After using our own resources to learn some basics about Ancient Greek pottery, we met with Mary Lou to look more closely at the designs and shapes that were common. The shape we saw most often was a large jug with two handles. This style is called an amphora and was used to transport and store grapes, olive oil, wine, oil, olives, grain, and fish. Mary Lou led us through a series of steps to help us “see” the shapes and patterns more clearly. Students worked to create the outline of their pots and repeating patterns near the top (lip) and bottom (foot) but were instructed to keep the middle part empty. We learned that many Greek pots tell a story or a myth in the middle section using pictures. A few days later the students were invited to design the middle part based on the myth we had recently read:
The Naming of Athens
“According to the legend, the gods Athena and Poseidon quarreled over the naming of the greatest town in Greece. Poseidon thrust his trident into a rock on the Acropolis. Sea water gushed out, and Poseidon promised the people riches through sea trade if they named the city after him.
Athena planted an olive tree as her gift to the people. It was decided that she had given the more valuable gift and the city was called Athens in her honor. Athena’s sacred olive tree was burnt when the city was sacked by the Persians, but when it later threw out green shoots it brought new hope to the Athenians.”
Below you can see how Clare tried to tell this particular story through pictures on her pot. Can you recognize Poseidon (trident) and Athena (spear and shield)?
Check out our artwork in this album:
http://picasaweb.google.com/thirdgradestonypoint/GreekPottery#
Or view them in a slideshow:
http://picasaweb.google.com/thirdgradestonypoint/GreekPottery#slideshow/5447097123240698914
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