Unit 31 Positive evaluation, exercise 1
Read text A below, an extract from a textbook. Decide which student summary is most accurate.
a The author describes visualization as an effective method for achieving success. As athletes visualize, they create a detailed mental image of themselves succeeding. This helps to create a 'mental map' which they can then follow when actually competing.
b According to the author, athletes who visualize are more successful. Visualization is the process where athletes imagine themselves performing an action in detail, and then use this model when they compete.
Achieving a goal, or being successful in something that you do, has many benefits. Research shows that the positive feelings created by success can have important mental and physical effects. For athletes, success means the difference between winning and losing. There are a number of different ways that they can try to increase their chances of performing well.
Visualization, also known as 'imaging', is an effective method for athletes to prepare for performing a physical activity. As they do this, they create an accurate picture in their mind of themselves achieving success. This could be imagining themselves running a race in precise detail – thinking about the physical and external circumstances. Psychologists believe that visualization establishes neural pathways in the brain that act as a model to be followed in an actual performance. By creating a convincing version of success in their head, the athlete is more likely to achieve this on the sports field.