GRADE 8 CREATIVE ARTS AND SPORTS – ATHLETICS Quiz
1. Which of the following is an example of a middle-distance running event?
Middle-distance races typically range from 800m to 1500m; 800 metres is the standard middle-distance event.
2. What does a false start mean in track sprint races?
A false start occurs when an athlete leaves the blocks before the official starting signal (the gun) is fired.
3. In a 4x100 metres relay, where must the baton be passed between teammates?
Rules require the baton to be passed within the marked exchange zone; passing outside leads to disqualification.
4. Which athletics event requires clearing a crossbar after taking off from a curved runway?
The high jump involves running on a curved approach and jumping to clear a crossbar set at height.
5. What is the main purpose of a warm-up before athletics training or competition?
Warm-ups raise muscle temperature and blood flow, improving performance and reducing injury risk.
6. What is the typical surface used for modern outdoor athletics tracks?
Most modern tracks use a synthetic (tartan) surface that offers good traction and shock absorption for athletes.
7. In long jump, how is the distance of a jump measured?
Jump distance is measured from the front edge of the take-off board to the closest landing impression in the sand.
8. Which throwing event uses a heavy metal ball placed near the neck and pushed forward?
The shot put involves putting (pushing) a heavy metal sphere from the shoulder area to achieve distance.
9. Which Kenyan athlete is world-famous for marathon and distance running achievements?
Eliud Kipchoge is a famous Kenyan long-distance runner and marathon world record performer.
10. How many athletes make up a standard relay team in the 4x100m event?
A 4x100m relay team consists of four athletes, each running 100 metres and passing the baton to the next runner.
11. What feature distinguishes the steeplechase from other track races?
Steeplechase includes fixed barriers and a water pit that runners must clear during the race.
12. Which starter command is given immediately before the gun is fired in sprint races?
The usual sequence is 'On your marks', then 'Set', and the gun is fired immediately after 'Set' in sprint starts.
13. Why is pacing important in a 1500m race?
Good pacing helps athletes conserve energy and finish strongly rather than tiring early from a too-fast start.
14. What do long jumpers use at take-off to help prevent a foul?
The take-off board marks the legal take-off line; if the athlete takes off beyond it (a foul), the jump is invalid.
15. Which high jump technique involves going over the bar back-first?
The Fosbury Flop is the modern high jump technique where the jumper goes over the bar back-first for better clearance.
16. In shot put competition, which action can lead to a foul throw?
Athletes must remain in the throwing circle until the shot has landed; leaving early results in a foul.
17. Which safety rule should athletes follow when practicing javelin throw?
Javelin safety requires clear landing area and that athletes wait for a signal before retrieving to avoid accidents.
18. How many laps of a 400m standard track equal an 800m race?
An 800m race covers two full laps of a standard 400m athletics track.
19. What does the abbreviation 'PB' commonly stand for in athletics?
'PB' means Personal Best, the best performance an athlete has ever achieved in an event.
20. Which nutrient is most important for muscle repair after athletics training?
Protein provides amino acids needed to repair and build muscle tissue after training.
21. If a baton is dropped during a relay, what should happen according to the rules?
If the baton is dropped, the team may continue; the athlete who dropped it should pick it up, provided it does not impede other runners.
22. What device is commonly used by a starter to begin official track races?
Starters use a pistol or an electronic starting system to give a clear, consistent signal for the race start.
23. Which type of training is most effective for improving sprint speed?
Sprint intervals and specific speed drills develop power, technique and fast-twitch muscle fibres needed for sprinting.
24. Which statement best describes good sportsmanship in athletics?
Good sportsmanship means treating competitors and officials with respect, following rules, and encouraging fair play.
25. Why is proper hydration important for athletes before a competition?
Staying hydrated keeps the body functioning well, helps regulate temperature and reduces the risk of muscle cramps and fatigue.