K-12 Setting Up For Success: Clay & Ceramics in the Classroom Teacher Resource

Want to learn how to incorporate clay & ceramics into your curriculum but have no idea how to get started? This resource is for you! When I first started teaching I had so many questions and no where to turn. This comprehensive document is 51 pages of original content gathered from my ceramics journey.

14 Chapters, each dedicated to an aspect of clay and ceramic knowledge.

This resource is intended for artists and teachers alike. Think of this resource as a crash course in all things clay and ceramics related. Anything and everything you can think of is in this document. This 14 Chapter thorough document will prepare any teacher or artist ready to dive into the world of ceramics. Basic vocabulary is covered to familiarize yourself with ceramic terminology. Definitions that are written in easy to understand language will allow you to learn about clay and ceramic processes, tools, materials, equipment and more without feeling overwhelmed. I discuss the seven steps clay takes from to become a brilliant, beautiful glaze ceramics. Feel confident working with clay as you learn about the properties of clay and all it takes to be successful with the material. When you’re well informed you can make better decisions about what’s right for you and your students, classroom and studio. Unfamiliar with working with clay? No problem! All the handbuilding techniques are covered, wheel throwing information and even discusses slip casting and mold making. You’ll feel like a pro in no time as you learn about the unlimited possibilities of clay and how to create work that won’t break or explode in the kiln. Learn about firing loading, firing and maintaining a kiln through visuals and in depth instructions. A separate, printable dual sided checklist is also included in this resource. Armed with all this knowledge soon you’ll be unstoppable!
This resource walks you through the assortment of clay, kilns and color applications that are available. No judgment here! Everything you need to know about air dry to expensive porcelain and anything in between. Organized into table formats, these chapters will advise you on what clays are best suited to achieve the results you are looking for. Kilns can be very overwhelming and I’ve organized all you need to know about the major types of kilns to best prepare you for a purchase or supply you with the confidence to press start and get going! Knowing that all budgets, classrooms, and studios are different, nothing is left out. I even touch on the numerous color applications clay can withstand. Everything from cold finishes to beautiful glaze options to make your work look professional- it's all in here!
When you’re stuck with the daunting task of figuring out supplies, materials and equipment. I’ve taken my years of knowledge and organized lists of supplies, and with budgeting in mind! All suggested tools are items I have in my room, and whether you are able to splurge or intend on saving, nearly 5 pages of this resource is dedicated to making an informed decision on supplies. Likewise with tools, materials and equipment can eat up your budget quickly. I provide you with information on what I feel passionately is a necessity in a classroom for ceramics, and what is a luxury, therefore you’ll be able to best utilize your budget. Finally, where to start the ordering process? I compiled a list of major vendors in the US, Canada and some international suppliers to make the most of your money.
I also provide you with a hyperlinked table with all my other products, organized by skill level, to make planning a unit, semester or year a breeze. I touch on scaffolding ceramics and the importance of sequencing projects and skills in order. Included in this massive resource is also a video tutorial on how to make slip, and 3 ways to reclaim and recycle clay. Complete with a materials list and thorough directions, you’ll never waste clay again! Finally, this resource wraps up with how to maintain and clean and organized classroom, with help from a printable questionnaire. Rest assured knowing that you will be well informed, confident to teach all about ceramics, and translate that to your students. Remember that investing in your students is investing in your classroom success.

Included in this resource:

- 51 pages of teacher resources

- printable supply list & unit planner

- printable kiln firing & maintenance checklist

- embedded video tutorial for reclaiming/recycling clay

- My TOU agreement

Tech tip: I highly recommend downloading all files you purchase from TPT and save it to your Google Drive. I also recommend opening the link using your personal email account. This will save you time and any issues that could arise.

I take a lot of time and pride in creating resources and products that teachers, students and studio creatives can use for themselves. I enjoy taking all the stress and worry from teachers by developing thoughtful products that can be adapted to any classroom and budget. I remember when I first started teaching how daunting lesson planning, unit planning, budgets, supplies and grading were! I aim to take all those tasks and streamline the process for you. I strive to make each and every product a success. Thank you so much again for your purchase. When you invest in your classroom you invest in your students and their success. I hope you enjoy seeing the beautiful creative results! Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

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Thank You! 

Chelsea Ranno