Create shapes based on real objects

• Clay
• Water
• A board or flat surface
• Rolling object (like a bottle or rolling pin)
• A piece of paper
• Tools for cutting and smoothing

Step 1: Choose a Real Object

First, look at objects around you. You can choose simple things like:

• A cup or mug
• A small bowl
• A box or cube
• A flower pot
• A simple animal figure

Look carefully at the shape. Is it round? Is it square? Does it have flat parts or curved parts?

Step 2: Prepare the Clay

Put the clay on a board. Add a little water if the clay is dry. Mix it well until it becomes soft and easy to shape.

Step 3: Roll the Clay

Use your rolling object to flatten the clay into a flat sheet called a slab. The slab should be even, not too thin and not too thick.

Step 4: Cut the Shape

Look at your real object again. Cut pieces from the slab to match the parts of your object. For example:

• For a cube or cuboid (box shape), cut several flat pieces
• For a cylinder (like a cup), roll the clay into a tube shape

Step 5: Join the Pieces

Press the pieces together carefully. Make sure there are no gaps between them. Use wet clay to help pieces stick together.

Step 6: Smooth and Shape

Smooth the edges and surfaces so your object looks neat. You can use your fingers or a smooth tool.

Step 7: Dry Your Object

Put your finished object in the shade to dry slowly. Do not put it in direct sun or it will crack.

Let us see how to make a small bowl using clay:

1. Choose the object: A small bowl from your kitchen
2. Prepare clay: Soften the clay with water
3. Roll slab: Flatten clay into a thin sheet
4. Cut circle: Cut a circle for the bottom of the bowl
5. Make wall: Cut a strip for the side of the bowl
6. Join: Stick the strip to the circle to form the bowl shape
7. Smooth: Smooth the inside and outside
8. Dry: Leave in shade to dry

• Slab: Flat sheet of clay
• Coil: Long rope of clay
• Cuboid: Box shape (longer than wide)
• Cube: Box shape with all sides equal
• Cylinder: Round shape like a tube or cup

• Always keep your clay moist while working
• Work slowly and check your shape often
• Look at your real object again and again as you work
• Ask your teacher for help if needed

In Tanzania, clay modelling is a useful skill that can help you in everyday life. For example, if you want to sell pots or decorations at the market in Morogoro or Arusha, you can use clay to make attractive items and sell them to earn money for your family.