Tag Archives: Biomimicry

YA – Tech Innovations Inspired by Nature

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Nardo, Don. Tech Innovations Inspired by Nature. Reference Point Press, 2024. 978-1-678-20608-6. 64 p. $33.05 Grades 7-12. 

Most people have heard the story of how a scientist went hiking and returned frustrated by the burrs that clung to his clothing and his dog’s fur. Curious, he examined how the burrs clung so successfully. The resulting invention was velcro, a useful fastener now utilized worldwide. Although we may know this origin story, there are numerous other innovations which have been or which are currently being investigated for usefulness to humans. Biomimicry “allows people to learn from and apply nature’s handiwork to fulfill human needs” (5). Nardo details some of these in chapters dedicated to: engineering and construction; medical applications; protective gear for soldiers and athletes; energy; and robotics.  Some examples are: barbed wire is based upon the briar; the femur aided Eiffel’s tower design; the kingfisher’s beak improved the speed and sound of Japanese high-speed bullet trains; and Gila monster’s venom has been used to create effective medicine for diabetes and weight loss. The examples are plentiful, and will intrigue readers interested in nature, engineering, and tinkering. Nature, it seems, may hold solutions to many human problems.

THOUGHTS: This thorough book provides so many instances of biomimicry that it may change what readers “see” while outdoors or with animals, and it is perfect for inspiring STEAM-related careers. Highly recommended.

660.8 Engineering

Elem. – Mimic Makers: Biomimicry Inventors Inspired by Nature

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Nordstrom, Kristen. Mimic Makers: Biomimicry Inventors Inspired by Nature. Charlesbridge, 2021. 978-1-580-89947-5. 44 p. $17.99. Grades 2-5.

This book describes eight inventions that were inspired by natural phenomena. From solar cells that absorb sunlight like leaves to trains that move silently and efficiently through the landscape like kingfishers, this book explains how ten scientists incorporated ideas from nature to solve various real-world problems. With end matter that includes brief biographies of each inventor, suggestions for becoming a mimic maker, and a bibliography and additional resources, this intriguing book is a solid addition to any elementary collection.

THOUGHTS: I was really impressed by the curricular connections between the natural sciences and the applied sciences presented in this book. I also think the book presents a wonderful opportunity to spark creative thinking in students. It would be interesting to have students research a plant or animal of their choice and see if they can identify any unique structures that perform specific functions for the plant or animal. Then, they could brainstorm inventions of their own using this newfound knowledge. The book is definitely thought-provoking and full of potential for classroom applications!

610.28 Biomimicry           Julie Ritter, PSLA Member