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How can ideas from nature help us solve contemporary problems? BioLearn lets pupils aged 12 to 16 discover how biomimicry – the imitation of clever strategies found in nature – can contribute to sustainable innovation. Nature has developed countless efficient and resilient solutions, and BioLearn translates these into the classroom. The project introduces nine natural principles, such as efficient energy use, cooperation and diversity. Pupils then explore more in-depth themes and carry out design assignments, such as designing a water bottle. On the BioLearn website, teachers will find comprehensive guides, presentations and worksheets. The material lends itself excellently to cross-curricular teaching: alongside biology, it connects seamlessly with chemistry, mathematics, physics and technology. BioLearn encourages inquiry-based and design-based learning, placing pupils’ creativity at the centre.
The complete materials are available free of charge at: biolearn.eu/en/netherlands.