The teachers LOVED your workshop! Your presentation was incredible and there were so many skills that you can connect to your math program-the storytelling, music and drama all added a special experience for everyone. I cannot wait to learn more. Your program was so engaging and the teacher response so overwhelmingly positive that the Director wants you to be the .Featured Children.s Author. at our Peace Fair this year. Thanks again for being you, and sharing yourself with our educators. The Universe is so blessed to have you. Next year, we will plan to do an all day workshop. We look forward to working together! The Peace Center
--Tracy Mulvaney, Coordinator, Peace Center, The Educator.s Summer Institute, Langhorne, PA, July 20, 2007

Thanks again for the wonderful presentation tonight. The children have been raving about it for the last few hours and my remaining origami books disappeared off the shelf shortly after you left. Thanks for all the inspiration-we hope you will come back and visit us again soon!
--Chris Brown, Children's Librarian, Lawncrest Library, Philadelphia, PA

Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society and Professional Association for Educators Conference, Richmond, Virginia, July 27, 2007 Pi Lambda THeta
--I was delighted to attend your workshop and discover a fun-filled, kinesthetic method of teaching mathematics and language arts that engages both children and adults. It was brilliant - the innovative ways in which you incorporate language, vocabulary, and math terms with origami should be utilized in every classroom! The book, Math in Motion informs and explains origami patterns step-by-step while integrating so many concepts and ideas. Origami is a great educational tool for young and old alike, and Pearl.s own creativity and teaching style is a wonderful example for all educators; I suggest every educator attend her workshop and get her book. It will energize classroom instruction, demystify and revitalize interest in teaching and learning mathematics and concepts like isosceles triangles and line of symmetry come to life! This method will also improve retention skills and develop higher order thinking in your students.
--Jean Kohl, Ph.D., Holy Family University Professor and Former High School English Teacher

I loved your workshop! Tapping into multiple intelligences that students bring with them, your workshop encourages success from each participant by building upon his/her strengths. You combine language, mathematics, art and culture in an engaging seamless web. I am reflecting on the box and heart that we constructed from your program as I write this e-mail and imagine all the uses I can make of both cultural artifacts in my writing class that I teach at the University. I can only imagine how in demand you are to share your message with students and teachers. I wish I could have participated in your full-day workshop and hope to have such an opportunity in the near future.
--Janice Showler, Ph.D. Holy Family University, Recipient of the Pi Lambda Theta 2007 Research Grant

Whale of a Tale is a great story to read to young children and spark their imagination and nurture their creativity. I love the watercolor illustrations and large text that make it easy to show the book while you read it aloud. The bonus feature is that you can make a whale and penguin after you read the story or dramatize it. I can.t wait to read it to my students.
--Liz Douglas, International President, Pi Lambda Theta

Comments from Phi Delta Kappa Math in Motion: Origami Across the Curriculum, Archdiocese of Louisville, KY, Summer Institute for Teachers, June 20, 2007
-Barbara provided creative ways for me to enrich my math class, integrate math across the curriculum and help students retain math standards and concepts.
-The most beneficial part of the training was the immediate use of ideas and extensions that was great for all my grades. Terrific ways to make cultural connections to the curriculum too. Please come again!
-Great connections to our framework. I enjoyed the calm, reassuring and non-threatening manner of the presenter-it inspired us to feel successful and help our students succeed.
-Superb workshop, it actually went beyond my expectations!
-So many practical and useful ideas for teaching geometry, social studies, and language arts. I now know how to use origami to teach!
-The materials provided were excellent. Thank you for purchasing the Math in Motion resource kit for each of us. I will share it with our faculty!
-The overall quality of the training was EXCELLENT. I would strongly recommend this workshop to other colleagues. I wish our whole staff could participate.
-Barbara was outstanding and her knowledge and enthusiasm about the topic was contagious! I can't wait to use it in my classroom.
-Barbara should be invited back again! This was one of the best workshops I ever attended. -The best aspect of this session is that it .connected to my real life job!. Thank you for making it so engaging!
-This was so much fun-so much math is involved. What a great way to learn!!
-Fantastic!

-Thanks for all the inspiration. You deserve a standing ovation!
-This was the first workshop where I did not fall asleep-it was outstanding!
-I learned so many creative ways to make math fun-my kids will love Math in Motion!
-You gave us tools we can use immediately. I can't wait to try it.
-This was incredible. You are fantastic. I called our Reform Facilitator during the workshop to tell her what a fantastic job you did! I can integrate this program into our Family Math Night too.
-You did a super job. This allows students to really be exposed to a lot of vocabulary in a fun way.
-This was the BEST workshop we ever had! You are terrific!
-Would love to be in Ms. Pearl's full day workshop.
-This should be a two-day workshop. I loved the relationship to classroom methods.
-I will be able use Math in Motion with my students right away.
-I will definitely use this type of mathematics in my classroom!
-It was beneficial to learn how to integrate origami into different areas of instruction.
-I loved all the different ways to incorporate origami in subjects and creative problem solving.
-I enjoyed collaborating and working in cooperative groups with other colleagues.
-It showed me many new ways to encourage critical thinking skills and make math more enjoyable!
--Madison Elementary School, Irvington, NJ, Teacher In-service, October 2006

Phi Delta Kappa -Professional Development Teacher Workshop Comments, Nashville, TN:
-The workshop was applicable to so many different subject areas and great for hands-on learning!
-I never knew you could use origami for so many different age groups including younger children. We learned how to really apply it for our grade levels.
-This was the best workshop I ever attended-I can't wait for Part II!
-Ms. Pearl's love of the subject served as an awesome catalyst.
-Origami is so beneficial for demonstrating fractions and geometric shapes.
-I wish our whole faculty could experience Math in Motion.
-I loved the relaxing manner of Ms. Pearl and the practicality of Math in Motion.
-A one day inservice went by so fast-it was not long enough-come again!
-Excellent workshop! I would love another workshop in this area.
-It was fun! Very creative and a great way to teach math across the curriculum.
-Everything was terrific!
-I had no idea origami incorporated so much more math than I thought!
--Davidson Academy, Grades K-6, Title I, Special Education, Nashville, TN, August 2006
--Holy Rosary Academy, Grades K-3, Nashville, TN, August 2006

 

