Exploring 3D art materials with casting (paper and plaster)
I can explore casting techniques through hands-on experimentation to create casts using plaster and paper.
Exploring 3D art materials with casting (paper and plaster)
I can explore casting techniques through hands-on experimentation to create casts using plaster and paper.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Casting is a sculpting process that allow us to create replicas or translate modelled sculptures into durable materials.
- Hands-on experimentation with materials fosters a deeper understanding of their properties.
- Exploring different casting methods supports informed choices and more intentional outcomes in future projects.
Keywords
Casting - a sculpture making technique where a malleable material is formed in mould
Mould - a hollow container used to shape the malleable material
Undercut - a part of the mould that curves around the object or cast in a way that makes it hard to remove the object from the mould. It can trap the cast inside the mould if not designed carefully
Common misconception
Plaster and paper will behave the same way in a mould.
Plaster and paper have very different properties. Plaster sets quickly and picks up fine details. Paper air dries more slowly and shrinks more as it dries. It might not show fine texture as clearly.
To help you plan your year 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring 3D art materials with casting (paper and plaster), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring 3D art materials with casting (paper and plaster), 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 3 art and design lessons from the Being curious about 3D design unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Tray or board, clay, plaster of paris, bowls, stirring sticks, petrolium jelly or cling flip, tissue paper, glue and water mix, objects to cast over, like small toys, keys etc.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
shaping by cutting from a solid block
shaping soft material by hand or tools
building a structure from various materials
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a sculpture technique using a mould
a hollow shape used to form materials
a part of the mould that traps the object