Designing From Nature

In "Designing From Nature", students will engage in the design cycle as they tinker to build and code a structure, inspired by how living things sense and respond!

Students will consider sources of design inspiration and creatively design and construct a structure out of straws and connectors. They will code the micro:bit "brain" to react to different stimuli, inspired by particular living things in nature.

Please note: While the above description will be true for every session, our facilitators each put their own spin on this highly adaptable workshop! The specific coding and inspiration sources may vary so that their passions and knowledge shine through.

Grade Levels

Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6

Curriculum Links

Grade 4 Science – Sensing and Responding

ADST 6 – Computational Thinking, Visual Programming

Many curricular competencies from Science and ADST are incorporated.

Availability

• Monday-Friday
• October 2023 - June 2024

Language

• English

Additional Information

• Check out what requirements you’ll need to book a field trip on our Field Trip page.
• Maximum class size is 30. Please note, students will be working in groups of 3 for this workshop.
• Teachers and chaperones are required to remain present during the workshop to assist with material distribution, facilitation, and behaviour management.
• Due to funding parameters, we are required to collect student demographic data. Please be prepared to provide this information. For more information about why we are collecting this information, visit our Tech-Up page.

Pre-Workshop Activity (optional)

• A Micro:bit Too Greedy: Familiarize your students with coding a micro:bit before your workshop by coding this game. Works best if you have physical micro:bits at your school. Consider becoming a Tech-Up Ambassador for access to classroom loaner kits of tech equipment!
• Create a Creature: Consider the different features and adaptations of animals. Then, during this workshop you are prepared to consider senses and responses of things found in nature.

 

Did you know? You can purchase a class set of micro:bits for 10% off in our Science Store to take home today after your workshop!