I bought Whale of a Tale for my 8 year old G-d daughter and she has been loving it. I really love the whole idea with the interactive activities and educational resources.
-- Chris DeWitt, BARNES & NOBLE, Special Events Coordinator, Fairless Hills, PA (Author Event)

 

We drove a long way to see your program at the Ambler Library. I was amazed that my 16 month old daughter was mesmerized by your program. She sat the whole time. You were sensational! Now, my 4 year old son can.t wait until we make the crown together. I purchased your Math in Motion book and look forward to learning more. I am inspired by your work and will share your information with our PTA. We hope to see you again soon.
-- Laura Dedin Young, Parent, Lansdale, PA, Ambler Library, March 2006

 

In both her workshops and books, Barbara Pearl has created a wonderfully delightful and practical guide to using origami to make mathematics come alive in the hands and minds of all children. I was amazed at how many geometric terms, fractions, and other math concepts she so naturally builds into her workshop. Thanks for sharing and thanks for your great work.
-- Steven Leinwand, President, National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, State of Connecticut, Department of Education

 

Teachers loved Math in Motion! I have already seen evidence of it at our school and that is the best proof of a great workshop. Teachers report, Barbara was fabulous! What a magnificent individual-teacher !! After two grueling days of other in-service programs, your style and temperament were just what we needed! You made it relaxing to learn and reminded all of us the importance of reflection. I can't wait until the new school season begins. I learned so many great ideas including simple origami for beginning lessons that I can implement immediately! Thanks for making this part of our day so special. Please come back soon and teach us your book folding activities and more projects!
-- Dr. Usha Balamore, Head of School, Gladwyne Montessori, Gladwyne, PA, September 2005, Teaching Goodness: Engaging the Moral and Academic Promise of Young Children, Recipient of the University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education's, Excellence in Teaching Award

 

Your program empowers teachers. What I like about Math in Motion is that you give teachers something tangible so that they can improve their existing lessons.
-- Horace Ellis, M.A., Spanish Language Teacher, Many Farms High School, Navajo reservation, AZ, October 2005

 

Fabulous workshop, great creative presentation. Excellent job! Terrific! I am inspired! Very motivational and uplifting! Love all the connections to the curriculum and math! A great resource-much more than I ever expected! I love the stories you use! I wish we had more time. Fantastic-your workshop gave me a whole new approach to paper folding-thank you!!
-- Art Educators of New Jersey Annual Conference (AENJ), Somerset, NJ, October 2005

 

Our library families enjoyed your presentation on Saturday for our 1st anniversary of our new library. I have sent your brochures to the three elementary school principals in the district with a note endorsing your program. Thank you for sharing your special talents! We hope you return again soon.
-- Lynnette Saeger, Library Director, Southern Lehigh Public Library, Center Valley, PA, October 2005

 

You were an inspiration. Since your workshop at International Day, my daughter has not stopped folding!
-- Jan Clark, Ph.d. and Caroline, age 9, International Day Celebration, Children's Cultural Center, Wrightstown, PA, October 2005

 

Thank you for your wonderful workshop. It was one of the highlights of the conference! I loved your energy. I have been saving my gift certificate from Barnes & Noble and now plan to buy your book with it. We can't wait to get back to school and try some of your Math in Motion ideas-the kids will love it!
-- Maryland Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM), Annual Conference, Owings Mills, MD, October 2005

 

Our staff loved your inservice and that is the highest compliment anyone can be told. As they were leaving, teachers not only told me how much they enjoyed your session but they also wanted to show me what they had made. Afternoon workshops are not always easy to attend to but you made it much more meaningful and enjoyable. Teachers were very much engaged both physically and mentally. I hope you will be able to come again for another program. On behalf of our Staff Development Committee, thank you so very much.
-- Dr. Mary Rita Cleary, Supervisor, Non Public School Services Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, Norristown, PA, September 2005

 

I never pick Math Workshops. I am so glad I did! I learned so many ways to connect math and reading skills with Math in Motion. This was a fun, educational and valuable experience that I can use right away. Thanks for making my day!
-- Maryanne Fisher, Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, Reading and Math Specialist, Itinerant teacher, K-6 (Friends Central, St. Margaret, The Haverford School)

 

Barbara was fabulous! What a magnificent individual-teacher !! After two grueling days of other inservice programs, your style and temperament were just what we needed! You made it relaxing to learn and reminded all of us the importance of reflection. I can't wait until the new school season begins. I learned so many great ideas including simple origami for beginning lessons that I can implement immediately! Thanks for making this part of our inservice day so special. Please come back and teach us your book folding activities and more projects!
-- Patty Rumpp, Teacher, Primary Grades, Preschool 3-5 years old, Gladwyne Montessori School, Gladwyne, PA

 

I just wanted to thank you again for your wonderful Family Math Night presentation. The children were still buzzing about it for the rest of the week! One fourth grader told me that "math rocks!". I couldn't have asked for our first Math Night to be any more successful. The faculty members that weren't there now are wishing that they had been. Thank you again for making the evening so special!
-- Julie Furey, Learning Resource Teacher, St. Stanislaus School, Lansdale, PA, April 2005

 

I am a Mathematics Coach for grades K- 3 and attended your Math in Motion workshop at the Research for Better Schools conference. I purchased your book and have been using it in several ways. I use origami as a reward for students who are trying hard and improving in math. They feel so excited and proud after they have completed the origami project. It is a great way to teach geomerty skills and motivate my students. I have also done model lessons for other teachers with whole class instruction. They have been very positive and fun lessons to teach. The students are engaged and the teacher responses have all been very positive. Math in Motion would make a great adddition to any math curriculum.
-- Dolores Monza, Southeast Delco School District, Sharon Hill School, Sharon Hill, PA, February 2005

 

You were masterful! Thank you for presenting at our annual conference. Everyone enjoyed your workshop and the evaluations were outstanding! Teachers reported it was one of the best workshops they ever attended.
-- Lori Dowd, Conference Coordinator, International Studies Schools Association (ISSA), Fourth Annual Conference, University of Denver, Center for Teaching International Relations, Denver Colorado, February 17-20, 2005

 

The high level of math integration and higher order thinking skills was a valuable experience for our teachers. Barbara Pearl is excellent and worth bringing back next summer for a district wide inservice for all our teachers.
-- Alice Hummer, Principal, Nitrauer Elementary School, Manheim Township School District, Lancaster, PA (August 2004)

