Transcript GrKEngineerInsectsSISSIx

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
Adaptations of Insects
Insect Flight
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipe
dia/commons/c/c2/Motion_of_Inse
ctwing.gif
a
b
c
d
wings
joints
dorsoventral muscles
longitudinal muscles
Adaptations of Insects
Adaptations of Insects
Adaptations of Insects
Adaptations of Insects
Adaptations of Insects
Adaptations of Insects
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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Define the problem
Come up with ideas (brainstorm)
Select the most promising design
Communicate the design
Create and test the design
Evaluate and revise the design
Insects Inspire Engineers
http://www.npr.org/2013/05/02/180556950/of-flybots-and-bug-eyesinsects-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.
Resources for Teachers
https://www.teachengineering.org/
http://tryengineering.org/lesson-plans