Engineering Insects

Engineers Engineers make things to solve problems and to help people. We can observe nature in action and use that knowledge to inspire new ideas. We can copy things found in nature. This is called bio mimicry.

Bio mimicry Problem: How can I make something that will fly? How can I make something that will stick? How can I make something that will pierce, suck, or chew?

Bio mimicry Airplane wings and body shapes modeled after birds

An ice pick for mountain climbers designed after the woodpecker

Boat hulls designed after the shapes of fish and sharks

Glow sticks made with light-up chemicals, like fireflies

Adaptations of Insects

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Adaptations of Insects

Engineering an Exoskeleton Insects have structures that help protect them. They have a hard outer covering called an exoskeleton. Could you engineer an exoskeleton? It must be: – Hard – Waterproof – Lightweight – Able to bend in places (joints) What materials would you use?

Engineering Design Process 1.Define the problem 2.Come up with ideas (brainstorm) 3.Select the most promising design 4.Communicate the design 5.Create and test the design 6.Evaluate and revise the design

Insects Inspire Engineers insects-inspire-inventors Could you invent something based on an insect?

Bio Mimicry Select an object from a box. Tell how that object may have been inspired by nature.

Create a Critter Create an insect using clay. Include at least three adaptations that would help your insect survive. How does it move, get food, and protect itself? Tell the person sitting next to you about your design. Be prepared to explain your choices to the group.

Life Science: Exploring Organisms and the Environment Standard K.L.2: The student will demonstrate an understanding of organisms found in the environment and how these organisms depend on the environment to meet those needs. K.L.2A. Conceptual Understanding: The environment consists of many types of organisms including plants, animals, and fungi. Organisms depend on the land, water, and air to live and grow. Plants need water and light to make their own food. Fungi and animals cannot make their own food and get energy from other sources. Animals (including humans) use different body parts to obtain food and other resources needed to grow and survive. Organisms live in areas where their needs for air, water, nutrients, and shelter are met. Performance Indicators: Students who demonstrate this understanding can: K.L.2A.1 Obtain information to answer questions about different organisms found in the environment (such as plants, animals, or fungi). K.L.2A.3 Develop and use models to exemplify how animals use their body parts to (1) obtain food and other resources, (2) protect themselves, and (3) move from place to place.

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