In 1993, five biomedical engineers in Edinburgh, Scotland, created the first functional bionic arm. In the activity, learners explore the world of bioengineering through discussion and hands-on exploration. In groups, participants assemble a working biomechanical hand and test its abilities. 

Concepts

bioengineering, hands, design, prototypes

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Invite someone with artificial limbs to speak with the class after the activity
• Take a tour of a bioengineering facility or visit a college with bioengineering as a major

Classroom Considerations

• Besides Legos and a hand dynamometer, you can find all materials in the classroom or at home
• Activity best fits after a lesson on muscular and skeletal systems or in unit on engineering

Pros

• Activity provides questions for discussion before and after the lesson
• Group instructions for building the hand include photos

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.9-10.3