Category: Sports

Competitive sport today is really all about accomplishments. Discuss.

Outline 1

Competitive sport today requires teamwork, awareness, skill, dexterity, agility, intuition, strength, hand-eye co-ordination. Sport has to be distinguished from games, although some professional bodies may admit chess as a sport.

Supporting Views

1. Physical Sport Accomplishments

Topic Sentence: Competitive sport today focus heavily on physical achievements and records.
Example 1: Eliud Kipchoge’s marathon record highlights the emphasis on breaking barriers.
BBC: Eliud Kipchoge broke the marathon world record. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/athletics/49947670)
Example 2: Katie Ledecky’s multiple swimming world records underscore this focus.
Reuters: Katie Ledecky’s record-breaking performances in swimming. (https://www.reuters.com/sports/katie-ledecky-records-2021)
Example 3: Bayern Munich’s unbeaten streak in Bundesliga emphasizes accomplishments.
The Guardian: Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga dominance. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/bayern-munich-unbeaten)

These examples illustrate that physical sports are driven by achievements and records. There is little doubt that competitive sports today primarily focus on accomplishments.

2. E-Sports Accomplishments

Topic Sentence: Competitive sport today has evolved to include E-sports. (This is not a good T/S as it is example driven. A T/S must contain an argument, and that argument has to have a premise that is validated by reasons to ensure that premise is defensible.)
Example 1: OG’s historic back-to-back wins at The International Dota 2 Championships.
BBC: OG wins The International twice consecutively. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/esports/og-dota2-international)
Example 2: Faker’s legendary status in League of Legends due to multiple championships.
Reuters: Faker’s dominance in League of Legends. (https://www.reuters.com/esports/faker-league-of-legends)
Example 3: N0tail becoming the highest-earning e-sports player.
The Guardian: N0tail’s earnings in e-sports. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/n0tail-esports-earnings)

E-sports thrives on accomplishments. That is the nature of competitive sport today.

Opposing Views

1. Physical Sport Beyond Accomplishments

Topic Sentence: Physical sports also emphasise teamwork and sportsmanship.
Example 1: Leicester City’s unexpected Premier League win highlighted teamwork.
BBC: Leicester City’s teamwork and spirit in winning the Premier League. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/leicester-city-premier-league)
Example 2: Japan’s rugby team emphasised respect and teamwork during the World Cup.
Reuters: Japan’s rugby team and their focus on respect. (https://www.reuters.com/sport/japan-rugby-world-cup)
Example 3: Iceland’s football team gaining respect for their collective effort in Euro 2020.
The Guardian: Iceland’s football team and their teamwork in Euro 2020. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/iceland-euro-2020)

These examples show that physical sports value more than just accomplishments.

2. Mental Sport Beyond Accomplishments

Topic Sentence: Mental sports like chess also focus on strategy and learning.
Example 1: Chess.com encourages learning through puzzles and games.
Chess.com: Learning and strategy through chess puzzles. (https://www.chess.com/lessons)
Example 2: FIDE promotes chess as an educational tool in schools.
FIDE: Chess as a tool for education and strategy. (https://www.fide.com/education)
Example 3: Hikaru Nakamura’s online streams focus on teaching and enjoyment of chess.
Twitch: Hikaru Nakamura’s chess streams for learning. (https://www.twitch.tv/gmhikaru)

These initiatives show that mental sports also promote education and enjoyment. Sports are not solely about accomplishments.

3. E-Sports Beyond Accomplishments

Topic Sentence: E-sports emphasise community and entertainment.
Example 1: Twitch streams foster a strong community of gamers.
Twitch: Twitch as a platform for e-sports community and entertainment. (https://www.twitch.tv)
Example 2: Fortnite events create a social and interactive environment for players.
Epic Games: Social and interactive events in Fortnite. (https://www.epicgames.com/fortnite/en-US/news)
Example 3: Valorant’s community tournaments highlight the importance of participation.
Valorant: Community tournaments and participation in Valorant. (https://playvalorant.com/en-us/news/)

These aspects illustrate that e-sports value community and entertainment.
Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Competitive sports today are driven by accomplishments, but they also emphasise teamwork, strategy, and community.
Summary of Key Points: Physical, mental, and e-sports all highlight accomplishments, but also focus on other significant values.
Final Thought: While achievements are paramount, the broader values in sports cannot be ignored.

