FTCE Physical Education K-12 Practice Test

Which group of students may struggle more with competitive situations?

1. Older, more experienced students

2. Younger, less skilled students

3. All students, regardless of age

4. Highly skilled athletes

The correct answer is: Younger, less skilled students

Younger, less skilled students are often those who may struggle more in competitive situations. This can be attributed to several factors, including limited experience in handling the pressure and dynamics of competition. At a young age, students are still developing their skills and understanding of games, which can lead to feelings of frustration or anxiety during competitive activities. Moreover, because they may lack confidence in their abilities compared to older or more experienced peers, younger or less skilled students can feel overwhelmed in competitive environments. Their focus might often be on simply learning the fundamentals of the sport rather than excelling in a competitive context, which can further impact their performance and enjoyment. In contrast, older, more experienced students and highly skilled athletes often have developed strategies to cope with competitive situations and may view competition as an opportunity to showcase their skills.