Glossary · word list
English terms: Games & Sports
693 words and terms, A–Z, from School Launch lessons. Each links to the lesson where it is taught.
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6-3English
Scorer’s shorthand for a ground ball fielded by the shortstop (6) and thrown to first base (3) for an out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
Scorer’s shorthand for a ground ball fielded by the shortstop (6) and thrown to first base (3) for an out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A
absolute pinEnglish
A pin in which the piece behind is the king, so the pinned piece is not allowed to move at all.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
A pin in which the piece behind is the king, so the pinned piece is not allowed to move at all.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
Act of ParliamentEnglish
A law passed by a national parliament; the Scottish Parliament passed acts against football and golf in 1424, 1457, 1471 and 1491.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A law passed by a national parliament; the Scottish Parliament passed acts against football and golf in 1424, 1457, 1471 and 1491.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
alfilEnglish
The elephant in shatranj, which jumped exactly two squares diagonally; it became the bishop.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The elephant in shatranj, which jumped exactly two squares diagonally; it became the bishop.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
algebraic notationEnglish
The standard way to record chess moves. Files are lettered a–h from White’s left, ranks numbered 1–8 from White’s side. K, Q, R, B and N stand for king, queen, rook, bishop and knight; a pawn move gives only the square. “x” means a capture, “+” check and “#” checkmate; O-O is castling kingside and O-O-O queenside.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The standard way to record chess moves. Files are lettered a–h from White’s left, ranks numbered 1–8 from White’s side. K, Q, R, B and N stand for king, queen, rook, bishop and knight; a pawn move gives only the square. “x” means a capture, “+” check and “#” checkmate; O-O is castling kingside and O-O-O queenside.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
All England ClubEnglish
The All England Croquet Club, founded in 1868, which added lawn tennis in 1875 and staged the first Wimbledon Championship in 1877.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
The All England Croquet Club, founded in 1868, which added lawn tennis in 1875 and staged the first Wimbledon Championship in 1877.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
alquerqueEnglish
An old capturing game played on a board of lines, pictured in King Alfonso’s Book of Games (1283); an ancestor of checkers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
An old capturing game played on a board of lines, pictured in King Alfonso’s Book of Games (1283); an ancestor of checkers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
AltisEnglish
The sacred grove and enclosure at Olympia containing the temples of Zeus and Hera.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
The sacred grove and enclosure at Olympia containing the temples of Zeus and Hera.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
amateurEnglish
Someone who plays a sport for love of it, not for pay.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Someone who plays a sport for love of it, not for pay.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
amateur idealEnglish
The belief that sport should be played for its own sake and for character, not for money.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
The belief that sport should be played for its own sake and for character, not for money.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
ambushEnglish
A force hidden in a place where the opponent will pass, ready to attack by surprise.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
A force hidden in a place where the opponent will pass, ready to attack by surprise.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
angle of reflectionEnglish
The angle at which a ball bounces off a flat surface; it mirrors the angle at which the ball came in.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
The angle at which a ball bounces off a flat surface; it mirrors the angle at which the ball came in.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
approachEnglish
The steps a bowler takes before releasing the ball, and also the area of floor behind the foul line where those steps are taken.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
The steps a bowler takes before releasing the ball, and also the area of floor behind the foul line where those steps are taken.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
approach angleEnglish
Running at the ball from slightly to one side, so the leg can swing freely.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Running at the ball from slightly to one side, so the leg can swing freely.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
archaeologistEnglish
A person who studies the past by digging up and examining the things people left behind.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
A person who studies the past by digging up and examining the things people left behind.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
arm cocking and accelerationEnglish
The phases in which the arm rotates back to its maximum external rotation and then whips forward to release.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
The phases in which the arm rotates back to its maximum external rotation and then whips forward to release.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
armorbearerEnglish
A young man who carried a warrior’s shield and armor and fought beside him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
A young man who carried a warrior’s shield and armor and fought beside him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
assessmentEnglish
A careful comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of both sides before a contest begins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
A careful comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of both sides before a contest begins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
association footballEnglish
The full name of soccer; the word “soccer” comes from a short form of “association.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The full name of soccer; the word “soccer” comes from a short form of “association.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
asymmetric gameEnglish
A game in which the two sides have different numbers of pieces, different goals or different rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A game in which the two sides have different numbers of pieces, different goals or different rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
asymmetric payoffEnglish
A situation in which one bad outcome costs little extra (losing by two instead of one) while one good outcome is worth a great deal (tying the game).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A situation in which one bad outcome costs little extra (losing by two instead of one) while one good outcome is worth a great deal (tying the game).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
at bat (AB)English
A batter’s turn at the plate that ends in a hit or an out. Walks do not count as at bats.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
A batter’s turn at the plate that ends in a hit or an out. Walks do not count as at bats.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
atariEnglish
A Japanese word for a group that has only one liberty left and can be captured on the next move.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
A Japanese word for a group that has only one liberty left and can be captured on the next move.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
athletic stanceEnglish
Feet about shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight on the balls of the feet: the ready position in almost every sport.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
Feet about shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight on the balls of the feet: the ready position in almost every sport.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
attack angleEnglish
Whether the clubhead is moving up or down at impact, in degrees.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
Whether the clubhead is moving up or down at impact, in degrees.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
attritionEnglish
Gradual loss of strength through casualties, sickness, desertion and exhaustion.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
Gradual loss of strength through casualties, sickness, desertion and exhaustion.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
B
back rowEnglish
Your own first row, also called the king row. Checkers kept there stop your opponent from crowning.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
Your own first row, also called the king row. Checkers kept there stop your opponent from crowning.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
back-rank checkmateEnglish
A checkmate by a rook or queen on the king’s first row, when the king is trapped behind its own pawns.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
A checkmate by a rook or queen on the king’s first row, when the king is trapped behind its own pawns.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
backspin and topspinEnglish
Backspin: the top of the ball moves backward, giving lift. Topspin: the top moves forward, pushing the ball down.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
Backspin: the top of the ball moves backward, giving lift. Topspin: the top moves forward, pushing the ball down.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
backstrokeEnglish
How far the putter swings back before it comes forward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
How far the putter swings back before it comes forward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
backswingEnglish
How far back and up the ball swings behind the bowler before it comes forward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
How far back and up the ball swings behind the bowler before it comes forward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
ballcourtEnglish
A long, narrow playing alley with sloping or straight walls on each side, built for the ballgame.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A long, narrow playing alley with sloping or straight walls on each side, built for the ballgame.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
bandyEnglish
A game played on ice with sticks and a small ball, eleven a side, on a field about the size of a soccer pitch; its rules were set down in England in 1882.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A game played on ice with sticks and a small ball, eleven a side, on a field about the size of a soccer pitch; its rules were set down in England in 1882.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
baoEnglish
A four-row mancala game played in East Africa; the word means “board” in Swahili.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
A four-row mancala game played in East Africa; the word means “board” in Swahili.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
bar graphEnglish
A drawing that shows counts as bars, so you can compare them at a glance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Statistics, Lesson 1.2 (grade 11–12)
A drawing that shows counts as bars, so you can compare them at a glance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Life Science: Plants and Animals Together, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Statistics, Lesson 1.2 (grade 11–12)
base rateEnglish
How common something is overall. Forgetting the base rate is a common counting mistake.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
How common something is overall. Forgetting the base rate is a common counting mistake.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
base-out stateEnglish
The situation in an inning: which bases are occupied and how many outs there are. There are 8 × 3 = 24 states.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The situation in an inning: which bases are occupied and how many outs there are. There are 8 × 3 = 24 states.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
base-rate neglectEnglish
Ignoring how common something is overall when judging a particular case.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
Ignoring how common something is overall when judging a particular case.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
batting averageEnglish
Runs scored divided by the number of times the batsman was out; not-out innings add runs but not dismissals.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
Runs scored divided by the number of times the batsman was out; not-out innings add runs but not dismissals.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
batting average (BA)English
Hits divided by at bats. It tells how often a batter gets a hit.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Hits divided by at bats. It tells how often a batter gets a hit.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
batting teeEnglish
A stand that holds the ball still at the right height, so a batter can practice the swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
A stand that holds the ball still at the right height, so a batter can practice the swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
Bayes’s ruleEnglish
A way to reverse a conditional probability: P(A \mid B) = \dfrac{P(B \mid A)\,P(A)}{P(B)}. It updates a prior probability in light of evidence.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
A way to reverse a conditional probability: P(A \mid B) = \dfrac{P(B \mid A)\,P(A)}{P(B)}. It updates a prior probability in light of evidence.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
binary dieEnglish
A die with only two possible results; each of the Ur pyramid dice has two of its four tips marked, so it scores 1 or 0 with equal chance.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
A die with only two possible results; each of the Ur pyramid dice has two of its four tips marked, so it scores 1 or 0 with equal chance.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
blame avoidanceEnglish
Choosing the option that is less likely to be criticized rather than the option most likely to win.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Choosing the option that is less likely to be criticized rather than the option most likely to win.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
blitzEnglish
An all-out attack that hits blots and builds points in your home board to shut the opponent out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
An all-out attack that hits blots and builds points in your home board to shut the opponent out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
block gameEnglish
The simplest domino game, in which players match ends and the first to play all his tiles wins.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
The simplest domino game, in which players match ends and the first to play all his tiles wins.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
blockedEnglish
Unable to move any piece; in Nine Men’s Morris a blocked player loses.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
Unable to move any piece; in Nine Men’s Morris a blocked player loses.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
blotEnglish
A single checker alone on a point, which an opponent can hit and send back to the start.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
A single checker alone on a point, which an opponent can hit and send back to the start.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
board gameEnglish
A game played by moving pieces on a printed or marked board according to rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
A game played by moving pieces on a printed or marked board according to rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
board squareEnglish
One of the 40 spaces around a Monopoly board, numbered from Go (0) to 39.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
One of the 40 spaces around a Monopoly board, numbered from Go (0) to 39.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
bonspielEnglish
A curling tournament or match; the Grand Match was a great outdoor bonspiel between the north and south of Scotland.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A curling tournament or match; the Grand Match was a great outdoor bonspiel between the north and south of Scotland.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
booth gameEnglish
A throwing or tossing game at a fair where a player tries to win a prize.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
A throwing or tossing game at a fair where a player tries to win a prize.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
boustrophedonEnglish
A path that runs along one row, turns, and comes back along the next, “as the ox turns” when ploughing; senet pieces probably moved in this S-shaped path.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4)
A path that runs along one row, turns, and comes back along the next, “as the ox turns” when ploughing; senet pieces probably moved in this S-shaped path.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4)
box scoreEnglish
A table that records what each player did in a game: at bats, runs and hits.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A table that records what each player did in a game: at bats, runs and hits.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
bracketEnglish
A chart for an elimination tournament, in which winners move on and losers are out.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A chart for an elimination tournament, in which winners move on and losers are out.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
branch planEnglish
A prepared alternative for a situation that might arise during an operation.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
A prepared alternative for a situation that might arise during an operation.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
breakEnglish
The curve of a putt caused by a slope in the green.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
The curve of a putt caused by a slope in the green.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
break-evenEnglish
The make rate at which two choices earn the same points per try.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
The make rate at which two choices earn the same points per try.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
break-even percentageEnglish
The make rate at which two choices have equal expected points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The make rate at which two choices have equal expected points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
break-even probabilityEnglish
The success rate at which two choices have equal expected value. If your real chance of success is higher, the bolder choice is better on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The success rate at which two choices have equal expected value. If your real chance of success is higher, the bolder choice is better on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
break-even rateEnglish
The success rate at which a play neither adds nor subtracts expected runs.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The success rate at which a play neither adds nor subtracts expected runs.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
buntEnglish
Holding the bat out and letting the ball hit it softly so it rolls a short way.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Holding the bat out and letting the ball hit it softly so it rolls a short way.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
bustEnglish
To lose all the gains of a turn because of a bad roll.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
To lose all the gains of a turn because of a bad roll.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
buttsEnglish
Earthen mounds with targets set against them, where men practised archery; many English towns still have a street called Butts.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Earthen mounds with targets set against them, where men practised archery; many English towns still have a street called Butts.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
C
caberEnglish
A long, heavy wooden pole tossed end over end at the Highland games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A long, heavy wooden pole tossed end over end at the Highland games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
calculated courageEnglish
Accepting a risk because the numbers show it gives the best chance, after counting the cost.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Accepting a risk because the numbers show it gives the best chance, after counting the cost.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Cambridge RulesEnglish
Rules drawn up at Cambridge University in 1848 (and revised in 1856) so that former pupils of different schools could play football together.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Rules drawn up at Cambridge University in 1848 (and revised in 1856) so that former pupils of different schools could play football together.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Cambridge SevenEnglish
Seven Cambridge graduates, among them the England cricketer C. T. Studd, who sailed in 1885 as missionaries to China.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Seven Cambridge graduates, among them the England cricketer C. T. Studd, who sailed in 1885 as missionaries to China.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
captureEnglish
Taking seeds off the board and keeping them as points.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
Taking seeds off the board and keeping them as points.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
carceresEnglish
The row of starting gates at one end of the circus, set on a curve so that no driver began with an unfair advantage.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The row of starting gates at one end of the circus, set on a curve so that no driver began with an unfair advantage.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
career statisticsEnglish
A player’s totals and rates over all his seasons, a large sample.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
A player’s totals and rates over all his seasons, a large sample.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
casting lotsEnglish
Making a choice by drawing or throwing marked objects, as the people of the Bible often did.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
Making a choice by drawing or throwing marked objects, as the people of the Bible often did.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
castlingEnglish
A special move of the king and a rook together that tucks the king safely into the corner.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A special move of the king and a rook together that tucks the king safely into the corner.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
center columnEnglish
The middle column of a Connect Four grid, which belongs to more possible fours than any other.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
The middle column of a Connect Four grid, which belongs to more possible fours than any other.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
Challenge RoundEnglish
An old tournament system in which the previous year’s champion played only the final, against the winner of all the other matches.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
An old tournament system in which the previous year’s champion played only the final, against the winner of all the other matches.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
championshipEnglish
A contest held under fixed rules to decide the best player.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A contest held under fixed rules to decide the best player.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
chance (in probability)English
A measure of our uncertainty about an outcome, given what we know.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
A measure of our uncertainty about an outcome, given what we know.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
change of directionEnglish
Cutting quickly to one side, which needs a low center of gravity and a strong push off the outside foot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
Cutting quickly to one side, which needs a low center of gravity and a strong push off the outside foot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
chaseEnglish
A real tennis rule by which a ball that bounces twice in certain parts of the court does not end the point at once but marks a position that must later be bettered.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
A real tennis rule by which a ball that bounces twice in certain parts of the court does not end the point at once but marks a position that must later be bettered.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
chaturangaEnglish
The early Indian form of chess, named for the four parts of an army: infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The early Indian form of chess, named for the four parts of an army: infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
check and checkmateEnglish
Check is an attack on the king. Checkmate is a check that cannot be escaped, and it ends the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
Check is an attack on the king. Checkmate is a check that cannot be escaped, and it ends the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
checkerboard patternEnglish
Shooting only at every other square, like the dark squares of a checkerboard.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Shooting only at every other square, like the dark squares of a checkerboard.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
checkersEnglish
A two-player game on the dark squares of an 8-by-8 board; in Britain it is called draughts.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
A two-player game on the dark squares of an 8-by-8 board; in Britain it is called draughts.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
