In Biology of Speed II, students examine the different types of speed that are important in sports performance and investigate suggestions for improving reaction time speed and movement time speed. The role of the nervous system is covered in more detail; for example, the time it takes for the brain to process information, plan a movement and initiate a response. Students will explore factos that can influence response speed, such as the number and type of stimuli. An examination of the musculoskeletal system emphasises the recruitment of muscle fibres, the relationship between running speed and fibre type, and training adaptations.
In the extension section, concepts such as the nervous system’s control over movement are expanded upon. Reasons why fast-twitch fibres and slow-twitch fibres respond at different speeds are provided. The complexity of processing high levels of stimuli is demonstrated using Hick’s Law. Differences in sensory time for auditory versus visual signals are discussed in relation to decision-making time.
Topics Covered:
1. Speed and performance · Speed and sport · Reaction speed and movement speed and ways to improve them · The biology of speed · Biology of the nervous system · The speed of response time · Musculoskeletal system and speed
2. Speed control · The brain and musculoskeletal control · Hick's Law and decision making
Included on the CD are three computer-based interactive learning tools along with a PowerPoint presentation and an e-book (56 pages) containing:
· Ready-to-use worksheets · Practical activities · Laboratory-style investigations · Factual information · Questions and answers
2. The following sample allows you to review a flash (swf) version of the PowerPoint presentation for this unit. You can click on thumbnails (or the timeline) to scroll through the presentation and clicking the notes tab will display a particular slide's notes. Use the view control (bottom right corner) to flip between views...
Software Tools - Further Details...
Biology of Speed II includes three interactive, computer-based learning tools.
Learning Tool 1 explores response time through simulating the start of a 100 m sprint race. It allows students to: · complete simple response time (SRT) tests - the time to respond to one choice · complete choice response time (CRT) tests - the time to respond to 2, 3 or 4 choices.
Learning Tool 2 examines running speed. This tool allows students to predict running speed, based on aerobic fitness (VO2max), percent of muscle fibre type and running efficiency. Students can manipulate the following variables: · VO2max (aerobic fitness) · % VO2max (anaerobic threshold) · running efficiency · % fast-twitch fibres (from 10-90%) · distance (from 1-10 km)
Learning Tool 3 highlights muscle fibre recruitment as muscle force progressively increases. Running the simulation allows students to see: · the link between an increase in running speed and the frequency of action potentials from the brain · the relationship between movement speed and muscle force · the relationship between frequency of action potentials and muscle force · the recruitment of muscle fibre type with an increase in frequency of action potentials · the percentage of total force generated from the different muscle fibre types at different running speeds.
Testimonials on SKA's Science Through Sport
Please make sure that you read both pages.
Interactive Sports Science - Advert Download
To download a detailed advert showing screenshots of the complete range of learning tools and associated worksheets just right click over the 'PDF' icon and select 'Save Target As'. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print the advert. A printout gives a better representation of the samples than viewing on screen.
N.B. To download Acrobat Reader select 'Support' from the Homepage Menu.
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