Activity 3 - Object Patterning a Clay Slab

Rationale: This activity is designed to extend and reinforce the manipulation of clay, and involves decorating it with free patterns.

Materials: Clay, board, cloth, rolling pin, blunt knife(optional), patterning objects such as pencils, wooden blocks, pegs, Duplo / Lego blocks, rulers, forks, spoons etc.

Setting: Students have materials in front of them. Clay may be prepared by the instructor and then rolled into a rough ball shape approximately the size of a tennis ball.

Sequence:

1. Flatten the clay with the palm of an open hand, to approximately finger thickness.
2. Clay may be rolled with a rolling pin (optional).
3. Offer the student a selection of tools for them to choose from.
4. Student independently or co-actively (with physical assistance) creates patterns in the clay. Allow as much independence as possible.
5. Trim the edges of the clay piece. Scratch student's name and date into top side of the slab.
6. Leave to dry for 10 days, before firing in the kiln.
7. Paint on the glaze.  Let the glaze dry thoroughly, then glaze fire.
8. The completed piece can then be mounted on wood backing and hung.

Patterned with a fork and bisc fired.

A different piece, patterned, glazed and mounted .

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