Using examples, outline the features of a skilled performer.

Using examples, identify types of drag that can be decreased through practice.

Discuss the relative contribution of genetic factors and environmental factors on a tennis player’s performance.

Explain the causes of peripheral fatigue in a long-distance road cyclist.

consistent: gymnast is able to perform a set of movements consistently;

accurate: archer hits centre of target;

learned: dancer performs the routine automatically;

control: fencer displays no unnecessary movement;

efficient: basketball player movements look effortless;

fluency: hockey player has flowing movements;

goal-directed: cross-fit athlete is focused on the goals of the practice;

form drag and wave drag;

an example for overcoming form drag is cyclists adopting a low-profile position;

an example of overcoming wave drag is swimming underwater for as long as is allowed at the start of a race;

Must include both types of drag for [1].

Accept other suitable examples.

both environmental and genetic factors may influence sporting performance;

the contribution of genetic factors may not determine the tennis player’s performance;

currently it isn’t possible to ascertain the relative contribution of genetics or training to elite sporting performance
OR
only possible to elucidate via twin studies;

characteristics that are influenced by genetics include height/muscle fibre type/anaerobic threshold/lung capacity/flexibility;

environmental factors that also influence performance include physical training/nutrition/ technological aids/climate;

exposure to stress/training can switch on dormant genes;

training maximizes the likelihood of obtaining a performance level with a genetically controlled ceiling;

elite athletes can be distinguished from less well-performing athletes with respect to both inherited (genetic) characteristics and training histories;

peripheral fatigue is a reduction in muscular force;

aerobic performance is hindered by a depletion in glycogen stores as ATP resynthesis slows;

a reduction in Ca²⁺ release reduces the ability of muscles to contract effectively;

depletion of acetylcholine reduces the ability of an action potential to pass to the muscle fibres;

electrolyte loss occurs through sweating, which can lead to cramp;

dehydration can occur due to loss of essential fluids used to help with temperature regulation;

overheating can impair muscle function;

Award [1 max] for a list of two or more causes of peripheral fatigue

Many candidates could identify 1–3 characteristics of a skilled performer, but struggled to provide suitable examples.

Many candidates were able to access most of the marks available for this question. However, several candidates merely outlined the three types of drag and gave examples, rather than focusing on an aspect of practice and how drag could be reduced.

Generally, answered well with many candidates able to access over 50% of the marks. Candidates tried to apply their knowledge and understanding to the context of the question which was pleasing, although this was with mixed success.

Many candidates were able to list the causes but many struggled to explain them. Several focused on one or two causes and struggled to access the full marks.