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30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How has Australian sport been changed in order to suit the needs of the media? (b) To what extent are the social constructions of gender reinforced AND challenged in sport? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 30
30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How has Australian sport been changed in order to suit the needs of the media? (b) To what ex... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:30 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) How has Australian sport been changed in order to suit the needs of the media? (b) To what extent are the social constructions of gender reinforced AND challenged in sport? - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
How has Australian sport been changed in order to suit the needs of the media?
Answer
Australian sports have undergone significant adaptations to align with the requirements of media coverage. The relationship between sports and media is symbiotic, as media exposure increases viewership and revenue for sports organizations. For example, many sports have modified their schedules, playing times, and even formats to fit television programming. This can be seen in cricket, which underwent substantial rule changes to become more viewer-friendly, such as adjusting its match lengths and introducing colored attire for better visual appeal. Additionally, the introduction of sponsorship deals, particularly with major corporations, has transformed the funding landscape of sports, making sports events more marketable. These changes, while beneficial in making sports more accessible to a wider audience, raise concerns about the integrity and authentic representation of the sports themselves.
Step 2
To what extent are the social constructions of gender reinforced AND challenged in sport?
Answer
Social constructions of gender are both reinforced and challenged within the realm of sports. Traditionally, sports have been viewed through a 'masculine' lens, where male athletes are celebrated while women's contributions are often undervalued or overlooked. This reinforces stereotypes about gender roles, leading to a perception that certain sports are more suitable for men than women. However, there are notable efforts to challenge these stereotypes. The increasing participation of female athletes in various sports challenges the notion that physicality and competitiveness are exclusively male attributes. Events like the Women’s World Cup in soccer have gained prominence, showcasing female talent and attracting sponsorship, which serves as a catalyst for further change. Moreover, extreme sports that were once predominantly male have begun to see rising female participation. This shift not only redefines traditional notions of femininity but also encourages women to claim their own identities in sports. Such developments highlight the evolving nature of gender roles in sports and illustrate a gradual move towards greater equity, though challenges still persist.