Clay Day!

The clay activity was divided into three parts. In the first, we were blindfolded, the lights were turned off, soft music played, and we were read Pat Reese's narrative to go along with this activity. We were told to create whatever came to mind and release our energy into the clay. This routine is often used as therapy and may be a great way for calming students, gaining their attention, and subtracting competition. Next, we were allowed to simply play with the clay and to create something that's making sound, or motion. This was the most challenging. I began my own trying to create waves pounding on shore, yet it somehow turned into a beating heart. This added art elements. This project would make a great extension in a class such as physics, physical science, or biology for ages Kindergarten through college. Finally, we created pinch pots. This simple activity gave us the oppurtunity to combine all we did this semester as far as color, shape, texture, lines, etc. I created a star with the etchings of a sand dollar in the middle. In this case, we used Crayola air-dry clay, however in older groups, heat-baked clay would work and younger ages could utilize this with non-drying clay. The only con in this activity was clean up, as the clay tends to stick to the desk. However, this is a MUST for any age and any kind of student. This is a creative outlet for all subjects; students can form numbers, letters, problems, three dimensional projects, or even mold it while the teacher reads aloud to improve reading comprehension.