What is Biomimicry?
Have you ever wondered how nature inspires some of the coolest inventions around us? In the latest episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, Mrs. Cindy introduces the concept of biomimicry. This fascinating science shows how humans mimic nature’s designs, like how sticky burrs inspired Velcro.
As your family listens, your children will discover how engineers and scientists use nature to solve everyday problems. They’ll be encouraged to observe the world around them in new and creative ways, sparking their curiosity and love for science, technology, and engineering.
Share this episode with your children to introduce them to essential STEM concepts and foster a deeper appreciation for nature. It’s the perfect way to explore how the designs we see in nature have shaped the tools and technologies we use today!
Biomimicry Nature Study
See how many of these questions your family can quickly answer after listening to this episode of the podcast!
- What does the word “biomimicry” mean?
- What natural object inspired the invention of Velcro?
- Who was the Swiss engineer who invented Velcro?
- How did George de Mestral devise the idea for Velcro after observing his dog?
- How do burrs help plants spread their seeds?
- Which part of Velcro mimics the hooks found on burrs?
- Why do scientists and engineers look to nature for inspiration?
- Can you think of an example of biomimicry in everyday life?
Nature’s Tech Wonders Nature Study Video Class
In the No Sweat Nature Study Video Class accompanying this podcast episode, take a detour from biomimicry to learn the other side of the story. Rather than focus on how nature helps humans create things, discover some amazing things humans have invented to help nature! It will be fun to connect engineering and technology to our nature class.
Free Nature Observation Printable Packet for All Seasons
No matter what time of year you’re listening to this episode of the No Sweat Nature Study Podcast, here’s a printable pack of nature observation activities for every season of the year!
Would you like to record a voicemail to answer this season’s nature study question?
At the end of each No Sweat Nature Study Podcast episode, Mrs. Cindy includes messages from a few of her friends. You can record a message that she might use on an upcoming episode!
All children must have their parent’s permission before leaving a recording, and parents are welcome to record an answer, too!
Each season, there will be a different question to answer. You can see this season’s question below. Think about your answer first, and then follow these simple directions:
- Click the button that says “Start recording”.
- Tell me your first name. (If you want to tell your age and/or where you live, feel free to do that.)
- You will have 60 seconds to answer the question but try to be concise.
- Push the play button to listen to your recording before sending it to be sure it is recorded properly. If not, simply record it again.
Please leave a rating or a review on your podcast app! It helps the podcast to show up for more people…which means more families can enjoy science through the wonderful lens of nature study! Thank you!