Biomimicry
I can identify biomimicry and use nature as inspiration when designing.
Biomimicry
I can identify biomimicry and use nature as inspiration when designing.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Designers use biomimicry to influence both form and function of designs, such as the bullet train.
- Designers observe and record nature using sketches and photography.
- Designers use sketches and photography of nature to inspire.
Keywords
Biomimicry - using nature as inspiration to solve problems
Biomorphism - an aesthetic style that imitates nature's beauty
Mood board - a collection of images, texts and samples used by designers to convey feelings about a design
Inspiration - someone or something that gives you ideas
Common misconception
Biomimicry is using nature to inspire aesthetics.
Biomimicry uses nature to inspire solutions to problems, biomorphism is about nature inspiring aesthetics.
Equipment
Additional inspiration images and exemplar mood boards or nature inspired products could be beneficial.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - outdoor learning
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Nature is everything in the world which occurs independently of people. Which of these are natural?
Q2.What is inspiration?
Q3.Inspiration can come from personal opinions. It is said to be __________.
Q4.Designers consider different subheadings. Match these subheadings to their definitions.
a particular shape, linked to aesthetics
the purpose
the look including colour, texture, style of theme
a situation, person, or thing that needs attention to be solved
Q5.How can designers research and record sources of inspiration?
Q6.This image is the Eden project in Cornwall, England. What do you think inspired the shape of the buildings?

Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is 'biomimicry'?
Q2.Which word means an aesthetic style that imitates nature's beauty?
Q3.Match the product and the inspiration from nature.
kingfisher
burr
sharkskin
humpbacked whale fin
Q4.When exploring nature, what is a video particularly useful for?
Q5.What is a collection of images, text and samples which are used to inspire design known as?
Q6.What was the inspiration for the bullet train?