 

Thank You!! Everyone loved the inservice. During the breaks at Thursday's professional development, the teachers were showing their friends what they had learned. At lunch time a whole group of teachers hovered around your book talking and trying different projects. You were an inspiration. Thanks again!!!
-- Darcy Russott, Academic Coach, Victory Schools, FitzSimon Middle School, Philadelphia, PA

 

You were great the first time. The Directors all agreed and found your program extremely valuable, but this time...YOU were MAGNIFICENT! Thank you a hundred times over.
--Kimberly Railey, Program Coordinator, "Preschool Art for Children with Disabilities," Teacher/Parent Training Workshop, October 27, 2004 Easter Seals of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

 

I can't wait to show my family what I learned. Math in Motion is a great way to make math more enjoyable-my students will love it. It was so enlightening. We want more workshops like this!
--FitzSimon Middle School, Victory Schools, Philadelphia, PA

 

Thanks again for the great workshop! The next day, teachers were so excited that they were still talking about how wonderful it was, many of them teaching others at my workshop (who were complaining they had missed it) and talking about how they can't wait for Part II. They are looking forward to using origami in their classrooms
--Janice Gibson, District Mathematics Coordinator K-12, Pennsbury School District, Fairless Hill, PA

 

This was the best workshop I have ever attended.
--Liz Ross, Pennsbury School District, Fairless Hill, PA

I tutor at a Detention Center in mathematics and reading. Once a week we have an "Origami Day." Many of the kids from the Detention Center love origami. Some of them are really gifted and work on it until they have figured out some of the very intricate designs (much better than I can). Many of these kids (ages 10-17 years old) are emotionally scarred and disturbed and origami has such a positive and calming effect on them. The children are like sponges, soaking up everything I teach them. They are eager to learn. They have been both labeled a problem all their young lives and ignored except when they misbehaved--so, they misbehaved. Of course, my kids have more than just "misbehaved" they are criminals, gang members, and drug users, you name it. I can say that I never even think about that when I am with them. To me, they are like diamonds in the rough. You never know when a little kindness and encouragement will make a difference in someone's life. My friend in Savannah thinks I should write a book or speak to organizations about how origami has helped my kids. I do wish more people could see what can happen when you give these children something beautiful to think about and do. It has been such a blessing to bring something positive into their lives. Thanks for all the paper materials you sent.
--Karen Dormois, Detention Center, Texas travelpro@cox-internet.com

 

I plan to use origami as a manipulative in my classroom. When we made the personal bookmark by folding the paper into different shapes, you had us write what we saw on the paper as we folded. This was so concrete for me. Holding the "shapes" in my hand and talking about them was wonderful. I think it would be most helpful to students to do this and give them a picture immediately. They would be able to relate the shapes to familiar objects; therefore building on prior knowledge. I would also integrate the origami math lesson into literature by reading Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. I strongly believe that learning should be integrated throughout the day, not just for each specific subject.
--Karen Park, Student, Holy Family University, EDUN 309 Integrated Math and Science Instruction I

 

I will never forget our first class when you taught us how to make the origami bookmark. There seemed like there was no end to what you could do with that little square piece of paper. It was magical. I had never considered something like origami before as being a manipulative. I couldn't wait to try it out. I finally got to share what I learned with a fifth grade class. They loved it and I got to show them how math can be fun! Your lesson taught me to "think outside the box" and to always be open to new ideas and possibilities for teaching.
--Kathleen Gremo, Holy Family University, EDUN 309

 

After attending the ATMOPAV conference and making the origami box, it reinforced the idea that there are many ways to utilize origami into the classroom. It instilled a sense of accomplishment that I want to pass on to others. It is a fact that when learning is fun, students are more engaged and remember more of the information. I believe this combination guarantees learning and using origami provides the opportunity and means to do it.
--Cheryl Barnes, Holy Family University, EDUN 309

 

I just discovered your link through www.sadako.com and was elated to see your book. I teach sixth grade and began making cranes 12 years ago with my 5th grade after we read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. Since then, origami has become a way of "sneaking in" art when I am teaching the basics. What has evolved is integrating origami into my math lessons. I was delighted that I came across your book and will order it. I look forward to seeing what else I can do to add to my class. Your workshops sound fascinating. Let me know how I can arrange it?
--Liana Hachiya, Central Valley, CA

Many people write and ask how they can bring a workshop to their area. Traditionally, workshops are arranged by school districts or Principals. For more details, please visit the Workshop page on the MIM website at http://www.mathinmotion.com/mimshops.htm One or Two day Inservice, Student Workshops, Artists-in-Residence, and Family Math Night programs are available. In addition, Ms. Pearl is available for Keynote Speaker and Conference Workshops. Please contact Barbara Pearl directly at info@mathinmotion.com

 

Your book Math in Motion is the best book I have found on origami and math. I have used it in many workshops for math teachers most recently at the CMC conference in Palm Springs. I am a retired librarian who loves origami. I really enjoy getting people excited about the wonderful things that can be folded from simple pieces of paper. It's also such a painless way to teach math concepts.
--Pamela Brown ( pamelabrown@email.com )

 

Our two-week summer camp for Medina City School students is designed to help students in grades fourth through sixth who feel they did not do well on their proficiency tests. The camp's math teacher, Nancy Ellligott from Garfield Elementary, uses origami to help teach the students. As she describes the characteristics of the shapes they are making, the kids master the objective. They were having so much fun, they didn't realize they were learning.
--Denny Sampson, Staff Writer, Medina Gazette

 

Ms. Pearl's workshop radiates an enthusiastic passion about teaching that is such an important quality for teachers to emulate. Her nurturing demeanor and methods are contagious--as they encourage others to learn. Her innovative and creative approach to teaching is just what our students need today. Barbara focuses on what teachers can use and what will be practical and helpful in their classrooms. I have an immense respect for her work and schools that offer Math in Motion programs will be lucky to have her.
--Anthony V. Piccolino Ed.D., Associate Professor Mathematics, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, Eastern Regional Director, NCSM

