Biomimicry: Inventions Inspired by Nature
What’s inside...
Biomimicry examines the extraordinary innovations of the natural world and the human inventions they have inspired. Readers will learn about marvels such as high-performance swimsuits modeled after sharkskin and the sleek front ends of Japanese bullet trains based on the long, streamlined beak of the kingfisher. There's also plenty about what glimmers on the horizon: A Brazilian beetle may be key to developing computers that run on light, and the gecko's humble foot may hold the secret to revolutionizing the way surgical wounds are closed. Best of all, nature's inventions are lean, green machines that are self-sustaining and generate zero waste --- yet another cue humans are taking from the natural world. Astounding facts, easy-to-understand prose and luminous illustrations bring the wonders of nature into the science lab.
Age
8-12
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What invention in the book did you find most fascinating and why?
Can you think of any other examples where we use designs from nature in our everyday lives?
How do you think observing nature can help us solve some of our problems?
What animal traits would you like to see mimicked in new inventions?
How do you think inventors come up with their ideas?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing, relate the concepts to the child’s experiences or surroundings to make abstract concepts more tangible.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine their own nature-inspired invention.
Link the discussion back to the importance of nature and conservation, highlighting how nature not only inspires but sustains us.
Praise your child’s responses to boost their confidence and interest in exploring new ideas.
Use visual aids from the book or real life to help your child better understand how biomimicry works.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Innovation Inspired by Nature
Explanation: The book details how scientists and inventors look to nature to solve human problems, showing examples like Velcro inspired by burr plants and buildings designed like termite mounds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe the natural world around them and think creatively about how natural solutions can be applied to everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Sustainability and Environmental Care
Explanation: Biomimicry emphasizes using nature's designs and processes to create more sustainable and eco-friendly technologies.
Real-World Application: Kids can develop an appreciation for the environment and be encouraged to think about how their actions impact the earth, promoting recycling and conservation habits.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The book showcases various inventions, illustrating the process of how observing natural phenomena leads to innovative solutions.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to take a problem-solving approach to challenges, understanding that perseverance and observation can lead to breakthroughs.
Example Lesson: Interdisciplinary Learning
Explanation: Biomimicry combines biology with engineering, design, and other fields, showing how interconnected knowledge can lead to advancements.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of diverse knowledge and promotes an interest in cross-disciplinary studies, enhancing both their education and creativity.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Biodiversity
Explanation: The book explains how different species have evolved unique features and abilities, which inspire human innovation.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and respect wildlife diversity, understanding the importance of each species and the potential impact its extinction could have on human innovation and the ecosystem.