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Quest 9: Design A Bromeliad
| Topic Heading: |
Design A Bromeliad |
| Task: |
Using only recyclable materials, design your own bromeliad-type structure capable of capturing rainwater and falling debris |
| Time: |
1 session minimum |
Materials:
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> Access to the following facts about bromeliads:
- They are members of the pineapple family (epiphytes) that grow on the branches of trees
- Their leaves are waxy and thick and arranged as a cup that stores rainwater and catches leaf debris from trees in the canopy level
- The mixture of leaf debris and water provides food for the plants and the animals living in them
- Some bromeliads can hold up to 55 litres of water
- They play host to worms, insects, frogs, snakes, spiders and small mammals
> Photographs of bromeliads - http://www.fotosearch.com/photos-images/bromeliad.html |
Process:
- Explanation from the teacher as to the design of a bromeliad, using visual aids
- Organize children into pairs or small groups
- Provide access to a range of appropriate recycled materials
- Set the time frame
- Once in groups children should follow the process of:
- Clarifying task
- Brainstorming idea
- Allocating roles
- Ensuring production criteria is met
Product Success Criteria:
- A bromeliad-type structure should be produced capable of storing half a litre of water
- Each group should prepare a presentation explaining their design
Conclusion:
- Class discussion on which design will be most effective
- Devise a location, providing a fair test setting for all designs
Development:
- Test the effectiveness of the designs over an agreed period of time
- Record and catalogue findings
- Make modifications to designs and re-test
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