What a fabulous website--we need more educators teaching about vital issues like this and helping students to make concrete connections to mathematics. It's great to provide a place where teachers can share and exchange ideas and information. I have even higher regards than the first time I visited Math in Motion-keep up your wonderful work.
--Stanley J. Hartzler, Ph.D., Midwestern State University, Associate Professor, Mathematics Education, Wichita Falls, TX HartzlerSJ@aol.com

 

I recently visited your Origami Exhibit at The Franklin Institute Science Museum. I shared your Math in Motion book with two math teachers and went back to buy two more. The possibilities seem endless!
--Sister Sally Daly, St. Timothy School, Philadelphia, PA

 

Several years ago, I may never have attended a workshop like Math in Motion because I did not think it was relevant. But, from the moment we started, Ms. Pearl made us all feel so comfortable-an ideal environment for learning mathematics--especially since it may be stressful for some. The experience made us feel like a team. I felt I could do anything. And it gave me the motivation to try more. I was inspired to create the same atmosphere and remove the anxiety and fear from learning math. Now, I know that math is not all BAD. When adults feel good about what they are teaching, children will feel BETTER about it too. The three most exciting words from my students are, 'I did it!' This is also great for building kids` self-esteem. Your methods help create a room where children (and adults too) love to come to learn and grow.
--Shirley Williams, PACT Instructor, Parents and Children Together, An intergenerational Learning Program, Feltonville Elementary School, Philadelphia, PA williamsmamacool@aol.com

 

I was hesitant to take take your workshop, but when I met a teacher who said it changed her life forever, I decided to try it. I have never had any luck with origami. But your workshop was non-threatening and I had fun. For the first time I was inspired to use it in my classroom. The kids recycled their array drawings and transformed them into boxes. We had a great time! Now I want to arrange for you to come to my school and do teacher and student workshops.
--Meryl Lightstone, Teacher, Grade 5, West Broad Elementary School, Souderton, PA

 

I used your activities to review material on the PSSA (symmetry) test. It captured the interest of my usually disruptive students. They were motivated, stayed on task, and wanted to learn more. We also explored math language (parallel, perpendicular, and vertical lines). Finding paper may be the only challenge.
--Paulette Burns, Teacher, Grade 4, Abigail Vare Elementary, Philadelphia, PA

Paper resources are everywhere and budget friendly. Start with your community. Begin a recycling resource box in your room. Invite parents and  colleagues to recycle magazines, greeting cards, and junk mail. Recycle flyers from libraries and stores, make friends with your local travel agent for travel brochures, video stores for promotional posters, end of year sales for gift wrap, calendars, paint color chips. Garage sales and flea markets are other good resources...the possibilities are limitless. Good luck and happy folding!

Thanks again for the wonderfully invigorating workshop at the ATMOPAV conference - your workshop title seems so incongruous with the power and energy that I received from you and your teaching.
--Graham P. Martin, 5th Grade Teacher and Lower School Technology Support Specialist, Germantown Academy, Fort Washington, PA gmartin@germantownacademy.org

 

I used the activities with my LD class, primarily as a listening and following directions exercise. We also tried to estimate how many rectangles would be created by folding the next step. One girl was so eager to try and follow the written directions on her own; another discovered a way to make a table. It was a pleasant and satisfying experience for everyone!
--Christine McCoon, Teacher, Grade 6, M.E. Leeds Middle School, Philadelphia, PA

 

Your workshop has made such a difference in my life! I love origami and so do my students. Most of them have never had the opportunity to learn it. I noticed how cooperative, focused, and quiet they become when I am teaching something they enjoy this much. One student told me of an origami club at her previous school and then showed us how to make some other models. Parents are asking me for directions. Today, I taught a parent how to make the journal, sailboat, and box from your book so she could teach her children. When I visited my Mom at the nursing home, her companions and I delighted in making the box and talking about the experience-- it gave us a sense of peace. My assistant is working with me every day as we go over all the handouts to learn new ideas. I enjoy the class so much. Thank you for the lovely atmosphere you create.
--Sister Sally Daly, St. Timothy School, Philadelphia, PA

 

I was delighted to find your email address on the internet as I need to order more copies of Math in Motion. Our library copy has been used and used and its cover and pages are starting to wear. It is definitely a winner with patrons! I am faxing you an order for 5 more copies. Thank you so much!
--Shirley Bieglow, Redondo Beach Public Library, Redondo Beach, CA

 

As an instructor in Curriculum and Methods of teaching Social Studies, I take preservice teachers to the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles. On my last visit, I discovered a copy of your book in the museum bookstore. It is by far the best book I have found for teaching origami. Your ability to connect it to the math framework also makes it ideal for teachers. A colleague of mine, Dr. Anne Eddowes (University of Alabama) and I would like permission to include an adapted example from your book and reference it in our study guide in a textbook we are writing for college students entitled: Interactions for Development and Learning: Birth - 8 years.
--Dr. Kathleen S. Ralph, Professor, Whittier College, Whittier, CA

I received your book this past week and before another day goes by, I must write and tell you how great I think it is....well organized and thought out--chock full of information. I have already used it with my 4-1/2 year old granddaughter and now she knows all the shapes on page 60 except the rhombus. Now she knows that one, too. Oh, we had so much fun discovering the pentagon, octagon and diagonals.
--Paul Weinberg, Grandfather, Long Island, New York

 

Finally, a workshop where I could do more than just listen!
--Indian Lake Elementary, Hendersonville, TN

 

You were a hit at our Dads and Daughters Dinner as they "entered the fold." I think they are still folding. We have received a lot of positive feedback and our PTA truly appreciates you speaking to such a large audience. You handled the crowd beautifully and everybody learned something about the "motion of math."
--Kathy Levenshus, Vice-President, Sequoia PTA, Westminster, CA

 

Your workshop was outstanding and every teacher was actively engaged and learned new strategies to enrich students understanding of mathematics. We look forward to your return to present the next level
--Dr. Paul Ugwokaegbe, Middle School Math Specialist, Edgewood ISD, San Antonio, TX

 

Thank you for your wonderful origami math enrichment program on Valentine's Day. The students and teachers were fascinated by your programs. Everyone loved the poetry and storytelling combined with an historical perspective. Teachers loved how you integrated the curriculum throughout your entire presentation and children thought it was exiting to see you all dressed up in your kimono. Since our community is so culturally diverse, we felt your program also supported our needs in this area.
--Tracy Pellman, PTA Vice President, Spring View Elementary, Huntington Beach, CA

