The class looked at examples of Mesa Verde Pottery and experimented with banded patterns and rim ticking on the curved surface of a paper cup.  Students used objects like boxes and tape rolls to create varied heights for resting their pencils against their cup.  By turning the cup, the pencil made level lines around the circumference of their cup.  Experiments for engineering the levels were done individually and collaboratively.  The rim was divided into 4 points (North, South, East, West), then each space was re-divided.  The rim marks helped with pattern spacing and alignment in the bands.  Every student was exposed to some math in the creation of their art as well.  The class had great discussion and made observations about ancient examples and the science behind the artifacts and nature of clay.