Ceramics 1

Mrs. Palu
Course Description
THIS is potentially the greatest class imaginable in the human mind. You will be given a chance
to dive into art in a hands-on setting with our focus being on 3D design. The class focuses on
making art with ceramics (beginning hand-building techniques).
Learning Targets
Each student will:
1. Explore the tools, techniques, and processes of making art.
2. Create works of art that use the elements and principles of art.
3. Learn to critique artwork.
4. Evaluate works of art.
5. Create meaning in works of art.
6. Organize and exhibit works of art.
7. Recognize some influences on artists through history.
8. Make connections between art and other subjects.
9. Recognize how art fits into everyday life.
Materials and Supplies
Students will be exploring many different types of mediums using a variety of materials. Our
main focus will be with ceramics which also involves glazing and the use of acrylic paint. The
supplies being used for this semesters projects will be available in class for students to use.
The only required outside material is an OLD, BUTTON-DOWN T-SHIRT to help with the mess
that happens when using a potters wheel and clay in general. :) Any additional outside
materials that students would like to bring is encouraged as long as it is approved by Mrs. Palu
and school regulations.
Grading
Skill-based exercises are graded on mastery. Students will assist in determining grades for
finished artworks.
4- Mastered (A), 3- Great (B), 2- Good (C), 1- Poor (D).
Homework
Any work not finished in class will be homework. Additional homework assignments may be
announced in class.
Make-up Work
Assignments can be reworked or redone for more credit. To receive a higher grade on any
assignment students can put in extra effort and show obvious improvement. No make-up work
is accepted the last week of the semester.
Late Work
It is important that you stay caught up with assignments as they build on each other. We will be
critiquing work in class so it is important for you to have your work finished before the
discussion. No late work will be accepted the last week of the term.

Expectations
1. Respect others.
2. Respect others property and school property.
3. Be self-motivated: come to class on time and ready to work every day.
4. Clean up after yourself.
Attendance
Unexcused absences are unacceptable. Any time you are absent you should check this website
to see what you missed. Tardies will be handled through the school's tracking system.
Citizenship
Your citizenship grade is determined by personal behavior and attendance. Disrespectful
behavior such as insulting others, damaging property of any kind, or use of inappropriate
language will result in a drop of your citizenship grade. Multiple tardies will also lower the grade
and truancies (sluffs) will result in an automatic U. The citizenship grade breakdown is as
follows:
O = Outstanding S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory
Discipline Policy
I expect you to show maturity through respectful behavior. If your behavior is inappropriate, I
will talk with you privately about the problem. If the situation does not improve, your parents will
be contacted. If the problem persists, you will be referred to the principals office for disciplinary
action.
Special Needs
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, students needing special
accommodations may contact me for alternative arrangements.
Discrimination
Orem Junior High does not discriminate on the basis of age, ethnicity, disability, national origin,
race, religion, or gender in its programs or activities. Please contact a school administrator if you
have any questions or concerns.