GCSE PE Paper 2 Sports Psychology: Skills and Abilities
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24 Dec 2025
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GCSE PE Paper Two - Sports Psychology Mind Map PDF - Skills & Abilities - PE Paper 2 Revision
Matthew Johnson
@matthewjohnson_hdqd
Sports Psychology - Skill and Ability
This page provides an in-depth overview of skills and abilities in sports psychology, crucial for GCSE PE Paper 1 revision. It covers various classifications of skills and their definitions, which are essential for understanding sports performance.
Definition of Ability
Abilities are inherent traits that determine an individual's potential to learn or acquire skills.
Definition: Abilities are inherited or genetic traits that remain stable and determine an individual's potential to learn or acquire skills.
Definition of Skill
Definition: A skill is a learned action or behaviour intended to achieve predetermined results with maximum certainty and minimum expenditure of time and energy.
Open and Closed Skills
Open Skills
Open skills are performed in response to changing or unstable environments.
Characteristics:
- Performed in unstable environments
- Success affected by other people
- Externally paced
- Performers may adapt the skill based on the environment
Example: White water rafting, skiing, and rugby are examples of open skills in sports.
Closed Skills
Closed skills are not affected by the environment or other performers.
Characteristics:
- Performed in stable environments
- Not affected by others
- Performed consistently
- Self-paced
Example: Somersault and javelin throw are examples of closed skills in GCSE PE.
Self-Paced and Externally Paced Skills
Self-Paced Skills
Self-paced skills are initiated and controlled by the performer.
Characteristics:
- Started when the performer decides
- Speed, rate, and pace controlled by the performer
Example: Long jump and distance running are self-paced skills, where the athlete controls the start and pace.
Externally Paced Skills
Externally paced skills are initiated and controlled by external factors.
Characteristics:
- Started due to external factors
- Speed, rate, and pace controlled by external factors
Example: Receiving a tennis serve or marking a player in team sports are externally paced skills.
Basic and Complex Skills
Basic Skills
Basic skills involve few decisions and are typically learned quickly.
Characteristics:
- Few decisions affecting success
- Taught to beginners
- Learned relatively quickly
Example: Walking and jumping are basic skills in sports.
Complex Skills
Complex skills require multiple decisions for successful execution and take longer to master.
Characteristics:
- Complex decision-making process
- Taught after mastering basic skills
- Require considerable time to master
Example: The high jump is a complex skill in athletics.
Gross and Fine Skills
Gross Skills
Gross skills involve large movements and major muscle groups.
Characteristics:
- Use larger muscle groups
- Do not rely heavily on accuracy
Example: Running, swimming, throwing a javelin, and kicking a ball are gross skills in various sports.
Fine Skills
Fine skills involve small, precise movements and smaller muscle groups.
Characteristics:
- Use small muscle groups
- Involve precision and accuracy
Example: Archery, darts, snooker, and table tennis blocks are fine skills requiring high precision.
Highlight: Understanding these skill classifications is crucial for GCSE PE Worksheets and exams, as they form the foundation of sports psychology and performance analysis.
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Anna
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Thomas R
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Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
GCSE PE Paper Two - Sports Psychology Mind Map PDF - Skills & Abilities - PE Paper 2 Revision
Matthew Johnson
@matthewjohnson_hdqd
GCSE PE Paper 2 Sports Psychology: Skills and Abilities
This comprehensive guide covers key concepts in sports psychology for GCSE PE, focusing on skills and abilities. It explores various classifications of skills, including open and closed skills, self-paced and externally... Show more
Sports Psychology - Skill and Ability
This page provides an in-depth overview of skills and abilities in sports psychology, crucial for GCSE PE Paper 1 revision. It covers various classifications of skills and their definitions, which are essential for understanding sports performance.
Definition of Ability
Abilities are inherent traits that determine an individual's potential to learn or acquire skills.
Definition: Abilities are inherited or genetic traits that remain stable and determine an individual's potential to learn or acquire skills.
Definition of Skill
Definition: A skill is a learned action or behaviour intended to achieve predetermined results with maximum certainty and minimum expenditure of time and energy.
Open and Closed Skills
Open Skills
Open skills are performed in response to changing or unstable environments.
Characteristics:
- Performed in unstable environments
- Success affected by other people
- Externally paced
- Performers may adapt the skill based on the environment
Example: White water rafting, skiing, and rugby are examples of open skills in sports.
Closed Skills
Closed skills are not affected by the environment or other performers.
Characteristics:
- Performed in stable environments
- Not affected by others
- Performed consistently
- Self-paced
Example: Somersault and javelin throw are examples of closed skills in GCSE PE.
Self-Paced and Externally Paced Skills
Self-Paced Skills
Self-paced skills are initiated and controlled by the performer.
Characteristics:
- Started when the performer decides
- Speed, rate, and pace controlled by the performer
Example: Long jump and distance running are self-paced skills, where the athlete controls the start and pace.
Externally Paced Skills
Externally paced skills are initiated and controlled by external factors.
Characteristics:
- Started due to external factors
- Speed, rate, and pace controlled by external factors
Example: Receiving a tennis serve or marking a player in team sports are externally paced skills.
Basic and Complex Skills
Basic Skills
Basic skills involve few decisions and are typically learned quickly.
Characteristics:
- Few decisions affecting success
- Taught to beginners
- Learned relatively quickly
Example: Walking and jumping are basic skills in sports.
Complex Skills
Complex skills require multiple decisions for successful execution and take longer to master.
Characteristics:
- Complex decision-making process
- Taught after mastering basic skills
- Require considerable time to master
Example: The high jump is a complex skill in athletics.
Gross and Fine Skills
Gross Skills
Gross skills involve large movements and major muscle groups.
Characteristics:
- Use larger muscle groups
- Do not rely heavily on accuracy
Example: Running, swimming, throwing a javelin, and kicking a ball are gross skills in various sports.
Fine Skills
Fine skills involve small, precise movements and smaller muscle groups.
Characteristics:
- Use small muscle groups
- Involve precision and accuracy
Example: Archery, darts, snooker, and table tennis blocks are fine skills requiring high precision.
Highlight: Understanding these skill classifications is crucial for GCSE PE Worksheets and exams, as they form the foundation of sports psychology and performance analysis.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
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Is Knowunity really free of charge?
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user