MUSEUM MAGNET SCHOOL

     Studio 3D at the Museum Magnet School takes place in the classroom of Karen Thimmesch, as part of her Independent Museum Learners program. Students in grades 3-6 work on independent projects in a variety of project themes. Our materials include crickets (tiny programmable computers), motors, sensors, cardboard, fabric, Legos, paint, and a variety of other materials. Teresa Hung, Morgan L'Argent, and Kristen Murray (from the Science Museum of Minnesota) work with Ms. Thimmesch to create project ideas and mentor the students.

     Small groups of students meet with Ms. Thimmesch and the mentors for one and a half hour meetings each week, during school. Most of this time is spent building, testing, experimenting, and documenting. Some of the things that we've worked on are Puppet Theaters that are controlled by crickets and motors, Smart Clothes that help their wearers in useful or funny ways, and Art Cars that have a moving sculpture inside.

     Journaling is an important part of our process. You can read about what we're working on if you'd like to know more. We also exhibit our projects at the Museum Magnet School and at the Science Museum of Minnesota.

     The Museum Magnet School is located at 560 Concordia Avenue, just west of downtown St. Paul.