checkmateEnglish
An attack on the king that cannot be escaped, which ends the game. It comes from the Persian “shah mat,” often translated “the king is helpless.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
An attack on the king that cannot be escaped, which ends the game. It comes from the Persian “shah mat,” often translated “the king is helpless.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
checkmate patternEnglish
A common arrangement of pieces that gives checkmate, which strong players recognize at a glance.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
A common arrangement of pieces that gives checkmate, which strong players recognize at a glance.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
checkpointEnglish
A key moment in a skill to look at, such as the plant foot at contact or the finish of a swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
A key moment in a skill to look at, such as the plant foot at contact or the finish of a swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
Circus MaximusEnglish
Rome’s great track for chariot racing, about 600 metres long, in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
Rome’s great track for chariot racing, about 600 metres long, in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
Citius, Altius, FortiusEnglish
“Faster, higher, stronger”: the Olympic motto, coined by the Dominican priest and schoolmaster Henri Didon and adopted by Coubertin.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
“Faster, higher, stronger”: the Olympic motto, coined by the Dominican priest and schoolmaster Henri Didon and adopted by Coubertin.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
close controlEnglish
Keeping the ball within a step of your feet so a defender cannot take it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
Keeping the ball within a step of your feet so a defender cannot take it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
clubhead speedEnglish
The speed of the club’s head at impact, the main source of distance.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The speed of the club’s head at impact, the main source of distance.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
codebreaking (cryptanalysis)English
Recovering the meaning of coded messages without being given the key.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Recovering the meaning of coded messages without being given the key.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
codifyEnglish
To gather the rules of a game into one written, agreed set, or code.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
To gather the rules of a game into one written, agreed set, or code.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
coefficient of restitution (COR)English
The ratio of separation speed to approach speed in a collision; for a ball dropped on a hard floor, e = \sqrt{h_{\text{up}}/h_{\text{down}}}.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The ratio of separation speed to approach speed in a collision; for a ball dropped on a hard floor, e = \sqrt{h_{\text{up}}/h_{\text{down}}}.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
coin tossEnglish
Flipping a coin to make a choice. Heads and tails each have probability one half.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
Flipping a coin to make a choice. Heads and tails each have probability one half.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
color groupEnglish
A set of two or three properties of the same color, such as the three orange properties.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
A set of two or three properties of the same color, such as the three orange properties.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
combined armsEnglish
Using different kinds of forces (infantry, cavalry, light troops) so that each covers the others’ weaknesses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
Using different kinds of forces (infantry, cavalry, light troops) so that each covers the others’ weaknesses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
commander’s intentEnglish
The goal of a plan, explained so clearly that each leader knows what to do even when orders cannot reach him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The goal of a plan, explained so clearly that each leader knows what to do even when orders cannot reach him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
compactnessEnglish
Keeping the team’s lines close together, so that there is little space between them for the opponent to use.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Keeping the team’s lines close together, so that there is little space between them for the opponent to use.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
competitive greatnessEnglish
Wooden’s top block: being at your best when your best is needed, and enjoying a hard challenge.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
Wooden’s top block: being at your best when your best is needed, and enjoying a hard challenge.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
conditional probabilityEnglish
P(A \mid B), the probability of A given that B is known to have happened. It is found by restricting the sample space to the outcomes in B.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 6.3 (grade 11–12)
P(A \mid B), the probability of A given that B is known to have happened. It is found by restricting the sample space to the outcomes in B.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 6.3 (grade 11–12)
confirmation testEnglish
An action designed so that the enemy’s reaction will confirm or refute a hypothesis.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
An action designed so that the enemy’s reaction will confirm or refute a hypothesis.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
contact heightEnglish
The height above the court at which the racket strikes the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The height above the court at which the racket strikes the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
contact pointEnglish
Where the racket meets the ball: for a forehand, a little in front of the body and about waist high.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
Where the racket meets the ball: for a forehand, a little in front of the body and about waist high.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
contact timeEnglish
How long the ball touches your hands or arms.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12) · +1 more
How long the ball touches your hands or arms.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12) · +1 more
converging columnsEnglish
Separate forces moving by different routes to arrive at the same objective at the same time.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Separate forces moving by different routes to arrive at the same objective at the same time.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
convictionEnglish
A strong belief that guides what a person does, even when it is costly.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · +1 more
A strong belief that guides what a person does, even when it is costly.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · +1 more
cool-downEnglish
Easy movement and gentle stretching after sport that let the heart rate come down slowly.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2)
Easy movement and gentle stretching after sport that let the heart rate come down slowly.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2)
cornerstoneEnglish
One of the first stones laid at the corner of a building, on which everything else rests. Wooden’s cornerstones are industriousness and enthusiasm.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
One of the first stones laid at the corner of a building, on which everything else rests. Wooden’s cornerstones are industriousness and enthusiasm.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
corpsEnglish
A large, self-contained part of an army (often 15,000–30,000 men in Napoleon’s time) with its own infantry, cavalry and artillery, able to fight alone for a time.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A large, self-contained part of an army (often 15,000–30,000 men in Napoleon’s time) with its own infantry, cavalry and artillery, able to fight alone for a time.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
correlation and causationEnglish
Two things happening together (correlation) does not prove that one causes the other or that doing more of one will produce more of the other.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Two things happening together (correlation) does not prove that one causes the other or that doing more of one will produce more of the other.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
corruptibleEnglish
Able to rot, wither or fade away.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Able to rot, wither or fade away.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
counted probabilityEnglish
The probability found by reasoning, such as one half for a section that is half the circle. It is also called theoretical probability.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
The probability found by reasoning, such as one half for a section that is half the circle. It is also called theoretical probability.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
counting the costEnglish
Comparing, before a contest begins, what it will require and what you have, so that you fight only when you can win or when you must, and choose another way otherwise.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Comparing, before a contest begins, what it will require and what you have, so that you fight only when you can win or when you must, and choose another way otherwise.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
course managementEnglish
Planning each golf shot so that a miss leaves an easy next shot, not a disaster.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
Planning each golf shot so that a miss leaves an easy next shot, not a disaster.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
cradlingEnglish
Gently rocking the stick to keep the ball in the pocket while running.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
Gently rocking the stick to keep the ball in the pocket while running.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
crosseEnglish
The lacrosse stick. The French word described its shape, like a bishop’s curved staff.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
The lacrosse stick. The French word described its shape, like a bishop’s curved staff.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
cross-sectional areaEnglish
The area of a slice across a muscle; a muscle’s maximum force grows roughly in proportion to it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The area of a slice across a muscle; a muscle’s maximum force grows roughly in proportion to it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
cujuEnglish
An ancient Chinese ball game played by kicking a leather ball; the name means “kick ball.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
An ancient Chinese ball game played by kicking a leather ball; the name means “kick ball.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
culminating pointEnglish
The point beyond which an advancing force grows weaker than its opponent because of distance and losses; a term from Clausewitz.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12) · Geography and History: Why Borders Fall Where They Do, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
The point beyond which an advancing force grows weaker than its opponent because of distance and losses; a term from Clausewitz.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12) · Geography and History: Why Borders Fall Where They Do, Lesson 7.3 (grade 9–12)
cumulative riskEnglish
The chance that a small risk, repeated many times, happens at least once.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The chance that a small risk, repeated many times, happens at least once.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
curlingEnglish
A game in which players slide heavy granite stones across ice toward a target, called the house.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A game in which players slide heavy granite stones across ice toward a target, called the house.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
curveballEnglish
A pitch thrown with spin so that it bends as it travels toward the batter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
A pitch thrown with spin so that it bends as it travels toward the batter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
cushioningEnglish
Moving the receiving surface back with the ball to lengthen the contact time.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Moving the receiving surface back with the ball to lengthen the contact time.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
cutEnglish
A quick, sharp run toward the goal or into open space.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
A quick, sharp run toward the goal or into open space.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
D
dead-ball eraEnglish
The years before about 1920, when the ball was softer and home runs were rare.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
The years before about 1920, when the ball was softer and home runs were rare.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
deception planEnglish
A coordinated plan to make the enemy believe something false, using many sources that agree with one another.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A coordinated plan to make the enemy believe something false, using many sources that agree with one another.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
decisionEnglish
A choice made with the information you have at the time.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
A choice made with the information you have at the time.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
decision chartEnglish
A table, made in advance, that says what to do for each combination of field position and yards to go.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
A table, made in advance, that says what to do for each combination of field position and yards to go.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
decision journalEnglish
A notebook where you write your choices, your reasons and your chances before you know the result.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
A notebook where you write your choices, your reasons and your chances before you know the result.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
decision qualityEnglish
How good a choice was, given the information, time and options available when it was made.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
How good a choice was, given the information, time and options available when it was made.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
decision treeEnglish
A diagram of choices and chance events with their probabilities and results, used to compare plans.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
A diagram of choices and chance events with their probabilities and results, used to compare plans.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
decoyEnglish
Someone or something used to draw the opponent’s attention away from the real danger.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
Someone or something used to draw the opponent’s attention away from the real danger.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
dedansEnglish
The large opening at the server’s end of the court, behind which spectators sit; hitting the ball into it wins a point.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The large opening at the server’s end of the court, behind which spectators sit; hitting the ball into it wins a point.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
defeat in detailEnglish
Defeating an enemy’s separated parts one at a time, before they can combine.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Defeating an enemy’s separated parts one at a time, before they can combine.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
deuceEnglish
A tie at 40–40; a player must then win two points in a row to win the game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
A tie at 40–40; a player must then win two points in a row to win the game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
developmentEnglish
Moving knights and bishops off the back row to useful squares where they can join the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
Moving knights and bishops off the back row to useful squares where they can join the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
dimplesEnglish
The small round dents on a golf ball that help it fly higher and farther.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The small round dents on a golf ball that help it fly higher and farther.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
discretionary orderEnglish
An order that leaves the decision to the subordinate (“if practicable”). Useful only if he understands the purpose and the risk.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
An order that leaves the decision to the subordinate (“if practicable”). Useful only if he understands the purpose and the risk.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
dominoEnglish
A flat rectangular tile divided into two ends, each marked with 0 to 6 dots (pips).
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
A flat rectangular tile divided into two ends, each marked with 0 to 6 dots (pips).
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
double agentEnglish
A spy who appears to work for one side but secretly works for the other, and can pass it false information.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A spy who appears to work for one side but secretly works for the other, and can pass it false information.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
double cornerEnglish
A corner of the board where two dark playing squares sit side by side. A lone king hides there because it can shuttle back and forth.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
A corner of the board where two dark playing squares sit side by side. A lone king hides there because it can shuttle back and forth.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
double envelopment (pincer movement)English
Attacking both flanks of an enemy at once so that the two attacking wings meet behind him and surround him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
Attacking both flanks of an enemy at once so that the two attacking wings meet behind him and surround him.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
double faultEnglish
Missing both the first and the second serve. The server loses the point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
Missing both the first and the second serve. The server loses the point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
double pendulumEnglish
Two pendulums linked together, like the arms swinging from the shoulders and the club hinging at the wrists.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Two pendulums linked together, like the arms swinging from the shoulders and the club hinging at the wrists.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
double threatEnglish
Two threats made at the same time. The opponent can block only one, so the other wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
Two threats made at the same time. The opponent can block only one, so the other wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
doubling cubeEnglish
A die marked 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64. A player may offer to double the value of the game; the opponent must accept or concede the game at its current value.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
A die marked 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64. A player may offer to double the value of the game; the opponent must accept or concede the game at its current value.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
downEnglish
One play in American football; a team gets a set number of downs to gain enough yards to keep the ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · +3 more
One play in American football; a team gets a set number of downs to gain enough yards to keep the ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · +3 more
downswingEnglish
The part of the swing from the top down to the ball, starting with the lower body.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
The part of the swing from the top down to the ball, starting with the lower body.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
draw weightEnglish
The force needed to pull a bowstring back to full draw, measured in pounds of force (lbf) or newtons.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
The force needed to pull a bowstring back to full draw, measured in pounds of force (lbf) or newtons.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
dribbleEnglish
To move with the ball, guiding it with small touches of the feet.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
To move with the ball, guiding it with small touches of the feet.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
Duck on a RockEnglish
A Canadian children’s game of throwing stones at a target on a rock; Naismith said its lobbed throw gave him the idea of an arcing shot at a raised goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
A Canadian children’s game of throwing stones at a target on a rock; Naismith said its lobbed throw gave him the idea of an arcing shot at a raised goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
“due” mistakeEnglish
The false idea that a result is more likely because it has not happened for a while.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
The false idea that a result is more likely because it has not happened for a while.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
dynamic warm-upEnglish
Moving exercises (jogging, skipping, leg swings, arm circles) that gradually raise the heart rate and loosen the joints before sport.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 7 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
Moving exercises (jogging, skipping, leg swings, arm circles) that gradually raise the heart rate and loosen the joints before sport.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 7 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
dynastyEnglish
A family of rulers who govern a country for many generations, such as the Han or the Song dynasty in China.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
A family of rulers who govern a country for many generations, such as the Han or the Song dynasty in China.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
E
economy of forceEnglish
Using the smallest force that will do in places that are not decisive, so that more strength can be massed where it matters.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Using the smallest force that will do in places that are not decisive, so that more strength can be massed where it matters.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
effective massEnglish
The part of the leg’s mass that acts in the collision; it rises when the ankle is locked firm.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
The part of the leg’s mass that acts in the collision; it rises when the ankle is locked firm.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
effortEnglish
The push or pull that moves a lever. In your body, the effort is a muscle pulling on a bone.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
The push or pull that moves a lever. In your body, the effort is a muscle pulling on a bone.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
ekecheiriaEnglish
The sacred truce announced by heralds before each festival so that athletes and visitors could travel to Olympia safely.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
The sacred truce announced by heralds before each festival so that athletes and visitors could travel to Olympia safely.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
Elo ratingEnglish
A number measuring playing strength, invented by Arpad Elo; the difference in ratings predicts the expected score.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
A number measuring playing strength, invented by Arpad Elo; the difference in ratings predicts the expected score.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
empty-net goalEnglish
A goal scored into a net with no goaltender in it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A goal scored into a net with no goaltender in it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
end stateEnglish
What the situation should look like when the task is complete.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
What the situation should look like when the task is complete.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
endgameEnglish
The last part of a game, when only a few pieces are left.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The last part of a game, when only a few pieces are left.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
entry angleEnglish
The angle between the ball’s path and the boards of the lane as it reaches the pins.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The angle between the ball’s path and the boards of the lane as it reaches the pins.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
envelopmentEnglish
Wrapping around the enemy’s side. A double envelopment wraps around both sides at once.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
Wrapping around the enemy’s side. A double envelopment wraps around both sides at once.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
equally likelyEnglish
Having the same chance. The six faces of a fair die are equally likely.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
Having the same chance. The six faces of a fair die are equally likely.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
Estadio CentenarioEnglish
The stadium in Montevideo built for the 1930 World Cup and named for the centenary of Uruguay’s first constitution (1830).
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The stadium in Montevideo built for the 1930 World Cup and named for the centenary of Uruguay’s first constitution (1830).
