Archaeology Fun
CLAY POTS
A great activity for an afternoon of archaeology fun is to make clay pots. It is also a good activity for fine motor development.
We used air-drying clay which worked really well, just remember to knead it first to make it soft and pliable.
TIP Put a sheet of wax paper down once you are ready to start assembling the pot, as it prevents sticking or staining, and once the pot is dry, it comes off easily.
Roll out a piece of the clay and cut out a circle with a glass or cup. This will form the base of the pot. Score the edges with a fork all the way around as shown below. Then start rolling "snakes" of clay to form the coils of the pot.
Once the first coil is ready, moisten the scored edges of the base with a little water.
Now attatch the end of your first coil to the base of the circle by pinching it to secure the end. Coil it around over the scored area. Now score the top of the first coil and moisten it so that you can attach the next coil.
Continue to do this until the pot is the size you want it and finish by gently smoothing the sides of the pot between your fingers using a little water. Now leave it to dry.
Back to History for Kids from Archaeology Fun
|
