Lesson 1: Physics of of Flight

Why does an arrow have to "bend" to hit a straight target?

Spine: The measurement of an arrow's stiffness.

Oscillation: The "snaking" motion of an arrow as it leaves the bow.

Node Points: The two points on an arrow that remain relatively stationary while the rest of the shaft vibrates.

2.12.13 Applies movement concepts and principles (e.g., force, motion, rotation) to analyze and improve performance of self and/or others in a selected skill (e.g., overhand throw, back squat, archery).

(DOK 2) How does changing the draw weight of a bow affect the required "spine" of the arrow?

(DOK 3) Predict the flight path of an arrow that is too "stiff" for a low-poundage bow.

Archery is a masterclass in ballistics, biomechanics, and mindfulness. The focus required mirrors the "flow state" used by professionals in high-stress fields like medicine or aviation. By mastering the physics of arrow flight—known as the Archer’s Paradox—students engage with the same engineering principles used in aerospace and mechanical design.

The arrow travels in a straight line.

Different sized bows will be offered.
Different distances to the target.

Students will analyze the flight of an arrow based on bow poundage and stiffness of the arrow.

Advanced recurve/compound bows, carbon/aluminum arrows, 3D targets, paper tuning kits, chronometers, finger tabs/slings, T-squares (for brace height), and journals.