Outline 2

Supporting Views

1. Professional Sports Focus on Records and Titles

Topic Sentence: Competitive sport today predominantly emphasise records and titles, showcasing a clear pursuit of accomplishments.
Example 1: Lewis Hamilton’s record-breaking seventh Formula 1 World Championship win in 2020.
BBC: Lewis Hamilton equals Schumacher’s record. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/54950124)
Example 2: Bayern Munich’s sextuple win in the 2019-2020 season underscores this focus.
The Guardian: Bayern Munich completes sextuple. (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/feb/11/bayern-munich-1-0-tigres-sextuple)
Example 3: Novak Djokovic’s 2021 record-breaking 37th ATP Masters 1000 title highlights this trend.
Reuters: Djokovic breaks Masters record. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/djokovic-breaks-masters-1000-record-2021)

These examples illustrate the heightened emphasis on achieving records and titles in (professional) sports.

2. Amateur Sports Also Prioritise Achievements

Topic Sentence: Competitive sport today increasingly focuses on individual and team achievements.
Example 1: Kenyan amateur runner Rhonex Kipruto set a new 10km road world record in 2020.
World Athletics: Kipruto breaks 10km record. (https://www.worldathletics.org/news/report/rhonex-kipruto-10km-world-record-valencia)
Example 2: Japan’s amateur high school baseball team, Chiben Wakayama, won the 2021 Koshien tournament, demonstrating this pursuit.
The Japan Times: Chiben Wakayama wins Koshien. (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2021/08/29/baseball/japan-high-school-baseball-tournament/)
Example 3: Finnish amateur skier Anssi Pentsinen set a new national record in 2021, underlining the emphasis on accomplishments.
YLE: Pentsinen sets skiing record. (https://yle.fi/news/3-11753920)

These instances reveal the growing importance of accomplishments even in amateur sports.

Opposing Views

1. Professional Sports Value Teamwork and Sportsmanship

Topic Sentence: Professional sports also value teamwork and sportsmanship, not just accomplishments.
Example 1: Danish football team’s solidarity during Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest in Euro 2020.
BBC: Danish team’s sportsmanship. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57458673)
Example 2: New Zealand’s cricket team’s sportsmanship after losing the 2019 Cricket World Cup final.
The Guardian: New Zealand’s sportsmanship. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/jul/15/new-zealand-cricket-world-cup-sportsmanship)
Example 3: Japanese fans’ cleanliness at the 2018 World Cup, cleaning stadiums after matches.
Reuters: Japanese fans’ respect. (https://www.reuters.com/article/us-soccer-worldcup-japan-fans)

These examples show that professional sports also highly value sportsmanship and teamwork.

2. Amateur Sports Emphasise Participation and Enjoyment

Topic Sentence: Amateur sports often prioritise participation and enjoyment over achievements.
Example 1: Parkrun events focus on community and participation, not competition.
Parkrun: Community and participation in Parkrun. (https://www.parkrun.com/about/)
Example 2: UK’s Youth Sport Trust promotes enjoyment and participation in sports.
Youth Sport Trust: Encouraging youth participation. (https://www.youthsporttrust.org/)
Example 3: Australian school sports emphasise physical activity and enjoyment rather than competitive success.
Australian Government: School sports focus on participation. (https://www.sportaus.gov.au/schools)

These initiatives highlight the importance of enjoyment and participation in amateur sports.

3. E-Sports Promote Community and Engagement

Topic Sentence: E-sports also foster community and engagement, beyond just accomplishments.
Example 1: Twitch streams create strong communities and social interactions among gamers.
Twitch: Community engagement in Twitch. (https://www.twitch.tv)
Example 2: Esports clubs in schools encourage teamwork and social skills, not just competition.
British Esports Association: School esports clubs. (https://britishesports.org)
Example 3: Finnish e-sports organisation Ence focuses on player development and well-being.
Ence: Player well-being in e-sports. (https://ence.gg/news/)

These examples show that e-sports also value community and engagement.

Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Competitive sports today emphasise accomplishments but also value teamwork, participation, and community.
Summary of Key Points: Both professional and amateur sports, including e-sports, highlight records but also other significant values.
Final Thought: While achievements are crucial, broader values in sports cannot be ignored. Competitive sport today is a complex milieu of many factors.

Note: This essay requires the comparison of sport today and in the past. Without showing if the issue was different in the past, this essay will not receive high marks although the writer may present a ton of examples.

Sport is organised play. Is this a fair comment?

I. Introduction

Hook: Structured strategies, systematic schedules, and spirited spectacles define sport.
Background: The nature of sport involves both play and organised structure. This duality sparks debate on its true essence.
Thesis Statement: Sport is organised play as it encompasses more than mere recreation, involving cultural, economic, and social dimensions.

II. Supporting View 1: Structured Nature of Sports

Topic Sentence: Sport is organised play as it inherently involves structure and rules, making them organised play.
Example 1: The Tokyo 2020 Olympics’ meticulous planning and regulations.
The Guardian: Showcased strict schedules and comprehensive rule enforcement. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/tokyo-2020-olympics)
Example 2: The English Premier League’s organised fixtures and regulatory framework.
BBC: Highlighted the detailed scheduling and governance of the league. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/english-premier-league)
Example 3: The Euro 2020 football tournament’s strategic and rule-bound matches.
Reuters: Emphasised the structured competition and strategic play. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/euro-2020-soccer-tournament-2021-06-11/)

The structured nature of sports supports the view that they are organised play. Thus, the inherent structure in sports validates the claim of organised play.

III. Supporting View 2: Recreational Aspect of Sports

Topic Sentence: Sports retain a fundamental element of play and recreation.
Example 1: Community-level football in Spain emphasising enjoyment over competition.
El País: Focused on the recreational enjoyment of local football. (https://elpais.com/deportes/futbol-amateur)
Example 2: Recreational cricket leagues in India.
The Hindu: Highlighted the playful and enjoyable aspect of cricket. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/recreational-cricket-leagues-in-india/article32965484.ece)
Example 3: Local rugby matches in New Zealand.
New Zealand Herald: Showcased the fun and community engagement in local rugby. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/rugby-grassroots-level)

The recreational aspect of sports underscores their nature as organised play. Hence, the enjoyment derived from sports supports the organised play perspective.

IV. Supporting View 3: Sport as a Leisure Activity

Topic Sentence: Many engage in sports primarily as a leisure activity, supporting the organised play notion.
Example 1: Cycling as a popular leisure activity in France.
Le Monde: Focused on the leisure aspect of cycling tours. (https://www.lemonde.fr/sport/velo)
Example 2: Recreational swimming clubs in Australia.
ABC News: Emphasised swimming as a leisure pursuit. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/recreational-swimming-australia)
Example 3: Social tennis leagues in the UK.
The Guardian: Highlighted tennis as a leisure and social activity. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/social-tennis-leagues)

The leisure aspect of sports aligns with the organised play concept. Therefore, engaging in sports for leisure supports the organised play argument.

V. Opposing View 1: Economic Impact of Sports

Topic Sentence: The significant economic impact of sports transcends the notion of mere organised play.
Example 1: Financial success of the Premier League.
BBC: Highlighted the league’s massive economic contributions. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/financial-impact-premier-league)
Example 2: The economic boost from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Reuters: Emphasised the Olympics’ economic benefits to Japan. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-economic-impact-2021-08-09/)
Example 3: Revenue generation from IPL in India.
The Hindu: Focused on the financial gains from the Indian Premier League. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/ipl-economic-impact-2021/article36104528.ece)

The economic dimensions of sports suggest they are more than organised play. Thus, the economic impact challenges the notion of sports as mere organised play.

VI. Opposing View 2: Sports as a Tool for Social Change

Topic Sentence: Sports act as a significant tool for social change, surpassing the organised play label.
Example 1: Marcus Rashford’s campaign for free school meals in the UK.
BBC: Demonstrated sports figures driving social policies. (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-marcus-rashford-campaign-2020)
Example 2: Sports’ role in anti-racism movements in Europe.
Reuters: Showcased sports influencing social justice. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/anti-racism-movements-europe-2020-06-09/)
Example 3: Naomi Osaka’s mental health advocacy.
The Guardian: Highlighted sports promoting mental health awareness. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/naomi-osaka-mental-health)

The role of sports in social change extends beyond organised play. Therefore, sports’ societal influence contradicts the organised play argument.

