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NatureMapping Activities
14. Biomimicry
Purpose:
We need to learn how to mimic nature because it has spent millions of
years in "research and development"...that is, species have learned to
co-exist with nature in order to survive. Biologists and engineers
should take courses in one another's fields. For example, if an
engineer is designing a new desalination plant, she could easily review
the strategies of mangroves and other plants that filter sea water.
The Biomimicry Guild has been developing curriculum for teachers. This Activity allows students to understand that getting to know plants and animals and discovering their talents and survival tips are not just for biologists. Doctors, pharmacists, engineers, farmers, and accountants can all learn from biomimicry.
Materials needed:
- Mimic overview (pdf)
- Nature's summary (pdf)
- Powerpoint presentation for elementary, middle, and high school (see how to purchase)
Teacher’s Guide:
- Use the Mimic.pdf to explain and provide an overview of "mimicry".
- Biomimicry is the study of people learning to mimic nature From the Greek bios = life, and mimesis = imitation
- Explain to the students that they will look at different examples of biomimicry.
- Each student will select 2 examples and:
a. Write one paragraph about the example
b. Explain why they thought it was interesting - Use Nature's summary to discuss what they read with the components of nature.
Definitions
Biomimicry - the study of people learning to mimic nature