Female Olympians Inspire Other Women Athletes to Join Olympics 2016

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. motivational (adj.) [moh-tuh-vey-shuhn-nl] – describes something that encourages people to do something

Example: She bought a motivational book to help her boost her confidence.

2. aspiring (adj.) [uh-spahyuhr] – describes one who wants to achieve a dream or ambition

Example: The aspiring athlete trains hard for the competition.

3. contend (v.) [kuhn-tend] – to compete for something

Example: New basketball players will have to contend with last year’s champions.

4. idol (n.) [ahyd-l] – one who is honored or well-liked by people

Example: Fans screamed when the singing idol appeared on the stage.

5. step up (idiom) [step uhp] – to improve one’s performance; to advance

Example: The young musicians should step up if they want to perform in a concert.

Article
Read the text below.

A boost in the presence of women in the last Olympics is inspiring female athletes to join the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. All countries which participated in the 2012 Games sent female competitors—the first time it has happened in history. In fact, several Olympic teams had more women participants than men. In the past, women were prevented from joining such sports competitions for the fear that sports may kill them or make them unable to bear babies, said Teresa Edwards.  Edwards is a four-time Olympic champion in women's basketball and Team USA's coach. In August, she was part of a motivational talk in East London for young, aspiring athletes. Edwards said that women athletes have already proven that these old claims are false. She talked about how positive changes are now happening. One female discus thrower who attended the talk was Ije Enwerem. She has been playing the sport for four years, and many believe she will contend in the Rio Olympics. What makes her work hard in her sport is the fact that she is a woman. She wants to prove that women can be as good as men when it comes to sports. Her female sports idols also inspire her to do her best to be able to join the 2016 Olympics. Edwards explained that while many female athletes have stepped up to join sports competitions, many girls are still told not to do sports. She believes women athletes have to become role models by continuously participating in competitions, so people will know there is nothing wrong with women joining sports.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         What can be the reason why more female athletes were sent to join the 2012 Games?

·         Would you say this news is significant? Please explain your answer.

Discussion B

·         Why do you think some people do not like the idea of female athletes or women in sports?

·         How can we encourage more women to get into sports?