Search

Everyone has problems, from the smallest ant competing for a food source to the largest elephant needing to cool down. Fortunately, organisms have structures that function to help them solve these problems. So when a group of fourth-grade students look for solutions to their problems, who do they turn to? A biological champion, of course! Plants and animals have a long history of solving problems, and by imitating their strengths, students can generate ideas for a better future. Currently, teachers are looking beyond the basic elements of core ideas to incorporate engineering practices; however, making this connection can be a challenge. The authors felt that by incorporating biomimicry, the practice of using nature as a guide to solve human problems (Baumeister 2014), into the existing "Next Generation Science Standards" ("NGSS") fourth-grade science unit on structure and function, they could meet this challenge. Students ultimately explore the question: "What can we learn from plants and animals to help solve the problems we face in our lives?" Then, by working through the engineering design process, they created a model that demonstrates a solution to their problem! more...

An interview with artists Katherine Clarke, Liza Fior and Ashley Mc Cormick is presented. When asked by Clarke chose to work with architects in her projects, she says that she would like to place herself in relation to spaces outside of the art gallery and to engage with architects as they deal with how space is made. Fior explains that the spaces they make are public spaces. Mc Cormick offers information on the Walsall "Illuminations" project that they will be doing. more...

The article presents a lesson plan for grades 3-5 that addresses the environment with a focus on the everyday lives of at-risk students, teaching scientific investigation in coordination with the standards "Next Generation Science Standard" ("NGSS"). more...

An obituary for artist, writer, and lecturer Andrea Fisher is presented.