Core Skills Analysis
Mathematics
- Recognised and counted the number of paper pieces needed for the squirrel's body, tail, and spring.
- Identified and matched shapes (triangles for ears, rectangles for the body) to construct the model.
- Compared lengths of paper strips to decide which was longest for the spring, introducing concepts of measurement.
- Sequenced steps in order (cut, fold, attach) supporting early understanding of procedural algorithms.
Science
- Observed cause‑and‑effect when the spring was released, linking stored energy to the squirrel’s jump.
- Explored simple physics of elasticity by bending the paper spring and feeling resistance.
- Discussed real‑world squirrel behaviour (how squirrels hop and store food) connecting biology to the craft.
- Used hands‑on experimentation to test different spring lengths and note which makes the squirrel jump higher.
Art & Design
- Developed fine motor control while cutting, folding, and gluing delicate paper parts.
- Applied colour choices and decorative patterns to give the squirrel personality and visual appeal.
- Explored texture by combining smooth paper with the slightly crinkly spring material.
- Practised spatial awareness by positioning ears, tail, and spring in three‑dimensional space.
English (Speaking & Listening)
- Narrated each step of the craft, reinforcing sequential language (first, next, finally).
- Used descriptive vocabulary such as "curly tail," "bouncy spring," and "fluffy ears" to enhance expressive skills.
- Listened to peer instructions and gave feedback, practising turn‑taking and active listening.
- Created a short story about the squirrel’s adventure, encouraging imagination and oral storytelling.
Tips
Extend the learning by (1) measuring the spring’s length with a ruler and recording how far the squirrel jumps on a chart, (2) researching squirrels in the wild and drawing a habitat mural to place the craft in context, (3) turning the activity into a mini‑science experiment: try springs of different paper types and predict which will store the most energy, and (4) invite the child to write a simple "squirrel diary" entry describing a day in the life of their paper pet, integrating writing practice with the craft.
Book Recommendations
- Squirrels at Home by Michele G. Brown: A lively picture book that introduces young readers to the habits, homes, and playful antics of real squirrels.
- The Fantastic Flying Jumping Squirrel by Katherine R. Smith: A rhyming adventure story that follows a squirrel who learns to use a spring to leap over obstacles.
- Hands‑On Science: Simple Machines for Kids by Jill H. Adams: Explores basic physics concepts like springs and levers through kid‑friendly projects and experiments.
Learning Standards
- KS1 Mathematics – Shape and Space (1.G): recognise and name common 2‑D shapes used in the craft.
- KS1 Mathematics – Number (1.NS): count and compare quantities of paper pieces.
- KS1 Science – Working Scientifically (1.SC.1): plan and conduct a simple experiment with springs.
- KS1 Science – Animals, including Humans (1.SC.4): identify features of squirrels.
- KS1 Art & Design – Exploring and Using Materials (1.1): manipulate paper and create a three‑dimensional object.
- KS1 English – Speaking and Listening (1.SL.1): use sequential language to describe the craft process.
Try This Next
- Worksheet: "Spring Measurements" – draw three springs of different lengths, label them, and predict which will jump highest.
- Quiz question set: "What makes the squirrel move?" – multiple‑choice cards about energy, springs, and gravity.
- Drawing task: Sketch a forest scene and place the paper squirrel in its natural habitat, adding at least three other animals.