Pupil video: Biomimicry

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Nature-inspired inventions

This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow Science scheme of work. It is designed for pupils and explores how plants have inspired real-world inventions in a fascinating study of biomimicry. The video introduces familiar examples of plant adaptations, like the hooks of burdock seeds, the spinning motion of dipterocarp seeds, and the self-cleaning surface of the lotus plant, and shows how these natural features have led to useful human inventions such as Velcro, helicopter blades, and water-repellent materials.

Pupils also discover how cactus spines have influenced sweat-collecting medical patches and how the layered structure of coconuts inspired the design of protective helmets. The video encourages observation and curiosity, helping pupils make connections between nature’s designs and innovations in technology.

The video is designed to be shown to pupils as part of Science, Mixed-age, Y3/4 (B): Making connections: How does wind force affect seed dispersal?, Y3/4 (B): Lesson 3: Investigating seed dispersal – Analysing, concluding and evaluating

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