Biomimicry in Design and Engineering

Topic: Students learn how nature and the living world provide inspiration for addressing the world’s challenges. Using creative thinking and problem-solving skills, students design a structure or product inspired by nature. 

Time: 60 minutes; implemented in one session

Materials:

• Computer with projector and Internet access for the presentation, plus additional computers/devices connected to the Internet for student use

• PowerPoint: Biomimicry in Design and Engineering

• Pre-Activity Checklist

• Tell My Story Form

• Student Handout: Biomimicry Challenge (1 per student)

• Student Handout: Design Ideas (1 per student)

• Student Handout: Biomimicry Resources, 1/2 sheet per team

• Pen/pencil (1 per student)

• Flip chart paper (1+ page per team)

• Colored markers (1 pack per team)

Cost: US$10 in materials costs (including optional items), assuming scissors, rulers, container of water, crayons or colored markers are available) when completing this activity with 25 to 35 students organized into teams of four or five students.