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
evaluationEnglish
A judgment of who stands better and why, based on material, king safety, pawn structure, piece activity and space.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
A judgment of who stands better and why, based on material, king safety, pawn structure, piece activity and space.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 10.5 (grade 9–12)
even chanceEnglish
A probability of one half: as likely to happen as not.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
A probability of one half: as likely to happen as not.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
exchange countEnglish
Counting the attackers and defenders of a square, and the values of the pieces, to see who wins material if every capture is made.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
Counting the attackers and defenders of a square, and the values of the pieces, to see who wins material if every capture is made.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
exit velocityEnglish
The speed of the ball just after it leaves the bat.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The speed of the ball just after it leaves the bat.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
expected countEnglish
How many times you expect something to happen in a number of tries: the probability times the number of tries.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Statistics, Lesson 13.1 (grade 11–12)
How many times you expect something to happen in a number of tries: the probability times the number of tries.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Statistics, Lesson 13.1 (grade 11–12)
expected goals (xG)English
The chance that a shot from a certain place becomes a goal, found by studying many thousands of shots. Adding a team’s xG gives the number of goals its chances were worth on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
The chance that a shot from a certain place becomes a goal, found by studying many thousands of shots. Adding a team’s xG gives the number of goals its chances were worth on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
expected lossesEnglish
The average number of armies each side loses per battle, found by weighting each result by its probability.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The average number of armies each side loses per battle, found by weighting each result by its probability.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
expected pointsEnglish
The average number of points a player earns per round over many rounds.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
The average number of points a player earns per round over many rounds.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
expected points (EP)English
The average number of points, net of what the opponent scores next, that a team can expect from a given situation, such as first-and-10 on its own 30. Measured from thousands of real plays.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The average number of points, net of what the opponent scores next, that a team can expect from a given situation, such as first-and-10 on its own 30. Measured from thousands of real plays.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
expected scoreEnglish
The average result of a game or move, counting a win as 1, a draw as ½ and a loss as 0.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
The average result of a game or move, counting a win as 1, a draw as ½ and a loss as 0.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
expected yardsEnglish
The probability-weighted average gain of a play: the sum of each outcome’s yards times its probability.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The probability-weighted average gain of a play: the sum of each outcome’s yards times its probability.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
experimental probabilityEnglish
The fraction of times something actually happened in your tries, such as 14 reds in 40 spins.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 13.3 (grade 6–8)
The fraction of times something actually happened in your tries, such as 14 reds in 40 spins.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 13.3 (grade 6–8)
exterior linesEnglish
Longer routes around the outside, which make it slower for separated forces to support one another.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Longer routes around the outside, which make it slower for separated forces to support one another.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
extra attackerEnglish
A sixth skater sent on in place of the goaltender, leaving the net empty.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A sixth skater sent on in place of the goaltender, leaving the net empty.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
extra pointEnglish
A kick through the goalposts after a touchdown, worth 1 point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
A kick through the goalposts after a touchdown, worth 1 point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
F
face-offEnglish
The way play starts in hockey: the referee drops the puck between two players.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
The way play starts in hockey: the referee drops the puck between two players.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
factionEnglish
One of the four racing companies, the Reds, Whites, Greens and Blues, which owned horses and employed drivers; Romans followed them passionately.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
One of the four racing companies, the Reds, Whites, Greens and Blues, which owned horses and employed drivers; Romans followed them passionately.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
fair dieEnglish
A die whose faces are all equally likely to land on top.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
A die whose faces are all equally likely to land on top.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
fair gameEnglish
A game in which every player has the same chance to win, or the same points per round on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Statistics, Lesson 7.2 (grade 11–12)
A game in which every player has the same chance to win, or the same points per round on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Statistics, Lesson 7.2 (grade 11–12)
fair shareEnglish
The part of the prize equal to a player’s chance of winning, if the game had been finished.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
The part of the prize equal to a player’s chance of winning, if the game had been finished.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
fall lineEnglish
The direction straight down a slope, along which a ball would roll from rest.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Geography: The United States: Regions, Rivers and Routes, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Geography: Rivers, Ports and Straits, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
The direction straight down a slope, along which a ball would roll from rest.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Geography: The United States: Regions, Rivers and Routes, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4) · Grade 8 Geography: Rivers, Ports and Straits, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · +1 more
featheryEnglish
An early golf ball made of a leather cover stuffed tightly with wet goose feathers.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
An early golf ball made of a leather cover stuffed tightly with wet goose feathers.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
feigned weaknessEnglish
Deliberately appearing weaker than one is, in one place or overall, to tempt the opponent into an attack that serves one’s own plan.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
Deliberately appearing weaker than one is, in one place or overall, to tempt the opponent into an attack that serves one’s own plan.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
ferzEnglish
The king’s counsellor in shatranj, which moved only one square diagonally; it became the queen.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The king’s counsellor in shatranj, which moved only one square diagonally; it became the queen.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
festivalEnglish
A day of celebration, often with food, music and games, shared by a family or a community.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A day of celebration, often with food, music and games, shared by a family or a community.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
“fetch a compass”English
An old English phrase from the King James Bible meaning “go around in a circle.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
An old English phrase from the King James Bible meaning “go around in a circle.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
FIFAEnglish
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, founded in Paris on May 21, 1904, which governs world football and organises the World Cup.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, founded in Paris on May 21, 1904, which governs world football and organises the World Cup.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
FIFA 11+English
A 20-minute warm-up of running, strength, jumping and balance exercises designed to reduce soccer injuries.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A 20-minute warm-up of running, strength, jumping and balance exercises designed to reduce soccer injuries.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
finesseEnglish
In bridge, an attempt to win a trick with a lower card by playing toward it, hoping a missing higher card is held by the opponent who plays before it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
In bridge, an attempt to win a trick with a lower card by playing toward it, hoping a missing higher card is held by the opponent who plays before it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
finishEnglish
The balanced position at the end of the swing, with the weight on the front foot and the chest facing the target.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
The balanced position at the end of the swing, with the weight on the front foot and the chest facing the target.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Textile Science & Clothing Construction, Lesson 6.4 (grade 9–12)
first touchEnglish
A player’s first contact when receiving the ball, which decides how well it is controlled.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
A player’s first contact when receiving the ball, which decides how well it is controlled.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
first-move advantageEnglish
The extra chance of winning that comes from moving first.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
The extra chance of winning that comes from moving first.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
first-player advantageEnglish
An unfair edge that comes simply from going first; good designers measure it and fix it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
An unfair edge that comes simply from going first; good designers measure it and fix it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
flag footballEnglish
A safe form of football in which a player is “tackled” by pulling a flag or cloth from his belt.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
A safe form of football in which a player is “tackled” by pulling a flag or cloth from his belt.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
FlandersEnglish
A region in what is now Belgium, home to many great painters in the 1400s and 1500s.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A region in what is now Belgium, home to many great painters in the 1400s and 1500s.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
flank attackEnglish
Going around the enemy to attack from the side or rear instead of from the front.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
Going around the enemy to attack from the side or rear instead of from the front.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
fog of warEnglish
The uncertainty of information during a contest: commanders must act on reports that are incomplete, late or wrong. Clausewitz compared it to the effect of “a fog or moonshine.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The uncertainty of information during a contest: commanders must act on reports that are incomplete, late or wrong. Clausewitz compared it to the effect of “a fog or moonshine.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
follow-throughEnglish
The movement after the ball is released or struck, which lets the body slow down safely.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The movement after the ball is released or struck, which lets the body slow down safely.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
Football AssociationEnglish
The governing body of soccer in England, founded in London in 1863; it wrote the first common rules of the game.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The governing body of soccer in England, founded in London in 1863; it wrote the first common rules of the game.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
Football Association (FA)English
The governing body of football in England, founded on October 26, 1863, at the Freemasons’ Tavern in London.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The governing body of football in England, founded on October 26, 1863, at the Freemasons’ Tavern in London.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
forced jumpEnglish
The checkers rule that if you can jump an opponent’s piece, you must.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
The checkers rule that if you can jump an opponent’s piece, you must.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
forced marchEnglish
A march at much more than normal speed and length to arrive in time for a battle.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A march at much more than normal speed and length to arrive in time for a battle.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
forearm passEnglish
Also called a bump: hitting the ball off the flat inside of both forearms, held together below the waist.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Also called a bump: hitting the ball off the flat inside of both forearms, held together below the waist.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
forecheckEnglish
Pressuring the opponent in its own defensive zone to win the puck back before it can attack.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
Pressuring the opponent in its own defensive zone to win the puck back before it can attack.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
forehandEnglish
A stroke hit on the same side of the body as the hand holding the racket.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
A stroke hit on the same side of the body as the hand holding the racket.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
foreheadEnglish
The flat front of the head at the hairline: the only part used for heading, with the eyes open and the neck firm.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
The flat front of the head at the hairline: the only part used for heading, with the eyes open and the neck firm.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
foresightEnglish
Looking ahead to see what may happen next. Franklin named it the first lesson of chess.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
Looking ahead to see what may happen next. Franklin named it the first lesson of chess.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
forkEnglish
A move that makes two threats at once. The opponent can block only one, so the fork wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
A move that makes two threats at once. The opponent can block only one, so the fork wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
forward passEnglish
A throw of the ball toward the opponent’s goal line, made legal in American football in 1906.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
A throw of the ball toward the opponent’s goal line, made legal in American football in 1906.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
foulEnglish
Breaking a rule, especially by pushing, holding or striking another player.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Breaking a rule, especially by pushing, holding or striking another player.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
foul ballEnglish
A ball hit outside the lines of the field; the Knickerbocker rules were among the first to have foul lines.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
A ball hit outside the lines of the field; the Knickerbocker rules were among the first to have foul lines.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
foul lineEnglish
The line at the start of the lane that the bowler must not cross; the head pin is 60 feet (18.29 m) beyond it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The line at the start of the lane that the bowler must not cross; the head pin is 60 feet (18.29 m) beyond it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
four boxesEnglish
A way to sort choices: good decision and good result, good decision and bad result, bad decision and good result, bad decision and bad result.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
A way to sort choices: good decision and good result, good decision and bad result, bad decision and good result, bad decision and bad result.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
four-step approachEnglish
The standard delivery: four steps toward the foul line, with the ball pushed away on the first, swinging back on the second and third, and released on the fourth (a slide).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The standard delivery: four steps toward the foul line, with the ball pushed away on the first, swinging back on the second and third, and released on the fourth (a slide).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
fourth downEnglish
An offense has four plays (downs) to gain 10 yards. On fourth down it must choose: try for the first down, punt the ball away, or kick a field goal.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
An offense has four plays (downs) to gain 10 yards. On fourth down it must choose: try for the first down, punt the ball away, or kick a field goal.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
frame rateEnglish
The number of pictures a camera takes each second, such as 30, 60 or 240 frames per second (fps).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The number of pictures a camera takes each second, such as 30, 60 or 240 frames per second (fps).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
frames per secondEnglish
How many pictures a camera takes each second. Normal video is about 30; slow motion is 120 or 240.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
How many pictures a camera takes each second. Normal video is about 30; slow motion is 120 or 240.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
free throwEnglish
An unguarded shot from a set line, given after a foul. Each make is worth 1 point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
An unguarded shot from a set line, given after a foul. Each make is worth 1 point.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
G
Galton boardEnglish
A board of pins where balls bounce left or right at each pin and pile up in slots at the bottom. Also called a bean machine or quincunx.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
A board of pins where balls bounce left or right at each pin and pile up in slots at the bottom. Also called a bean machine or quincunx.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
gambitEnglish
An opening in which a player gives up material, usually a pawn, to gain time or the center.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
An opening in which a player gives up material, usually a pawn, to gain time or the center.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
gambler’s fallacyEnglish
The false belief that a random outcome is “due” because it has not happened lately, as if dice or coins had a memory.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
The false belief that a random outcome is “due” because it has not happened lately, as if dice or coins had a memory.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
gameEnglish
Play with rules and a goal, such as reaching the end first or capturing the most pieces.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1)
Play with rules and a goal, such as reaching the end first or capturing the most pieces.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1)
game designerEnglish
A person who invents games and writes their rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
A person who invents games and writes their rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
garrisonEnglish
A group of soldiers stationed to guard a place.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A group of soldiers stationed to guard a place.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
gaze heuristicEnglish
A rule of thumb for catching: run so that the angle of your gaze up to the ball keeps rising at a steady rate.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A rule of thumb for catching: run so that the angle of your gaze up to the ball keeps rising at a steady rate.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
give-and-goEnglish
A play in which a player passes to a teammate, cuts past the defender, and gets the ball right back.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
A play in which a player passes to a teammate, cuts past the defender, and gets the ball right back.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
GoEnglish
A strategy game for two players who place black and white stones on the points of a grid to surround territory. It is called weiqi in China, baduk in Korea and igo in Japan.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
A strategy game for two players who place black and white stones on the points of a grid to surround territory. It is called weiqi in China, baduk in Korea and igo in Japan.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
Go houseEnglish
One of the four schools (Honinbo, Yasui, Inoue and Hayashi) supported by the Tokugawa shoguns from the early 1600s to train and rank professional players.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
One of the four schools (Honinbo, Yasui, Inoue and Hayashi) supported by the Tokugawa shoguns from the early 1600s to train and rank professional players.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
Go (weiqi, baduk)English
The board game of surrounding territory, called weiqi in China, igo in Japan and baduk in Korea.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The board game of surrounding territory, called weiqi in China, igo in Japan and baduk in Korea.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
goalie maskEnglish
A protective mask worn by hockey goaltenders, now required in every league.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
A protective mask worn by hockey goaltenders, now required in every league.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
Governor GeneralEnglish
The representative of the British monarch in Canada.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
The representative of the British monarch in Canada.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
greenEnglish
The smooth, short grass around each hole, where players putt.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Life Science: God Made the Animals, Lesson 5.3 (grade K)
The smooth, short grass around each hole, where players putt.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Life Science: God Made the Animals, Lesson 5.3 (grade K)
green speedEnglish
How fast a green lets the ball roll; measured with a simple ramp called a Stimpmeter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
How fast a green lets the ball roll; measured with a simple ramp called a Stimpmeter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
ground reaction forceEnglish
The push of the ground back on an athlete, equal and opposite to the athlete’s push on the ground.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
The push of the ground back on an athlete, equal and opposite to the athlete’s push on the ground.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
group stageEnglish
The first part of a tournament, in which teams in small groups each play the others and the best advance.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The first part of a tournament, in which teams in small groups each play the others and the best advance.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
growth plateEnglish
