12th Grade  Project 5 weeks

Bowtastic: Crafting Bows of Innovation

Jalen T
Updated
Collaboration
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
Effective Communication
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Purpose

You will embark on a journey to explore the ancient art and science of bow-making, developing patience, determination, and woodworking skills. Through collaborative efforts with peers and community experts, you'll discover innovative approaches to design and craft your own bow, gaining insights into the physics and modern applications of this timeless tool. Your project will culminate in an exhibition where you present a comprehensive analysis of bow mechanics, showcasing your craftsmanship and scientific understanding. This experience will foster critical thinking, effective communication, and deep personal reflection as you navigate challenges and refine your techniques.

Learning goals

Develop patience and determination through hands-on woodworking projects. Enhance your understanding of bow physics and history by exploring tillering techniques with community partners. Collaborate and communicate effectively with peers to create, critique, and exhibit your final product. Apply critical thinking to solve design challenges and showcase your learning through poster presentations that reflect the process and science of bow making.

Competencies
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Create a variety of bow types by incorporating different tillering techniques, such as longbow, recurve, and compound bows, each showcasing their unique construction features and functionalities. Develop a comprehensive poster presentation that details the entire bow-making process, the science of bow mechanics, historical significance, and the physics involved. Share the completed bows during an exhibition, highlighting the craftsmanship and explaining the application of skills and knowledge acquired throughout the project.

Launch

Begin your project by participating in a collaborative workshop with the San Diego Craft Collective, where you can learn about the historical significance of bows and the fundamentals of woodworking. Engage in hands-on activities that introduce you to the tools and techniques used in bow making. Use this opportunity to brainstorm project ideas with your peers while gaining insights from experienced woodworkers. This launch will set the stage for exploring the essential question and developing the necessary skills throughout the project.

Exhibition

Organize an exhibition event where you showcase your completed bow along with a visual poster detailing the crafting process, physics principles, and types of bows. Invite community partners such as SDFWA and San Diego Craft Collective to attend, offering an opportunity for collaboration and feedback. Facilitate a gallery walk where you can share insights and process reflections with peers, emphasizing your growth in woodworking skills and understanding the historical and modern significance of bows.