Clay Pinch Pot

For this activity, we created pinch pots out of clay.  We were allowed to choose any type animal creation and use our thumbs to create a bowl shape.  First, we had to knead the clay or slap it down on the table to get all of the air bubbles out.  We then used water and clay tools to smooth the clay.  A scoring technique was used to attach clay pieces together by creating criss cross lines with clay tools and water to make sure the pieces sealed.   

For my pinch pot, I chose to make a turtle.  I used the shell to create my thumb pot shape.  I then added a head, four legs, and a tail.  I used the clay tools to create lines on the shell and feet to make it look more realistic.   After scoring the clay to attach the extremities, I put water on my thumb and used it to smooth all of the edges. 

For an extension activity, students could write a short story about their clay creature and then share them with the class.  They story could either be written in the point of view of the animal, the student, or an outside character.  This would be a great chance for students to be creative and bring their clay creature to life. 

Printmaking

This projects involved printmaking.  We were given thin Styrofoam sheets and used a pencil to draw a pattern onto the sheet.  We pressed hard in order to create an imprint with the pencil.  Rubber paint rollers were used to roll paint onto the sheet, then stamp onto the paper.  The top line was a pattern of yellow and white paint.  On the bottom sheet, we created three symbols related to our interests and again stamped them onto the paper. 

For my pattern, I chose to use straight lines and wavy lines with dots in between.  I was thinking about an Easter egg when I was creating it.  I had to be careful to press hard in order to make an indent onto the Styrofoam sheet so that pain would not get into the imprint, therefore creating the pattern.  For my symbols, I chose a flower because I love the outdoors, my initials, and a smiley face because I enjoy laughing.  I chose a black background because I thought the yellow and white paint would be a good contrast with the dark color. 

For an extension activity, the teacher could cut out a long sheet of paper and have students imprint each of their patterns next to each other in a line.  The colors could repeat in order, creating a pattern within patterns.  I think students would be excited to see everyone's pattern stamped together in a long line and it would be neat to see them all together.  Students could also get up in front of the class and share the symbols they chose and how they relate to their life.