Modern pentathlon

High school (ages 12+)
Sports & Games

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/modern-pentathlon

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the sport origin?Conceived by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, inspired by 19th-century cavalry soldier skills
2. What is the original events?Fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting, and cross-country running
3. Why was the modern pentathlon created?It was created to mimic the skills a 19th‑century cavalry soldier needed: riding a horse, fighting with a sword, swimming, shooting a pistol, and running.
4. How long does a modern pentathlon last now?The competition used to take five days, but today it is held in one day and usually finishes in about two hours.

Épée Fencing: A fencing discipline where the entire body is a target, and the first to score a touch wins the bout.
Laser-run: A combined event integrating running segments with precision shooting using a laser pistol.
Obstacle Course Racing: A modern discipline replacing equestrian, involving athletes navigating a series of physical challenges.