Robo-Motion: Robots That Move Like Animals

K-Gr 3–Readers will be fascinated to learn that nature provides a great blueprint for scientists seeking to create effective robots. Biomimicry, the practice of using nature as a guide to create human-made designs, is the focus of this engaging exploration into the world of robotics. Stunning, colorful photographs of animals in nature are paired with images of robots engineered to mimic the animals’ unique qualities. One small robot is modeled after cockroaches. This robot can scurry into tight spaces to search for survivors buried after an earthquake. Another small robot can record live video as it hovers like a hummingbird, perfect for spying missions. StickyBot, a robot designed to mimic a gecko’s ability to grip smooth surfaces, could be useful for spacecraft repair or rescue missions. Selected vocabulary— “scurry,” “hover,” “grip”—is highlighted in each spread. The animal and robotic pairings are interesting and thought-provoking, and provide a jumping-off point for a host of discussion topics from evolution (specifically why species develop certain traits) to the role of robots in our lives.