VII. Opposing View 3: Cultural Significance of Sports

Topic Sentence: The cultural significance of sports transcends the organised play concept.
Example 1: Cultural impact of cricket in India.
The Hindu: Highlighted cricket’s deep cultural roots in India. (https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cultural-impact-of-cricket-india)
Example 2: Rugby’s cultural significance in New Zealand.
New Zealand Herald: Emphasised rugby’s importance in national identity. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/rugby-cultural-significance-new-zealand)
Example 3: Football’s role in European culture.
Reuters: Showcased football’s cultural influence in Europe. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/football-cultural-significance-europe)

The cultural importance of sports challenges the organised play perspective. Thus, the cultural significance of sports refutes the notion of them as mere organised play.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While sport is organised play, it also involves economic, social, and cultural dimensions.
Summary of Key Points: Structured nature, recreational aspect, leisure activity vs. economic impact, social change, cultural significance.
Final Thought: A comprehensive understanding of sports reveals they are more than just organised play.

The media has exaggerated the importance of sports. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: Sensational stories sell, and sports spark sensationalism.
Background: Media coverage of sports often highlights their societal importance. However, there is debate over whether this coverage exaggerates their significance. Critics opine that media hypes the importance of sport.
Thesis Statement: The media has indeed exaggerated the importance of sports, overshadowing other crucial societal issues.

II. Supporting View 1: Media Hype and Commercialisation

Topic Sentence: Media hype inflates the perceived importance of sports.
Example 1: European Super League announcement in 2021.
The Guardian: Media frenzy prioritised profit over sport’s intrinsic value. (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/apr/19/european-super-league-plans-man-utd-liverpool-real-madrid-juventus)
Example 2: Extensive coverage of IPL auctions in 2022.
BBC: Focus on player prices eclipsed broader social issues. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/60510720)
Example 3: Qatar 2022 World Cup media coverage.
Reuters: Media emphasis on opulence and spectacle. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/qatar-world-cup-firsts-final-flourishes-2022-12-18/)

Media hype skews public perception, making sports seem more important than they are. Hence, commercialisation through media has exaggerated sport’s importance.

III. Supporting View 2: Displacement of Significant Issues

Topic Sentence: Media hype on sports displaces coverage of more significant issues.
Example 1: Media obsession with Tokyo 2020 Olympics despite pandemic.
The Hindu: Olympic coverage overshadowed pandemic crises. (https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tokyo-2020-olympics-and-covid-19-pandemic/article35411233.ece)
Example 2: Extensive media attention on Euro 2021.
ABC News: Coverage sidelined discussions on climate change. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-06-11/euro-2020-football-climate-change/100199044)
Example 3: Continuous coverage of Premier League in 2021.
New Zealand Herald: Media focus ignored pressing social justice issues. (https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/premier-league-coverage-2021/)

Media focus on sports can undermine public awareness of critical societal issues. Thus, the media’s prioritisation of sports exaggerates their relative importance.

IV. Supporting View 3: Cultural Impact and National Identity

Topic Sentence: Media hypes and exaggerates sports’ role in shaping cultural identity and national pride.
Example 1: Media portrayal of Italy’s Euro 2020 win.
BBC: Coverage suggested it united the nation despite economic struggles. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57725817)
Example 2: Media emphasis on England’s performance in the Ashes 2021.
Reuters: Suggested cricket’s importance to national identity over other cultural aspects. (https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/ashes-2021-england-performance/2021-12-26/)
Example 3: Media glorification of Canada’s Winter Olympics success in 2022.
CBC: Promoted as key to national pride, overshadowing other achievements. (https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/2022-olympics-canada-national-pride-1.6348137)

Media coverage can amplify sports’ cultural role, misrepresenting their actual impact. Consequently, media portrayal exaggerates sports’ contribution to national identity.

