Sample Answer SPM 2009 (Paper 1: Section A)

To Date Title

: Dr. Hajah Rosnanaini Sulaiman, Principal, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Malim : 12 April 2010 : Reasons for the Lack of Interest in Sports among Students.

A survey was recently conducted among 100 students in SMK Malim. The purpose of the survey is to identify reasons for the lack of interest in sports among students in the school. The results of the survey show that there are three main reasons for the lack of interest shown. The first reason is the students attitude towards sports. They do not think participating in sports is important. They stated that sports are merely extra-curricular activities which they are required to take. Some students also said that they do not have time to take part in sports. Most of them are busy after school with club or society meetings or tuition classes. The second reason lies with the parents. The students surveyed said that their parents placed more emphasis on academic performance. Their parents also do not encourage them to participate in sports because they want them to concentrate on their studies. Any free time they have is filled with tuition classes or extra classes. The third reason the students gave is related to sports facilities and equipment. First, there is not enough equipment for everyone. Students have to take turns to use the racquets or hockey sticks which waste a lot of their time. Many get bored waiting while some lose interest and eventually do not attend practice at all. Second, students stated that the field and courts were not maintained well. They could not practise well or enjoy themselves. The problems identified through the survey can be overcome with the following suggestions. First, teachers could talk to their students about the benefits of getting involved in sports such as keeping the mind and body fit and healthy besides learning essential values such as teamwork. Teachers should also talk to parents to help them understand the importance of sports in helping to create well-rounded students. Second, the school could allocate more funds to help improve the facilities and buy more equipment so everyone can have the opportunity to participate. It will also be a good idea to employ qualified trainers or coaches to help students learn and enjoy each game better. Third, the school could organise more competitions to get students interested in participating in sports. Competitions are always fun so this would be a good way to encourage students to take an interest in sports. In addition, the school could also offer attractive prizes to encourage participation and reward students for their performances. The suggestions will help to create interest and encourage student participation in sports.

Prepared by: Iskandar Zulkarnain Ahmad.