Ceramics A/B
Course Description:
Ceramics A/B is a beginning art course, designed so students can explore the basic ceramic techniques. Hand building, wheel throwing, and decoration techniques will be introduced. Also included will be the historical and cultural importance of ceramics through the ages. Students will develop a working vocabulary for the ceramic art form, and experience creative expression through clay.
Units Covered:
I. Introduction and Overview
II. Pinch Pot Construction
III. Coil Construction
IV. Slab Construction
V. Wheel throwing
VI. Decorating Techniques
VII. History relating to Ceramics
Supplies for Success
Grading Breakdown:
1. 60% – Projects – (completion, craftsmanship, original idea)
2. 20% – Quizzes, Exams, Written assignments
3. 20% – Artistic discipline – work habits, time management, and cleaning
Ongoing Assignments:
1. Notes, sketches and project review
2. Written review of ceramic magazine articles
3. Critiques
Project Evaluation (25 points per most projects):
1. Notes: Sketch and project review (5 pts)
o Project notes completed
o Project review
§ Sketch
§ Principle and element of design
§ Glazes used
§ Project results: how did it come out, what would you do differently
2. Project assessment includes: (20 pts)
o Following of assignment requirements
o Design
o Craftsmanship – neatness and attention to detail
o Decoration Technique
Grading Policy: Due to the long process of ceramics (constructing the project, drying, bisque firing, glazing, and glaze firing) all projects assigned in a quarter will be worth full credit. After the quarter is over, those projects will no longer be accepted to be graded. Extra time to finish your project can be arranged before or after school.
Classroom Behavior:
See contract. Contract must be agreed to and signed by student and parent before clay and tools are given out.
Fees and Fines:
· Clay: New clay is $10 for a 25 lb. bag. Recycled clay is $1 per tube (about 4-5 lbs)
· $15 for a new set of 8 tools made by Kemper. Used tools are available for $2 for the set
· Replacing damaged kiln shelf $45
Being Green:
Cloth towels will be used to dry your hands. They are washed daily. This helps us cut the huge cost of paper towels and decrease the need of trees being cut down for mere drying of hands.
Hall Pass:
Students are expected to take care of restroom needs during snack, lunch, or the lengthy passing periods. However, all students will be given 15 bonus points each semester. Anytime a student leaves the room requiring a hall pass, 5 points will be deducted. Any unused points will count as positive points toward the student’s grade.
When leaving, please sign out in bathroom log book and on the whiteboard.