V. Opposing View 1: Sports as a Unifying Force

Topic Sentence: Media highlights sports’ genuine role as a unifying force.
Example 1: Coverage of Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
BBC: Emphasised inclusivity and unity during challenging times. (https://www.bbc.com/sport/disability-sport/57884361)
Example 2: Extensive reporting on South Africa’s Rugby World Cup 2019 win.
Reuters: Showcased national unity and post-apartheid progress. (https://www.reuters.com/article/us-rugby-unity-idUSKBN1XA0I2)
Example 3: Media celebration of Denmark’s performance in Euro 2020.
The Guardian: Highlighted national solidarity following Christian Eriksen’s incident. (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/jul/07/denmark-performance-euro-2020-unifying-force)

Media can positively reinforce sports’ role in societal unity. Thus, the media’s portrayal of sports as a unifying force is not entirely exaggerated.

VI. Opposing View 2: Economic Benefits and Development

Topic Sentence: Media coverage highlights the economic benefits of sports.
Example 1: Reporting on the economic impact of Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
The Hindu: Showcased job creation and tourism boosts. (https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/tokyo-2020-olympics-economic-impact/article36104528.ece)
Example 2: Media focus on India’s cricket industry.
Reuters: Highlighted revenue generation and infrastructure development. (https://www.reuters.com/article/india-cricket-economy-idUSKBN2D62PS)
Example 3: Coverage of the economic impact of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
BBC: Emphasised infrastructure and local business benefits. (https://www.bbc.com/news/business-62628264)

Media coverage can accurately reflect sports’ economic significance. Therefore, the economic benefits portrayed by the media are not overstated.

VII. Opposing View 3: Sports as a Catalyst for Social Change

Topic Sentence: Media reports sports’ role as a catalyst for social change.
Example 1: Coverage of Marcus Rashford’s campaign for free school meals in the UK.
BBC: Showed sports figures influencing social policies. (https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-57551461)
Example 2: Media focus on the role of athletes in anti-racism protests in 2020.
Reuters: Highlighted sports’ contribution to social justice movements. (https://www.reuters.com/article/us-global-race-sports-idUSKBN23V1A5)
Example 3: Media reporting on Naomi Osaka’s mental health advocacy.
The Guardian: Emphasised sports’ role in promoting mental health awareness. (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/jun/01/naomi-osaka-mental-health-advocacy)

Media coverage underscores sports’ positive societal impacts. Hence, the media accurately reflects sports’ role in driving social change.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: The media has indeed exaggerated the importance of sports, though they also highlight genuine benefits.
Summary of Key Points: Commercialisation, displacement of issues, cultural impact vs. unifying force, economic benefits, social change.
Final Thought: A balanced media portrayal is essential to understanding sports’ true societal role.

Sport has much to contribute towards nationalistic fervour. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: Stadiums stir souls, and sports spark spirited nationalism.
Background: Sports have much to offer as they have long been a powerful tool for fostering national pride and unity. Governments and organisations harness sports to boost nationalistic fervour.
Thesis Statement: Sports significantly contribute to nationalistic fervour, though their impact varies depending on government policies, societal values, and international success.

II. Supporting View 1: International Sporting Success

Topic Sentence: Sport has much to contribute since sporting success enhances national pride and unity.
Example 1: England’s win in the 2019 Cricket World Cup. England’s victory united fans and boosted national pride. BBC
Example 2: France’s triumph in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. France celebrated a diverse team, fostering unity and national pride. Reuters
Example 3: Italy’s victory in UEFA Euro 2020. Italy’s win sparked national celebrations and increased patriotism. The Guardian

These victories show how international success can unify a nation and ignite national pride. Thus, international sporting success significantly contributes to nationalistic fervour.

III. Supporting View 2: Government Promotion and Support

Topic Sentence: Government promotion of sports fosters national pride, as such sport has much to contribute to the nation.
Example 1: Japan’s investment in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Japan’s extensive preparations showcased national pride. Reuters
Example 2: China’s funding of the Winter Olympics 2022. China’s investment in the Winter Olympics highlighted national achievements. BBC
Example 3: Qatar’s preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Qatar’s hosting efforts aim to boost national identity and pride. The Guardian

Government support enhances nationalistic sentiments through sports. Therefore, government promotion of sports is crucial for national pride.

