Mental Rehearsal, Imagery and Visualisation in Sport - Worksheets, Questions and Revision

28 original exam-style questions - 6 pages of questions with a full mark scheme - free printable PDF.

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This topic is chapter 9 of GCSE Physical Education: Sport psychology Practice Book.

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Concentration, Selective Attention and Positive Self-Talk

4.9 Mental Rehearsal, Imagery and Visualisation in Sport

AQA 8582 · Calculators not allowed · about 55 minutes

Total Marks

Name: _______________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ______

Answer in full sentences for questions worth 3 marks or more. Allow 25 minutes for the full pack.

Tick one box to identify the example that best shows a swimmer using INTERNAL imagery.

A) A swimmer imagines diving off the blocks and feeling the water rush past their own body, as if actually swimming
B) A swimmer pictures footage of themselves swimming, as if watching a video from the poolside
C) A swimmer imagines a teammate performing a perfect dive
D) A swimmer reads their coach's written feedback notes before the race

(Total for Question 1 is 1 mark)

Define internal imagery in the context of a gymnast mentally preparing for a floor routine.

(Total for Question 2 is 1 mark)

State two different points in a performance at which an athlete might use mental rehearsal or imagery, other than only immediately before the event begins.

(Total for Question 3 is 2 marks)

Name one sensory modality besides visual imagery that performers might include when mentally rehearsing a gymnastics routine.

(Total for Question 4 is 1 mark)

A badminton player is recovering from a wrist injury and cannot train physically for several weeks. Describe how the player could use mental rehearsal during this time to help maintain their mental readiness to return.

(Total for Question 5 is 2 marks)

Define what is meant by 'kinaesthetic imagery' as it might be used by a gymnast preparing for a floor routine.

(Total for Question 6 is 1 mark)

Give one example of a sporting situation, other than immediately before competing, in which a substitute waiting to enter play might benefit from using imagery.

(Total for Question 7 is 1 mark)

State two differences between internal and external imagery, using a named sporting example in the prompt to set context: a diver preparing for a dive.

(Total for Question 8 is 2 marks)

Describe one advantage of a footballer using internal imagery before taking a penalty kick.

(Total for Question 9 is 1 mark)

Describe one advantage of a gymnast using external imagery to review a routine during a competition break.

(Total for Question 10 is 1 mark)

A high jumper uses imagery in the warm-up before a meet. State two specific things the athlete could rehearse using internal imagery to improve performance.

(Total for Question 11 is 2 marks)

A tennis player uses imagery after a point to reflect on a mistake. State two short-term benefits of using imagery in this way during a match.

(Total for Question 12 is 2 marks)

Evaluate the effectiveness of mental rehearsal and imagery for a performer preparing for an important competition, using a named sporting example such as a gymnast preparing for a national final. Make a clear judgement and support it with reasons and evidence.

(Total for Question 13 is 6 marks)

A penalty taker occasionally finds themselves accidentally picturing the ball missing the target rather than scoring. Explain why it is important that a performer can CONTROL the content of their imagery.

(Total for Question 14 is 2 marks)

State one limitation of using mental rehearsal and imagery as a mental preparation technique.

(Total for Question 15 is 1 mark)

Explain one way a swimming coach could support a nervous young swimmer in using mental rehearsal effectively before their first big gala.

(Total for Question 16 is 2 marks)

A tennis player uses imagery to prepare for an opponent they have played, and beaten, before. Explain one tactical benefit of using imagery in this way.

(Total for Question 17 is 2 marks)

Explain three specific benefits a footballer recovering from a serious knee injury could gain from using mental rehearsal regularly during a long rehabilitation programme.

(Total for Question 18 is 3 marks)

A coach wants a performer to combine imagery with physical practice of a brand new skill during a training session, rather than relying on imagery alone. Describe how the performer could do this.

(Total for Question 19 is 2 marks)

A netball shooter uses imagery before, during and after a tournament match.

Discuss how the shooter's use of mental rehearsal and imagery could differ before, during and after the match, applying at least one specific use to each of these three points in time, and reach a judgement about which is likely to be the most valuable use for this shooter.

(Total for Question 20 is 6 marks)

A high diver waits at the top of the board, visibly nervous, before a high-stakes competition dive. Describe how the diver could combine imagery with a set pre-performance routine to help manage their nerves.

