Arrowhead Puzzle

New design!

Engage teams in a challenging and thought-provoking activity that fosters innovation, leadership, and problem-solving skills. The Arrowhead Puzzle requires participants to creatively assemble five arrowheads from limited resources, promoting collaboration, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Ideal for team-building sessions focused on developing leadership qualities and encouraging innovative approaches to overcoming obstacles.

Using the seven puzzle pieces shown here, simultaneously assemble five arrowheads.  One arrowhead is already complete and provides a size template for the remaining arrowheads.  Each of the four remaining arrowheads will be the same size as this one.  When you are finished, you will be able to see all five arrowheads at the same time.

Here are several debriefing questions that focus on innovation and leadership in the context of the Arrowhead Puzzle activity:

Innovation and Resourcefulness:

• How did your team approach the challenge when it seemed like there were not enough pieces to complete the task? What innovative strategies did you use?

Collaboration and Communication:

• How did your team communicate and collaborate to solve the puzzle? What role did effective communication play in finding a solution?

Risk-Taking and Experimentation:

• Were there moments when you had to take risks or try unconventional methods to fit the pieces together? How did this contribute to the overall success?

Adaptability and Flexibility:

• How did your team adapt to new information or failed attempts during the puzzle-solving process? What did this teach you about flexibility in leadership?

Vision and Goal Setting:

• How important was it to have a clear vision or goal in mind while working on the puzzle? How did this influence your team's strategy and execution?

Reflection and Learning:

• After completing the puzzle, what did you learn about your team's approach to innovation and problem-solving? How can these lessons be applied to future projects?

This simple seven-piece magnetic wooden puzzle creates a teachable moment that will last long after the puzzle is solved. Learn how to do more with less, using this puzzle.  Full instruction sheet with debriefing points, plus puzzle pieces included.  

We recommend one puzzle for every 3-5 people.

Featured in the Teambuilding Puzzles Book by Jim Cain, Mike Anderson, Chris Cavert, and Tom Heck.