Claymation or Clay Animation

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ClaymationorClay Animation

• Adapted from a presentation by Susan Bowdoin

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What is Clay Animation?

• Animation done using clay characters (although it
  can be done with other materials as well).
• Also called claymation and stop motion
  animation.

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Some well-known examples
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How is clay animation created?

• Individual pictures of the clay characters are
  knit together with special software in order to
  create a seamless movie.

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Why use Clay Animation?

• Engages students
• Is hands-on and interactive
• Requires a variety of skills
• Can be applied across grade levels and curriculum
  areas

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Why use clay animation continued

• Can encourage high levels of thinking
• Engages multiple learning modalities
• Encourages creative thinking and decision making
• Encourages problem solving and teamwork

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Examples

• http//www.unm.edu/jbrink/digital/Feb8.html

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What is the process?

• Create an idea (storyboard)
• Develop the script (if appropriate)
• Create characters from clay
• Build the set (including a background)
• Take pictures
• Use software to make your movie

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Step 1 The Idea

• Brainstorm!!!
• What / who will your character(s) be?
• What will the progression of your movie be?
• What is the setting?
• Do you need a script?

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Step 2 The Character(s)

• Sketch your character before starting with clay
• Keep your characters smaller than 6 inches tall
  or 6 inches long
• Work on work mats (included in kit)
• Use clay that doesnt harden
• Create armatures from wire or aluminum foil
• Use styrofoam or other materials to add bulk
• Put the most weight at the bottom of the character

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Step 3 The Background

• Keep it simple
• Use construction paper, wrapping paper, etc.
• Make it contrast with your character
• Use found objects plants, rocks, boxes, etc.

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Step 4 Take Pictures

• Any camera will work (digital is easiest)
• Position camera far enough back to allow light on
  to subject
• Use a tripod
• Use delayed shutter release
• Consider clamp lights for additional lighting

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Step 5 The Movie

• Use MovieMaker 2 software to create your
  animation
• Atomic Learning tutorial videos
• Cheat Sheet

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So, whats in the kit?

• Teaching with Clay Animation book
• Modeling Clay
• Sculpting Tools
• Accessories (sequins, wiggle eyes, etc.)
• Work Mat

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Your task today

• Work in pairs
• Create a short movie of a wave
• Begin the process of creating a lesson plan which
  engages students in a claymation activity to
  teach a specific performance standard.