CXC English A exam: Past paper type summary writing question 16
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Here is another CXC past paper type summary writing question. This is the type of question that appears in SECTION A of the CXC CSEC English A exam SECTION A (Suggested time: 35 minutes) You MUST answer the question in this section |
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Read the following extract carefully and then write a summary of it in not more than 120 words. Your summary must be in continuous prose and in paragraph form. Only the first 120 words of your answer will be read and assessed. |
| The Caribbean is well known around the world for its prowess in sports such as cricket, athletics, boxing, football and netball. During the last decade much attention has been given in some small countries to coaching, administration, sponsorship and physical preparation. Good as this is, it is not enough. Physical training is essential for success in sports, but the very best results can only come through a combination of professional training and good nutrition. In the Caribbean, unfortunately, very little planning has gone into nutritional aspects of the athlete's preparation before, during and after sports events.
The athlete needs to recognise that performance during the competitive season is strongly related to nutritional status outside of the competitive season. Although there are necessary changes in the quantity and quality of diet during competition, the overall approach should be in keeping with basic dietary guidelines for healthy eating. Nowhere is the need for proper nutrition more evident than in sports. The ability to succeed in sports requires good health based on a diet that provides all the essential nutrients in the correct amounts over a period of time. Many of our athletes often ignore the most vital parts of the diet - food containing vitamins and minerals that provide stamina and endurance - in favour of fast foods that lack nutrients. Will the average balanced diet that brings health benefits in the presence of normal physical activity also be adequate for people engaged in increased physical activity and competitive sport? Many athletes do not think so and they are therefore exposed to, and are tempted by, numerous fads and diets which they expect to improve their performance. The pressure to use performance enhancing drugs is increasing dramatically because of the lure of lucrative prizes, contracts and product endorsements. This has tempted sports persons, particularly in athletics, to engage in illegal practices. But drug use not only negates the spirit of human competition, it can be hazardous to health. We should never forget that there is life after retirement from the sport, and most importantly, we should give the public and fans the proof that our heroes are in fact drug free and worthy role models. |
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Fitzroy J. Henry, "Sports and Nutrition: Twins for Success " |
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(Total 30 marks)
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