(Total for Question 21 is 2 marks)

A hockey team practises a penalty corner routine involving several players with different roles. Describe how the whole team, not just one player, could use mental rehearsal to prepare for this set piece.

(Total for Question 22 is 2 marks)

State one reason a performer might combine using imagery with watching video footage of their own past performances.

(Total for Question 23 is 1 mark)

Explain three ways a basketball player could structure a brief mental rehearsal routine in the seconds immediately before taking a free throw.

(Total for Question 24 is 3 marks)

A footballer experiences anxiety before a penalty shootout. Explain two ways external imagery could help reduce anxiety and improve decision making for the penalty taker.

(Total for Question 25 is 2 marks)

Aerial skater Priya practices a new sequence of moves. Describe one way she could use imagery during practice sessions to speed up learning of the sequence.

(Total for Question 26 is 2 marks)

A diver called Kwame is about to perform an important dive and uses internal imagery immediately before his run-up. Explain three specific aspects Kwame should imagine to prepare physically and mentally for the dive.

(Total for Question 27 is 3 marks)

Compare how easily a beginner and an experienced, elite performer are likely to be able to create a detailed and accurate mental image of a complex skill.

(Total for Question 28 is 2 marks)

Mark scheme · 4.9 Mental Rehearsal, Imagery and Visualisation in Sport

Question 1

B1 A
Answer: A

Question 2

B1 seeing the skill from the performer's own point of view, oe
Answer: Internal imagery is picturing the routine from the gymnast's own eyes, as if they are experiencing the actions themselves.

Question 3

B1 during a break in play or between attempts, e.g. at a rest interval or between events in a multi-event competition, oe
B1 after the event/performance, to review or analyse what happened, oe
Answer: For example, during a break in play or between attempts, and after the event to review what happened.

Question 4

B1 kinesthetic or kinaesthetic (feeling of movement) or auditory or tactile
Answer: Kinesthetic (feeling of movement).

Question 5

B1 the player could mentally rehearse/imagine performing key shots and movements correctly, keeping the mental picture of the skill fresh while unable to physically practise, oe
B1 this can also help build confidence and reduce anxiety about returning to full training or competition after the injury, oe
Answer: The player could mentally rehearse key shots and movements to keep the mental picture of the skill fresh while unable to train physically, which can also help build confidence and reduce anxiety about returning after the injury.

Question 6

B1 imagining the feel/physical sensations of performing the movement in the muscles and body, rather than only seeing a picture of it, oe
Answer: Kinaesthetic imagery means imagining the feel of the movement in the muscles and body, rather than only seeing a picture of it.

Question 7

B1 e.g. while waiting on the bench or warming up, the substitute imagines their first touch, movement into position or a successful early action after entering play, oe
Answer: For example, while warming up on the touchline, the substitute could imagine their first touch and movement into position after entering play.

Question 8

B1 internal: seen from diver's own eyes, oe
B1 external: seen as if watching the diver from outside, oe
Answer: Internal imagery: the diver sees the dive from their own eye line; External imagery: the diver sees themselves from outside, like a spectator or coach.

Question 9

B1 increases focus by rehearsing the feeling and timing of the kick, oe
Answer: It increases focus by allowing the player to rehearse the feeling and timing of the kick from their own perspective.

Question 10

B1 helps spot form or alignment errors by viewing performance from outside, oe
Answer: External imagery helps the gymnast spot form or alignment errors by mentally viewing the routine from outside.

Question 11

B1 rehearse the run-up rhythm and stride pattern from their own viewpoint, oe
B1 rehearse the take-off timing and body position at the bar from their own eyes, oe
Answer: For example, rehearsing the run-up rhythm and stride pattern from their own viewpoint, and rehearsing the take-off timing and body position at the bar from their own eyes.

Question 12

B1 helps quickly identify and correct technical errors, oe
B1 helps regain focus and reduce rumination about the mistake, oe
Answer: It helps the player quickly identify and correct technical errors, and helps them regain focus and reduce rumination about the mistake.

