The ants needed to be as close to life-size and as anatomically perfect as possible.

The students tackled the challenge with focus and determination. The first attempt was more like spiders, but we problem-solved to realise that this was because of the thin mid-section ("spines" is actually the correct item in these ants) of the ants and their posture, which showed the importance of seeing what is actually there, rather than making assumptions. 

As the lesson progressed, manual dexterity improved by leaps and bounds, ingenuity and problem-solving skills came to the fore as pencils, rulers, lanyards and other items were pressed into service as tools. Students began to work cooperatively, especially passing on tips and helping with antennae and legs, which were especially tricky. The importance of resilience was highlighted as students and staff overcame their frustrations and tried again.

Phoenix made a tiny ant, which was recognisable as such. Dr Mitchell said the interesting thing was how quickly the students' skills improved, and by the end of the lesson there was a line of marching leaf cutter ants to be proud of.