Role Models

Question 1

What is meant by a ‘role model’? ( 2)

Answer 1

A role model is somebody who other people aspire to, or are motivated or inspired to be like / who they look up to or idolise / who sets an example for others to follow.

Question 2

Explain how Louis Smith could have had an effect on Ben’s level of participation or performance in gymnastics. (4)

Answer 2

Participation

• By watching Louis perform / Ben is more motivated or inspired / to train more / or compete in more competitions.

Performance

• Louis success / may have encouraged Ben to train harder / to achieve a similar standard / because he enjoyed watching his performance / Ben may have copied his technique.

Question 3

Explain what a role model is and describe how they can affect the level of participation in a sport (4)

Answer 3

A role model is somebody who other people aspire to be like or who they look up to. (1)

A performer may try a sport/ to be like or copy their role model/ (1)

because they enjoy watching their performance/
or because they make it look fun/ or interesting/ (1)

therefore they may choose to take part/ increasing participation (1)

Question 4

Explain, using an example, how a role model could help to improve the level of performance in a sport or activity. (3)

Answer 4

Examples include:

• a top level rugby player such as Jonny Wilkinson / can demonstrate good skills within a game / these can be observed or even recorded/
and a performer can copy them

Question 5

Explain, using an example, how a role model could help to improve the level of participation in a sport or activity. (3)

Answer 5

a top level soccer player such as Wayne Rooney / can be playing a game at a top level / the rewards in terms of financial gain etc./ would encourage other people to take part as well

Question 6

How might role models promote sport on a national basis? (7)

Answer 6

They promote sport by:

• displaying a particular image/ style;
• communicating a particular message;
• demonstrating a particular skill/ ability;
• undertaking a particular task/ action (eg appearances, book signings);
• maintaining high standards of behaviour and sportsmanship.

If the individual is well known then the influence is wide (1 mark), as is the influence if the sport is national and attracts media attention (1 mark).