The term origami is the Japanese word for folded paper . There are about 100 traditional origami figures, most depicting such natural forms as birds, flowers, and fish. An abstract, ceremonial form of origami called noshi, is a pleated paper ornament attache to gifts.
Most origami is folded from an uncut square of paper.
The preferred paper is thin Japanese paper called washi , but foil-backed wrapping paper, heavy art paper, and typing paper can be used. Origami, like paper, originated in China but flourished in Japan. The purpose of this page is to introduce students to the art of origami and to the various methods of folding paper. Paper folding activities related to geometry help to motivate student interest in mathematics. The process of producing a paper figure allows students to learn to follow directions, to become motivated, to use a visual aide for better understanding of mathematical concepts, and to complete a project through their own perseverance.