Let’s look closer at Seti’s shabti – no I mean REALLY look!
In this section we ask you to slow down your observation and exploration of Seti’s Shabti through literacy, art and maths activities.
1. Slow it down
In groups take 5 minutes for each of these questions. Together write as many answers to these questions as you can. Do each question in turn and stick to the 5 minute rule!
- I see…?
- I think….?
- I wonder…?
- What if…?
Now share your answers with the rest of the class.
1. Describing your object in detail
You can extend your object investigation by answering the following questions in small groups
- What are its main physical features?
- What materials is it made of?
- Where would the materials come from? Find the nearest place it could be from.
- How would it have been designed?
- How was it made/constructed?
- What is it made for – its function?
- At the time it was made, what was its value to the owner; to the maker; to the general public?
- Who would have owned this object? What type of person might they be?
- Was/is it a common object, that most people would own?
2. An artist’s view
Observe your object closely taking in all its details, dimensions, colours and shades.
Now try out these 5 different drawing techniques without looking back at the object.
- Draw as detailed a drawing of the object as possible – now compare your image to the real thing. How close were you?
- Draw the object in one continuous line not taking your pencil off the page
- Draw the object using pencil just shading to show the structure and features
- Draw the object using charcoal to show form, tone and shade
- Draw a cartoon version of the object
3. Create Your Own Classroom Museum
In the video film below Jess talks about what objects are ‘worthy’ of being kept in Leeds Museums. To explore the idea of ‘value’ and ‘worth’ you could create your own Classroom Museum. Also see 'Make a Museum' in Related Stories for our ideas on how to create a museum in your classroom.