IV. Supporting View 3: National Sports Events

Topic Sentence: National sports events foster national unity and pride.
Example 1: India’s National Games 2020. The National Games promote unity and showcase local talent. The Hindu
Example 2: Australia’s Australian Open. The Australian Open fosters national pride and international recognition. ABC News
Example 3: Brazil’s Copa America 2021. Hosting Copa America boosted Brazil’s national pride. Reuters

National sports events promote unity and celebrate national achievements.
Hence, national sports events significantly boost nationalistic fervour.

V. Opposing View 1: Commercialisation of Sports

Topic Sentence: Commercialisation reduces the nationalistic value of sports.
Example 1: European Super League proposal. The league prioritised profit over national pride, facing public backlash. BBC
Example 2: IPL’s commercial focus in India. IPL prioritises commercial interests over nationalistic elements. The Hindu
Example 3: Sponsorship issues in South African rugby. Commercial interests overshadow national pride in rugby. Reuters

Excessive commercialisation can diminish the nationalistic impact of sports.
Therefore, commercialisation challenges the nationalistic value of sports.

VI. Opposing View 2: Political Manipulation

Topic Sentence: Sports can be politically manipulated, undermining nationalistic values.
Example 1: Russia’s doping scandal. Political manipulation of sports led to international sanctions. The Guardian
Example 2: Belarus political interference in sports. Government control of sports undermines genuine national pride. Reuters
Example 3: Myanmar’s political use of sports events. Sports events used to distract from political unrest. BBC

Political manipulation can corrupt the nationalistic spirit of sports. Thus, political interference challenges the nationalistic contribution of sports.

VII. Opposing View 3: Social and Economic Disparities

Topic Sentence: Social and economic disparities hinder the nationalistic impact of sports.
Example 1: Brazil’s protests during the 2019 Copa America. Social unrest highlighted economic disparities, overshadowing national pride. Reuters
Example 2: South Africa’s unequal access to sports. Economic disparities limit sports participation and national unity. The Guardian
Example 3: India’s cricket infrastructure issues. Poor infrastructure in rural areas limits national unity through sports. BBC

Addressing social and economic disparities is essential for sports to unify nations. Therefore, disparities challenge the nationalistic impact of sports.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Sports significantly contribute to nationalistic fervour, but their impact is influenced by various factors.
Summary of Key Points: International success, government support, national events vs. commercialisation, political manipulation, social disparities.
Final Thought: For sports to fully realise their nationalistic potential, a balanced approach addressing these challenges is essential.

Raising a sport to international levels is the responsibility of the government. How far do you agree?

While governments play a crucial role in raising a sport to international levels by providing funding and infrastructure, private organisations and grassroots initiatives are equally essential for sustainable development and success.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Sport at the international level can be promoted by grassroot organisations.
  • Background: Overview of the roles played by various stakeholders in sports development.
  • Thesis Statement: Governments are important for raising sports to international levels, but private organisations and grassroots initiatives also play key roles.

II. Supporting View 1: Government Funding and Infrastructure

III. Supporting View 2: National Policies and Regulations

IV. Supporting View 3: International Representation and Promotion

V. Opposing View 1: Role of Private Organisations

VI. Opposing View 2: Importance of Grassroots Initiatives

VII. Opposing View 3: Contribution of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Governments are important for raising sports to international levels, but private organisations, grassroots initiatives, and NGOs also play key roles.
  • Summary of Key Points: Government funding, policies, promotion versus private investment, grassroots initiatives, NGO contributions.
  • Final Thought: A collaborative approach involving government, private sectors, and grassroots movements is essential for sustainable sports development.

How true is it that people who crave danger have nothing better to do with their lives?

While some people who crave danger may lack fulfilling alternatives, many seek thrill for personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits, challenging the notion that they have “nothing better to do.”

While some people who crave danger may lack fulfilling alternatives, many seek thrill for personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits, challenging the notion that they have “nothing better to do.”

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Those who crave danger are mindless and selfish.
  • Background: Overview of the reasons behind thrill-seeking behaviour.
  • Thesis Statement: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.

