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Name of Activity: Balloon Surprise
Purpose of Activity: To help students work on aiming at and hitting specific spots on a target during an archery unit.
Prerequisites: Safety and classroom protocols for archery (waiting to retrieve arrows, safe use, etc.), shooting arrows at targets with a bow.
Suggested Grade Level: 9-12
Materials Needed: Bows, arrows, targets, small balloons - each with a small paper inside, tape to hold ballons on target, and rewards (gift certificates, pencils, discounts for bowling, school store coupons, foot bags, anything you can get donated that is appropriate for students).
Description of Idea Safety is, of course, key to the success of this activity. Please make sure students know the proper procedures for retrieving the arrows, etc. This is a great way to wrap up a unit on archery. Before class, tape 8 to 10 balloons on each archery target. Students shoot arrows at targets, attempting to hit balloons. Each balloon contains a laminated paper with a reward typed on it. Once everyone is done shooting and the signal is given to retrieve arrows, students pick up the papers that were in balloons they shot. Once arrows are picked up and everyone is back in a safe area, the signal is given and students begin to shoot arrows at the remaining targets and balloons. Prizes are distributed after class.
Variations: Instead of prizes (which can be expensive), papers in different balloons can contain prize points that can be cashed in for prizes. For example, a footbag costs 60 points. Students then try to get as many points as possible to earn prizes. Place questions and answers to an actual test you or another teacher is giving to the students in the balloons.
Assessment Ideas: As students are shooting, walk around and have them tell you or a partner what balloon they are aiming for. This way, you can tell how they are doing with their aim, and you can also provide feedback.
Teaching Suggestions: Rotate students so they all have a chance to shoot on each target. Place papers for more valuable prizes in smaller balloons. Safety is key, students must wait for the signal before retreiving arrows and prize papers. Contact local vendors for help with prizes.
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