Lesson:

Grade Level:
Colorful Clay Creations (2-3 sessions) 3rd/4th

Objective:
Students will gain confidence in manipulating and working in 3-D
mediums by exploring the variety and complexity of clay in
abstract art.

Cross-Curricular Link(s): Benchmarks/Standards:

Science Perform
ART.VA.I.3.2 Demonstrate control and safe use of a variety of art tools
Materials: with environmental awareness.
Texture Tools
Create
Clay Slabs
ART.VA.II.4.2 Synthesize knowledge of elements of art and principles
Underglazes
of design to creatively communicate ideas.
Brushes
Analyze
Cookie Cutters
ART.VA.III.4.2 Recognize that artwork may serve functional purposes,

be purely decorative, or serve multiple purposes.
Tropical Nature (2011) by
Analyze in Context
Bau-xi Paul Huang
n/a

Analyze and Make Connections
Texture Tiles, various
ART.VA.V.3.2 Investigate and identify careers related to artists who
works (2018) by Heather
work in specific media.
Knight


Suggested Presentation:
Various Works (2016,
1. Define and Discuss various stages of clay
2014) by Daniel Reynolds - Allow students to feel and describe
Vocabulary: 2. Demonstrate cutting shapes from slabs
Clay 3. Define and demonstrate adding initials to back of piece
Ceramics 4. Students cut shapes and add initials to clay pieces
Slab 5. Demonstrate various texture applications
Texture 6. Allow students to create clay pieces and apply texture
Bisqueware independently
Greenware 7. Demonstrate adding holes for hanging
Bone-Dry
Underglaze 8. Review ceramics terminology
Abstract Art - View artists’ exemplars and discuss
9. Discuss color wheel and combinations
Accommodations: 10. Demonstrate adding underglaze(s) to clay pieces
- Experimentation allows 11. Students add underglaze to their pieces
for accessibility for all
students 12. Demonstrate arranging clay pieces
- Gloves for sensitivities 13. Students arrange clay pieces in hanging order
14. Demonstrate stringing and knotting clay pieces on string
Other Consideration(s): 15. Students prepare final clay hanging piece
Number sessions flexible
based on student Assessment:
comprehension Students’ ceramic slab circles will include:
- Evidence of experimentation and play with texture tools

- Create 3+ ceramic circles
Sell, Molly (2019)