Paper Plate Clocks!

Today we made these cute little paper plate clocks.  Many students find it difficult to tell time, especially in today's world of digital clocks.  I like making these clocks because it provides a very tangible and concrete way to check the time.

How it works:
Have the students arrange the hands on the clock so that they are pointing to numbers.  The hour hand (short/red) is read first.  Just say the number it is pointing to.  In this case we would say "6." Then follow the minute hand (long/blue) and fold up the flap.  Say what it says under the flap.  In this case "15." Now put it together- 6:15.  As the class gets more comfortable with this procedure we can challenge them to say the time without opening the flap, and they can self-check.

How to make:
Write the numbers on a plate (always start with 12, 3, 6, and 9).  Then add the other numbers 2 finger spaces apart.  cut a slit between the numbers and glue the plate (only put glue in the middle) to another plate.  fold up the flaps and add 00 under 12, 05 under 5 , 10 under 2 and so on.  cut out hands from construction paper and attach them with a brad.

It's easy as that, and the kids had a fun time making them!  These will stay in their chair pockets, and we will use these as a form of "quick checking" when we start math class.