A layer of cartilage near the end of a growing child’s long bones, where the bone lengthens; it is weaker than the bone and ligaments around it until growth ends.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
A layer of cartilage near the end of a growing child’s long bones, where the bone lengthens; it is weaker than the bone and ligaments around it until growth ends.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
gutta-perchaEnglish
A hard, rubbery sap from a Malaysian tree, used for golf balls from the late 1840s.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Technology Overcoming Geography, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
A hard, rubbery sap from a Malaysian tree, used for golf balls from the late 1840s.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Technology Overcoming Geography, Lesson 4.2 (grade 9–12)
H
hackingEnglish
Kicking an opponent’s shins, allowed in some old football games and banned by the Football Association.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
Kicking an opponent’s shins, allowed in some old football games and banned by the Football Association.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
hang timeEnglish
The time a fly ball spends in the air.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
The time a fly ball spends in the air.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
HaudenosauneeEnglish
The people of the Six Nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora) in what is now New York State and Canada; the name means “people of the longhouse.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Grade 2 Geography: Our Country, Coast to Coast, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2)
The people of the Six Nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora) in what is now New York State and Canada; the name means “people of the longhouse.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Grade 2 Geography: Our Country, Coast to Coast, Lesson 6.1 (grade 2)
head accelerationEnglish
How quickly the head’s velocity changes when struck; it is what researchers measure to judge the severity of a head impact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
How quickly the head’s velocity changes when struck; it is what researchers measure to judge the severity of a head impact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
head upEnglish
Looking up between touches to see teammates, defenders and space.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
Looking up between touches to see teammates, defenders and space.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
headerEnglish
Striking the ball with the forehead to pass, clear or shoot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
Striking the ball with the forehead to pass, clear or shoot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 3.2 (grade 9–12)
help defenseEnglish
A defender leaving his own player for a moment to stop an opponent who has gotten free.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
A defender leaving his own player for a moment to stop an opponent who has gotten free.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
high-card points (HCP)English
A count of strength in bridge: ace 4, king 3, queen 2, jack 1, for 40 points in the deck.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
A count of strength in bridge: ace 4, king 3, queen 2, jack 1, for 40 points in the deck.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
high-percentage shotEnglish
In this course, the shot that earns the most points per try, not simply the one that goes in most often.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
In this course, the shot that earns the most points per try, not simply the one that goes in most often.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
high-variance strategyEnglish
A plan whose results are widely spread: big successes and big failures, such as a long pass or a three-point shot.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
A plan whose results are widely spread: big successes and big failures, such as a long pass or a three-point shot.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
hindsight biasEnglish
The tendency, after learning a result, to believe it was predictable all along.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The tendency, after learning a result, to believe it was predictable all along.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
hit (H)English
Reaching base safely by hitting the ball, without an error or a fielder’s choice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
Reaching base safely by hitting the ball, without an error or a fielder’s choice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
hitting zoneEnglish
The part of the swing, out in front of the body, where the bat can meet the ball well.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The part of the swing, out in front of the body, where the bat can meet the ball well.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
hnefataflEnglish
The Viking-Age tafl game; hnefi means “fist” and probably named the king piece.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
The Viking-Age tafl game; hnefi means “fist” and probably named the king piece.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
Holyoke YMCAEnglish
The Young Men’s Christian Association in Holyoke, Massachusetts, where Morgan was physical director when he invented the game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The Young Men’s Christian Association in Holyoke, Massachusetts, where Morgan was physical director when he invented the game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
home run (HR)English
A hit on which the batter circles all the bases and scores.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
A hit on which the batter circles all the bases and scores.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
hoop rollingEnglish
A game of rolling a large hoop along the ground and keeping it upright by tapping it with a stick.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A game of rolling a large hoop along the ground and keeping it upright by tapping it with a stick.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
hopscotchEnglish
A hopping game played on a numbered court drawn on the ground. The name comes from “hop” and “scotch,” an old word for a scratched line.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
A hopping game played on a numbered court drawn on the ground. The name comes from “hop” and “scotch,” an old word for a scratched line.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
hot handEnglish
The idea that a player who has made several shots in a row is more likely to make the next one.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
The idea that a player who has made several shots in a row is more likely to make the next one.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
houseEnglish
The circular target at the end of a curling sheet; the center is called the button.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
The circular target at the end of a curling sheet; the center is called the button.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
huntEnglish
Searching the board for any ship before you have found one.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Searching the board for any ship before you have found one.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
hunt and targetEnglish
A Battleship search plan: fire spread-out shots to find a ship (hunt), then fire at neighboring squares once you hit (target), because a hit changes the probabilities around it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
A Battleship search plan: fire spread-out shots to find a ship (hunt), then fire at neighboring squares once you hit (target), because a hit changes the probabilities around it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
I
“I cut, you choose”English
An old way to divide something fairly between two people: one divides it, and the other picks first.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
An old way to divide something fairly between two people: one divides it, and the other picks first.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
impulse–momentum relationEnglish
F\Delta t = \Delta p: the same change in momentum needs less force if it takes longer.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
F\Delta t = \Delta p: the same change in momentum needs less force if it takes longer.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
incorruptibleEnglish
Never fading or decaying; lasting forever.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Never fading or decaying; lasting forever.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
independentEnglish
Not affected by what happened before. Each flip of a fair coin is independent of the others.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
Not affected by what happened before. Each flip of a fair coin is independent of the others.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
indifferenceEnglish
In a mixed equilibrium, each player mixes so that the opponent gains nothing by choosing one option over the other.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
In a mixed equilibrium, each player mixes so that the opponent gains nothing by choosing one option over the other.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
indoor baseballEnglish
The first name of the game George Hancock invented in Chicago in 1887, played inside a gymnasium with a large soft ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The first name of the game George Hancock invented in Chicago in 1887, played inside a gymnasium with a large soft ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
influenceEnglish
The power of a strong wall of stones facing the open board. It does not score points at once, but it helps win fights and build territory later.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
The power of a strong wall of stones facing the open board. It does not score points at once, but it helps win fights and build territory later.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
informationEnglish
What you know. When you learn something new, the chances you should use can change.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
What you know. When you learn something new, the chances you should use can change.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
initiativeEnglish
The ability to make threats that the opponent must answer, so that you choose the course of the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The ability to make threats that the opponent must answer, so that you choose the course of the game.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
inner rowEnglish
The row of pits on a player’s side that faces the opponent. In bao, captures are made from the opponent’s inner row.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
The row of pits on a player’s side that faces the opponent. In bao, captures are made from the opponent’s inner row.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
inningEnglish
A part of a baseball game in which each team bats until three of its players are out.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
A part of a baseball game in which each team bats until three of its players are out.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
instepEnglish
The top of the foot, where the laces are; the surface used for powerful kicks and shots.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
The top of the foot, where the laces are; the surface used for powerful kicks and shots.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
instep driveEnglish
A powerful kick struck with the laces (the top of the foot) with the ankle locked and toe pointed down.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A powerful kick struck with the laces (the top of the foot) with the ankle locked and toe pointed down.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
intelligenceEnglish
Information about the opponent, gathered and checked before and during a contest.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Information about the opponent, gathered and checked before and during a contest.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
intentional walkEnglish
A baseball tactic in which the defense deliberately puts a batter on first base.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A baseball tactic in which the defense deliberately puts a batter on first base.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
interlocking gripEnglish
A grip in which the little finger of the lower hand hooks between the first two fingers of the top hand; good for small hands.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
A grip in which the little finger of the lower hand hooks between the first two fingers of the top hand; good for small hands.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
internationalEnglish
A match between national teams; the first rugby international was in 1871, the first football international in 1872.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
A match between national teams; the first rugby international was in 1871, the first football international in 1872.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
International Olympic CommitteeEnglish
The group, founded in Paris in 1894, that organizes the modern Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
The group, founded in Paris in 1894, that organizes the modern Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
International Olympic Committee (IOC)English
The body founded at the Sorbonne in Paris on June 23, 1894, to organise the modern Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The body founded at the Sorbonne in Paris on June 23, 1894, to organise the modern Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
International YMCA Training SchoolEnglish
The college in Springfield, Massachusetts (now Springfield College), that trained YMCA secretaries and physical directors; basketball was invented there.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The college in Springfield, Massachusetts (now Springfield College), that trained YMCA secretaries and physical directors; basketball was invented there.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
internment campEnglish
A camp where civilians of enemy nations were held during war; Liddell died in the Weixian camp in China in 1945.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
A camp where civilians of enemy nations were held during war; Liddell died in the Weixian camp in China in 1945.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
Isthmian GamesEnglish
Greek games held every two years near Corinth, where Paul lived for a year and a half.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Greek games held every two years near Corinth, where Paul lived for a year and a half.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
J
JailEnglish
Square 10 on a Monopoly board. Players are sent there by a square, by cards and by rolling three doubles in a row.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
Square 10 on a Monopoly board. Players are sent there by a square, by cards and by rolling three doubles in a row.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
jeu de paumeEnglish
French for “game of the palm”: an indoor ball game of medieval France, first played with the hand and later with rackets. It is still played today as real tennis.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
French for “game of the palm”: an indoor ball game of medieval France, first played with the hand and later with rackets. It is still played today as real tennis.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
jianziEnglish
A Chinese game of keeping a weighted, feathered shuttlecock in the air with the feet.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
A Chinese game of keeping a weighted, feathered shuttlecock in the air with the feet.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
joint angleEnglish
The angle between two body segments at a joint, such as the knee angle between thigh and shank.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The angle between two body segments at a joint, such as the knee angle between thigh and shank.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
Jules RimetEnglish
French lawyer and president of FIFA from 1921 to 1954, who championed the World Cup; the first trophy was later named after him.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
French lawyer and president of FIFA from 1921 to 1954, who championed the World Cup; the first trophy was later named after him.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
jumpEnglish
Capturing an opponent’s piece by hopping diagonally over it to an empty square.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
Capturing an opponent’s piece by hopping diagonally over it to an empty square.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
jump serveEnglish
A serve tossed high and struck at the top of a jump, like a spike from behind the end line.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A serve tossed high and struck at the top of a jump, like a spike from behind the end line.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
K
KEnglish
The scorer’s symbol for a strikeout, chosen by Henry Chadwick.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
The scorer’s symbol for a strikeout, chosen by Henry Chadwick.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
KahnawakeEnglish
A Mohawk community near Montreal whose players were among the best lacrosse teams of the 1800s.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A Mohawk community near Montreal whose players were among the best lacrosse teams of the 1800s.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
Kaisei GakkoEnglish
A government school in Tokyo, a forerunner of the University of Tokyo, where the American teacher Horace Wilson introduced baseball around 1872.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
A government school in Tokyo, a forerunner of the University of Tokyo, where the American teacher Horace Wilson introduced baseball around 1872.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
keep-upEnglish
Keeping a ball or shuttlecock in the air without letting it touch the ground.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
Keeping a ball or shuttlecock in the air without letting it touch the ground.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
kinetic chainEnglish
The linked parts of the body (legs, hips, trunk, shoulder, arm, hand) that pass speed from one to the next in a throw, swing or kick.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The linked parts of the body (legs, hips, trunk, shoulder, arm, hand) that pass speed from one to the next in a throw, swing or kick.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
king safetyEnglish
Keeping the king protected, usually by castling early behind a wall of pawns.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Keeping the king protected, usually by castling early behind a wall of pawns.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
KinoveaEnglish
A free, open-source program for analyzing sport and movement video, with angle, distance and timing tools.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
A free, open-source program for analyzing sport and movement video, with angle, distance and timing tools.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
Knickerbocker Base Ball ClubEnglish
A club of young men in New York City who wrote down rules for baseball in 1845.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
A club of young men in New York City who wrote down rules for baseball in 1845.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
knucklebonesEnglish
An ancient tossing-and-catching game first played with the small ankle bones of sheep; the game of jacks comes from it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
An ancient tossing-and-catching game first played with the small ankle bones of sheep; the game of jacks comes from it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
komiEnglish
Extra points given to White to make up for Black’s advantage of moving first.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
Extra points given to White to make up for Black’s advantage of moving first.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
kotinosEnglish
The wreath of wild olive, cut from a sacred tree at Olympia, given as the only official prize to each winner.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
The wreath of wild olive, cut from a sacred tree at Olympia, given as the only official prize to each winner.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
L
lacrosseEnglish
A team game played with a ball and long sticks that have a netted pocket, used to catch, carry and throw the ball into a goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A team game played with a ball and long sticks that have a netted pocket, used to catch, carry and throw the ball into a goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
Lanchester’s linear lawEnglish
The model for one-on-one fighting, where only a few units can engage at a time: strength grows only in proportion to numbers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
The model for one-on-one fighting, where only a few units can engage at a time: strength grows only in proportion to numbers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Lanchester’s square lawEnglish
A model published by Frederick Lanchester in 1916: when every unit on each side can engage the enemy at once, a side’s fighting strength grows with the square of its numbers times the quality of each unit.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A model published by Frederick Lanchester in 1916: when every unit on each side can engage the enemy at once, a side’s fighting strength grows with the square of its numbers times the quality of each unit.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
lane oilEnglish
A thin coating of oil applied to the front part of a lane to protect it; it lowers friction.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A thin coating of oil applied to the front part of a lane to protect it; it lowers friction.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
lanesEnglish
Open gaps deliberately left between units so that charging elephants could pass through without breaking the formation.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
Open gaps deliberately left between units so that charging elephants could pass through without breaking the formation.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
latexEnglish
A milky sap that oozes from certain trees; it is the raw material of natural rubber.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A milky sap that oozes from certain trees; it is the raw material of natural rubber.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
lawful strivingEnglish
Competing to win within the rules and the spirit of the game; Paul’s phrase in 2 Timothy 2:5.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
Competing to win within the rules and the spirit of the game; Paul’s phrase in 2 Timothy 2:5.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
lawn tennisEnglish
Tennis played outdoors on grass, invented in England in the 1870s.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Tennis played outdoors on grass, invented in England in the 1870s.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
laws of the gameEnglish
The official rules of soccer, still called “laws” today.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The official rules of soccer, still called “laws” today.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
laws of warEnglish
Rules that limit how wars may be fought, protecting prisoners, the wounded and civilians; first written as a code for an army by Francis Lieber in 1863.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
Rules that limit how wars may be fought, protecting prisoners, the wounded and civilians; first written as a code for an army by Francis Lieber in 1863.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
leapfrogEnglish
A game in which players take turns vaulting over the bent backs of the others.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A game in which players take turns vaulting over the bent backs of the others.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
learning curveEnglish
A graph of performance against practice; it usually rises steeply at first and then levels off.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A graph of performance against practice; it usually rises steeply at first and then levels off.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
leg before wicket (LBW)English
