Art Class: Clay

Students had a blast with the introduction of air-dry clay. They tried using the cookie cutter method to churn out a high production of clay pieces, taking into consideration the craftsmanship and design. Some students accepted the challenge of making handbuilding work by combining function and form. There were a number of details to lookout for such as knowing how to distribute the pressure evenly so that the clay will be rolled out evenly, positioning of the cookie cutters to maximise the space, judging the thickness of the clay, smoothening the edges, preventing the drying clay from warping, what to do with remaining clay, painting on dried clay. 

Most students love hands-on work and they learn best while working on something rather than excessive teacher talk. I always liken experiential learning with swimming. Would you learn better with more practices in the pool or from watching swimming videos? 

Spray bottles work as well as rolling pins

Art Class: Clay Relief Work

Hi! The children have completed their watercolour painting last week. To reiterate the learning outcomes from the previous lesson, they sort the air-dry clays according to warm and cool colours again. 

Like most art teachers, preparations are done prior to our classes. The clays were divided and packed into individual bags. Instructions are usually given before distributing them.

Next, to check students' understanding of molding the clay, they made three basic forms. Self-evaluation is done by checking the boxes in a worksheet once they have achieved the forms. Practices such as these will guide them to be more self directed. In this case, it is quite straightforward because the result of the clay work is right before their eyes. Should anyone faces difficulties in making a form, assistance is offered on the spot as I go around to collect the worksheet.

Art Class: Air-dry Clay Monsters Pinch Pots

 

Hi Teachers! I'm working on a new lesson unit on monster pinch pots this term. I will love seeing the creative ideas as they bring flat drawing to form. When making these pinch pots, I created a few extras just in case the children had theirs broken in the process so they will not be too disappointed.

Children will learn with experience that not all 2D drawings will translate directly to a stable 3D piece. It's great to let the children learn as they do and allow them to realise what works best. The final artwork has to stand on its own and attachments definitely has to be firmly secured. Please check back to see our progress.