helps children learn remarkably well from them
6. Allow teachers and students to be creative
7. May be as simple or as elaborate as you want
8. Add mystery/adventure for the younger children
9. May be used with any subject, theme, or book
10. May be used as a review tool
11. May be used as learning portfolios
12. Students organize & display what they are learning
13. Students realize that what they are learning is important and worthwhile
14. Students can see their progress through a study
15. Integrates multiple subject areas
16. May be used as an evaluation tool
17. May be used with any learning style and any age
18. Students are proud of their work and like to share with family and friends
19. The visual, kinaesthetic nature of lapbooks helps dyslexic young people to be involved and to learn.
20. Make great keepsakes
Step by step start-up guide Or How do I get started?
1. Choose a book/topic and the objectives that you want to cover
2. “Google” the web for ideas/ready to print resources or “worksheets” or search your personal archive
3. Decide which foldables to use* and what will go on them
4. Design and layout your lapbook so that it is ready to be a model for students

5. Model for your students, and aid them as they complete each foldable
6. Allow students time to decorate their lapbook with drawings, stickers, stamps, etc.
*(see http://www.homeschoolshare.com/lapbooking_resources.php and http://www.homeschoolhelperonline.com/lapbooks.htm (for foldables ready to print)
What supplies are needed for lapbooking?
1. File folders (coloured or plain-normal size)
2. Paper (white & coloured)
3. Small envelopes
4. Writing tools: pencils, pens, crayons, markers, colored pencils
5. Various papers: construction, card stock, index cards, etc
6. Library pockets (may be made from folded paper)
7. Glue stick, tape
8. Stapler , paper fasteners
9. Scissors
10.Embellishments: glitter, ribbons, stickers (kids bring their own)
11. Art, photos or illustrations from a story (for literature lapbooks)
How much does it cost?
The cost of a finished lapbook may vary depending on the quantity & quality of the materials used. The ones we made at my school cost 50 cents each. (embellishments were optional, file=20c, photocopies= 10c, envelopes=5, coloured paper=5c, glue/staples=5c, ribbon=5c)
Websites for Lapbooks
Materials/information/ideas available for free
1. http://lapbooking.wordpress.com/
2. http://www.squidoo.com/lapbooking
3. http://www.homeschoolshare.com/
4. http://www.homeschoolhelperonline.com/
5. http://www.lapbooklessons.com/
6. http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/search/label/Lapbooks
7. http://ourlapbooks.blogspot.com/
8. http://www.notebookingpages.com/
9. http://www.homeschoolingonashoestring.com/lapbooks.html
10. http://www.eduplace.com/graphicorganizer/
11. http://www.digitallapbooking.com/