Question 1: Define 'positive feedback' in the context of sports coaching and explain how it can benefit an athlete's performance.

Answer: Positive feedback involves praising or reinforcing correct actions to motivate and encourage the athlete, which can boost confidence and reinforce good techniques, leading to improved performance.

Question 2: Describe how a coach might use verbal guidance to help a gymnast improve their routine.

Answer: A coach might give clear, specific instructions during practice, such as telling the gymnast to straighten their legs during a jump or to keep their arms extended, helping them correct errors in real-time.

Question 3: Explain the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic feedback, providing an example of each in a football context.

Answer: Intrinsic feedback is internal and comes from the athlete's own senses, like feeling the ball's contact. Extrinsic feedback is external, such as a coach telling the player they need to pass more quickly.

Question 4: Identify two advantages of using video analysis as a form of feedback for athletes.

Answer: Video analysis allows athletes to visually review their performance, helping them identify errors and areas for improvement. It also provides objective evidence that can motivate athletes by showing progress.

Question 5: Describe an effective way a coach can deliver constructive criticism without demotivating the athlete.

Answer: The coach should focus on specific aspects of performance, use positive language, and suggest improvements rather than criticize personally, maintaining the athlete's confidence.

Question 6: Sketch a diagram of a simple guidance and feedback system involving a coach, athlete, and feedback loop. Label the key components.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a coach giving guidance, the athlete performing, feedback being provided back to the athlete, and the cycle repeating. Labels should include 'Coach', 'Athlete', 'Feedback', and 'Performance'.

Question 7: Discuss how the timing of feedback (immediate vs delayed) can influence an athlete’s learning process.

Answer: Immediate feedback helps athletes correct errors quickly and reinforce correct techniques, which is useful during skill acquisition. Delayed feedback allows reflection and can promote better understanding and long-term retention.

Question 8: Explain why it is important for feedback to be specific and focused on observable actions rather than general comments.

Answer: Specific and observable feedback provides clear guidance on what needs improvement, making it easier for athletes to understand and apply the advice, leading to more effective skill development.

Question 9: Describe a scenario where a coach uses positive reinforcement to motivate an athlete after a mistake during a game.

Answer: After an athlete misses a shot, the coach praises their effort and suggests focusing on their technique next time, encouraging the athlete to stay motivated and learn from the experience.

Question 10: Sketch a flowchart showing how guidance and feedback can be used across three stages of a training session: before, during, and after the activity. Include key actions or types of feedback at each stage.

Answer: A correct flowchart would depict 'Preparation' stage with goal-setting and instructions, 'Performance' stage with real-time feedback, and 'Reflection' stage with post-performance analysis and praise or correction. Arrows connect these stages to show the continuous feedback loop.