The children have started thinking about clay and how we can move it and change it in different ways. Initially, we introduced clay with rollers - to give the children a focus and to begin a purpose. The children pounded, hit, and rolled the clay for several days.
While working on these strategies - the children recognized that they were not always making the clay flat. As the semester continued, the children used their hands as tools to make the clay move and change in shape. We started with finding ways to flatten the clay. The children suggested several different ways:
- Rubbing
- Patting
- Pounding
- Tapping
- Pressing
We then explored these ideas. The children recognized that they need to use a lot of pressure to make the clay flat. Emmett used both hands to press extra hard on his piece. Abe continued to roll and use other pieces to press together to make the clay flatter.
The children began to notice more changes in the appearance as they moved the clay in different ways.
Emmett noticed the clay coming off on his hands and Abe focused on the pieces that were coming off as the clay wore thin.
Emmett noticed the clay coming off on his hands and Abe focused on the pieces that were coming off as the clay wore thin.
This is a piece of Emmett's finished piece of flattened clay. He continued to use his hands as a tool until he envisioned it flat enough. You can see the different impressions of his knuckles and fingers.
While exploring the ideas of flattening clay, some children began to recognize that once the clay was flat, that they could begin creating on it - like a base or stage. Ali is making different animals with his flattened clay and other pieces he rolled up. He began using the technique of pinching to form his pieces together. This will be the next step in our clay exploration when the children are familiar with flattening it with purpose.
Throughout this process, the children have developed a stronger sense of cause and effect, strengthened fine motor skills, and supporting different ideas of communication - whether it be through language or through art. As our investigation progresses, I intend to introduce the children to different strategies and techniques that will give them opportunities to manipulate clay for a purpose of representation of their ideas in a 3D form.
