Putting Greens News & Blog

Science on the Putting Green

Tuesday, October 31st, 2006

Most golfers are quick to tell you that a successful round is the product of science as much as luck. However, few players understand this precise science as well as some junior high students. Across the country, students are getting a break from the classroom to learn the basics of physics and geometry on putting greens and golf courses.

One 8th grade pre-algebra class in Michigan designed and constructed putting greens as part of a geometry lesson. Using simple materials like plywood, paint cans and artificial turf, the students put together the 18-hole Emerald Dragon. Students performed calculations for their project and presented their findings as scale drawings for the holes. In addition to teaching students to work together effectively, the project contained essential lessons about area, volume and scale.

The class’ mentor makes an interesting point about standardized testing and how putting greens can serve as learning tools, “It’s always been a struggling point for us on state assessments, so we’re always looking to teach the practical applications of geometry.” Suffice it to say, the students also enjoyed the golf project a lot more than working from a textbook. One student said, “This was my favorite project I’ve ever done. Plus, we get to play on it afterward.”

Down south, a program funded by the USGA and guided by Mississippi State University is teaching kids in that region how to play while offering lessons in physics, math and engineering. Science on the Green, a summer program for 6th to 8th graders, offers students both a unique learning opportunity and a fresh outlook. The director of the program says, “Many students are totally unaware of the many opportunities in science, mathematics, engineering and technology that exist. They do not picture women and minorities as scientists or engineers or think of science and engineering careers in industries such as golf.”

Students spend the mornings learning about the game itself. In the afternoons, the kids gain a greater understanding the game they’ve been practicing by applying more traditional school studies. The topics of study are wide-ranging, covering everything from water conservation to applied mathematics and physics. Laboratory exercises using lasers and other precision tools analyze the ball in motion, off the tee and on the green.

It should be mentioned that applied learning programs of this nature are growing in popularity due to overall student success and relatively low cost. In fact, many of the tests conducted by the students are easy enough to perform that if you and your children are feeling just a little ambitious, you could pull out your old science kit and give it a try on your own backyard putting green.