Creatures of Biosomnium: A Speculative Evolution Project (Ages 12-16)

Welcome to Creatures of Biosomnium, a captivating and immersive online speculative evolution club available through Outschool. Prepare to embark on a journey that combines scientific inquiry with boundless creativity as we delve into the realm of building scientifically plausible speculative creatures and exploring their unique worlds.

Speculative evolution is an academic and artistic endeavor that involves in-depth examination, contemplation, and modification of existing organisms to envision their adaptation to new and possible environments. In the absence of human influence, imagine how rats might transform into formidable pack hunters akin to wolves, or utilize their innate intelligence and dexterity to construct their own intricate societies. Picture an octopus evolving over three million years, shaping its form in response to a shifting climate. These are the kinds of extraordinary concepts we will explore and bring to life in this ongoing club.

Our focus lies within Biosomnium, a fantastical network of worlds whose name translates to the "dream of life." Through the vivid landscapes of this imaginative realm, learners will unravel the mysteries of various planets and moons.

Engaging in a dynamic exchange of ideas, learners will share their creations with one another and seek valuable feedback from both their peers and the instructor. Drawing inspiration from our knowledge of modern flora and fauna on Earth, we will apply scientific principles to the organisms we craft, ensuring their plausibility within the realm of speculative evolution. This holistic approach cultivates an environment where scientific inquiry and artistic expression seamlessly intertwine.

Creatures of Biosomnium is a haven for those who possess an unwavering passion for both science and science fiction. Here, you will find a warm and supportive community that nurtures the development of your artistic and scientific skills. It is the perfect opportunity to channel your boundless imagination and explore the endless possibilities of life on alternate worlds.

Each week, our club follows a consistent format. Learners will receive detailed information about the conditions prevailing in the chosen biome and planet, along with a curated selection of ancestral creatures. From this diverse array, participants will choose the organisms they wish to adapt, crafting them to thrive within the given environmental constraints. Learners use an online Padlet to add to the world in between classes and interact with their fellow creature engineers.

Join us in the captivating world of Creatures of Biosomnium, where scientific exploration and speculative creativity merge to create extraordinary beings and their vibrant habitats. Unleash your imagination, and let the wonders of speculative evolution unfold before your eyes.