Common Core State Standard L.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: Video of a current news event is presented for discussion to encourage student participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the video. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.
09/08/2025
Designing bionic arms has a 'monumental' impact
Tilly Lockey explains how, after losing her hands to meningitis at 15 months old, she has dedicated her time to co-designing some of the most advanced bionic arms on the market with Open Bionics. She has been using the company’s Hero Arms for about 10 years. She controls the prosthetics by moving different muscles in her arms. She says the devices have opened “so many doors for me that I’m … proud and excited to be at the forefront of it and get to see everything that’s happening.”
■Class discussion: Tilly has described herself as a “bionic girl.” How are advances in computerized prosthetics and various implants helping other “bionic people” overcome serious disabilities? Do developers of these advanced devices need advice from early users such as Tilly to improve their designs? Will developments in artificial intelligence and robotics enable people with serious injuries to lead more normal lives?
