L1.6 Face Your Fears

In sports, what does it mean to “choke”?

• to quit a sport and play another

• failure to perform well during a key moment

• to eat while running and have trouble breathing

• failure to report an injury when it occurs

According to Laura Wilkinson, what contributed to her success at diving?

• her ability to push her fears aside

• her good luck charm in her pocket

• her ability to be grateful for her talents

• her pre-diving meditations

What was the source of Laura Wilkinson’s fear at her first international meet?

• a list of her competitors

• a cloudy day with a chance of rain

• the chance of not waking up in time

• the idea that she might embarrass herself

According to the article, what is the BEST way to avoid chocking during a competition?

• to forget about winning and just have fun

• to concentrate on the process and not the fear

• to speak with a friend before competing

• to make a list of goals to meet

Why did Barb Lindquist choke during her swim meet?

• She had a slow start.

• Her goggles broke.

• She got distracted when the announcer listed the accomplishments of her competitors.

• She got distracted when the competitor on her left passed her during the second lap.

How did Libbie Hickman avoid choking during her track meet?

• She concentrated on the task at hand.

• She silently counted to ten.

• She imagined the audience in Halloween costumes.

• She stopped for a moment to become focused.

What does “it’s just a game” mean?

• Don’t take it so seriously.

• Practice every day.

• Remember to be grateful.

• Be a good sport.

“Those who choke tend to dwell on the outcome (what will happen if I don’t win?) and its potentially unpleasant consequences.” What are “consequences”?

• disappointments

• defeats

• results

• concerns

Based on the article, how do you suppose the author feels about competition?

• It's healthy.

• It should be avoided at all costs.

• It's not necessary.

• It forces the losers to feel bad.

What is the genre?

• fiction writing

• diary entry

• non-fiction writing

• drama