Grade 4: Mood Lights 2023

Colors and circuitry! That was the theme of this design and engineering Studio project. Our brains are wired to respond to different colors in diverse ways, and this response can affect a person's mood and emotions. For example, red is often associated with passion, energy, and excitement. Blue is typically associated with calmness, trust, and reliability. Orange is linked to enthusiasm and excitement, while green is often associated with nature, health, and growth. Just ask any of these intuitive 4th graders and they can tell you all about it!

Mrs. Massulo’s class spent three days in the Studio creating these cool mood light boxes. The sturdy light boxes, handcrafted in the RGI shop, were ready to be wired and designed by the students. Mr. Mike Simecek, SJS father and engineer, helped prepare the project and provided an outstanding lesson on circuitry that will remain in the students memory for years to come. In the end, the students produced some extraordinary lights boxes, each reflecting a particular mood such as happiness, peace, and excitement. Some conveyed a sentiment such as “Believe in yourself”. Each one is unique and impactful, a wonderful blend of science, art, and color psychology!

Projects such as this one are a powerful way for students to experience the communicative power of design. Many thanks to everyone who at RGI who built the wonderful boxes, and to Mike Simecek for his time in making this such an enjoyable and successful project.