Praxis II Physical Education Exam Prep

Category - Physical Education

One important reason why a toddler learns to run several months after learning to walk is because in comparison to walking, running:
  1. Is a complex motor skill rather than a fundamental motor skill, and thus requires refinement.
  2. Is less stable and requires development of greater motor control and coordination.
  3. Requires one foot to be always in contact with the ground, which is difficult for toddlers to master.
  4. Involves supporting body weight in all phases, and thus requires additional strength.
Explanation
Correct Response: B. Running is a locomotor skill that is an extension of walking. After toddlers learn to walk, they naturally want to move faster and progress to running. In running, the body should lean slightly forward, both feet should temporarily come off the ground in a stride position, and the arms should move quickly in a forward and backward swinging motion in opposition to the feet. The legs extend farther than they would in a walking step. Hence, running is less stable and requires greater body control and coordination than walking. Running is considered a fundamental motor skill rather than a complex motor skill (A). The flight phase of running involves both feet, not just one foot,  leaving the ground temporarily (C), and during the flight phase, body weight is propelled rather than supported (D). 
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