Objective:
Students will design and sculpt a representation of a living organism in bas-relief using modeling clay.

Directions:
Students will create a modeling-clay sculpture that represents a living organism. After completing their artwork, they will present it to the class and explain the characteristics that identify their subject as a living organism.

Guidelines:
Third-grade students will explore the concept of living versus nonliving organisms through class discussion and an instructional video. Afterward, each student will share two defining characteristics of either a living or nonliving organism with a partner to demonstrate understanding.

Students will then be introduced to modeling clay as an artistic medium. They will practice manipulating the clay to form basic shapes before designing a background for their chosen organism. After selecting a specific living organism and reviewing visual references, students will sculpt their subject in bas-relief and attach it to their prepared background. Modeling clay tools will be provided to add detail and refine their work.

To conclude the activity, students will present their completed sculptures to the class, explaining the features that make their chosen subject a living organism.