These were a lot of fun and one of my favorite clay projects from the last few years. The students learned about the Zapotec weavers of Oaxaca, Mexico. They learned about the different meanings of the symbols and the layouts used to create each rug. We also discussed symmetrical balance. For the slabs, I showed the students how to make a slab without tools. I told them to think of making a tortilla. They roll the clay into a ball, then slap the ball back and forth in their palms until the slab is large enough. They measure the thickness by using the width of a pencil. I use this method instead of rolling pins because it seems to be easier for the students. They don't have to worry about using equal pressure when rolling. They also don't have to worry about the slab sticking to their work surface.
prior to beginning clay, students are shown a powerpoint presentation on ceramics. we discuss the fact that humans began making things out of clay during prehistoric times. we discuss that even a simple clay vessel is a form of technology. we also discuss the stages of clay production. students are required to complete a fill-in-the-blank worksheet throughout the discussion.
These were a lot of fun and one of my favorite clay projects from the last few years. The students learned about the Zapotec weavers of Oaxaca, Mexico. They learned about the different meanings of the symbols and the layouts used to create each rug. We also discussed symmetrical balance. For the slabs, I showed the students how to make a slab without tools. I told them to think of making a tortilla. They roll the clay into a ball, then slap the ball back and forth in their palms until the slab is large enough. They measure the thickness by using the width of a pencil. I use this method instead of rolling pins because it seems to be easier for the students. They don't have to worry about using equal pressure when rolling. They also don't have to worry about the slab sticking to their work surface.
ReplyDeleteprior to beginning clay, students are shown a powerpoint presentation on ceramics. we discuss the fact that humans began making things out of clay during prehistoric times. we discuss that even a simple clay vessel is a form of technology. we also discuss the stages of clay production. students are required to complete a fill-in-the-blank worksheet throughout the discussion.
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