Pedagogical support of students in creating and presenting air-dry clay artworks

Abstract

The article provides an in-depth examination of pedagogical support for students in general secondary education institutions during the process of creating and presenting artworks made from air-dry clay – a task highly relevant to modern art education, which prioritizes the development of creative, independent learners through artistic activity. The author presents a detailed analysis of various plastic materials (plasticine, salt dough, ceramic clay, polymer clay, and air-dry clay), clearly differentiating their properties and areas of application. Special attention is given to air-dry clay, emphasizing its key advantages for the educational process in general secondary schools: it does not require firing, is safe and environmentally friendly, provides quick results, and is easy to decorate. These characteristics make it a practical, modern, and economically sound material that enables effective organization of sculpting activities in school settings.

Building on this analysis and taking into account students’ age-specific developmental characteristics (younger, middle, and older school-age), the article develops and presents a clear methodology for working with air-dry clay, including step-by-step instructions for sculpting and decorating, as well as practical recommendations for teachers. Of particular practical value are the lesson plans presented in innovative formats (“5E Model”, “Creative Frame”), such as “Decoration for the Easter Basket” (for Grade 5 students) and “New Year Tree Ornament” (for Grade 6 students). These lessons demonstrate how traditional knowledge (e.g., Ukrainian symbolism) can be effectively integrated with hands-on sculpting skills using air-dry clay.

In addition, the author proposes and tests an original format for student presentations – the “Social Media Frame” (styled after Instagram/TikTok), developed in several design variations. This creative form of lesson organization and product presentation demonstrates its effectiveness in enhancing students’ motivation, cultivating a culture of communication, and developing self-presentation skills. It allows learners to experience the value and relevance of their artistic creativity within the context of contemporary digital culture and societal expectations.