II. Supporting View 1: Lack of Purpose and Alternatives

  • Topic Sentence: Some crave danger as there might not be better alternatives.
  • Example 1: Urban exploration in abandoned buildings in the UK (2019-2021). Young people explore dangerous sites due to boredom and lack of opportunities (source: The Guardian, 2019).
  • Example 2: Illegal street racing in South Africa (2018-2021) as a thrill-seeking activity.
    • Context: Participants often lack access to structured motorsport opportunities (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 3: Cliff jumping in Greece (2017-2021) among unemployed youth.
    • Context: High unemployment rates drive young people to seek thrills (source: Reuters, 2018).
  • Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking fills a void created by lack of purpose or opportunities.

III. Supporting View 2: Personal Growth and Achievement

  • Topic Sentence: Some crave danger for thrill-seeking high. They feel that such danger is good for personal growth.
  • Example 1: Mountaineering in Nepal (2016-2021) as a personal challenge. Climbers aim to conquer Everest for personal accomplishment (source: The Guardian, 2019).
  • Example 2: Free solo climbing in Europe (2017-2021) by professional athletes. Athletes push their limits for achievement and recognition (source: BBC, 2018).
  • Example 3: Ultra-marathon running in the Sahara (2018-2021) for extreme endurance.
    • Context: Participants test their physical and mental limits (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Analysis: Personal growth and the pursuit of achievement drive many to seek dangerous activities.

IV. Supporting View 3: Mental Health Benefits

  • Topic Sentence: Some who crave danger and thrill opine that such adventure can provide significant mental health benefits.
  • Example 1: Skydiving in New Zealand (2016-2021) as therapy for PTSD. Veterans use extreme sports to cope with trauma (source: The Guardian, 2018).
  • Example 2: Bungee jumping in Switzerland (2017-2021) for adrenaline therapy. Participants report reduced anxiety and stress levels (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Example 3: Adventure racing in South Africa (2018-2021) for depression. Outdoor challenges improve mental health and well-being (source: Reuters, 2020).
  • Analysis: Thrill-seeking activities can offer therapeutic benefits and improve mental health.

V. Opposing View 1: Thrill-Seeking as a Distraction from Life’s Issues

  • Topic Sentence: Some use thrill-seeking as a distraction from personal problems.
  • Example 1: BASE jumping in Norway (2017-2021) as an escape.
  • Participants often seek relief from personal stresses (source: The Guardian, 2020).
  • Example 2: High-risk skateboarding in Spain (2018-2021) to avoid life pressures. Young people turn to extreme sports to cope with societal pressures (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Example 3: Parkour in France (2019-2021) to escape urban life challenges.
    • Context: Practitioners use parkour to navigate and escape urban stress (source: Reuters, 2020).
  • Analysis: For some, thrill-seeking serves as a means of escaping personal or societal issues.

VI. Opposing View 2: Thrill-Seeking Due to Societal Influence

  • Topic Sentence: Societal and cultural influences drive some people to seek danger.
  • Example 1: Extreme sports in Japan (2018-2021) influenced by media. Media glorification of extreme sports increases participation (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 2: Adventure tourism in Iceland (2017-2021) driven by social media. Social media trends encourage risky tourist behaviours (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Example 3: Dangerous stunts in Russia (2019-2021) inspired by online challenges. Viral internet challenges push people towards risky activities (source: The Guardian, 2021).
  • Analysis: Societal and cultural pressures can significantly influence thrill-seeking behaviour.

VII. Opposing View 3: Controlled Risk-Taking as Part of Professional Pursuits

  • Topic Sentence: For some, thrill-seeking is an integral part of their personal and professional pursuits.
  • Example 1: Professional stunt performers in the UK (2016-2021). Thrill-seeking is part of their job and skill set (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Example 2: Scientific research expeditions in Antarctica (2017-2021). Researchers face extreme conditions for scientific discovery (source: Reuters, 2020).
  • Example 3: Wildlife photographers in Africa (2018-2021). Documenting wildlife requires facing dangerous environments (source: The Guardian, 2021).
  • Analysis: For professionals, thrill-seeking is often a necessary and calculated part of their careers.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Craving danger is not necessarily due to a lack of better alternatives; it can be motivated by personal growth, achievement, and mental health benefits.
  • Summary of Key Points: Lack of purpose, personal growth, mental health versus distraction, societal influence, professional pursuits.
  • Final Thought: Understanding the diverse motivations behind thrill-seeking can help address misconceptions and provide better support for those engaged in such activities.