A way of being out when the ball would have hit the wicket but strikes the batsman’s body instead; added to the laws in 1774.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A way of being out when the ball would have hit the wicket but strikes the batsman’s body instead; added to the laws in 1774.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
libertyEnglish
An empty point next to a stone, directly up, down, left or right. A stone or group with no liberties is captured.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · +1 more
An empty point next to a stone, directly up, down, left or right. A stone or group with no liberties is captured.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · +1 more
Libro de los juegosEnglish
The Book of Games, more fully the Book of Chess, Dice and Tables, made for King Alfonso X of Castile and completed in 1283.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The Book of Games, more fully the Book of Chess, Dice and Tables, made for King Alfonso X of Castile and completed in 1283.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
life tableEnglish
A table showing, out of a large group born at the same time, how many are still living at each age; used to set fair prices for life insurance and pensions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
A table showing, out of a large group born at the same time, how many are still living at each age; used to set fair prices for life insurance and pensions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
ligamentEnglish
A tough band that ties bone to bone and keeps a joint stable; the knee has four main ones.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Life Science: Animal Design and Behavior, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
A tough band that ties bone to bone and keeps a joint stable; the knee has four main ones.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 2.3 (grade 5) · Grade 6 Life Science: Animal Design and Behavior, Lesson 7.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
limitationEnglish
An honest statement of what the evidence cannot show, such as a small sample or a biased opponent.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12) · Human Geography, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Life Science: Cells and Microbes, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
An honest statement of what the evidence cannot show, such as a small sample or a biased opponent.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12) · Human Geography, Lesson 10.1 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Life Science: Cells and Microbes, Lesson 2.4 (grade 7)
line of communicationEnglish
The route connecting an army with its sources of supply and reinforcement.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The route connecting an army with its sources of supply and reinforcement.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
line of scrimmageEnglish
The imaginary line where the ball is placed at the start of each play; the two teams line up on either side of it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
The imaginary line where the ball is placed at the start of each play; the two teams line up on either side of it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
linksEnglish
A seaside golf course built on sandy ground between the beach and the farmland, as in Scotland.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A seaside golf course built on sandy ground between the beach and the farmland, as in Scotland.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
lithographEnglish
A print made from a flat stone or plate; Milton Bradley was a lithographer, a printer of pictures.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
A print made from a flat stone or plate; Milton Bradley was a lithographer, a printer of pictures.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
local superiorityEnglish
Having more strength than the opponent at one particular point, whatever the overall totals.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Having more strength than the opponent at one particular point, whatever the overall totals.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
locked ankleEnglish
Holding the kicking foot firm, toes up, so it does not flop at contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
Holding the kicking foot firm, toes up, so it does not flop at contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
loftEnglish
The angle of the clubface from vertical: about 9–11° for a driver and 46–60° for wedges.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
The angle of the clubface from vertical: about 9–11° for a driver and 46–60° for wedges.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12) · Home Décor, Costume & Upholstery, Lesson 5.4 (grade 9–12)
Lord’s DayEnglish
Sunday, the first day of the week, kept by Christians for worship and rest.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
Sunday, the first day of the week, kept by Christians for worship and rest.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
loss aversionEnglish
The tendency to feel a loss more strongly than a gain of the same size, often about twice as strongly.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The tendency to feel a loss more strongly than a gain of the same size, often about twice as strongly.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
lotEnglish
An object drawn or cast to make a choice by chance, like drawing straws. In the Bible, lots were cast to settle questions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
An object drawn or cast to make a choice by chance, like drawing straws. In the Bible, lots were cast to settle questions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
luftEnglish
A German word meaning “air”: a small escape square made for the king by moving one pawn in front of it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
A German word meaning “air”: a small escape square made for the king by moving one pawn in front of it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
Luther GulickEnglish
Head of physical education at the Springfield school, who asked Naismith in 1891 to invent an indoor game for the winter.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Head of physical education at the Springfield school, who asked Naismith in 1891 to invent an indoor game for the winter.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
M
Magnus effectEnglish
The sideways push the air gives a spinning ball, named for the German scientist Gustav Magnus.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The sideways push the air gives a spinning ball, named for the German scientist Gustav Magnus.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
Magnus forceEnglish
The sideways force on a spinning ball moving through air (Lesson 2.2).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The sideways force on a spinning ball moving through air (Lesson 2.2).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
make rateEnglish
The fraction of tries that go in, also called the shooting percentage.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The fraction of tries that go in, also called the shooting percentage.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
mancalaEnglish
A family of “count-and-capture” board games played with seeds or stones in rows of pits. The name comes from an Arabic word meaning “to move.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
A family of “count-and-capture” board games played with seeds or stones in rows of pits. The name comes from an Arabic word meaning “to move.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
maneuverEnglish
Moving forces to put the opponent at a disadvantage, so that fighting is easier or unnecessary.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Moving forces to put the opponent at a disadvantage, so that fighting is easier or unnecessary.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
man-to-man defenseEnglish
Each defender guards one opponent wherever that opponent goes.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Each defender guards one opponent wherever that opponent goes.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
man-up offenseEnglish
The lacrosse equivalent of a power play, when a penalty leaves the opponent a player short.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The lacrosse equivalent of a power play, when a penalty leaves the opponent a player short.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
marathonEnglish
A long-distance footrace, today 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles), named for the Greek town of Marathon.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4)
A long-distance footrace, today 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles), named for the Greek town of Marathon.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4)
marblesEnglish
Small hard balls of clay, stone or glass, shot with the thumb to knock other marbles out of a ring.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
Small hard balls of clay, stone or glass, shot with the thumb to knock other marbles out of a ring.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
marginal expected gainEnglish
The expected change in your score from taking one more risk, compared with stopping now.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The expected change in your score from taking one more risk, compared with stopping now.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
Markov chainEnglish
A process that moves between states, where the chance of the next state depends only on the current state, not on the history.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
A process that moves between states, where the chance of the next state depends only on the current state, not on the history.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
mass playEnglish
Formations such as the flying wedge, in which many players locked together to push the ball carrier forward; they caused many injuries before 1906.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Formations such as the flying wedge, in which many players locked together to push the ball carrier forward; they caused many injuries before 1906.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
MCCEnglish
The Marylebone Cricket Club, founded in 1787 at Thomas Lord’s ground in London, which has been the guardian of the Laws of Cricket ever since.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
The Marylebone Cricket Club, founded in 1787 at Thomas Lord’s ground in London, which has been the guardian of the Laws of Cricket ever since.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
mean and spreadEnglish
The average of several trials, and how much they vary (for example highest minus lowest, or the standard deviation).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
The average of several trials, and how much they vary (for example highest minus lowest, or the standard deviation).
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
mechanicEnglish
One of the basic actions of a game, such as moving, jumping, capturing, placing or blocking.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
One of the basic actions of a game, such as moving, jumping, capturing, placing or blocking.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
merelsEnglish
Another old name for the game and its pieces, from a Latin word for a game piece.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
Another old name for the game and its pieces, from a Latin word for a game piece.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
MesoamericaEnglish
The region of ancient civilizations in what is now Mexico and Central America, home of the Olmec, Maya and Aztec peoples.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
The region of ancient civilizations in what is now Mexico and Central America, home of the Olmec, Maya and Aztec peoples.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
MesopotamiaEnglish
The land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, in what is now Iraq, where some of the first cities were built.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 7 Geography: Regions of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Geography: Rivers, Ports and Straits, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
The land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, in what is now Iraq, where some of the first cities were built.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 7 Geography: Regions of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 7) · Grade 8 Geography: Rivers, Ports and Straits, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8)
metabolic powerEnglish
The rate at which the body uses food energy, in watts.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
The rate at which the body uses food energy, in watts.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
metaeEnglish
The turning posts at each end of the spina, where the most dangerous and decisive moments of a race happened.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The turning posts at each end of the spina, where the most dangerous and decisive moments of a race happened.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
micromortEnglish
A one-in-a-million chance of a fatal accident, a unit invented by Ronald Howard of Stanford to compare small risks.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
A one-in-a-million chance of a fatal accident, a unit invented by Ronald Howard of Stanford to compare small risks.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
midrange shotEnglish
A two-point jump shot taken well away from the basket but inside the three-point line, roughly 4.5 to 7 meters out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A two-point jump shot taken well away from the basket but inside the three-point line, roughly 4.5 to 7 meters out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
midwayEnglish
The part of a fair or carnival with rides, food and booth games. The name comes from the Midway Plaisance at the Chicago fair of 1893.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
The part of a fair or carnival with rides, food and booth games. The name comes from the Midway Plaisance at the Chicago fair of 1893.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
Mills CommissionEnglish
A committee appointed in 1905 to settle baseball’s origins; in 1907 it credited Abner Doubleday and Cooperstown, New York, with inventing the game in 1839.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
A committee appointed in 1905 to settle baseball’s origins; in 1907 it credited Abner Doubleday and Cooperstown, New York, with inventing the game in 1839.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
minimaxEnglish
Choosing the strategy that makes your worst case as good as possible. Von Neumann proved in 1928 that in every two-player zero-sum game, the best mixed strategies of the two players meet at one value.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Choosing the strategy that makes your worst case as good as possible. Von Neumann proved in 1928 that in every two-player zero-sum game, the best mixed strategies of the two players meet at one value.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
mintonetteEnglish
Morgan’s first name for volleyball, borrowed partly from badminton.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
Morgan’s first name for volleyball, borrowed partly from badminton.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
mission tactics (Auftragstaktik)English
The Prussian method of telling subordinates what to achieve and why, and leaving how to them, so that they can act quickly when the situation changes.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The Prussian method of telling subordinates what to achieve and why, and leaving how to them, so that they can act quickly when the situation changes.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
mixed strategyEnglish
Choosing among options at random with fixed probabilities, such as kicking left 60% of the time.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Choosing among options at random with fixed probabilities, such as kicking left 60% of the time.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
mob footballEnglish
Medieval and early modern football between towns, villages or parishes, played with few rules, unlimited players and goals that could be miles apart.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Medieval and early modern football between towns, villages or parishes, played with few rules, unlimited players and goals that could be miles apart.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
moment armEnglish
The perpendicular distance from the fulcrum to the line of a force.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
The perpendicular distance from the fulcrum to the line of a force.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
momentum (in the statistical sense)English
The claim that recent success makes further success more likely. Most apparent momentum disappears when compared with what random sequences produce.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
The claim that recent success makes further success more likely. Most apparent momentum disappears when compared with what random sequences produce.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Monte Carlo methodEnglish
Finding a quantity approximately by running many random trials and averaging, named in the 1940s at Los Alamos.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Finding a quantity approximately by running many random trials and averaging, named in the 1940s at Los Alamos.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
moraleEnglish
The confidence and spirit of a team or army; whether people believe they can succeed.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The confidence and spirit of a team or army; whether people believe they can succeed.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
motor learningEnglish
The lasting change in skill that comes from practice, as the brain and nerves refine a movement.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
The lasting change in skill that comes from practice, as the brain and nerves refine a movement.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
multiple of 4English
A number you reach by counting by fours: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A number you reach by counting by fours: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
multiplication principleEnglish
If one thing can happen in 6 ways and another in 6 ways, together they can happen in 6 × 6 = 36 ways.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
If one thing can happen in 6 ways and another in 6 ways, together they can happen in 6 × 6 = 36 ways.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
multiplication ruleEnglish
For independent events, P(A \text{ and } B) = P(A) \times P(B).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
For independent events, P(A \text{ and } B) = P(A) \times P(B).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
musclingEnglish
Forcing the ball with the arm muscles instead of letting it swing; it usually pulls the ball off line.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
Forcing the ball with the arm muscles instead of letting it swing; it usually pulls the ball off line.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
muscular ChristianityEnglish
A movement in the 1800s that taught that Christians should be strong and healthy as well as good.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A movement in the 1800s that taught that Christians should be strong and healthy as well as good.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
N
national pastimeEnglish
A sport so widely loved that it is seen as part of a nation’s character, as baseball is in the United States, Japan, Cuba and Korea.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
A sport so widely loved that it is seen as part of a nation’s character, as baseball is in the United States, Japan, Cuba and Korea.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
negative expected valueEnglish
A game or choice whose long-run average result is a loss.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A game or choice whose long-run average result is a loss.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
NHLEnglish
The National Hockey League, founded in Montreal in 1917.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The National Hockey League, founded in Montreal in 1917.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
night watchEnglish
A division of the night for guard duty. In Gideon’s time the night was divided into three watches; he attacked at “the beginning of the middle watch,” just after the guards had changed (Judges 7:19).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A division of the night for guard duty. In Gideon’s time the night was divided into three watches; he attacked at “the beginning of the middle watch,” just after the guards had changed (Judges 7:19).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
NimEnglish
A game in which players take turns removing counters from a pile or piles; the rules decide whether taking the last counter wins or loses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A game in which players take turns removing counters from a pile or piles; the rules decide whether taking the last counter wins or loses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
Nine Men’s MorrisEnglish
A two-player strategy game in which each player has nine pieces (“men”) and tries to make rows of three.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A two-player strategy game in which each player has nine pieces (“men”) and tries to make rows of three.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
ninepinsEnglish
A game with nine pins set in a diamond, popular in Germany, the Netherlands and early America.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
A game with nine pins set in a diamond, popular in Germany, the Netherlands and early America.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
normalEnglish
The line perpendicular to a surface at the point of contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
The line perpendicular to a surface at the point of contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
nyumbaEnglish
The “house,” a square pit in the inner row of a traditional bao board that has special rules in the full game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
The “house,” a square pit in the inner row of a traditional bao board that has special rules in the full game.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
O
objectiveEnglish
The clearly defined goal toward which every action is directed.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
The clearly defined goal toward which every action is directed.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
oblique attack (oblique order)English
Advancing a battle line at an angle so that a strong wing engages first while the weaker wing is held back (“refused”).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Advancing a battle line at an angle so that a strong wing engages first while the weaker wing is held back (“refused”).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
offsideEnglish
A law that stops an attacker from waiting near the opponent’s goal. Since 1925 an attacker needs at least two opponents (usually the goalkeeper and one defender) level with or behind him when the ball is played forward.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
A law that stops an attacker from waiting near the opponent’s goal. Since 1925 an attacker needs at least two opponents (usually the goalkeeper and one defender) level with or behind him when the ball is played forward.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
oil patternEnglish
How the oil is spread across and along the lane; it decides where a ball skids and where it hooks.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
How the oil is spread across and along the lane; it decides where a ball skids and where it hooks.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
olive wreathEnglish
A crown of wild olive leaves, the only prize given to winners at the ancient Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4)
A crown of wild olive leaves, the only prize given to winners at the ancient Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4)
OlympiadEnglish
The four-year period between one festival and the next, used by Greek historians to count years.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4)
The four-year period between one festival and the next, used by Greek historians to count years.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 4 Greek, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4)
Olympic creedEnglish
