To kick off this year's Wild Maths themes, we are collaborating with Strawbees to invite schools to take part in their Native Nature challenge. As learners design and build native Scottish animals using Strawbees flexible STEAM building kits, they will engage with core mathematical concepts like geometry, measurement, and symmetry to replicate an animal’s proportions.
Learners are encouraged to appreciate the biodiversity of their local environment, deepening their understanding of maths and cultivating an appreciation for Scotland’s rich natural heritage. Maths is not just about numbers, it's about unlocking the beauty and complexity of nature!
Who can enter?
We welcome entries from any children in Scotland that are of primary school age. Free Strawbees kits (see below) are only available and delivered to Scottish schools and homeschoolers, but any families who already have their own Strawbees kit are welcome to join in too.
Orders are limited to one free kit per class or homeschooling group, first come, first served. Kits are reusable so can be shared.
Free kits are only available and delivered to schools and homeschoolers in Scotland. However, anyone who already owns a Strawbees kit can use this to take part in the rest of the challenge.
Kits are sent from mainland Europe and may take 5-10 working days to arrive.
Step 2: Create Your Strawbees Animals
Learn About Scottish Wildlife
Research animals native to Scotland like the red deer, golden eagle, Scottish wildcat, puffin, and otter.
Use books, online resources, or educational materials to learn about their habitats, characteristics, and behaviours.
Think about its shape, features, and any distinctive traits you’d like to highlight.
Decide which Scottish animal you want to create.
Note: You can use the curriculum-aligned Strawbees Classroom Course - Biome Builders for inspiration. These resources are free, but you may need to register with the site to access some of them.
Gather Your Materials
Order a free Strawbees kit (see above), or if you already own one you can use that too.
Collect additional materials like paper, markers, or recycled items for decoration.
Have scissors, rulers, and sticky tape handy for crafting enhancements.
Build Your Animal
Use Strawbees connectors and straws to build the basic shape of your animal.
Decorate and Personalise
Use alternative materials such as markers, paper, or other craft supplies to make your animal look realistic or artistic.
If you want to go that extra mile, incorporate elements that reflect its natural habitat.
Step 3: Share Your Strawbees Creation
Take photos or videos of your finished animals and share them on social media. We will re-share our favourites!
Use the hashtag #MathsWeekScot and remember to tag both Maths Week Scotland and Strawbees.
Share your creations by 30 June 2025 to be included in our online gallery of favourites.
Additional Tips for Educators or Facilitators
Set Up a Makerspace: Prepare a designated area with tools and materials for learners to work collaboratively.
Incorporate STEM Lessons: Discuss topics like animal anatomy, engineering principles, or habitat conservation to deepen learning. Some relevant links include the Plants and Animals activity Booklet and the Biome Builder Course.
Encourage Teamwork: Allow learners to collaborate on larger models or share design ideas.
