Privacy folders can be purchased, but they certainly are expensive.  And, I must admit if I had my students using the privacy folders a great deal, I would shell out the money and purchase a set.

However, in my math classroom, we much of our time collaborating and the need for privacy isn’t a priority.  About the only time privacy folders are necessary are when the students are taking a math test or when a student is having difficulties focusing.

For me, spending big $ on folders just was not necessary.  So, here are the privacy folders I made all by myself!

The materials needed included colored file folders, glue, colorful duck tape and access to a laminator.

Step One:  Overlap two folders and glue.  I overlapped mine about 5 inches.

Step Two:  Next  I trimmed the folder tabs on both ends.

Step Three:  Laminate for durability.

Step Four:  Once excess laminating film is trimmed, jazz up the folders by applying colorful Duck tape.

I applied tape on the seams where to two folders meet and on the ends.

I am really happy with the finished product!  An added bonus…finding space to store is not an issue.  They can easily be stored in a small space.

I have to admit somewhere along the line I saw pictures of this style of privacy folders.  I don’t remember where however.  So if you know where the idea for these first originated, please let me know.  I would love to give credit to the creative soul who came up with the idea.