 

The American Association of University Women wishes to thank you for your generous presentation of the Fourth Annual Literary Luncheon Fund Raiser that benefits AAUW Educational Foundation. Our newest initiative targets math and science education and offers special fellowships and grants for teachers and precollege age females. We appreciate your support in helping us move forward with our goals to help talented girls and women and know that you are a part of this investment in the future.
--Jean Brotherton, Literary Chair, Laguna Beach, CA

 

Thank you for presenting at our Barnes & Noble Educator's Night. The teacher evaluations reflected the highest marks and everyone enjoyed learning about the valuable benefits of paper folding. We also love your origami exhibit in our store window and have had rave reviews from our customers. Thank you again for making it a special evening for our staff and teachers.
--Lari Robling, Community Relations Manager, Barnes & Noble, Fairless Hills, PA

 

Thank you for your joyful spirit and encouragement during your presentation at the Staff Development for Educators Conference in Manchester, New Hampshire. My students loved the origami lessons. We will do more when your book arrives. I started with the heart. It was the easiest lesson so I did it with them first. It set the tone for listening, and following directions, and thinking "outside the box". I did four lessons already. The children keep begging to do more origami. The rabbit was a little too much fun. They kept hopping around all day long. I recycled a Lenox catalog to fold the box. As soon as I asked them to find the vertical line of symmetry, one girl skeptically asked, "Are we going to do math?" They all loved the lesson. Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas around the world. You gave me a lift today.
--Rebecca McCuin, K-4 teacher, Laconia Christian School, Campton, NH

 

I just want to express my thanks for the great workshop you provided to all my student teachers at the CSU Fresno campus this summer. All of us thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you again for your time, patience and great company.
--Dr. Susan Duffy, Professor, Liberal Studies Program, Cal Poly  State University, San Luis Obispo, CA

 

Hi, my name is Jayne. I am from Japan and attend school at Sonoma State University. I am enrolled in the masters program in Humanistic Psychology for the 3rd year. I realized that not only is origami beneficial for shaping math skills but it is also good for other scientific inquiry. I saw your Photo Gallery page on your website, and that you actually went to Japan to expand knowledge in Japanese culture! Anyway, I applied origami for preschool children as part of art projects. Some of the children (between 2-1/2 and 5 years old) were deep into folding a paper into various animal like shapes. I think origami folding activities encourages children's abstract concept and their creativity. One of my experiments was introduction of origami to a child with attention deficit hyperactive disorder. This child sat in the chair 20 minutes and followed my instructions. He completed his projects: origami box, balloon, dragon, boat, and paper house.
--Jayne Akihiko Kondo, Sonoma State University, Santa Rosa, CA

 

It seems like we were just arranging your schedule and now you have already completed the tour of 12 Bucks County Libraries for National Library Week. The enthusiastic consensus from all the librarians has been that it was one of the most enjoyable and informative programs we have ever had. The visuals created a wonderful and magical setting. The audience was drawn into the atmosphere you created even before you spoke. It was marvelous to watch how you planned a program with response participation and other interactive activities that helped keep the attention of even the youngest child. You managed to convey a wide variety of important information (the history of origami, recycling, honoring diversity, the importance of families sharing experiences, counting in several languages, and the promotion of reading and the library) during your presentation. It was extraordinarily well paced and captivated every listener. Everyone also enjoyed the opportunity to make an origami item to take home. Your hand-outs gave the audience an opportunity to continue exploring the world or origami. You inspired the children so much that most of our books on display were checked out! As the coordinator I certainly appreciate you communicating with me prior to the series and throughout the two weeks of performances. I am pleased that we could provide your outstanding program. Thank you for a very successful series.
--Mary Ann Crozier, Coordinator of Children's Services, Bucks County Free Libraries

 

My three kids loved your workshop. They talked about nothing else but you and origami for the 6 hour ride home. They made every origami project in your book!
--Peggy Campbell-Rush, teacher/author, I Teach Kindergarten! Taylor, age 9, Morgan, 12, Mackensie, 14

 

I am so amazed that whenever I teach with origami my students see things that never occured to me. When guests visit, they can't believe it is a Special Education class.
--Will Weil, Grade 3, Project Seed, Sumner Elementary, Camden, NJ, Special Education

 

Origami is so popular at our school. Your workshop stimulated even more interest--I can't keep the books on the shelves. I loved the way you integrated the history and culture of the art.
--Sylvia Kinsey, Librarian, Liberty Bell Elementary, Coopersburg, PA

 

I am a junior in an elementary teaching program at Oregon State University. I'm taking a math class where we are designing lesson plans to teach to elementary children. We will actually be using these and trying them out. I want to be really creative, and found your website...what a great idea!  Could I have more examples of activites? Thank you so much.
--Sarah Maciejewski

 

I'm writing my thesis of masters in Origami & Math. I am so glad to find your site.
--Francisco R. P. Mattos, Universitaria-Fundào, Instituto de Matematica-Cidade, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

 

I am a junior year college student at California State University San Marcos. I would like permission to copy your page on showing how to make an orgami whale to share with my class in an oral presentation. The class I am taking is MATH 304 Women in Mathematics.
--Karissa Neilson

 

I am a teacher and have used your book (Math in Motion) this year with my class. For an economics project we have formed an origami company called The Origami Shop. The students are producing many goods to sell. With our rainforest theme (we study endangered animals ) the students are making fans of rainforest animals and plants, rainforest frogs, clouded leopards (cats), bookmarks (with the heart and sailboat), and baskets for rainforest treats. We are donating the profits to save rainforest acreage. We plan to sell some of these items at our fundraiser sale.
--Ellen M. Ilkanic, 3rd Grade, Ledgeview Elementary, Macedonia, OH

 

I am interested in receiving information on how to incorporate origami into my curriculum. I am interested in techniques that will accommodate grades 2-7.  I also think it is a wonderful activity to encourage students to do because it seems as though our computer-age children have forgotten how to engage in creative and thought-provoking activities.
--Alexis Townes, R.E. McNair Middle School, Georgia

 

You have a cool site! Thank you very much!!!
--Andrey V. Chizhov, Teacher, Grade 2, Number 9, Nizhny Novgorod, RUSSIA