Question 13

Level 3 (5-6): A balanced and well developed evaluation, using a named sporting example, that explains multiple benefits and limitations of imagery, links each point to performance outcomes, and reaches a clear, supported judgement.
Level 2 (3-4): A clear discussion with some developed points about benefits and limitations and an overall judgement, but may lack full depth or example linkage.
Level 1 (1-2): A limited response that states a few relevant points about imagery with little development or application to the named example.
Indicative content:
- Benefits: imagery can build confidence by repeatedly picturing successful execution, reducing pre-competition anxiety for a gymnast.
- Benefits: imagery rehearses timing, spatial awareness and kinaesthetic feel when physical practice is limited, conserving energy and sharpening mental preparation.
- Limitations: imagery does not provide the same kinaesthetic feedback as physical practice, so technical errors may persist unless combined with physical rehearsal.
- Limitations: poorly guided imagery or vivid focus on failure could increase anxiety; the performer needs correct content for imagery to be effective.
- Application: a gymnast could use internal imagery to feel rotations and landings and external imagery to review form, but must also do physical run-throughs to check muscle conditioning and safety.
- Judgement: a reasoned conclusion might state that imagery is an effective complementary tool that enhances focus and confidence when used alongside physical practice, but is unlikely to replace the need for physical rehearsal entirely.

Question 14

B1 if a performer cannot control their imagery, they may picture the skill going wrong (e.g. missing the target) rather than succeeding, oe
B1 rehearsing a mistake in the mind can reduce confidence and increase the chance of actually making that mistake, so controllable, positive imagery is needed for the technique to help rather than harm performance, oe
Answer: If a performer cannot control their imagery they may picture the skill going wrong rather than succeeding, and rehearsing a mistake in the mind can reduce confidence and increase the chance of actually making it, so controllable, positive imagery is needed for the technique to help rather than harm performance.

Question 15

B1 e.g. some performers find it difficult to create clear/vivid mental images, or it takes practice to use effectively, or it cannot fully replace physical practice of a skill, oe (any one valid limitation)
Answer: Some performers find it difficult to create clear, vivid mental images, and it cannot fully replace actual physical practice of the skill.

Question 16

B1 the coach could talk the swimmer through a positive, successful mental image of the race in detail, e.g. describing the start, stroke technique and finish, oe
B1 this can help the swimmer build a clearer, more controlled and more confident picture than they might create alone, oe
Answer: The coach could talk the swimmer through a positive, detailed mental image of the race, describing the start, technique and finish, helping the swimmer build a clearer, more controlled and confident picture than they might create alone.

Question 17

B1 the player can mentally rehearse specific tactics or shots that worked well against this opponent before, or picture how to respond to the opponent's known strengths, oe
B1 this can help the player feel more prepared and confident about their game plan going into the match, oe
Answer: The player can mentally rehearse specific tactics that worked well against this opponent before, which can help them feel more prepared and confident about their game plan going into the match.

Question 18

B1 maintains the mental picture/memory of key movements and skills while the player is unable to train physically, oe
B1 helps reduce anxiety about re-injury when eventually returning to full training or matches, oe
B1 helps maintain focus and motivation during what can be a long, frustrating rehabilitation period, oe
Answer: Mental rehearsal maintains the mental picture of key skills while the player cannot train physically, helps reduce anxiety about re-injury on returning, and helps maintain focus and motivation through a long, frustrating rehabilitation period.

Question 19

B1 the performer could mentally rehearse the skill immediately before attempting it physically, e.g. picturing the correct technique just before each physical repetition, oe
B1 this can help reinforce correct technique in the mind alongside the physical repetitions, potentially speeding up learning of the new skill, oe
Answer: The performer could mentally rehearse the correct technique immediately before each physical repetition, reinforcing it in the mind alongside the physical practice and potentially speeding up learning of the new skill.

