Ceramics

Some of the most iconic images of ancient Greece come to use from decorated ceramics, or pottery. The ancient Greeks developed wheel thrown pottery and used ceramics throughout their daily lives, in religious ceremonies, and as grave goods to be buried with the dead.

The Athenians created their recognizable black-figure and red-figure pottery from the fifth to the fourth century BCE. These vessels showed scenes from daily life, mythology, and special events, and were decorated with geometric and nature inspired motifs. To tell the difference between black-figure and red-figure pottery, just look at the people on the pots!

Procedure

Students will use terracotta planters or saucers, so they are starting with an orange ceramic base.

Using their black permanent markers, students can decorate their pottery with a scene from a myth or their own experiences. Designs can easily be sketched in pencil before moving to permanent marker.

After completing their ceramic decorating, students can present their ceramic to the class to see if others can determine the content of their decorations (this could also be done in pairs or small groups).

Alternate ending activity: Have students place their ceramics in a plastic bag and collect all bags. Gently break ceramics using a teacher wielded hammer or by dropping. Pass out bags at random and have students repair ceramics using masking tape, like an archaeologist after a dig! Students then find the designer of the repaired ceramic to learn about their decor and return their piece. Let students know in advance that you will be breaking their pieces!

Materials

• Mini terracotta planters or saucers

• Sharpies or black permanent markers

Alternate ending materials:

• Quart Ziploc Bags

• Hammer

• Masking Tape