 

I am currently the Math/Science Staff Development Specialist for Las Cruces Public Schools in Las Cruces, New Mexico. I purchased your origami kit two years ago. We are having a NEA-Teachers' Center Mini-Conference for K-8 teachers. I am planning to do an origami workshop with literature connections for this event. I am writing to ask your permission to use some of the items in your book.
--Sandra Nakamura

 

We have enjoyed your book so much. Some of the children even designed a Power Point presentation about Chinese Paper Folding. I've also taught the other teachers in our Lower School what I learned at your workshop and they enjoyed it very much. Please send me some information about your teacher and student workshops. Thanks so much!
--Phyllis Chauveau, Fifth Grade Teacher, Math Coordinator, Germantown Academy, Ft. Washington, PA

 

One of my goals for today's workshop is to promote more "confidence." Some students are not very happy reading, studying grammar and doing math. They have a negative attitude. I hope they will enjoy your lessons with origami as I have and discover the joy of learning.
--Chiaki Miyazaki, English Teacher (SETS), Omiya, Japan

 

After your workshop, I understood how we can teach language arts and math skills without so many special and expensive textbooks and materials. We can use almost everything around us as teaching tools. You opened my eyes and my mind. I had a feeling of nostalgia about origami which I played with my mother, sisters, and friends many years ago. My husband said, "Origami is such a natural approach for Japanese that it makes learning English fun." All our children enjoyed it, even Nana, our 14 year old. They can't wait to have you teach them some more!
--Ruriko & Kozo Hirai, English Teacher (SETS), Omiya, Japan

 

Teacher workshop: This was a delightful workshop--it was well organized and enjoyable. I really learned some new methods of in depth and practical skills that I can see myself using. I appreciated your patience and the way you explained the process and educational value of using origami in the classroom setting. What an inspiring treat to be part of this--it's good to make learning fun!
Student Workshop: All the kids agreed it was the BEST part of their day! The kids are excited and having fun using the fortune tellers for reviewing spelling and math facts. Since it was the holiday time, they made their own party decorations for their desks and exchanged models with other classes. Excellent too! Thanks for the lessons.
--Lana Friesen, Teacher, 4th grade, Hong Kong International School, HK

 

We look forward to more workshops of this type that makes math more creative and innovative as opposed to the way math is taught in traditional mainstream schools (repetitive practices numbers). Even my daughter's math teacher says, 'Math is boring!' My child says, 'I don't like math. I like Math in Motion!'
--Ms. Stella Kwan, parent and Isla, 2nd Grade, Hong Kong

 

  After I got home from your workshop, I was still in a kind of excited mood. I reviewed what you said and showed us. Many new ideas popped up for my 1st graders and kindergarten classes. I still feel uncomfortable to apply origami to 5th graders and up. I just sat and thought why I felt that way. Probably because English, elementary and junior high school teachers in Japan, are expected to let students get good scores in tests one way or the other. Personally, I don't like the idea and try to avoid being this type of teacher. But sometimes it is difficult to make myself free from this idea. The Japanese education system and parents often require immediate results. In Sogogakushu (interdisciplinary teaching) which will be introduced in 2002, many teachers including myself really hope that students will have more opportunities to think and learn more freely and flexible instead of just drilling or memorizing. You said to give students opportunities to brain storm and problem solve. I think that is something we really need in our schools. Please bring your ideas into our Japanese education system, there will be many supporters after you.
   At night, I told my ten year old son what I learned by making the Math in Motion box. I want to tell you what happened. I asked him how many rectangles in the three vertically lined paper. He answered "5". I said "Yes, that's good. "Try and count it tomorrow again," as you suggested. He looked puzzled and said, "Why, are there more?" I encouraged him to look again. After a while he said, "Ah! I got it. There are 10 rectangles." "Wow, that's great!" I said. Shortly after that, he explained it to me. " You know, there are 4 small rectangles and you will add 3, 2, and 1 sequentially. Then you will get 10 rectangles. Yes, now I understand." I asked him if it will happen for all occasions. He tried several other cases and said, "Yes, the rule works out for all cases if the directions of rectangles are the same." My husband nodded. Oh, Barbara, it was a great experience for me and for my son.
   Please come back again and now show us how to apply your methods to older students. Meanwhile, I will be able to learn more when I receive your book. I really want to thank you for inspiring me a lot. Oh, I wonder weather you mind if I introduce your website to other English teacher groups which exchange ideas and share problems on e-mail. Thank you again.
--Fumie Noguchi, English Teacher, Coordinator, Saitama English Teacher, Study Group (SETS), Omiya, Japan
SETS is for individual English teachers in the Omiya area to discuss teaching methods, examine new materials, and hold workshops. They meet the 2nd Tuesday of every month. Ms. Pearl was invited to present to the SETS group in Omiya while on tour in Japan.

 

Very good interaction with kids. The simple techniques make lively connections to enhance my children's observation skills. It was fun, educational and creative. My children enjoyed the class so much that they were wondering if the course will meet weekly. It was also good that it was taught in English.
--Ms. Wendy Lo, parent and Sharon, age 8 and Samuel, age10, Hong Kong

 

Thank you for finding the time to visit our school at such short notice. I have enclosed the two newspaper articles, from Chunichi and Gifu Newspapers that describe how very happy the staff and children were to see your presentation which was so full of surprises. One teacher's comment was "We teach the children origami, but never the way that Ms. Pearl has done. I would like to learn from her, and change my teaching style so that is is more educational and fun at the same time!" I appreciate your diligence and professionalism. I also hope to be able to invite you to speak to the children and their teachers later this year. I look forward to meeting you again.
--Professor Taeko Katagiri, President, Chubu Gakuin College, Seki City, Japan

 

Your lecture for our English language students was one of the best presentations we have had. I especially enjoyed the way you engaged every person in the room, introducing them to a variety of language arts, vocabulary, math and writing skills. It was so well received that Margaret Yamanaka, a guest teacher in the class arranged for you to visit her school the very next day. We hope you will visit us again soon and continue to share your teaching techniques with schools all over Japan.
--Alicia Rowe, Associate Professor, Gifu Women's University, Gifu, Japan

 

