Wild Buildings and Bridges: Architecture Inspired by Nature by Etta Kaner

Summary

Are you planning a STEAM challenge? Does it involve design and construction? If so, read Wild Buildings and Bridges: Architecture Inspired by Nature. In this book, author Etta Kaner explains how nature influences design. She pulls on her experience as a classroom teacher to deliver this information. Kaner engages the audience with thought provoking questions and illustrated examples. Step-by-step directions invite learners to experiment with architecture. Readers will feel compelled to study nature after reading this intriguing book.

Response to Literature

AASL Standards Framework for Learners: Explore/Create: V.B.2 Learners construct new knowledge by persisting through self-directed pursuits by tinkering and making.

• Prepare for lesson by creating three design stations based on the experiments in the book. Provide directions and materials at each station.
  • Station 1: “Test a Truss”
  • Station 2: “Why are Honeycombs Made of Hexagons?”
  • Station 3: “Making Water in the Desert”
• Read the directions for each station with learners. Invite them to choose a station to explore.
• Provide books on bridges, honeybees and plants and animals of the desert for further study. Offer graph paper and pencils to design a structure based on nature.
• Enrich learning by following the Where’s Rodney by Carmen Bogan activity.

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