Component 2: 3.3 Ethical and socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport — Edexcel GCSE Physical Education
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Component 2: 3.3 Ethical and socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport explained
You need to know the difference between sportsmanship and gamesmanship, and why deviance occurs at elite level and what results from it.
Read the full explanation
Sportsmanship is fair play, respecting opponents and officials, and accepting decisions without argument. Gamesmanship is bending the rules without breaking them to gain an advantage, such as distracting an opponent or time-wasting. Deviance at elite level means behaviour that breaks rules or accepted norms, such as doping, deliberate fouls or match-fixing. Reasons include pressure to win, financial rewards, and the influence of role models. Consequences include bans, fines, loss of sponsorship, and damage to the sport's reputation. In an MCQ, you must match examples to the correct term and identify reasons or consequences accurately.
Your focus
- Define sportsmanship and gamesmanship and give an example of each.
- State one reason why deviance occurs at elite level.
- State one consequence of deviance for the performer or the sport.
Component 2: 3.3 Ethical and socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport exam tips
Marking Points
- Defines sportsmanship as fair play, respect for opponents and officials, and graciousness in victory or defeat.
- Defines gamesmanship as bending the rules without breaking them to gain an unfair advantage.
- Gives an example of sportsmanship, such as shaking hands after a match or kicking the ball out when an opponent is injured.
- Gives an example of gamesmanship, such as distracting an opponent or deliberately wasting time.
- Identifies a reason for deviance at elite level, such as pressure to win, financial gain or desire for fame.
- Identifies a consequence of deviance at elite level, such as a ban, fine, loss of sponsorship or damage to the sport's reputation.
- Distinguishes between gamesmanship and deviance: gamesmanship stays within the rules, while deviance breaks them.
Examiner Tips
- 💡For definition questions, look for the option that mentions fair play or respect for sportsmanship, and bending rules without breaking them for gamesmanship.
- 💡When asked about reasons for deviance, choose the option that reflects pressure, financial reward or the win-at-all-costs attitude common at elite level.
- 💡For consequences, select the option that describes a specific sanction or negative outcome, such as a ban or loss of sponsorship.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing sportsmanship with gamesmanship: sportsmanship is fair and respectful, while gamesmanship seeks an unfair advantage without technically breaking a rule.
- Thinking gamesmanship is the same as cheating: cheating breaks the rules, whereas gamesmanship exploits loopholes or uses psychological tactics within the rules.
- Giving a reason for deviance that is not linked to elite level: for example, 'having fun' is not a typical reason for elite deviance; focus on pressure, money or fame.
- Listing a consequence that is too vague: 'they get in trouble' is not enough; specify a ban, fine or loss of sponsorship.