Deliverable
Define Plant-Inspired Problem
Effective Communication
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Collaboration
Self Directed Learning
K-2-ETS1-2
1-LS1-1
K-2-ETS1-1
Product
Essential Question
Submission Required
In small groups, students convert plant observations into a human challenge biomimicry can address. They craft a kid-friendly point-of-view (POV) statement that names the user and the need, generate 2–3 How Might We (HMW) questions, create illustrated user personas, and sketch a simple systems map or problem tree showing how plant ideas could help people. Students present their artifacts to a class audience (peers and a teacher or guest) to receive feedback and refine their thinking.
Plan day
Day 4
Duration
—
Grouping
Small Group
Steps
5 steps
Lesson plan
5 steps| # | What teachers do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduce the activity and review the observation results from the last session. (5 min) |
| 2 | In groups, discuss and brainstorm human problems that could be addressed by plants' features you've observed. Use classroom anchor charts or visual aids. (10 min) |
| 3 | Create a group point-of-view (POV) statement naming the user and the need, focusing on a chosen plant feature. (5 min) |
| 4 | Generate 2-3 'How Might We' (HMW) questions to explore potential solutions. (5 min) |
| 5 | Illustrate a simple systems map showing how plant ideas could address the problem. (5 min) |
Preparation (3 items)
- Prepare anchor charts with visual cues of various plant structures and their functions.
- Set up stations with paper, colored pencils, and large chart paper for group brainstorming.
- Organize the classroom for small group collaboration, ensuring materials are easily accessible.
Student-facing instructions
Your task is to work with your group to look at the plants we talked about last time. Talk about which plant parts could help people with everyday problems. Write a sentence about who needs help and how plants can help them. Then, think of questions you can ask to explore more cool ideas. Draw a picture to show a plant idea solving a problem.