← Sports Science syllabus

SingaporeSports Science

Sports Psychology

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What is aggression in sport, how does it differ from assertion, and how can it be managed?

Distinguish aggression from assertion in sport and describe strategies a performer can use to control aggression
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on aggression. The difference between aggression and assertion, the causes of aggression, and strategies to control it in competition.
8 min answer →

How does arousal affect performance, and how can an athlete manage anxiety to perform at their best?

Explain the relationship between arousal and performance and describe techniques to control anxiety
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on arousal. The inverted-U relationship between arousal and performance, types of anxiety, and stress-management techniques athletes use.
8 min answer →

How does setting goals improve performance, and what makes a goal effective?

Explain the benefits of goal setting and apply the SMART principles to write effective sporting goals
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on goal setting. The benefits of goals, outcome versus process goals, and applying the SMART principles to write effective sporting goals.
8 min answer →

What drives an athlete to train and compete, and how can intrinsic and extrinsic motivation be used well?

Explain intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and describe how each can be used to improve sporting performance
A focused answer to the O-Level ESS outcome on motivation. Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, their effects on performance, and how a coach uses each without undermining the other.
8 min answer →