Ceramics I

Students will learn about ceramics from an historical perspective.  They will learn different techniques of making pottery, as well as develop their own decorating styles. Included is the importance of safety and health while working in the ceramic classroom.

At the beginning of the year students learn the different hand-building techniques.  The firing techniques are introduced, beginning with a primitive pit firing.  Students are presented with a decorating technique with each new project. Throughout the year terms and vocabulary are introduced which students are tested on at the end of the 1st quarter, at semester, and at the end of the year by written exam. At the beginning of the 2nd quarter each student is introduced to the electric wheel. 

Because students learn in a variety of ways, the techniques and terms are introduced in a variety of ways, through reading materials, demonstrations, and videos.  The students are assigned research projects and are asked to keep a journal with sketches.  Lectures are kept to a minimum, but there is always conversation going on regarding vocabulary while the students are working on their projects.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Jody Cooper