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Tuesday, April 12, 2011

4th Grade Clay Castles



4th graders just finished one of the favorite projects in all of elementary art at Thomas.  Clay castles have become legendary in the hallways.  Each student starts by studying castles from all over the world before designing their own.  Students use slab building techniques in order to create their clay castles.  The variety of shapes and details always amaze me.  While they are waiting on the castles to dry and be fired, students create a coat of arms that is placed behind their castles.  Finally, the castles are glazed and set on display shelves to be marveled at by the entire school.  Huzzah!  


3 comments:

Mr. E said...

about how much clay do you give each student? seems like it could be a good bit??? They look amazing!

Zach Stoller said...

I give them quite a bit of clay by the time the project is over, but they get pieces that are about 4"x4"x1" each day they come in. Finished castles are usually around 5"x4" at the base. I have them make them small enough that I am able to fit about 24 in the kiln at the same time.

Courtney said...

I love these! I decided I am going to use this idea for my 5th grade art club. I even created a WebQuest for the students to do before starting the project. I am so excited. Thanks for inspiration/sharing your ideas.