Sport is human life in miniature. Discuss.

Sports enthusiasts opine that sports reflects life. Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Sport reflects many elements of human life.
  • Background: Brief overview of sport’s role in society and its symbolic nature.
  • Thesis Statement: Sport encapsulates many aspects of human life, including competition, teamwork, and personal growth, but it can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.

II. Supporting View 1: Competition and Struggle

  • Topic Sentence: Sport mirrors the competition and struggle present in human life.
  • Example 1: In the Premier League, teams compete fiercely for the title, reflecting life’s competitive nature.
  • Example 2: The Tour de France requires immense endurance, similar to overcoming life’s challenges.
  • Example 3: In Japan, sumo wrestling showcases the dedication and effort needed to achieve success.
  • Analysis: These examples show how sport reflects life’s competitive and challenging aspects.

III. Supporting View 2: Teamwork and Cooperation

  • Topic Sentence: Sport emphasises the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
  • Example 1: In Spain, FC Barcelona’s “tiki-taka” style relies on teamwork and coordination.
  • Example 2: New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team exemplifies unity and collective effort.
  • Example 3: In Germany, Bayern Munich’s success is attributed to strong team dynamics.
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate how sport mirrors the collaborative efforts required in life.

IV. Opposing View 1: Oversimplification of Life

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can oversimplify the complexities of human life.
  • Example 1: The intense focus on winning in Indian cricket oversimplifies the nuances of success.
  • Example 2: In Brazilian football, the hero-worship of players ignores the broader societal issues.
  • Example 3: In Russia, the emphasis on athletic achievement overlooks personal and emotional development.
  • Analysis: These examples highlight how sport can reduce life’s complexities to mere competition.

V. Opposing View 2: Distortion of Values

  • Topic Sentence: Sport can distort important values and priorities.
  • Example 1: In Italian football, corruption scandals undermine the integrity of the sport.
  • Example 2: The obsession with winning in Chinese gymnastics leads to unethical training practices.
  • Example 3: In Kenyan athletics, doping scandals distort the true spirit of competition.
  • Analysis: These examples demonstrate how sport can sometimes lead to unethical behaviour and distorted values.

VI. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Sport reflects many aspects of human life, such as competition and teamwork, but can also oversimplify and distort life’s complexities.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
  • Final Thought: Sport is a valuable microcosm of life, but it should be viewed critically to understand its limitations.

Countries with poor human rights records should not be allowed to host international sporting events. Discuss.

Possible points for allowing countries with poor human rights records to host sporting events.

  • consider why certain countries are deemed to violate human rights
  • evaluate the importance of hosting international sporting events in a range of countries
  • make a judgement, based on consideration of the evidence and argument put forward about allowing countries with poor human rights records to host sporting events.
  • hosting these events being profitable and creating employment for all kinds of people
  • the possible endorsement of morally questionable actions by nations and governing bodies
  • those countries which feel their status is reflected in sporting achievement
  • events being unjustifiable when citizens lack rights or live in extreme poverty
  • there being a strong case for excluding countries which tolerate forms of cheating
  • those countries which make positive changes in order to be internationally acceptable
  • contact with sportspeople and spectators having a positive impact on the home population
  • human rights being a contestable issue for a variety of social and cultural reasons.

Evaluate the extent to which sport and leisure should be priorities for your country

Keywords: ‘Evaluate the extent’ and ‘sport and leisure’ and ‘priorities’ and ‘your’.
• Improve the health of the nation
• Constructive use of free time
• Encourage better self-image (e.g. reduce obesity)
• Participate in prestigious world events (e.g. Olympics/World Cup/Youth Olympic Games)
• Promote interest in outside work
• Escapism
• Reduce stress/depression
• Social/family benefits
• There are other financial priorities (education/economic/health/welfare)
• Basic survival
• Could just cater for a minority
• Too obsessed with winning (e.g. China/Russia)