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Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Outline how Australia has used sport for political purposes - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 24 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 24
Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Outline how Australia has used sport for political purposes. (b) Critically analyse ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Outline how Australia has used sport for political purposes - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 24 - 2005 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline how Australia has used sport for political purposes.
Answer
Australia has utilized sport as a powerful platform for political expression and agenda-setting. One significant example is the boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics, where Australia joined other nations in protest against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Additionally, the political statement represented by Cathy Freeman carrying two flags during the Commonwealth and Olympic Games highlighted the ongoing issues of indigenous rights and reconciliation within the nation. Furthermore, the Sydney Olympics in 2000 were used to showcase Australia’s international standing and commitment to global sportsmanship, using sports infrastructure as a symbol of national pride.
Step 2
Critically analyse how the mass media contribute to people’s understanding, values and beliefs about sport.
Answer
The mass media play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of sport by providing not only coverage but also context and interpretation. Media outlets determine which events are highlighted, thus influencing societal values and beliefs around sports. Sports journalism can promote athletes as role models, impacting how young audiences view success and failure. Moreover, the portrayal of diverse sporting events fosters inclusivity or exclusivity, depending on media representation. Critically, the media's perspective on issues such as doping, gender equality, and racism can either reinforce or challenge societal norms, shaping public discourse of sports. For instance, how women's sports are framed in media coverage significantly affects public interest and investment in female athletics.