The unit began in science class, where each student selected an animal to study. First graders became “experts” on their animal’s habitat, adaptations, and life cycle, recording their learning in a report that included both information and drawings. This research served as the foundation for their invention work.

Students then headed to the Gates Invention and Innovation Lab to design an invention inspired by one of their animal’s adaptations. After sketching their ideas, they used materials in the lab to build a prototype that could help solve a human problem. They added a detailed drawing of their invention to their reports and explained how their research inspired their design.

Projects were as imaginative as they were practical. One student designed koala claw climbers to help people scale trees with ease, while another created lynx paw snowshoes that mimic the animal’s wide paws to stay atop deep snow. Students also engineered a squid tentacle grabber for reaching items in tight spaces, and fox ear headphones that amplify sound, allowing the wearer to “hear like a fox.”

During the Expo in the library, first graders shared their prototypes with parents and educators. They explained what their invention does, how it could help people, and which animal adaptation inspired the idea. Throughout the project, students practiced research, writing, design thinking, and presentation skills.

The Biomimicry Invention Expo highlighted the creativity and problem-solving of Graland’s first graders and the meaningful learning that happens when science and innovation come together.