Question 1
- List any three properties of clay.
- State any six stages of the dry method of preparing clay.
Observation
A large number of candidates attempted this question and performed fairly. Though, few of the candidates misinterpreted properties for function of clay. They were expected to respond to the question thus:
(a) - It is malleable/workable when wet;
- plastic in nature when wet;
- less porous;
- contains impurities (foreign particles);
- it has colour;
- it has mineral constituents;
- becomes hard when fired;
- can dissolve in water;
- contains fine particles.
(b) Dry method
- Collect dry clay;
- break the large lumps of clay into small pieces;
- remove unwanted materials;
- pound into powder;
- sieve to remove the remaining impurities;
- mix with enough water to make it plastic;
- knead on a surface to remove air bubbles to obtain the right consistency;
- clay is ready for use or storage