Question 20

Level 3 (5-6): A well-developed discussion that applies at least one clear, accurate use of imagery to each of before, during and after the match for the named shooter, and reaches a well-justified judgement about which use is most valuable, supported by reasoning.
Level 2 (3-4): Some accurate application of imagery to at least two of the three time points, with a judgement offered but only partly justified.
Level 1 (1-2): Basic or generic statements about mental rehearsal with little application to the specific timing of before, during or after the match, and no clear judgement.
Level 0 (0): No relevant content.
Indicative content:
- Before the match: the shooter could use internal imagery to mentally rehearse taking and scoring shots from typical positions, building confidence and a controlled, vivid mental picture of successful performance before play begins.
- During the match: at a break in play, such as a timeout or between quarters, the shooter could briefly use imagery to mentally reset after a missed shot, picturing the correct technique for the next attempt rather than dwelling on the miss.
- After the match: the shooter could review the game by mentally replaying key moments, picturing what could be done differently in similar situations next time, using imagery as reflection rather than preparation.
- A shooter's imagery content should reflect the specific, repeated skill of shooting under pressure at goal, so vividness and controllability of the image (seeing and feeling a successful shot rather than a missed one) matter at every time point.
- A balanced judgement might argue the before-match use is most valuable, since it sets up confidence and readiness for the whole game, or alternatively that the during-match use is most valuable, since it can immediately repair confidence after a specific mistake when it matters most.
- Overall, using imagery at all three points gives the shooter a more complete mental preparation and recovery routine than relying on only one point in time.

Question 21

B1 the diver could use the same short mental image of a successful dive as part of a fixed routine performed every time before diving, oe
B1 repeating this familiar, controlled routine can help lower nervousness by giving the diver something practised and predictable to focus on rather than the pressure of the situation, oe
Answer: The diver could use the same short, successful mental image as part of a fixed pre-dive routine every time, which can help lower nervousness by giving them something practised and predictable to focus on rather than the pressure of the situation.

Question 22

B1 each player could mentally rehearse their own specific role and movement within the routine, e.g. the injector, the stopper or the striker picturing their own part, oe
B1 if every player pictures the routine working correctly and in the right sequence, this can help the whole team feel more coordinated and confident when they perform it for real, oe
Answer: Each player could mentally rehearse their own specific role in the routine, and if every player pictures the sequence working correctly, this can help the whole team feel more coordinated and confident when performing it for real.

Question 23

B1 watching real footage can help the performer create a more accurate and vivid mental image of their own correct technique to then rehearse, oe
Answer: Watching real footage of their own correct technique can help the performer build a more accurate and vivid mental image to then rehearse.

Question 24

B1 picture the ball leaving the hand with correct technique and following the same flight path every time, oe
B1 picture/hear the ball going through the net (a successful, vivid outcome), oe
B1 keep the same brief routine every time (e.g. the same number of bounces before shooting) so the imagery becomes a consistent, practised habit rather than a one-off thought, oe
Answer: The player could picture the ball leaving their hand with correct technique, picture and hear it going through the net, and keep the same brief routine every time so the imagery becomes a consistent, practised habit.

Question 25

B1 external imagery can help the player see successful execution from outside, building confidence by picturing success, oe
B1 external imagery can help the player evaluate body position and run-up mechanics as if coached, improving decision making about placement, oe
Answer: External imagery can help the player picture a successful kick from outside, which builds confidence, and can let the player mentally evaluate body position and run-up mechanics as if coached, improving decision making about placement.

Question 26

B1 use internal imagery to mentally rehearse the feeling and timing of each movement in sequence, oe
B1 combine mental rehearsal with physical practice so that practising mentally between attempts reinforces the motor pattern, oe
Answer: She could use internal imagery to mentally rehearse the feeling and timing of each movement in the sequence, and do this between physical attempts so the mental rehearsal reinforces the motor pattern.

Question 27

B1 imagine the exact body position and tension during take-off to prepare muscles, oe
B1 imagine the timing of the jump and rotation to coordinate kinesthetic sense, oe
B1 imagine a successful entry into the water to build confidence and reduce negative thoughts, oe
Answer: He should imagine the exact body position and muscle tension during take-off, imagine the timing of the jump and rotation so his kinesthetic sense is primed, and imagine a successful entry into the water to build confidence and reduce negative thoughts.

Question 28

B1 an experienced/elite performer is likely to find it easier to create a detailed, accurate mental image, because they already have a clear understanding of what the correct technique looks and feels like, oe
B1 a beginner may struggle to picture the skill accurately or in detail, since they have less experience of performing it correctly to draw on, oe
Answer: An experienced or elite performer is likely to find it easier to create a detailed, accurate mental image, because they already know what the correct technique looks and feels like, whereas a beginner may struggle to picture the skill accurately since they have less experience of performing it correctly.

Mental Rehearsal, Imagery and Visualisation in Sport - Worksheets, Questions and Revision

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4.9 Mental Rehearsal, Imagery and Visualisation in Sport

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