Universal Lesson (k-4): Throwing Clay


Minnesota 4-5 Visual Art Standards used in this Lesson:

  • 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of the arts area.
  • 1A. Describe the characteristics of the elements of visual art including color, line, shape, value, form, texture and space.

  • 1b. Describe how the principles of visual art such as repetition, pattern, emphasis, contrast and balance are used in the creation, presentation or response to visual artworks.

  • 1c. Identify characteristics of Western and non- Western styles, movements and genres in art.

  • 2. Demonstrate knowledge and use of the technical skills of the art form, integrating technology when applicable.
  • 2a. Describe the tools, materials and techniques used in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media such as drawing, printmaking, ceramics or sculpture.

  • 3. Demonstrate understanding of the personal, social, cultural and historical contexts that influence the arts areas.
  • 3a. Describe the personal, social, cultural, or historical contexts that influence the creation of visual artworks including the contributions of Minnesota American Indian tribes and communities.

  • 3b. Describe how visual art communicates meaning.
  • 4. Create or make in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 4a. Create original two- and-three-dimensional artworks to express specific artistic ideas.
  • 4b. Revise artworks based on the feedback of others and self-reflection.
  • 5. Perform or present in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 5a. Select and assemble artworks for a personal portfolio.
  • 5b. Revise a presentation based on the feedback of others and self-reflection.
  • 6. Respond to or critique a variety of creations and performances using the artistic foundations.
  • 6a. Justify personal interpretations and reactions to works of visual art.

    • Additional Tie-ins

  • Clay properties
  • Creativity
  • Eye Hand Coordination
  • The Sheer Exuberance of Learning and Exploration!
  • Cleanup process

    • We talk about how we're going to use clay in a very different way today. Students are given a little lump of clay and the teacher asks them to squish it around and maybe even make something. "But we aren't keeping our creations today!"

    Next, the teacher explains how this is a special day unlike any other day. Today they get to throw clay. After a quick demonstration and explanation of the rules, students take turns throwing the lump, trying to hit the center of a target drawn on the chalk board. A prize is given for any person who hits the center of the target.

    After everyone has had a turn and prizes have been given out, the teacher explains what "Throwing Clay" really means:

    The term, "throwing" is used when someone makes a pot on a potter's wheel. Students are shown a video of a potter throwing clay on a potter's wheel.

    Discussion is had as to how pottery has been made through out history with particular emphasis on Native American vessels and construction techniques (so as to tie in MN Art Standard #3).

    Images are shown to help illustrate the concepts and ideas.



    local vid.