Crossbow

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/crossbow

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the technological antecedent?Considered a precursor to firearms due to its trigger mechanism
2. What is the strategic military role?Crucial in siege warfare and anti-cavalry tactics during the late medieval period
3. Why did people use crossbows in the past?Crossbows were popular because they let soldiers who weren't expert archers shoot powerful bolts that could break armor and help win battles.
4. How does a crossbow work?A crossbow uses a trigger and a nut to hold the bowstring tight; when the trigger is pulled, the string releases and sends the bolt flying.

Composite Bow: A bow made from multiple materials, often layered for increased power and efficiency.
Draw Weight: The amount of force, usually measured in pounds, required to pull the bowstring back to full draw.
Ballistics: The study of projectile motion, including factors like trajectory, velocity, and impact.