An alternative tactual resource that maintains high interest and enthusiasm for students
who need variety is the Flip Chute. Small cards are created with a question on one side and the
answer on the other. These are the Flip Chute cards. A Flip Chute can be constructed out of
a milk carton.
Students then insert the question-answer cards in the upper slot of the Flip
Chute and the card flips as it shoots out the bottom. Two learning systems are in play when
students use a Flip Chute. The Flip Chute accomodates tactual learning needs but also creates
an environment of "anticipation" which helps to focus student learning. This combination
results in students learning more readily skills like multiplication facts.
To construct a Flip Chute, you can use a half-gallon juice or milk container.
- Pull open the top of the container.
- Cut the side folds of the top portion down to the top of the container.
- On the front edge, measure down from the top 1 1/2 inches and draw a line.
- Measure 1 inch below this line and draw another line.
- From the bottom measure up 1 1/2 inches and draw a line.
- From the this line measure up 1 inch and draw another line.
- This will allow for two slot to be cut into the front of the carton.
- Cut one 5 by 8 index card to measure 6 1/2 inches bu 3 1/2 inches.
- Cut a second index card to measure 7 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches
- Fold down 1/2 inch at both ends of the smaller strip. Fold down 1/2 inch at
one end of the longer strip.
- Insert the smaller strip into the bottom opening with the folded edge resting on the upper portion of the bottom opening. Attack it with masking tape.
- Bring the upper part of the smaller strip out through the upper opening, with the folded part going down over the center section of the carton. Attach it with masking tape.
- On the longer strip, one end is folded down, and the other end is unfolded. Insert the unfloded end of the longer strip into the bottom opening of the container. Be certain the strip goes up along the ack of the container. Push t into the container until the folded
part rests on the bottom of the container. Attach it with masking tape.
- Attach the upper edge of the longer strip to the back of the container 5/8 inch from the top, creating a slid. Secure it with masking tape.
- Fold down the top flaps of the container and tape them in place, forming a rectangular box.
- Use small 2 by 2 1/2 inch index cards to write the question on one side and the answer upside down on teh flip side. Notch each question
on the to right side to ensure appropriate positioning when the youngster uses the cards.
Decorate the Flip Chute to reflect a particular theme and to appeal to the global student.
From "Teaching Young Children Through Their Individual Learning Styles" by Dunn, Dunn, and Perrin, 1994]
Wooden Flip Chutes
If you'd like wooden flip chutes made out of Western Cedar some students in North Carolina are making them to fund their learning style classroom. They are available from:
CJ's Flip Chutes
co/John Alden
765 Ed Hager Trail
Stanley, N.C. 28164
Cost is $10 plus $3.00 for shipping= Total $13.00
Contact them for Purchase Order information
