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Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Explain how the beginnings of modern sport in nineteenth century England have influenced the nature of sport in Australia today - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 24 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 24
Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Explain how the beginnings of modern sport in nineteenth century England have influen... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 24 — Sport and Physical Activity in Australian Society (20 marks) (a) Explain how the beginnings of modern sport in nineteenth century England have influenced the nature of sport in Australia today - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 24 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how the beginnings of modern sport in nineteenth century England have influenced the nature of sport in Australia today.
Answer
The beginnings of modern sport in nineteenth century England have had a significant impact on the nature of sport in Australia today. During this period, sports began to formalize with established rules, governing bodies, and an emphasis on amateurism and professionalism.
In Australia, these influences manifested in various ways. The colonization of Australia brought English sporting traditions, which were adopted and adapted. For instance, sports like cricket and rugby were introduced by settlers and became integral to Australian culture. The class divide evident in England also found its way to Australia, where amateur sports were often associated with the upper classes, while the working class gravitated towards professional sports.
Moreover, the historical barriers surrounding women’s participation in sports can be traced back to these early influences. In Victorian England, women faced societal restrictions that discouraged physical activity. This carried over to Australia, where women's involvement in sports was limited, often overshadowed by male participation. The push for women’s rights and changes in societal views in the twentieth century began to shift these perceptions, but the legacy of these 19th-century attitudes remains visible in today’s sports landscape.
Step 2
Analyse why the relationship between sport and the mass media has influenced people’s understanding, values and beliefs about sport.
Answer
The relationship between sport and mass media has fundamentally shaped public perceptions and values surrounding sport. Mass media acts as a powerful channel for broadcasting sporting events, news, and athlete stories, significantly expanding the reach of sports beyond local communities.
Firstly, media representation of sports influences societal values by shaping narratives around athletes and events. Positive portrayals can elevate the status of certain sports and athletes, promoting them as role models. Conversely, negative media portrayals can lead to stereotypes or reinforce biases.
Secondly, the commercialization of sport through media has created a lucrative relationship, impacting how sports are perceived. Advertising and endorsements create a symbiotic relationship where athletes gain fame and fortune, while brands align themselves with successful sports figures to attract consumers. This can shift public understanding of sports, emphasizing entertainment and commercial value over traditional sportsmanship.
Lastly, the mass media plays a critical role in setting standards and expectations around performance and professionalism. Coverage of athlete performance can lead to heightened expectations, influencing how fans and aspiring athletes view success and failure. Overall, the dynamic between sport and mass media continues to influence societal beliefs, reflecting deeper cultural values and shaping the landscape of contemporary sport.