Powered by Plants: Meet the trees, flowers and vegetation that inspire our everyday technology
What’s inside...
In 'Powered by Plants: Meet the trees, flowers and vegetation that inspire our everyday technology,' author Clive Gifford delves into how the extraordinary features of plants have led to technological advancements. The book explores the diverse shapes, structures, and interactions of plants with their environment, demonstrating how this has inspired innovations in science, design, engineering, and technology. With engaging narratives, vibrant illustrations, and pop-out fact boxes, the book showcases a range of vegetation, from wind-power-potential cottonwood trees to heat-generating giant flowers. Aimed at young readers, it encourages curiosity and a deeper appreciation for both nature and technological innovation while fostering critical thinking and an interest in environmental sustainability.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think plants have inspired the technology you use every day?
Can you think of a technology that might have been inspired by the characteristics of a tree, flower, or other plant?
What is your favorite plant from the book and why?
How do you think understanding plants can help us create better technology in the future?
If you could invent a new technology inspired by a plant, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate each technology mentioned back to a plant they are familiar with to make it more relatable.
Encourage your child to observe plants and their environment, drawing parallels to technologies they use daily.
Utilize visual aids such as pictures or videos of technologies and the plants they are derived from to deepen understanding.
After reading, prompt your child to draw or create a mini-project on a technology inspired by their favorite plant from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: This book shows how various elements of nature inspire modern technology. By highlighting specific trees, flowers, and vegetation, it links natural wonders with everyday tech.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe the environment around them more keenly and understand the value of conserving nature as it contributes to technological advancements.
Example Lesson: Innovation and Creativity
Explanation: The narrative demonstrates how natural elements serve as inspiration for technological innovations. The book showcases different ways plants influence design and functionality in tech.
Real-World Application: Encourages kids to think creatively and see the potential for innovation in ordinary things around them, fostering a mindset of problem-solving and invention.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of Ecosystems
Explanation: Through its detailed depiction of how technology is inspired by various plants, the book teaches about the interconnectedness of biological ecosystems and human-made systems.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of all components of an ecosystem, promoting a holistic view of the world and the importance of maintaining biodiversity.
Example Lesson: Sustainability in Technology
Explanation: The book explains how plants inspire sustainable technologies, promoting environmental-friendly innovations.
Real-World Application: It instills an early awareness and responsibility in children about sustainable living and encourages them to think about how technology can be developed in harmony with nature.