Lesson 1: Luminary
Duration of Days: 10
Lesson Objective
Students will design and construct a slab-built ceramic luminary that demonstrates accurate slab construction, secure joining, and intentional cut-out or surface design that allows light to pass through.
How do slabs create strong, flat walls and sharp edges?
How does light change the way a ceramic form is experienced?
How can cutouts and texture be used as part of the design?
Slab – A flat sheet of rolled clay
Template – A paper or cardboard pattern used for cutting
Score and Slip – A method for joining clay pieces
Compression – Pressing clay to strengthen joints
Luminary – A vessel or structure designed to hold a light source
Negative Space – Areas cut out to allow light through
VA:Cr2.1.HS1 – Experiment with materials, tools, and techniques
VA:Cr3.1.HS1 – Refine and complete artistic work
Geometry: Students measure and cut slabs to form accurate shapes.
Spatial reasoning: Students visualize how flat shapes become three-dimensional forms.
Description:
Students will roll clay slabs, use templates to cut shapes, and assemble a hollow luminary form. Cutouts, carved patterns, or textured areas will be added so that light can pass through when a candle or LED is placed inside.
Purpose:
This lesson teaches students how slab construction creates precise, architectural forms and how negative space and surface design can interact with light.
DOK Level:
Level 3–4. Students plan, build, problem-solve, and refine a functional sculptural object over multiple days.
Lanterns and luminaries are used in festivals and traditions around the world.
Architectural lighting design uses cutouts and screens to shape light.
Many cultures use pierced ceramics for lamps and decorative vessels.
“Thicker slabs are stronger.” ? Even thickness prevents cracking.
“Cutouts weaken the form.” ? Properly planned cutouts can strengthen design.
“Pieces will stick without scoring.” ? All joints must be scored and slipped.
Striving Learners:
Use simple box or cylinder templates
Larger cutouts and fewer walls
Advanced Learners:
Complex shapes or layered slabs
Intricate cutout patterns
Formative:
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Teacher checks slab thickness and seams
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Peer review of stability and light design
Summative:
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Clean slab construction
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Secure joins
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Light passes through intentional cutouts
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Luminary stands and functions
Materials / Resources / Text / Speakers
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Clay (8–10 lbs per student)
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Slab rollers or rolling pins
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Canvas boards
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Fettling knives
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Wooden modeling tools
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Slip and scoring tools
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Paper or cardboard for templates