Core Skills Analysis
Social Studies
- Gained an understanding of urban development and historical context related to St. Louis through exploration of exhibits.
- Observed various cultural and architectural aspects showcased in the museum, fostering appreciation for local heritage.
- Developed awareness of how community spaces contribute to civic engagement and social interaction.
Science
- Engaged with interactive exhibits that demonstrate physical principles such as balance, motion, and gravity.
- Explored concepts of structural engineering through hands-on activities with unusual architectural forms.
- Enhanced observational skills by examining creative uses of materials and design in the museum’s installations.
Art
- Encountered creative sculptures and installations encouraging imaginative thinking and visual literacy.
- Recognized the role of artistic expression in transforming everyday objects into inspiring works.
- Learned about the interplay between form, space, and functionality in artistic design.
Tips
To deepen understanding after visiting the City Museum, encourage your child to create their own model of a community space combining historical, scientific, and artistic elements they've learned. Engaging in a family discussion about the importance of preserving local heritage can provide social context. Plan a follow-up science experiment at home to test principles like balance or gravity, inspired by the museum's installations. Additionally, drawing or building art projects influenced by the museum’s unconventional structures can help solidify the connection between creativity and engineering.
Book Recommendations
- A Child's Introduction to the City by Catherine Hughes: An engaging book that explores the architecture, culture, and history of cities for young readers.
- Architecture for Kids: How to Look at Architecture and Design by Edie Tsong: A fun introduction to architectural concepts with hands-on projects and illustrations.
- Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects by Jack Challoner: Science and engineering projects perfect for children fascinated by building and exploring physical principles.
Learning Standards
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.5.3 – Explain relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text.
- NGSS 3-5-ETS1-1 – Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.7 – Conduct short research projects using several sources to build knowledge through investigation.
Try This Next
- Worksheet: Design your own community space combining art, science, and history with labeled parts and explanations.
- Drawing Task: Sketch an inspired museum exhibit that shows balance and movement using recycled household items.