This Art and design scheme of work video introduces pupils to key hand-building techniques for working with clay, including shaping, rolling and mark making.

Pupils will use a board to work on, helping to keep things tidy and allowing their clay model to dry safely if it needs to be moved. They’ll also use rolling pins, modelling tools and, if available, loop tools for shaping and cutting.

The lesson begins with flattening the clay. Pupils roll the clay by placing their hands at either end of the rolling pin and pressing gently. They’re reminded to turn the board to keep the thickness even on all sides. Next, pupils practise shaping. They roll sausage shapes using one or both hands, and create balls by gently rolling clay between their palms in a circular motion. The video then models how to make different kinds of marks in the clay using tools and everyday objects. Pupils experiment with pressing and rolling to create a range of textures. If needed, they can smooth over marks with their fingers. Finally, children use the skills they’ve learned to create their own clay model.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 2 Clay houses unit.

See more of our Year 1 and 2 Art and design scheme of work.

• Art and design, Year 2, Sculpture and 3D: Clay houses, Lesson 1: Exploring clay.