Thank you for presenting Math in Motion at our staff inservice. It was a thoroughly educational experience with many different strategies and activities. The staff are still talking about it. Not only talking but doing! The workshop was dynamic and relevant to all teachers from preschool through to our Middle School. It was also a lot of fun!
--Gerry Moran, Headmaster, Kyoto International School, Kyoto, Japan

 

Thanks again for making time to come and visit our school. It was a most informative and pleasant way to spend a "workshop afternoon"! I found the hands-on aspect of your workshop very beneficial. You made good use of the visuals to create an engaging environment for everyone. I appreciated the tip about using larger (poster sized) paper, particularly when instructing a large group from a distance. I am a person who learns something like origami by doing it, repeatedly. If I just look at a diagram, or see a long page of instructions, I am less likely to make an attempt. "Learning by doing" is such an important strategy, particularly for younger learners who are pre-reading.....it works well for some grown-ups, too! Also, as we are in Japan, many of the children are quite familiar and talented in the art of origami, even at a young age.
I think it would be a great peer-tutoring exercise for the more skilled students to teach those who require help. The heart will be great for Valentine's Day, which is just around the corner. From now on, I plan to have origami paper always available at our center.
--Nancy Cowell, Kindergarten, Kyoto International School, Japan

 

Konnichiwa from the gulf. I found your work most impressive and an outstanding link to connect children all over the world through hands-on learning and exploring of mathematics and so many concepts through the wonderful magic of origami! When I was learning origami in Japan, I sometimes thought of the tangram patterns and shapes I had used with my students. In fact, even today, I still keep my tangrams in my origami box. If I may be of any assistance, please let me know. Gambatte Ne!!!
--Nancy Fullmer, Educational Instructor, United Arab Emirates, Higher Colleges of Technology

 

I picked up Math in Motion at the Bank Street College Book Store in New York City. I liked it so much that I immediately jump started my class into geometry simply to prove that they can love math. One child who hadn't passed a single test the year before received the highest grade in the class after I applied the lessons. My kids desperately try to fold with loose leaf paper and I insist that the first and most important step is the paper. I spend far too much time hacking away at magazine pages with my paper cutter, so I was delighted to see that you offer a giant class paper pack. My check is in the mail. If you have a mailing list, please add my name.
--Laura Conway, Grade 6, P.S. 30, Jamaica, NY


Origami isn't just for squares. In my book, Math in Motion, you will also find models just for rectangles and triangles. Math in Motion is environmental and budget friendly. Ask students to practice with recycled paper before they use origami paper. Start a recycle resource box in your room. Encourage students, parents, and teachers to contribute old magazines, calendars and gift wrapping paper. Visit your local travel agent, libraries and supermarket for colorful brochures and dated flyers. Students gain a valuable lesson about recycling and have fun exploring folding with a variety of materials.  -- Barbara Pearl
 

The materials and workshop were very helpful and great FUN!! I'm in the middle of parent/teacher conferences here, so the take and use format was especially helpful and mentally invigorating. My students tackled the bookmark triangle problem last night for homework. Many positive comments from parents and HIGH interest from students. There have actually been several heated discussions about the number of triangles already this morning. Thanks again for the instruction and inspiration.
--Mary Buchholz, Teacher, 3rd Grade, Kegonsa Elementary School, Stoughton, Wisconsin

 

We are students from the University of Education in Iceland and are really interested in your work. As a matter of fact we have used your book "Math in Motion" and it was a great success - both for us as educators and the children of course. We have talked to our professor in math and she also really liked your book. She told us that this is the kind of work with mathematics that is really what Icelandic schools are in need of right now. Thank you for your great work and making our teacher-training so fun by using your book.
--Sincerely, Helga and Sigga Lisa

 

Barbara's workshop rates in the top one percent of interactive, experiential seminars. It is dynamic, hands-on, and taps into all learning styles and multiple intelligences. Count me in!
--Marvin Marshall, Principal, Author, Effective Discipline

 

After a Math in Motion workshop..."I never saw my class so enthusiastic about learning."
--Ms. Elizabeth Rodriquez, Teacher, Grade 4, Huntington Drive Elementary School, CA

 

When I was a substitute teacher, origami saved my life!
--Indigo Raffel, Junior High, After School Safe Haven, Supervisor, Philadelphia, PA

 

I loved your inservice workshop yesterday in Brownsville. I have seen many "frogs" hopping thru our campus. Many of the teachers have already worked origami into lessons. In fact the science teacher used the kite on TV. We made the frogs in my kinder class too. Tomorrow or Monday we will try box sculptured dinosaurs. Have you ever seen the book Simon and his Boxes by Gilles Tibo, Tundra Books? It's not origami but the little boy does use his imagination and creates with boxes.
--Connie Gomez, Kindergarten Teacher, Martin Elementary, Brownsville, TX

 

After your workshop, students were folding paper projects for the next three days. It was a great way for getting kids excited about math and exploring three-dimensional relationships, geometry and patterns.
--Ms. Sandra Thacker, 4th Grade, Vessels Elementary School, Cypress, CA

 

I teach a class of gifted fourth graders, and right from the start they were folding all the time. We started with simple folds and some of the beginning activities in your book. Each step the kids had to examine the folds carefully and describe the geometric shapes that they saw. Some were extremely good at finding many, many shapes. Each construction was then used as the starter for a story or a poem. We read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes and began constructing cranes. I don't know if we will reach 1000, but we have quite a few. I hope to expand the unit next year.
--Karen Krupnick, 4th grade, Litel Elementary School, Gifted, Chino Hills, CA

 

It was great--lots of ideas and enthusiasm! Thanks for making our Staff Development Day so successful.
--Sandra E. Barry, Assistant Superintendent, Buena Park School District

 

Fascinating and dynamic presentation--the children were so attentive and responsive. Next year begins a new approach to math using manipulatives. Math in Motion will be a great addition, come back soon!
--Carol Allen, Outstanding Teacher of the Year, 5th grade, Capistrano Unified School District

 

Lots of interactive activities and problem solving. Math in Motion makes learning math come alive!
--James Gallagher, Franklin Institute, Museum Educator and Outstanding Teacher of the Year, Philadelphia, PA

 

Our Family Night was a hit! Highly motivating and inspirational. Count us in. Let's do it again!
--Kathy Levenshus, PTA Council President

