Contour Clips

Lesson Plan

Description

Students will examine function in jewelry and create a functional jewelry clip inspired by insects. They will use metalsmithing tools to manipulate, flatten, and embellish wire with a variety of media.

Level

Intermediate

Areas of Study

Nature Mixed Media Sculpture Form Line Space

Collections

Innovating with Jewelry and Metal

Lesson Objectives

Students will examine the form and function of wire clips as a form of jewelry.

Students will observe insects and create contour drawings of an insect of choice.

Students will use tools to manipulate and refine wire into a functional clip of their choosing.

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Teaching Strategies

Discuss the types of jewelry and the function of clips.
Introduce contour line drawing techniques through student-researched insects.
Demonstrate wire manipulation and refinement techniques using a variety of tools.
Show students ways to embellish their finished work using a variety of media.

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National Standards

Create

Document early stages of the creative process visually and/or verbally in traditional or new media.

VA:Cr1.1.8a

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Time Requirements

Teacher Prep Time

45 minutes

Demonstration Time

1 hour

Student Studio Time

3 hours and 45 minutes

Supplies and Materials

Paper, pencil, eraser
Tracing paper
Brass or copper wire (14-16 gauge)
Jewelry pliers, bench block, or anvil bench pin
Chasing hammer
Hand and needle files
Sandpaper (500+)
Optional: thin gauge wire, beads, tissue paper, etc.

National Standards

Create

Document early stages of the creative process visually and/or verbally in traditional or new media.

VA:Cr1.1.8a

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Steps

Discuss and Examine Form and Function

Discuss how metalworks can have a variety of functions. Explore different types of jewelry to examine the qualities of function. Identify the form and function of paper clips, decorative clips, brooches, and hair clips.

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