Science and ICT in Sport

Question 1

State a technological development. Explain, using a specific example, how it is used and the benefit it has had on a named physical activity. (4)

Answer 1

A development has to be stated for one mark;
the effect it has must be described for one mark; and an actual example must be given for one mark; and one mark for identifying that it enables correct
decisions to be made or for incorrect ones to be overruled.

      Examples include:

• the use of instant video replays / it allows a third official to review a play and make a decision / used for tries in rugby / run outs in cricket etc. / enables
correct decisions to be made

• infra red beams which can detect objects crossing them / allows officials to tell if balls are in or out/ or when athletes have crossed a line (for timings) /
cyclops in tennis or electronic timing in athletics etc.

• tracing devices which can track the flight or direction of a ball / shows where a ball would land or hit an object / hawkeye in both tennis and cricket

Question 2

Using examples, explain how technological developments could help Ben to improve his performance in gymnastics. (8)

Answer 2

Answer must give 3 detailed explanations for 8 marks
2 detailed explanations = 5 marks
a List without explanation = 1 mark

Use SEE format

State the development
Explain the development has helped improved performance
Example - Link this to the example of Ben and his gymnastics (explain the impact)

Indicative Content

Facilities

• Sprung floors allow Ben’s routines to become more difficult due to the extra height that can be gained.
• Facilities for training have developed to include improved foam landing areas enabling Ben to practise more difficult moves.

Equipment

• Improved quality of equipment (e.g. springboards) allows Ben’s performance to increase due to more difficult moves to be performed.
• Development of a vaulting platform with a greater surface area allows more complex moves to be performed.

ICT / Video Analysis

• Digital cameras and videos to obtain feedback from a performance so this can be monitored and reviewed so performance can be modified.
• By cataloguing performance overtime on a computer Ben can be shown how his performances have improved.
• By videoing performance this can be sent to Ben so he can visualise and mentally rehearse routines to facilitate performance.
• Computer software (Dartfish or Kandle) that can be used to analyse Ben’s performance to identify weaknesses that can then be worked on.
• Sound recording played to simulate crowd when Ben is training, to replicate atmosphere or add to stress levels.
• Fitness monitoring equipment can monitor Ben’s pulse rates, energy expenditure resulting in improved performance through detailed monitoring of training and competition.
• Use of the internet to display Ben’s recorded performances which can be commented on by others which could lead to improvements.
• Advanced communication technology has improved knowledge of coaching and training methods, which could raise Ben’s performance levels.

Clothing

• The introduction of new materials has allowed tight fitting clothing to be developed. This allows a greater range of movement and therefore the opportunity for Ben to gain higher marks.

Question 3

Using examples, explain how advances in technology could help Rachel to improve her performance (8)

Answer 3

Answer must give 3 detailed explanations for 8 marks
2 detailed explanations = 5 marks
a List without explanation = 1 mark

Use SEE format

State the development
Explain the development has helped improved performance
Example - Link this to the example of Rachel and her sports (football, swimming and athletics) (explain the impact)

Examples of content could include:

• swimming costume material has been designed to allow swimmers to be more buoyant and streamlined in the water leading to faster times.
• football boots have been designed to be lightweight and protective but still give strength and flexibility.
• heart rate monitors used to make sure training is at the right level and that athletes are not working too hard.
• electronic timing in swimming to give accurate times.
• computer software (Dartfish or Kandle) that can be used to analyse performance to identify weaknesses that can then be worked on.
• digital cameras and videos to review performance.