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Based on paragraphs one and two of this extract, what do you learn about Roy Keane’s childhood? Support your answer with reference to the text - Leaving Cert English - Question Question A - 2014
Question Question A
Based on paragraphs one and two of this extract, what do you learn about Roy Keane’s childhood? Support your answer with reference to the text. I was born on 10 Aug... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Based on paragraphs one and two of this extract, what do you learn about Roy Keane’s childhood? Support your answer with reference to the text - Leaving Cert English - Question Question A - 2014
Step 1
Based on paragraphs one and two of this extract, what do you learn about Roy Keane’s childhood?
Answer
Roy Keane's childhood, as described in the extract, reveals several key aspects:
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Family Background: Keane was born into a family of five children in Mayfield, Cork. His father, Mossie, worked at the Sunbeam Wolsey knitwear company, which eventually went into liquidation, indicating the financial hardships faced by the family during that time. This reflects how economic challenges shaped their upbringing.
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Community Engagement: Keane's upbringing emphasized strong community ties. His family was well-known in the local area, and trips to the city were rare but cherished events that helped foster a sense of belonging. This suggests that despite financial struggles, the family maintained a close-knit relationship with their community.
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Sport as Focus: Paragraphs one and two highlight Keane's passion for sports, particularly as an escape from classroom pressures. He admits to not shining academically and found joy and identity in sports rather than in education. The description of his hobbies in hurling and boxing emphasizes the importance of physical activity and sports in his early life, showing how these activities served as both an outlet and a way to socialize.
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Resilience and Struggles: Keane discusses injuries sustained during sports, specifically, how a splinter from hurling caused delays in his activities. This illustrates his commitment to sports and resilience despite physical challenges, which may have also shaped his character in later life.
Step 2
Identify three aspects of Keane’s personality that emerge from your reading of the written text above.
Answer
From the text, three aspects of Roy Keane’s personality can be identified:
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Determination: Keane's willingness to engage in sports like boxing and hurling despite facing injuries shows a strong determination to excel and push through challenges.
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Sense of Humor: The mention of his mischievous character and laughter illustrates that he likely has a light-hearted side, indicating he didn't take life too seriously, which is often key to forming friendships and navigating childhood.
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Pride in Family: Keane's references to his family and their struggles highlight a deep sense of pride and respect for his roots, suggesting that family values are pivotal in shaping his personality.
Step 3
Explain, in your own words, what you think Roy Keane means when he says: “The techniques and disciplines learned in the boxing ring provided me with a psychological edge.”
Answer
Roy Keane seems to suggest that the experiences he gained from boxing—both mentally and physically—have given him an advantage in life. The rigorous training and mental fortitude required in the boxing ring likely taught him discipline, resilience, and focus. These qualities could then translate into other areas of his life, helping him handle pressure, competition, and adversity effectively. In this sense, boxing not only sharpened his physical skills but also reinforced his mental strength, allowing him to approach challenges with greater confidence.
Step 4
What do you learn about Roy Keane from IMAGE 1 and IMAGE 2 above?
Answer
From the images, we gain insight into Roy Keane's interactions with others and his character:
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Connection with Fans: In IMAGE 1, Keane is seen interacting with a young fan, which shows his willingness to engage with people and appreciate their support—reflecting a side of him that values community and connection.
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Compassionate Nature: IMAGE 2 depicts Keane supporting Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, indicating a compassionate side that is concerned about helping those in need. This involvement suggests that, beyond sports, he cares about social causes and uses his platform to make a positive impact.