Core Skills Analysis
Art & Design
- Developed fine motor skills through manipulation and shaping of play doh.
- Explored 3D form and spatial awareness by creating models with volume and structure.
- Practiced creativity and self-expression by designing unique shapes and figures.
- Gained understanding of texture and material properties by working with a malleable medium.
Science
- Observed physical properties of materials, like softness and elasticity.
- Experimented with mixing colors if different play doh colors were combined.
- Developed cause and effect reasoning by adjusting pressure to change shapes.
- Engaged in sensory exploration, helping with tactile learning and material recognition.
Tips
To extend learning from making play doh models, encourage the student to research simple sculpture techniques used by famous artists and attempt to replicate them with play doh. Introduce basic concepts of symmetry and proportion by designing more complex models that require planning and measurement. You could also integrate storytelling by having the student create characters and develop narratives about their models. Lastly, experiment with making your own homemade play doh, exploring different recipes and ingredients to understand chemistry and changes in materials.
Book Recommendations
- The Art Book for Children by Amanda Renshaw: An introduction to various art techniques including sculpting, inspiring creativity in young learners.
- Ed Emberley's Drawing Book: Make a World by Ed Emberley: Encourages creativity through simple drawing and modeling activities that can complement sculpting skills.
- Roy Lichtenstein: How Modern Art Works by Russell Ash: Explores an iconic artist known for bold shapes and colors, great for linking art history to hands-on activities.
Learning Standards
- Art & Design KS3: 3a – Use a variety of techniques and media to develop skills and ideas.
- Science KS3: 3a – Understand the properties and uses of materials.
- Art & Design KS3: 1b – Explore and refine ideas through experimentation.
Try This Next
- Worksheet: Design your dream creature and plan its parts before sculpting.
- Quiz prompt: Identify properties of different modeling materials and their uses.