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Athletes need high levels of skill as well as innate ability to achieve success at the highest level - Leaving Cert Physical Education - Question c (i) - 2021
Question c (i)
Athletes need high levels of skill as well as innate ability to achieve success at the highest level. Defining skill and ability, discuss this statement.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Athletes need high levels of skill as well as innate ability to achieve success at the highest level - Leaving Cert Physical Education - Question c (i) - 2021
Step 1
Accurate definition of skill
Answer
Skill can be defined as a 'learned action/behaviour with the intention of bringing about predetermined results with maximum certainty and minimum outlay of time or energy.' (Knapp, 1963). This emphasizes that skill is not innate; rather, it requires practice and learning.
Step 2
Step 3
Accurate discussion of the statement
Answer
The statement highlights the interplay between skill and ability in achieving athletic success. Athletes must develop their skills through persistent practice, but they also benefit significantly from their innate abilities. For instance, a person with a natural predisposition for speed may excel in sprinting but still needs to refine their techniques to reach their full potential.
Moreover, while skill development can be enhanced through training, the unique innate abilities of individuals set limits on how much they can improve, making both elements crucial for achieving the highest levels of performance. Thus, while skill can be learned, innate ability plays an essential role in determining an athlete's overall capability.