The saying that the most important thing is not to win but to take part, inspired by a sermon preached by Bishop Ethelbert Talbot in London in 1908.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The saying that the most important thing is not to win but to take part, inspired by a sermon preached by Bishop Ethelbert Talbot in London in 1908.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
on-base percentageEnglish
The fraction of plate appearances in which a batter reaches base by a hit, walk or hit by pitch.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The fraction of plate appearances in which a batter reaches base by a hit, walk or hit by pitch.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
on-base percentage (OBP)English
How often a batter reaches base by a hit, a walk or being hit by a pitch, out of his plate appearances. A simple version is (hits + walks) ÷ (at bats + walks).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
How often a batter reaches base by a hit, a walk or being hit by a pitch, out of his plate appearances. A simple version is (hits + walks) ÷ (at bats + walks).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
one-two (wall pass)English
The soccer give-and-go: pass to a teammate, run past the defender, and receive the return pass, as if bouncing the ball off a wall.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
The soccer give-and-go: pass to a teammate, run past the defender, and receive the return pass, as if bouncing the ball off a wall.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
openingEnglish
The first part of the game, usually the first ten to fifteen moves, when both sides bring out their pieces.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
The first part of the game, usually the first ten to fifteen moves, when both sides bring out their pieces.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
operationsEnglish
The middle level: a campaign or series of connected actions in one region or over one season, arranged in time and space to serve the strategy.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
The middle level: a campaign or series of connected actions in one region or over one season, arranged in time and space to serve the strategy.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
opponentEnglish
The player or team you are playing against.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
The player or team you are playing against.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
oppositionEnglish
In chess, two kings on the same file (or rank) with one square between them. The player who does not have to move “has the opposition,” because the other king must give way.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
In chess, two kings on the same file (or rank) with one square between them. The player who does not have to move “has the opposition,” because the other king must give way.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
ordered outcomeEnglish
An outcome in which the order matters, such as (2, 5) for a red die and a white die. (2, 5) and (5, 2) are different outcomes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
An outcome in which the order matters, such as (2, 5) for a red die and a white die. (2, 5) and (5, 2) are different outcomes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
outEnglish
A batter or runner put out by the fielders. Each team gets 3 outs an inning and 27 in a nine-inning game.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A batter or runner put out by the fielders. Each team gets 3 outs an inning and 27 in a nine-inning game.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
outcome biasEnglish
Judging a decision by its result rather than by its reasoning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
Judging a decision by its result rather than by its reasoning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
outcome gridEnglish
A table that shows every way two dice can land, with one die across the top and the other down the side.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
A table that shows every way two dice can land, with one die across the top and the other down the side.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
outcome tableEnglish
A list or grid of all equally likely results, used to count favorable cases.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
A list or grid of all equally likely results, used to count favorable cases.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
overEnglish
A set of balls bowled in succession from one end; four in 1744, six today.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A set of balls bowled in succession from one end; four in 1744, six today.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
over the ballEnglish
Leaning the knee and body forward over the ball at contact, which keeps a kick low.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Leaning the knee and body forward over the ball at contact, which keeps a kick low.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
overconfidenceEnglish
Believing your estimates are more accurate than they are.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
Believing your estimates are more accurate than they are.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
overlapping gripEnglish
Also called the Vardon grip: the little finger of the lower hand rests on top of the gap between the first two fingers of the top hand, so the hands work as one.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
Also called the Vardon grip: the little finger of the lower hand rests on top of the gap between the first two fingers of the top hand, so the hands work as one.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
overload and recoveryEnglish
Training stresses the body a little beyond its usual load; the body adapts during rest afterward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
Training stresses the body a little beyond its usual load; the body adapts during rest afterward.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
overuse injuryEnglish
An injury caused by many repeated loads rather than one sudden blow.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 7 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
An injury caused by many repeated loads rather than one sudden blow.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 7 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 7)
owareEnglish
The mancala game of the Akan people of Ghana, played on two rows of six pits with 48 seeds.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
The mancala game of the Akan people of Ghana, played on two rows of six pits with 48 seeds.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
P
Panathenaic StadiumEnglish
The ancient stadium in Athens, rebuilt in white marble for 1896 with funds from the businessman George Averoff; it held about 50,000 people at the opening.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The ancient stadium in Athens, rebuilt in white marble for 1896 with funds from the businessman George Averoff; it held about 50,000 people at the opening.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
parEnglish
The number of strokes a good golfer is expected to take to finish a hole or a course.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
The number of strokes a good golfer is expected to take to finish a hole or a course.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
parallax errorEnglish
An error in measurement caused by the motion not being square to the camera, or by objects at different distances from it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
An error in measurement caused by the motion not being square to the camera, or by objects at different distances from it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
passing gameEnglish
A way of playing that moves the ball by passes between teammates instead of long dribbles.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
A way of playing that moves the ball by passes between teammates instead of long dribbles.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
passing laneEnglish
An open path between two teammates that a pass can travel along without being stopped.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
An open path between two teammates that a pass can travel along without being stopped.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
passing percentageEnglish
Good passes divided by total passes, times 100.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
Good passes divided by total passes, times 100.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
passing triangleEnglish
Three teammates placed in a triangle, so the player with the ball always has two passing choices.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
Three teammates placed in a triangle, so the player with the ball always has two passing choices.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
peach basketEnglish
The kind of basket nailed up as the first basketball goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
The kind of basket nailed up as the first basketball goal.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
penalty killEnglish
The short-handed team’s defense during an opponent’s power play.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The short-handed team’s defense during an opponent’s power play.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
pendulum swingEnglish
A free arm swing driven mostly by gravity, with the shoulder as the pivot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
A free arm swing driven mostly by gravity, with the shoulder as the pivot.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
pentathlonEnglish
A contest of five events: the footrace, long jump, discus, javelin and wrestling.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A contest of five events: the footrace, long jump, discus, javelin and wrestling.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
penthouseEnglish
The sloping roof along three sides of a real tennis court, onto which the ball is served.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The sloping roof along three sides of a real tennis court, onto which the ball is served.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
percent changeEnglish
The change divided by the starting value, times 100.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
The change divided by the starting value, times 100.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
pipEnglish
One point (triangle) of movement on a backgammon board. A checker on your 13-point needs 13 pips to bear off.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
One point (triangle) of movement on a backgammon board. A checker on your 13-point needs 13 pips to bear off.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
pip countEnglish
The total number of points a player’s checkers must still travel to bear off; at the start of backgammon it is 167.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The total number of points a player’s checkers must still travel to bear off; at the start of backgammon it is 167.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
pipsEnglish
The dots on a die that show its numbers.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
The dots on a die that show its numbers.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
pitch countEnglish
The number of pitches a pitcher has thrown in a game; youth leagues set limits to protect young arms.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
The number of pitches a pitcher has thrown in a game; youth leagues set limits to protect young arms.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
Pitch SmartEnglish
Guidelines on pitch counts and rest days published by Major League Baseball and USA Baseball in 2014.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
Guidelines on pitch counts and rest days published by Major League Baseball and USA Baseball in 2014.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
plant footEnglish
The foot you stand on while kicking, placed beside the ball and pointing at the target.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
The foot you stand on while kicking, placed beside the ball and pointing at the target.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
plate appearance (PA)English
Every completed turn at the plate, including walks.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
Every completed turn at the plate, including walks.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
platformEnglish
The flat surface made by both forearms held together, with the elbows straight and the thumbs side by side.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
The flat surface made by both forearms held together, with the elbows straight and the thumbs side by side.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
playEnglish
Something done for its own enjoyment, like a game, a sport or make-believe.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
Something done for its own enjoyment, like a game, a sport or make-believe.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Kindergarten Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade K)
play-by-playEnglish
A record of every play in a game, in order.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A record of every play in a game, in order.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
playing not to loseEnglish
Choosing to avoid a visible, dramatic failure rather than to maximize the chance of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Choosing to avoid a visible, dramatic failure rather than to maximize the chance of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
playtestEnglish
To play a new game many times to find problems and improve the rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
To play a new game many times to find problems and improve the rules.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
playtestingEnglish
Testing a game or strategy by playing it many times with real players and recording what happens.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
Testing a game or strategy by playing it many times with real players and recording what happens.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.5 (grade 8–12)
pocketEnglish
The best place for the ball to hit the pins for a strike: between the 1 and 3 pins for a right-handed bowler, or the 1 and 2 pins for a left-handed bowler.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
The best place for the ball to hit the pins for a strike: between the 1 and 3 pins for a right-handed bowler, or the 1 and 2 pins for a left-handed bowler.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12) · Threads & Weaving, Lesson 3.4 (grade 9–12)
pointEnglish
One of the 24 spots on the board where a piece may stand, where lines meet or end.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3–5)
One of the 24 spots on the board where a piece may stand, where lines meet or end.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7) · Fabrics & Sewing I, Lesson 3.1 (grade 3–5)
point of attackEnglish
The spot where a play is designed to gain local superiority.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The spot where a play is designed to gain local superiority.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
point valuesEnglish
A simple way to compare pieces: pawn 1, knight 3, bishop 3, rook 5, queen 9. The king cannot be traded, so it has no number.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A simple way to compare pieces: pawn 1, knight 3, bishop 3, rook 5, queen 9. The king cannot be traded, so it has no number.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
points per attemptEnglish
The expected value of one attempt in a game: the points it is worth times the probability it succeeds.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The expected value of one attempt in a game: the points it is worth times the probability it succeeds.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
points per possessionEnglish
Points scored divided by the number of possessions; the best single measure of an offense or defense.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Points scored divided by the number of possessions; the best single measure of an offense or defense.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
points per roundEnglish
The points a player wins on average each round: the points for a win times the probability of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
The points a player wins on average each round: the points for a win times the probability of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
points per tryEnglish
The points a shot is worth times its make rate: the average points each try earns.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
The points a shot is worth times its make rate: the average points each try earns.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
position numbersEnglish
Numbers for the fielders: 1 pitcher, 2 catcher, 3 first base, 4 second base, 5 third base, 6 shortstop, 7 left field, 8 center field, 9 right field.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
Numbers for the fielders: 1 pitcher, 2 catcher, 3 first base, 4 second base, 5 third base, 6 shortstop, 7 left field, 8 center field, 9 right field.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
positional playEnglish
Play aimed at gaining small, lasting advantages (better pawns, better squares, more space) rather than immediate material.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
Play aimed at gaining small, lasting advantages (better pawns, better squares, more space) rather than immediate material.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
power playEnglish
A period when one team has more players on the ice (usually 5 against 4) because an opponent is serving a penalty.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
A period when one team has more players on the ice (usually 5 against 4) because an opponent is serving a penalty.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
prevent defenseEnglish
A late-game football defense that rushes few players and drops many deep to stop long passes, while giving up short completions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
A late-game football defense that rushes few players and drops many deep to stop long passes, while giving up short completions.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
principles of warEnglish
A short list of general rules drawn from the study of many campaigns. They are guides for judgment, not formulas that guarantee victory.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
A short list of general rules drawn from the study of many campaigns. They are guides for judgment, not formulas that guarantee victory.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
prior and posteriorEnglish
The probability before new evidence (prior) and after it (posterior).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The probability before new evidence (prior) and after it (posterior).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
probabilityEnglish
A number from 0 to 1 that tells how likely something is: the number of ways it can happen divided by the number of equally likely outcomes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12) · Grade 8 Life Science: Heredity, Design and Origins, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · +3 more
A number from 0 to 1 that tells how likely something is: the number of ways it can happen divided by the number of equally likely outcomes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12) · Grade 8 Life Science: Heredity, Design and Origins, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8) · +3 more
probability distributionEnglish
A table or list of every possible value of a random variable with its probability; the probabilities add to 1.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 11–12)
A table or list of every possible value of a random variable with its probability; the probabilities add to 1.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 11–12)
problem of pointsEnglish
The old puzzle of how to divide a prize fairly when a game is stopped before anyone has won.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
The old puzzle of how to divide a prize fairly when a game is stopped before anyone has won.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
proclamationEnglish
A public order announced in the name of the king.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
A public order announced in the name of the king.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
pronationEnglish
The turning of the forearm just before and after contact, the same turn your arm makes at the end of a throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The turning of the forearm just before and after contact, the same turn your arm makes at the end of a throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
prospect theoryEnglish
Kahneman and Tversky’s 1979 description of how people actually value risky choices: relative to a reference point, with losses weighted more than gains.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
Kahneman and Tversky’s 1979 description of how people actually value risky choices: relative to a reference point, with losses weighted more than gains.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
proximal-to-distal sequenceEnglish
The order in which segments reach peak speed, from those near the body’s center to those farther out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The order in which segments reach peak speed, from those near the body’s center to those farther out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
public schoolEnglish
In England, an old, fee-paying boarding school such as Eton, Harrow, Rugby or Winchester; each had its own form of football.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
In England, an old, fee-paying boarding school such as Eton, Harrow, Rugby or Winchester; each had its own form of football.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
puckEnglish
The flat, round disk used in hockey instead of a ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The flat, round disk used in hockey instead of a ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
pure strategyEnglish
Always making the same choice, such as always kicking to the left.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Always making the same choice, such as always kicking to the left.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
pursuitEnglish
Following a beaten enemy to complete the victory. Gideon called on the men of Ephraim to hold the fords of the Jordan (Judges 7:24).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Following a beaten enemy to complete the victory. Gideon called on the men of Ephraim to hold the fords of the Jordan (Judges 7:24).
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
push your luckEnglish
A kind of game in which you keep taking chances to gain more, but one bad roll can wipe out your gains for the turn.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
A kind of game in which you keep taking chances to gain more, but one bad roll can wipe out your gains for the turn.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
pushawayEnglish
Moving the ball forward and slightly down out of the hands on the first step, to start the swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
Moving the ball forward and slightly down out of the hands on the first step, to start the swing.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
push-your-luck gameEnglish
A game in which each roll can add to your score or wipe out what you have gained this turn, so you must decide when to stop.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A game in which each roll can add to your score or wipe out what you have gained this turn, so you must decide when to stop.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
puttEnglish
A gentle stroke on the green that rolls the ball along the ground toward the hole.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
A gentle stroke on the green that rolls the ball along the ground toward the hole.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
Pyramid of SuccessEnglish
John Wooden’s diagram of fifteen qualities, built like a pyramid, that lead to success.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
John Wooden’s diagram of fifteen qualities, built like a pyramid, that lead to success.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Pythagorean expectationEnglish
Bill James’s estimate of a team’s winning percentage from runs scored (RS) and allowed (RA): RS^2/(RS^2 + RA^2).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
Bill James’s estimate of a team’s winning percentage from runs scored (RS) and allowed (RA): RS^2/(RS^2 + RA^2).
