This course serves as an introduction to the wonders of clay and ceramics. It includes the study of history and culture pertaining to ceramics in art. The student will be engaged in projects using traditional construction methods in ceramics with an emphasis on elements of art and principles of design. Students will learn to approach ceramic artwork as both functional and decorative sculptural objects. Development of technical skills and artistic vocabulary will include, hand building (slab, coil, and pinch techniques), extruding, wheel-throwing, scoring, slipping, bisque firing, and glazing. Students are also requires to keep a personal sketchbook to record information on study specific artists, techniques, creative problems and solutions. For students of Ceramic 3 and 4 projects will be progressively more open ended in terms of student’s choice of concepts and materials.
This course requires a high commitment to the safe and responsible use of materials, tools, and equipment.
Advanced Ceramics 3 and 4 typically builds upon the foundational skills learned in Ceramics 2, focusing on refining techniques, exploring more complex forms, and developing a personal artistic style. Students will deepen their understanding of clay properties, hand-building and wheel-throwing methods, glazing techniques, and firing processes. The course also emphasizes critical analysis of ceramic art, both historical and contemporary, and encourages students to develop their own creative voice through various projects. Advanced students will work toward developing a portfolio of work with a Sustained investigation (driven by a unified theme) with the goal of taking the AP 3D Design course.
Develop an appreciation of art and the creative process, along with an understanding of the role of art in our society.
Demonstrate knowledge of methods, materials, terminology, and techniques unique to ceramics.
Demonstrate knowledge of the elements and principles of design as applies to ceramics.
The students will plan problem solving steps, including stating initial intentions, defining and analyzing the problems and clarifying the main issues and goals.
Students will work through sequential stages and processes to exhibit technical skill and craftsmanship.
Develop an ability to judge (critique) and appreciate one’s own artwork, as well as the artwork of others by participating in organized critiques.
Provide a safe learning environment that respects individual artistic expression, learning styles, and skill levels.
Introduction to clay and the history of Ceramics and Pottery
The Stages of clay
Hand-building Techniques: Pinch, Coil, Slab, Mold
Surface Decoration: Carving/Stamping
Glazing and Texturing Surfaces
Fees will be used for clay and ceramic glazes.
This fee can be paid online at myschoolbucks.com.
In order to guarantee every student the educational climate stated in the VRHS’s Mission Statement, all students will be held accountable to the discipline plan on the attached sheet as well as the Social Contract written by the students during the first week of school. Please discuss this letter and the attached class rules with your kid. Also, please read the safety pledge form, sign and return it to me.
Self-discipline is key to the success of the creative atmosphere in the art classroom. This can only happen when there is an feeling of respect and trust between all students. Every student deserves a positive and safe learning environment to have the freedom to create and experience academic growth. Therefore, students will be involved in developing guidelines for appropriate behavior in the art room. Should students have difficulties in following school/class rules, disciplinary actions will be taken.
1. Be a Responsible Student. (Get your work done, clean up your mess, etc.)
2. Be a Respectful Student. (Respect the teachers, administrators, and other students. Respect other student’s property, the classroom materials, and the school. Be respectful in the words you chose.
3. Be a Good Citizen of the School. (Obey all school rules.)
4. Be a Trustworthy Student. (Take care of the art room, clean up your mess,)
5. Always Do Your Personal Best.
Please do not abuse this privilege. Students will follow the new school-wide hall pass system.
New State Law Regarding Cell Phones and other devices in schools. Click Here.
Grade Policy:
Major Projects: 40% - These will be finished art works that demonstrate the main focus of the creative problem/ Artistic topic we are exploring. How we
spend most of our time in class, these are usually detailed and demonstrate various skills.. The requirements vary for each project but will be posted in
the classroom.
Process 30%- This grade will show how you work in class or the progress you show on a daily basis and will be given at certain checkpoints throughout
the working process.
Supported Assignments: 30%- This grade is for sketchbook, written, and other supported (shorter) assignments that foster creativity, relate to a topic
of discussion and/or technique we are learning.
Late Work:
Work will be graded as is when it is due. If you are not happy with your grade, you have until the end of the grading period to improve it! If a project isn’t turned in on time, it is not eligible to redo. 10 points will be taken off for late work PER CLASS PERIOD. The maximum amount deducted for late work is 30 points.
Redo Policy: All assignments are eligible for redo or make-up for up to a grade of 80. Process grades are taken at the time of completion and generally marks your understanding of techniques, media and vocabulary.
Absence Policy: Students will have a reasonable and fair opportunity for make-up and redo of a class assignment/examination for which the student received a failing grade.
Students will have a reasonable and fair opportunity for make-up and redo of a class assignment/examination for which the student received a failing grade. The original content of the assignment will be assigned but the teacher has the right to provide alternative methods for student mastery.
Login to Ranger Time tutorial or speak with me to set up extra studio time as needed.
My conference periods are 2nd and 7th.
Critiques will take place upon completion of each project allowing students to reflect on their work and present an artist’s statement and receive feedback from their peers. Critiques are held to assist students in their creative development by providing focused opportunities for you to verbalize your reasoning and intentions, and for fellow classmates to share opinions and assistance.