The ceramics
program at Alamo School is much more than just working with clay.
It is a curriculum that includes some of the history of ceramics,
using examples from many cultures. Each grade level builds on their
previous year's experience. This way students are able to continue
developing different skills in working with clay.
Kindergarten students are introduced to clay by making a clay impression
of their own handprint. This is one of the most "cherished
pieces" that parents always proudly display.
In
first grade, the students actually begin working with clay. They
complete four projects. Each project teaches different techniques
and includes firing and glazing.
Second grade students also do four projects, but they use different
techniques. They make bowls and self-portrait tiles and learn more
about sculptural functions.
In the third grade, teachers usually have special requests, and
students are also given a "free choice" clay day. This
year something special has happened. Our students were asked to
decorate a Christmas tree in Davis Symphony Hall. Stanley
Edwards, Alamo's Ceramics Teacher, made different shaped
ornaments, using the skills and talents of the students. This was
done in collaboration with Jennifer Tong, the visual arts teacher,
who helped the students paint these ornaments.
In fourth grade students make intricate baskets and fill them with
a variety of different objects. The focus is a "still-life
celebration."
Fifth grade students use a different type of clay. They make ceramic
tiles using native animals and insects. These tiles will decorate
the school and garden area. Students will also make large pots to
use in the outdoor garden.
This program has been so successful with the students that the
Foundation funded the purchase of a second kiln to handle the volume
of the clay works created by the classes. Thanks to the generosity
of contributors like you who made this possible.
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