Lesson Overview :

Lesson focuses on teams of students using nature-derived inspiration to design a functioning solar panel that can charge a cell phone. Students study the need for renewable energy production and use knowledge of folding patterns in nature to create their own light-sensitive, folding solar panel.

Age Level or Subject:

• Grades: 9-12

• Subjects: Environmental Science, Digital Electronics

Lesson or Unit Objectives:

Students will be able to:

• Understand trade-offs of alternative energy sources

• Understand Ohm’s law and basic circuit construction

• Use principles of biomimicry to create a usable product

• Observe natural systems as a source of design inspiration

Full Lesson Plan

Resources