Lesson 3: Working with wire

Learners needing support

Could work from a simple template such as the bird on page 2 or the shell on page 3 of the Resource: Wire templates, which allows them to shape the wire without worrying about joining it; could add detail by looping wire instead; could work on alternative activity such as shaping the wire by coiling it around a cylindrical object and then making that into an abstract sculpture; could work with a partner or supporting adult to complete joins.

Learners working at a stretch

Should be encouraged to shape the wire in more complex ways to add detail to their sculptures; could work from their own simple line drawing rather than one of the templates; could extend the making process and adapt the wire forms by wrapping layers of tissue paper coated in PVA glue around the wire shapes; could use this as an opportunity to think about which parts of the wire structure should be covered and which tissue colours would be most effective.