Schottenbauer Publishing

Friday, February 20, 2015

New! The Science of Fencing, Volume 2


A new volume of The Science of Fencing has arrived! Volume 2 contains new data showing the position of a moving toy sword, from different perspectives and angles. New features include graphs of the position and motion of the fencer, in addition to the sword itself. The data collected are relevant to common forms of competitive Olympic fencing, including épée, sabre, and foil.

These data can be used for lesson plans by teachers and parents as supplements for traditional classes, as well as for special school projects, after-school enrichment activities, homeschool, and special science camps. 

A sample graph from The Science of Fencing: Volume 2 from Schottenbauer Publishing is shown below:



Discussion Questions
  1. What do the two lines represent in the graph?
  2. What is the maximum of the blue line? The minimum?
  3. What is the maximum of the red line? The minimum?
  4. Describe the shape of each line in words.
  5. Sketch the sword's pattern of motion in real space, indicating at least 10 points. 
  6. Describe the sword's pattern of motion, focusing on the tip only.
  7. Redraw the graph, using a different origin.
  8. In this graph, what is the perspective of the viewer? Is this graph showing the front of the fencer, the side of the fencer, or another angle?
  9. Where is the hilt during this motion? Is there more than one possibility for the location? Can the position of the hilt be determined from the graph?


Additional Information