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
Q
quadrigaEnglish
A light chariot pulled by four horses abreast.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
A light chariot pulled by four horses abreast.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
R
race gameEnglish
A board game in which each player tries to move all his pieces along a track and off the board before his opponent does.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
A board game in which each player tries to move all his pieces along a track and off the board before his opponent does.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
racketEnglish
A handle and a frame strung with a tight net of strings for hitting the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A handle and a frame strung with a tight net of strings for hitting the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
racket faceEnglish
The flat, strung surface of the racket. Its angle at contact sets the direction of the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
The flat, strung surface of the racket. Its angle at contact sets the direction of the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
racket pathEnglish
The direction the racket head moves through contact; low-to-high produces topspin.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The direction the racket head moves through contact; low-to-high produces topspin.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
radius of curvatureEnglish
The radius of the circle that best fits a curved path at one point; a smaller radius means a sharper bend.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The radius of the circle that best fits a curved path at one point; a smaller radius means a sharper bend.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
rallyEnglish
A series of hits back and forth over the net that ends when the ball touches the floor or goes out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3)
A series of hits back and forth over the net that ends when the ball touches the floor or goes out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 3)
rally scoringEnglish
Modern scoring in which a point is won on every rally, no matter which side served; adopted internationally in 1999.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
Modern scoring in which a point is won on every rally, no matter which side served; adopted internationally in 1999.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
randomEnglish
Not able to be predicted by us ahead of time, though every outcome has its chance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
Not able to be predicted by us ahead of time, though every outcome has its chance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
random variableEnglish
A number whose value depends on chance, such as the points scored on one shot or the number on a die.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 11–12)
A number whose value depends on chance, such as the points scored on one shot or the number on a die.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 7.1 (grade 11–12)
range of motionEnglish
How far a joint can move, such as how high you can swing your leg.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12) · Grade 5 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
How far a joint can move, such as how high you can swing your leg.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12) · Grade 5 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 4.2 (grade 5) · +1 more
Ranji TrophyEnglish
India’s national first-class championship, begun in 1934 and named after Ranjitsinhji.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
India’s national first-class championship, begun in 1934 and named after Ranjitsinhji.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
rattanEnglish
A tough, bendy palm stem used to weave takraw balls, baskets and furniture.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
A tough, bendy palm stem used to weave takraw balls, baskets and furniture.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
reaction boardEnglish
A board supported at two ends, with a scale under one end, used to find a person’s center of mass.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
A board supported at two ends, with a scale under one end, used to find a person’s center of mass.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
reaction timeEnglish
The time between seeing something and starting to move.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12) · +3 more
The time between seeing something and starting to move.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12) · +3 more
ready positionEnglish
Feet about shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight forward on the balls of the feet, racket in front: the stance you wait in.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Feet about shoulder-width apart, knees bent, weight forward on the balls of the feet, racket in front: the stance you wait in.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
real tennisEnglish
The old indoor game of tennis, played in walled courts with sloping roofs; “real” meaning “royal.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The old indoor game of tennis, played in walled courts with sloping roofs; “real” meaning “royal.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
rebound speedEnglish
The speed of the ball just after it leaves the receiving surface.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
The speed of the ball just after it leaves the receiving surface.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
recessEnglish
A break for play in the middle of the school day.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
A break for play in the middle of the school day.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7)
reconnaissanceEnglish
Scouting: going to look at the enemy before acting, as Gideon did when he crept down to the camp at night.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Scouting: going to look at the enemy before acting, as Gideon did when he crept down to the camp at night.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
recoveryEnglish
Moving back to a good position after each shot to be ready for the next one.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 3.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
Moving back to a good position after each shot to be ready for the next one.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Grade 5 Life Science: The Human Body, Lesson 3.2 (grade 5) · +3 more
refereeEnglish
A judge who watches a game and decides when a rule has been broken; in baseball the referee is called the umpire.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
A judge who watches a game and decides when a rule has been broken; in baseball the referee is called the umpire.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7)
refused flankEnglish
A wing deliberately held back to avoid early fighting.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
A wing deliberately held back to avoid early fighting.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
regression to the meanEnglish
When a measurement is extreme partly because of luck, the next measurement of the same thing is likely to be closer to the average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
When a measurement is extreme partly because of luck, the next measurement of the same thing is likely to be closer to the average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
reguEnglish
A team of three players in sepak takraw.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
A team of three players in sepak takraw.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
relative frequencyEnglish
The fraction of trials in which an event happened: count ÷ number of trials.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 1.2 (grade 11–12)
The fraction of trials in which an event happened: count ÷ number of trials.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 1.2 (grade 11–12)
relative risk reductionEnglish
The fraction by which a safety measure cuts a risk; a 45% reduction multiplies the risk by 0.55.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
The fraction by which a safety measure cuts a risk; a 45% reduction multiplies the risk by 0.55.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 8–12)
release pointEnglish
The place where the ball leaves the hand: out in front of the body, above the shoulder for an overhand throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The place where the ball leaves the hand: out in front of the body, above the shoulder for an overhand throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
repeated riskEnglish
A small risk taken again and again. Over many tries it adds up to a large chance that something goes wrong at least once.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
A small risk taken again and again. Over many tries it adds up to a large chance that something goes wrong at least once.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
rerollEnglish
Rolling some of your dice again while keeping the others.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
Rolling some of your dice again while keeping the others.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
resultEnglish
What actually happened afterward, which depends on the choice and on chance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
What actually happened afterward, which depends on the choice and on chance.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
rideEnglish
In lacrosse, the attackers’ effort to stop the defense from clearing the ball upfield, like a hockey forecheck.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
In lacrosse, the attackers’ effort to stop the defense from clearing the ball upfield, like a hockey forecheck.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
rinkEnglish
A sheet of ice for skating or hockey, often with boards around it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
A sheet of ice for skating or hockey, often with boards around it.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
risk of ruinEnglish
The chance of a loss so large that you cannot continue, recover or play again.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The chance of a loss so large that you cannot continue, recover or play again.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
rolling decelerationEnglish
The steady slowing of a rolling ball caused by the grass, a = v^2/2d.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
The steady slowing of a rolling ball caused by the grass, a = v^2/2d.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
rosette squareEnglish
One of the five flower-marked squares on the Ur board; in Finkel’s reconstruction a piece landing there earns another throw and cannot be captured.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
One of the five flower-marked squares on the Ur board; in Finkel’s reconstruction a piece landing there earns another throw and cannot be captured.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
round robinEnglish
A tournament in which every player plays every other player once.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A tournament in which every player plays every other player once.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
roundersEnglish
An English bat-and-ball game with bases, one of baseball’s ancestors.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
An English bat-and-ball game with bases, one of baseball’s ancestors.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Royal Cemetery at UrEnglish
A burial ground in the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, in southern Iraq, excavated by Leonard Woolley between 1922 and 1934; it held several game boards from about 2600–2400 B.C.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
A burial ground in the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, in southern Iraq, excavated by Leonard Woolley between 1922 and 1934; it held several game boards from about 2600–2400 B.C.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
rugby footballEnglish
The kind of football in which players carry the ball in their hands, named after Rugby School in England.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
The kind of football in which players carry the ball in their hands, named after Rugby School in England.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7)
Rugby Football Union (RFU)English
The governing body of rugby in England, founded on January 26, 1871, by 21 clubs.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The governing body of rugby in England, founded on January 26, 1871, by 21 clubs.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
rule bookEnglish
The written rules of a game, clear enough that someone who has never played can learn it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
The written rules of a game, clear enough that someone who has never played can learn it.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
rule of the squareEnglish
A counting shortcut: a lone king can catch a passed pawn if it can step inside the square whose side runs from the pawn to its promotion square.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
A counting shortcut: a lone king can catch a passed pawn if it can step inside the square whose side runs from the pawn to its promotion square.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
run expectancyEnglish
The average number of runs scored from a base-out state to the end of the inning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
The average number of runs scored from a base-out state to the end of the inning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
run (R)English
A point in baseball, scored when a runner touches home plate.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
A point in baseball, scored when a runner touches home plate.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
S
SabbathEnglish
The day of rest God gave His people, one day in seven.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · +2 more
The day of rest God gave His people, one day in seven.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · +2 more
sabermetricsEnglish
The search for objective knowledge about baseball through data, named by Bill James from SABR, the Society for American Baseball Research.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The search for objective knowledge about baseball through data, named by Bill James from SABR, the Society for American Baseball Research.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
sacrificeEnglish
Deliberately giving up material (a pawn or piece) for an advantage in time, position or attack.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
Deliberately giving up material (a pawn or piece) for an advantage in time, position or attack.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
safe positionEnglish
A position you want to leave for your opponent, because whatever they do, you can win.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
A position you want to leave for your opponent, because whatever they do, you can win.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7)
safety habitEnglish
Something you do every time to lower a risk, like buckling a seat belt.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
Something you do every time to lower a risk, like buckling a seat belt.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
Saturday half-holidayEnglish
Time off from about two o’clock on Saturday afternoon, made law for many factory workers by the Factory Act of 1850, which gave working men time to play and watch sport.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Time off from about two o’clock on Saturday afternoon, made law for many factory workers by the Factory Act of 1850, which gave working men time to play and watch sport.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
scorecardEnglish
A grid for recording every plate appearance in a game, inning by inning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
A grid for recording every plate appearance in a game, inning by inning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
scoring rateEnglish
The average number of goals a team scores per minute in a given situation.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The average number of goals a team scores per minute in a given situation.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
scoutingEnglish
Watching and studying an opponent to learn their habits, strengths and weaknesses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · +3 more
Watching and studying an opponent to learn their habits, strengths and weaknesses.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Grade 3 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 8.4 (grade 3) · Grade 4 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4) · +3 more
scouting reportEnglish
A written summary of what a team learned about an opponent and how it plans to play them.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A written summary of what a team learned about an opponent and how it plans to play them.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
scrumEnglish
In rugby, a pushing contest in which both packs struggle for the ball; Camp replaced it with the line of scrimmage.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
In rugby, a pushing contest in which both packs struggle for the ball; Camp replaced it with the line of scrimmage.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
second lineEnglish
A reserve line behind the main line, ready to face an attack from the flank or rear.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
A reserve line behind the main line, ready to face an attack from the flank or rear.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
self-reported penaltyEnglish
A penalty a player calls on himself when only he knows the rule was broken, as golfers are expected to do.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
A penalty a player calls on himself when only he knows the rule was broken, as golfers are expected to do.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
SenetEnglish
An ancient Egyptian racing game played on a board of thirty squares in three rows of ten. The name means “passing.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
An ancient Egyptian racing game played on a board of thirty squares in three rows of ten. The name means “passing.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
senteEnglish
A move the opponent must answer, so that the player keeps the initiative and can play elsewhere afterward. The opposite is gote: a move that ends one’s initiative.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A move the opponent must answer, so that the player keeps the initiative and can play elsewhere afterward. The opposite is gote: a move that ends one’s initiative.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
sepak takrawEnglish
A Southeast Asian game in which players kick a woven ball over a net; the name joins the Malay word for “kick” and the Thai word for “woven ball.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
A Southeast Asian game in which players kick a woven ball over a net; the name joins the Malay word for “kick” and the Thai word for “woven ball.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
sequential decisionEnglish
A series of choices in which each choice is made after seeing the result of the last.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A series of choices in which each choice is made after seeing the result of the last.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
service zoneEnglish
The area behind the end line from which a player serves.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
The area behind the end line from which a player serves.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
ShahnamehEnglish
The Book of Kings, a long poem of Persian history and legend finished by the poet Ferdowsi about A.D. 1010.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
The Book of Kings, a long poem of Persian history and legend finished by the poet Ferdowsi about A.D. 1010.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
shared intentEnglish
A plan explained so thoroughly in advance that every subordinate knows what the commander wants and can act rightly when signals fail. Nelson called his method “the Nelson touch.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
A plan explained so thoroughly in advance that every subordinate knows what the commander wants and can act rightly when signals fail. Nelson called his method “the Nelson touch.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
shatranjEnglish
The Persian and Arabic form of chess, played from about A.D. 600 until the modern rules spread in Europe.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The Persian and Arabic form of chess, played from about A.D. 600 until the modern rules spread in Europe.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
Sheffield RulesEnglish
The rules of Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club (1857), first printed in 1858; they spread through the north of England.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The rules of Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club (1857), first printed in 1858; they spread through the north of England.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
shooterEnglish
The marble a player flicks with the thumb to hit the others.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
The marble a player flicks with the thumb to hit the others.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
shooting percentageEnglish
Goals divided by shots, written as a percent.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
Goals divided by shots, written as a percent.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
shotEnglish
An attempt to score a goal.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
An attempt to score a goal.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
shot chartEnglish
A drawing of the playing area that shows where each shot was taken and whether it scored.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A drawing of the playing area that shows where each shot was taken and whether it scored.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
shot choiceEnglish
A player’s choices about which shots to take and which to pass up.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
A player’s choices about which shots to take and which to pass up.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
shot qualityEnglish
How likely a shot is to score, depending on distance, angle, the type of chance and the defense.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
How likely a shot is to score, depending on distance, angle, the type of chance and the defense.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Shrovetide footballEnglish
Mob football played on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, a tradition that still survives in a few English towns such as Ashbourne in Derbyshire.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Mob football played on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, a tradition that still survives in a few English towns such as Ashbourne in Derbyshire.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
sidespinEnglish
Spin about a vertical axis; it bends the ball left or right.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
Spin about a vertical axis; it bends the ball left or right.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
signsEnglish
In baseball, the secret finger and hand signals from the catcher to the pitcher, or from a coach to a batter or runner.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
In baseball, the secret finger and hand signals from the catcher to the pitcher, or from a coach to a batter or runner.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
simulationEnglish
Playing out many turns, by hand or by computer, to see what usually happens.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Grade 6 Life Science: Animal Design and Behavior, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
Playing out many turns, by hand or by computer, to see what usually happens.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Grade 6 Life Science: Animal Design and Behavior, Lesson 4.4 (grade 6) · +1 more
single cornerEnglish
A corner with only one dark square, where a king can be trapped more easily.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
A corner with only one dark square, where a king can be trapped more easily.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
single eliminationEnglish
A tournament in which a player who loses is out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A tournament in which a player who loses is out.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
single wingEnglish
A formation popularized by Pop Warner early in the 1900s, with an unbalanced line and a tailback taking a direct snap several yards behind the center; it overwhelmed one side with blockers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
A formation popularized by Pop Warner early in the 1900s, with an unbalanced line and a tailback taking a direct snap several yards behind the center; it overwhelmed one side with blockers.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
skid, hook and rollEnglish
The three phases of a ball’s path: sliding on the oil, curving in the dry part, then rolling straight.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
The three phases of a ball’s path: sliding on the oil, curving in the dry part, then rolling straight.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
skittlesEnglish
An old European game of knocking down wooden pins with a ball or a flat disk.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
An old European game of knocking down wooden pins with a ball or a flat disk.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
sleepEnglish
The body’s nightly rest, when the brain sorts what it has learned and the body builds and repairs.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
The body’s nightly rest, when the brain sorts what it has learned and the body builds and repairs.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.2 (grade 4–7)
sleep extensionEnglish
Deliberately spending more time in bed to get more sleep.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
Deliberately spending more time in bed to get more sleep.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
slotEnglish
The area straight in front of a hockey goal, between the face-off circles. Shots from there score most often.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
The area straight in front of a hockey goal, between the face-off circles. Shots from there score most often.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
slow motionEnglish
Video taken at many frames per second and played back more slowly, so fast movements can be seen.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
Video taken at many frames per second and played back more slowly, so fast movements can be seen.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.3 (grade 4–7)
slugging percentage (SLG)English
Total bases divided by at bats. It measures hitting power.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
Total bases divided by at bats. It measures hitting power.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 8–12)
small ballEnglish
A style of play that scores runs with bunts, steals and the hit-and-run instead of long hits.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
A style of play that scores runs with bunts, steals and the hit-and-run instead of long hits.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
smash factorEnglish
Ball speed divided by clubhead speed; about 1.5 for a well-struck driver.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
Ball speed divided by clubhead speed; about 1.5 for a well-struck driver.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
