Grades K–2 · Arts & Music
How can a wide folding fan close into a narrow bundle?
A folding fan has several thin sticks joined near one end. Each stick can turn around that joining point. The sticks can gather close together or spread into a wide shape.
In the diagramRibs turn while folds gather or openopenclosed
A folded sheet connects the sticks farther out. Its creases open as the sticks spread and close as they gather. The sheet does not need to stretch into a bigger piece.
When the fan closes, its width becomes much smaller because the folds stack together. Opening reverses that change. A wide surface can be packed into a narrow bundle by arranging its parts differently.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Recognize a fan that can open and close and a fold in paper.
Sources
- Victoria and Albert Museum — The Expanding Fan