Nature's Engineers: Amazing Adaptations
What if some of the world's greatest engineers aren't human?
In Nature's Engineers, students become Nature Detectives as they investigate the incredible structures and adaptations plants and animals use to fly, grip, protect, move, stay dry, spread seeds, find food, and survive. Through real natural objects, specimens, hands-on investigations, movement, and experimentation, students discover the powerful connection between structure, function, and survival.
Then the engineering begins! Students explore biomimicry—how humans can learn from nature to solve problems—and work in teams to design, build, test, and improve their own nature-inspired invention. From feathers and wings to shells, seeds, burrs, leaves, claws, and scales, nature becomes their engineering toolbox.
The experience concludes by turning the question around: instead of only asking “What can we learn from nature?”students consider “What can we do for nature?”
Through an optional STEM Steward Challenge, students identify a need facing local plants or wildlife and design a solution that could improve habitat, support pollinators, protect wildlife, or make their schoolyard a healthier ecosystem.
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), this highly interactive experience integrates life science, engineering, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and environmental stewardship while inspiring students to observe nature differently—and discover that some of our best ideas may already exist in the natural world.
Perfect for: Elementary through Middle School • Science Classes • STEM Days • Engineering & Design • Environmental Education • After-School Programs • Community Events
Inspired by Nature. Designed by Students. Built for a Better World.
1 hr
300 US dollars
