Experiment with coil and pinch pot techniques
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create a clay pot using coil and pinch techniques, adding texture to make it unique.
Key learning points
- Learn how to use the coil and pinch techniques to create a clay pot.
- Correct application of slip ensures that clay sculptures are less likely to break during the drying or firing process.
- Develop creative skills in adding textures and personal designs to your pottery.
Keywords
Coil technique - a method of shaping clay using long rolls of clay stacked on top of each other
Pinch technique - a method of shaping clay by pinching it between fingers to form a pot or bowl
Slip - a liquid mixture of clay and water used to join pieces of clay
Common misconception
Even if the coils don't stick together, the pot will still hold together once it dries or after it's fired.
Coils need to be properly joined using slip to ensure they don’t separate during the drying or firing process.
Teacher tip
Encourage students to apply firm pressure when stacking coils and use water or slip to seal the joints. Remind them to smooth both the inside and outside of their pots. Focus on symmetry and balance - these are key to creating well-formed and stable pottery pieces.
Equipment
Clay (air-dry or kiln-fired). Water and sponges. Clay tools (e.g. modelling tools, wooden sticks, spoons or forks). Slip. Aprons to protect clothing.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A is a three dimensional artwork made by shaping or combining different materials
Q2.Fill in the missing gap: Ceramics are objects made from __________ and hardened by heat.
Q3.Which of the following is not an element of art?
Q4.What does the keyword 'texture' mean?
Q5.What is the name of the method of attachment when working with clay?
Q6.Textures can be created in clay by using different like forks, stamps, and sponges.
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their definitions:
shaping clay using long rolls of clay stacked on top of each other
shaping clay by pinching it between fingers to form a pot or bowl
a liquid mixture of clay and water used to join pieces of clay
Q2.What is the name of the action of kneading and pressing the clay firmly against a surface to remove air bubbles?
Q3.What is used to join coils of clay together during the process of making a pot?
Q4.Order the steps for making a pot using the pinch technique:
To help you plan your 5 art and design lesson on: Experiment with coil and pinch pot techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 art and design lesson on: Experiment with coil and pinch pot techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 art and design lessons from the Ceramics: cake culture unit, dive into the full primary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.