 

Now millions of viewers have an opportunity to learn about this exciting and innovative method of teaching. I wish I had learned this way when I was in school!"
--Gary Collins, ABC Television

 

Your workshop was the highlight of the summer for some most fortunate teachers and two coordinators of elementary mathematics. One teacher has already prepared a workshop session for a local reading conference in which she links literature and math through an origami activity. Teachers that we see in the schools meet us in the halls with excited descriptions of projects that they have planned for the year. Your ideas are being incorporated in to a class that we are teaching and we both find ourselves folding boxes at strange moments. Math in Motion is alive and well in Virginia Beach.
--Judith N. Fisher and Sandra P. Alley, Mathematics Coordinators, Virginia Beach City Public Schools, VA

 

MIM is so easy to follow and makes learning math with my daughter fun!
--Denise Deleon, Parent, 8th Grade

 

Your practical ideas and techniques develop student interest, enthusiasm and excitement about a subject area they had previously disliked.
--James C. Hoesch, Learning Disabled Self-Contained Class, Chapel Hill High School, Chapel Hill, NC

 

Many teachers expressed that Math in Motion was the most motivating and engaging inservice that they have attended. I have seen evidence of the training at several campuses in the past few weeks including the school-wide integrated science project. In some of the displays, paper whales and penguins joined other ocean life!
--Barbara Long, Instructional Specialist, Elementary Mathematics, Northside Independent School District, San Antonio, TX

 

Your workshop was outstanding and every teacher was actively engaged and learned new strategies to enrich students1 understanding of mathematics. We look forward to your return to present the next level.
----Dr. Paul Ugwokaegbe, Edgewood ISD, Middle School Math Specialist, San Antonio, TX

 

Barbara's enthusiastic approach to mathematics makes every activity sparkle and kids develop an acute sense of awareness and accomplishment.
--Michael Serra, Author, Discovering Geometry and Patty Paper Geometry

 

Barbara is unparalleled in her ability to tie origami to mathematical concepts and spatial skills. I use her book in work with inservice and preservice teachers as well as with children and as a result find that they now greet math with joy and pleasant anticipation.
--Janet G. Melancon, Ed.D. Associate Professor, Loyola University, New Orleans

I Math! What Kids are Saying...

 

  Gregory S., a 4th grader from Liberty Bell Elementary School in Pennsylvania accepted the creative writing challenge during a Math in Motion workshop for students. He wrote a story to accompany the origami boat/dragon model. The following is Gregory's story:

JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD

Once there was a magic square. This magic square wanted to be famous. One day he said to himself "I know! I could travel around the world so then I would be famous!" The idea was good enough for him, so he started off in the United States heading east to the Atlantic Ocean. On his first few minutes of walking, he thought, "What about the wild animals and crossing the oceans?" After a few seconds he figured out that he could fold himself into a snapping dragon on land, and fold himself into a boat when crossing the seas. As he walked along a path in the woods, he saw a wild snake. "This is the perfect time to try out my snapping dragon!" he thought. He folded himself here, he folded himself there, and finally he became the snapping dragon. When he snapped, the sound was so loud that he scared the snake away. "Hooray, I did it!" he cheered. After many days he got to the Atlantic Ocean, tried out his boat, and successfully made it to Europe, where he started walking again. He met lots of friends, family, and places on his way, and one day he really did make it around the world, and one day he really did become famous.

 

If all our classes were like this, it would be more enjoyable. I like learning new words and making sentences with origami.
--Nina H., age 14, Omiya, Japan

 

I was inspired to do more origami and now I am excited about learning it again through Math in Motion. I am very happy to know I could understand native English and learn a lot of new words. Now, I have more interest in both English and origami. I am looking forward to having English classes in Junior High School
--Nana H., age 12, Omiya, Japan

 

It was fun to learn prepositions with my jumping frog. I can make the frog jump in the box, on the box and behind the box. After the class I tried to make as many nesting boxes as possible--I made 7!
--Yusuaki H., age 10, Omiya, Japan

 

Thank you for showing me all the neat stuff during your visit to Joy Bell. I especially liked the box! I am really good at it now. Now I can teach my mom and my friends how to make the origami box. I'm glad you gave me the pencil for your Web site. I am doing the whale from your Web site right now.
--Your friend, A.J., 3rd Grade, Pennsylvania

 

Thank you for teaching us geometry and origami and for letting us learn vocabulary. It was really fun!
--Eric C., lst grade

 

Your teaching is so nice. I like the way you taught us. I wish I could be a teacher like you.
--Joseph W., 2nd Grade

 

Thank you for teaching us how math can be fun. I used to dislike math. Now I think it is fun. The assembly was really fun too.
--Christina H. 3rd grade

 

I learned a lot of fun stuff using paper. I wish I could have stayed all day. I will teach my family what you showed me. This was the BEST assembly I ever had. I learned that math is fun!
--Chad T., 4th Grade

 

I'm really glad that you came to our school. My favorite model is the box. Now I can keep lots of things in it, like erasers, candy, and crayons.
--Katie M., 5th Grade

 

I usually don't like math, but now I want to learn more. I'm glad we have your lessons and someone is here to help me. I just wish you could stay longer.
--Nina Perez, 6th Grade

 

Origami is such a very fun thing, so if you folded something, it's impossible to give up! --Koslovsky Alex, 8 years old - I like origami because you have to think when folding. In my opinion origami relaxes your mind and then it's more easy to take different tests at school !--Matveev Sasha, 8 years old - I kept my mind on the lesson. There was one special feature in it. It's that we wanted to participate and nobody told us "you have to!". It was great !--Pantuhin Oleg, 9 years old - When I had heard about origami for the first time I was scared that it's so complex and I can't be able to make something good. Now I understand it's not true. Thanks for that lessons! --Korolev Vova, 7 years old - I like origami because during the lesson time flies so fast! And also I like it because it is more than just reading and writing you also fold. If you listen attentively you get great results! --Tsareva Veronika, 7 years old - During the origami lesson I worked very hard. During that year I learned many interesting things and I want to know more. When I hear the bell I don't want to leave. --Raikova Sasha, 8 years old
--FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE--Letters from Children --Sergei Afonkin, Teacher/Author, St. Petersburg, Russia

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