Wildlife Crossing

Wildlife crossings are structures that allow animals to cross human-made barriers safely. Wildlife crossings include underpasses, tunnels, and viaducts. Rescue vehicles are also used in extreme or difficult cases.

Let students explore existing wildlife crossings, especially local examples, such as underpasses and cattle crossings. You may also wish to share specific examples of situations or conditions in which wildlife is put at risk and a crossing may be a solution.

Students design and build a wildlife crossing for a chosen animal. They could also build the road or hazard that the safe crossing is designed to avoid.

Let students explore the Design Library so they can choose a model for inspiration. Then allow them to experiment and create their own solutions, modifying any basic model as they see fit.

Suggested Design Library models are:
• Spin
• Revolve
• Flex

Students should present their models, explaining how they have designed
the prototype to allow for the chosen wildlife to cross safely. They could use research and portfolio documentation to support their explorations and ideas.

Assessment
Ensure that students explain why it is important to look after endangered species and be conscious of the impacts humans have on animal habitats.