smothered checkmateEnglish
A checkmate by a knight against a king that is surrounded by its own pieces and cannot move.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
A checkmate by a knight against a king that is surrounded by its own pieces and cannot move.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
snapEnglish
Passing the ball back from the line of scrimmage to start a play, giving one team clear possession.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Passing the ball back from the line of scrimmage to start a play, giving one team clear possession.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
soakingEnglish
Putting a runner out by hitting him with a thrown ball, a common rule in older bat-and-ball games that the Knickerbocker rules forbade.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
Putting a runner out by hitting him with a thrown ball, a common rule in older bat-and-ball games that the Knickerbocker rules forbade.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
soft handsEnglish
Fingers and wrists that give a little as the ball arrives and then push it away in one smooth motion.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
Fingers and wrists that give a little as the ball arrives and then push it away in one smooth motion.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
softballEnglish
The name adopted in the 1920s for baseball played with a larger, softer ball, a shorter pitching distance and underhand pitching.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
The name adopted in the 1920s for baseball played with a larger, softer ball, a shorter pitching distance and underhand pitching.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
solved gameEnglish
A game whose result with perfect play by both sides has been computed exactly.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
A game whose result with perfect play by both sides has been computed exactly.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
sound sacrificeEnglish
A sacrifice that, with best play, gives at least as good an expected score as declining it, as far as can be calculated.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
A sacrifice that, with best play, gives at least as good an expected score as declining it, as far as can be calculated.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
sowingEnglish
Picking up all the seeds in one pit and dropping them one by one into the following pits, like a farmer sowing a field.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
Picking up all the seeds in one pit and dropping them one by one into the following pits, like a farmer sowing a field.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
spacingEnglish
Spreading out across the field or court so teammates have room and the defense must cover more ground.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 1 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · +1 more
Spreading out across the field or court so teammates have room and the defense must cover more ground.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 1 Gardening & Animals, Lesson 7.4 (grade 1) · +1 more
spareEnglish
Knocking down all ten pins with two balls in one frame.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
Knocking down all ten pins with two balls in one frame.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
speculative sacrificeEnglish
A sacrifice whose soundness cannot be calculated, played in the hope that the opponent will go wrong.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
A sacrifice whose soundness cannot be calculated, played in the hope that the opponent will go wrong.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
SphairistikèEnglish
Greek for “the art of playing ball”: the name Major Wingfield gave to his patented lawn-tennis set of 1874, played on an hourglass-shaped court.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
Greek for “the art of playing ball”: the name Major Wingfield gave to his patented lawn-tennis set of 1874, played on an hourglass-shaped court.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
spin axisEnglish
The imaginary line a spinning ball turns around; it decides which way the ball curves.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
The imaginary line a spinning ball turns around; it decides which way the ball curves.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 8–12)
spin loftEnglish
The loft at impact minus the attack angle; more spin loft gives more backspin.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The loft at impact minus the attack angle; more spin loft gives more backspin.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
spin parameterEnglish
The ratio of the ball’s surface speed from spin to its forward speed; the larger it is, the sharper the curve.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
The ratio of the ball’s surface speed from spin to its forward speed; the larger it is, the sharper the curve.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 8–12)
spinaEnglish
The long central barrier down the middle of the track, decorated with monuments, around which the chariots raced.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
The long central barrier down the middle of the track, decorated with monuments, around which the chariots raced.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 8–12)
spinnerEnglish
A pointer that spins on a circle divided into sections, used to make a random choice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
A pointer that spins on a circle divided into sections, used to make a random choice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
split stepEnglish
A small hop that lands on both feet, just as the opponent hits the ball, so you can push off quickly in any direction.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
A small hop that lands on both feet, just as the opponent hits the ball, so you can push off quickly in any direction.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
sportsmanshipEnglish
Playing fairly and kindly: following the rules, encouraging others, and winning and losing with grace.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · +3 more
Playing fairly and kindly: following the rules, encouraging others, and winning and losing with grace.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.4 (grade 4–7) · +3 more
spot bowlingEnglish
Aiming at a mark close to you on the lane instead of at the pins far away.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
Aiming at a mark close to you on the lane instead of at the pins far away.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
spray chartEnglish
A diagram showing where a batter’s batted balls landed, used to position fielders.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A diagram showing where a batter’s batted balls landed, used to position fielders.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
Springfield CollegeEnglish
The YMCA training school in Springfield, Massachusetts, where basketball was invented; then called the International YMCA Training School.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
The YMCA training school in Springfield, Massachusetts, where basketball was invented; then called the International YMCA Training School.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
square–cube lawEnglish
When an object grows in size, its areas grow with the square of the scale and its volume and weight with the cube.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
When an object grows in size, its areas grow with the square of the scale and its volume and weight with the cube.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
St. Petersburg paradoxEnglish
A game with infinite expected value that no sensible person would trade much for, which shows that expected value alone cannot guide every decision.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
A game with infinite expected value that no sensible person would trade much for, which shows that expected value alone cannot guide every decision.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
Stade de ColombesEnglish
The main stadium of the 1924 Paris Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
The main stadium of the 1924 Paris Olympic Games.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
stanceEnglish
How you stand to the ball: the width of your feet, the bend in your knees and hips, and where the ball sits.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
How you stand to the ball: the width of your feet, the bend in your knees and hips, and where the ball sits.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7)
standard deviation of a proportionEnglish
For a success rate p over n attempts, chance alone produces a spread of about \sqrt{p(1-p)/n}.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
For a success rate p over n attempts, chance alone produces a spread of about \sqrt{p(1-p)/n}.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
standard errorEnglish
A measure of how much a sample proportion typically scatters around the true probability: \sqrt{p(1-p)/n}. About 95% of samples land within 2 standard errors.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 10.2 (grade 11–12) · Statistics, Lesson 12.4 (grade 11–12)
A measure of how much a sample proportion typically scatters around the true probability: \sqrt{p(1-p)/n}. About 95% of samples land within 2 standard errors.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12) · Statistics, Lesson 10.2 (grade 11–12) · Statistics, Lesson 12.4 (grade 11–12)
standingsEnglish
A table showing each player’s wins, losses and points during a tournament.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A table showing each player’s wins, losses and points during a tournament.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
Stanley CupEnglish
The trophy given since 1893 to the champion hockey team; today it goes to the winner of the National Hockey League playoffs.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The trophy given since 1893 to the champion hockey team; today it goes to the winner of the National Hockey League playoffs.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
static stretchEnglish
Holding a stretch still for 15 to 30 seconds; best done after exercise.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
Holding a stretch still for 15 to 30 seconds; best done after exercise.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
statisticEnglish
A number made by counting and computing, used to describe what happened.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 9.2 (grade 5) · Statistics, Lesson 9.1 (grade 11–12)
A number made by counting and computing, used to describe what happened.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Grade 5 Geography: Explorers, Navigators and Missionaries, Lesson 9.2 (grade 5) · Statistics, Lesson 9.1 (grade 11–12)
steady stateEnglish
The long-run share of time a Markov chain spends in each state.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The long-run share of time a Markov chain spends in each state.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
StimpmeterEnglish
A grooved bar that releases a golf ball at a standard speed; the distance the ball rolls on a flat green, in feet, is the green’s speed.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
A grooved bar that releases a golf ball at a standard speed; the distance the ball rolls on a flat green, in feet, is the green’s speed.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
stopping ruleEnglish
A rule you decide in advance for when to stop and keep your points, such as “stop at 20.”
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
A rule you decide in advance for when to stop and keep your points, such as “stop at 20.”
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
strategic diversionEnglish
A campaign whose main purpose is to draw enemy forces away from a more important theater.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
A campaign whose main purpose is to draw enemy forces away from a more important theater.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
strategic surpriseEnglish
Doing something on a large scale that the opponent does not expect, such as attacking from an unexpected direction.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
Doing something on a large scale that the opponent does not expect, such as attacking from an unexpected direction.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
stretch-shortening cycleEnglish
A muscle that is stretched just before it contracts pushes harder than one that starts from rest.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 11 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 4.1 (grade 11)
A muscle that is stretched just before it contracts pushes harder than one that starts from rest.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 11 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 4.1 (grade 11)
string bedEnglish
The woven strings of a racket, which grip and push the ball during contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
The woven strings of a racket, which grip and push the ball during contact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
strokes gainedEnglish
A way to measure a golf shot by how many strokes it saved compared with an average player.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A way to measure a golf shot by how many strokes it saved compared with an average player.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
subconcussive impactEnglish
A blow to the head that causes no obvious symptoms, studied because many such blows over time may matter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
A blow to the head that causes no obvious symptoms, studied because many such blows over time may matter.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.5 (grade 8–12)
suit splitEnglish
How the cards of a suit that you do not hold are divided between the two opponents, such as 3–2 or 4–1.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
How the cards of a suit that you do not hold are divided between the two opponents, such as 3–2 or 4–1.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 8–12)
sumEnglish
The total you get by adding numbers, such as the two numbers on a pair of dice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6–8) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 9.3 (grade 6–8)
The total you get by adding numbers, such as the two numbers on a pair of dice.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 5.2 (grade 6–8) · Pre-Algebra, Lesson 9.3 (grade 6–8)
sure scoreEnglish
Points you can take now without any more risk.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
Points you can take now without any more risk.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
surpriseEnglish
Striking at a time or place, or in a way, that the opponent does not expect.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
Striking at a time or place, or in a way, that the opponent does not expect.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
SwahiliEnglish
A language spoken along the coast of East Africa and far inland, in Tanzania, Kenya and their neighbors.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Geography and Commerce: Sea Lanes, Straits and Trade Routes, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Geography: Regions of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
A language spoken along the coast of East Africa and far inland, in Tanzania, Kenya and their neighbors.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Geography and Commerce: Sea Lanes, Straits and Trade Routes, Lesson 2.2 (grade 9–12) · Grade 7 Geography: Regions of the World, Lesson 4.3 (grade 7)
sweepingEnglish
Brushing the ice in front of a moving stone to make it slide farther and straighter.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
Brushing the ice in front of a moving stone to make it slide farther and straighter.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.4 (grade 4–7)
sweet spotEnglish
The place on the barrel of the bat, a few inches from the end, where the ball jumps off best and the hands feel almost no sting.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
The place on the barrel of the bat, a few inches from the end, where the ball jumps off best and the hands feel almost no sting.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
swing planeEnglish
The tilted plane in which the bat moves through the zone.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The tilted plane in which the bat moves through the zone.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
T
T formationEnglish
A formation with the quarterback directly behind the center and three running backs in a line behind him, making a T. Modernized with a man in motion by Clark Shaughnessy in 1940.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
A formation with the quarterback directly behind the center and three running backs in a line behind him, making a T. Modernized with a man in motion by Clark Shaughnessy in 1940.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
tablesEnglish
The medieval name for the family of games played on a board of 24 points with dice and 15 pieces a side, of which backgammon is the best-known survivor.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The medieval name for the family of games played on a board of 24 points with dice and 15 pieces a side, of which backgammon is the best-known survivor.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
tabulaEnglish
The Roman game of the tables family, played with three dice in early times; a position from a game of the emperor Zeno in A.D. 480 was recorded in verse.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The Roman game of the tables family, played with three dice in early times; a position from a game of the emperor Zeno in A.D. 480 was recorded in verse.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
tacticEnglish
A short, clever move or series of moves that wins something right now and helps carry out the plan.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
A short, clever move or series of moves that wins something right now and helps carry out the plan.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
tacticsEnglish
The arrangement and conduct of a single fight, game or play: how forces or players are placed and moved when they actually meet the opponent.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
The arrangement and conduct of a single fight, game or play: how forces or players are placed and moved when they actually meet the opponent.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.1 (grade 8–12)
taflEnglish
A family of Norse and Celtic board games in which a king and his defenders, in the centre, face twice as many attackers around the edges.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
A family of Norse and Celtic board games in which a king and his defenders, in the centre, face twice as many attackers around the edges.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.4 (grade 8–12)
tally chartEnglish
A table where each result gets a mark, bundled in groups of five, so it can be counted quickly.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
A table where each result gets a mark, bundled in groups of five, so it can be counted quickly.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
targetEnglish
After a hit, firing at the squares next to it to finish the ship.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
After a hit, firing at the squares next to it to finish the ship.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7)
teetotumEnglish
A small spinning top with numbered sides, spun instead of throwing dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
A small spinning top with numbered sides, spun instead of throwing dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
temperateEnglish
Self-controlled: able to say no to what is not good for you.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
Self-controlled: able to say no to what is not good for you.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
tempoEnglish
The ratio of backswing time to downswing time.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
The ratio of backswing time to downswing time.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 3.2 (grade 4–7)
tempo (plural tempi)English
A unit of time in chess: one move. Gaining a tempo means reaching a useful position a move sooner than the opponent, often by making a move that also creates a threat.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
A unit of time in chess: one move. Gaining a tempo means reaching a useful position a move sooner than the opponent, often by making a move that also creates a threat.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.1 (grade 8–12)
tendencyEnglish
Something a player or team does often, such as always passing to the right.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
Something a player or team does often, such as always passing to the right.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.5 (grade 8–12)
tenpinsEnglish
Modern bowling, with ten pins set in a triangle at the end of a 60-foot lane.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
Modern bowling, with ten pins set in a triangle at the end of a 60-foot lane.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.1 (grade 4–7)
terrainEnglish
The shape of the land: hills, cliffs, valleys, rivers and woods.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
The shape of the land: hills, cliffs, valleys, rivers and woods.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
Test matchEnglish
The longest form of international cricket, played over as many as five days.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The longest form of international cricket, played over as many as five days.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The Art of WarEnglish
An ancient Chinese book on strategy in thirteen short chapters, traditionally credited to Sun Tzu (Sun Wu), a general of the state of Wu in about the late sixth century B.C. Its present form probably took shape over the following two centuries.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
An ancient Chinese book on strategy in thirteen short chapters, traditionally credited to Sun Tzu (Sun Wu), a general of the state of Wu in about the late sixth century B.C. Its present form probably took shape over the following two centuries.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 8–12)
the AshesEnglish
The series between England and Australia, named after a mock obituary of English cricket printed in 1882 after Australia won at the Oval.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
The series between England and Australia, named after a mock obituary of English cricket printed in 1882 after Australia won at the Oval.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.2 (grade 8–12)
the moveEnglish
The checkers equivalent of the opposition: in many endgames, the side that is not obliged to move into a losing position “has the move.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
The checkers equivalent of the opposition: in many endgames, the side that is not obliged to move into a losing position “has the move.”
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.5 (grade 8–12)
the move (opposition)English
In simple endings, the advantage of making your opponent be the one who must move into a bad square.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
In simple endings, the advantage of making your opponent be the one who must move into a bad square.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.4 (grade 4–7)
the slotEnglish
In hockey, the area directly in front of the goal between the faceoff circles, where most goals are scored.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
In hockey, the area directly in front of the goal between the faceoff circles, where most goals are scored.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
The TriangleEnglish
The Springfield school’s magazine, which first printed Naismith’s thirteen rules on January 15, 1892, under the title “A New Game.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The Springfield school’s magazine, which first printed Naismith’s thirteen rules on January 15, 1892, under the title “A New Game.”
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Thomas ArnoldEnglish
Headmaster of Rugby School from 1828 to 1841, who sought to form “Christian gentlemen” and whose school inspired Tom Brown’s School Days.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
Headmaster of Rugby School from 1828 to 1841, who sought to form “Christian gentlemen” and whose school inspired Tom Brown’s School Days.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12)
threatEnglish
Two of your marks in a row with the third square empty, so you will win next turn unless your opponent blocks.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
Two of your marks in a row with the third square empty, so you will win next turn unless your opponent blocks.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 4–7)
three-point attempt rateEnglish
The fraction of a team’s field-goal attempts that are threes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
The fraction of a team’s field-goal attempts that are threes.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
three-point lineEnglish
An arc on a basketball court; a shot made from behind it counts 3 points instead of 2.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
An arc on a basketball court; a shot made from behind it counts 3 points instead of 2.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
throwing sticksEnglish
Flat sticks with one marked side, tossed together and counted instead of dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
Flat sticks with one marked side, tossed together and counted instead of dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
throwsticksEnglish
Flat sticks, light on one side and dark on the other, thrown together instead of dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Flat sticks, light on one side and dark on the other, thrown together instead of dice.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
tiebreakEnglish
A rule for deciding the order when two players have the same score.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
A rule for deciding the order when two players have the same score.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.4 (grade 4–7)
timingEnglish
Matching the ball’s swing to the steps, so the ball comes forward just as the last step slides.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
Matching the ball’s swing to the steps, so the ball comes forward just as the last step slides.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7)
tomb paintingEnglish
A painting on the wall of an Egyptian tomb, often showing scenes of daily life.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
A painting on the wall of an Egyptian tomb, often showing scenes of daily life.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 2.2 (grade 4–7)
topspinEnglish
Forward spin on the ball, made by swinging from low to high. It helps the ball dip down into the court.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
Forward spin on the ball, made by swinging from low to high. It helps the ball dip down into the court.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12)
torque at the elbowEnglish
The twisting load on the elbow as the forearm lags behind the upper arm during the throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
The twisting load on the elbow as the forearm lags behind the upper arm during the throw.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
tossEnglish
Lifting the ball straight up with the non-racket hand to the place where you will hit it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
Lifting the ball straight up with the non-racket hand to the place where you will hit it.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
total basesEnglish
A count of bases from hits: 1 for a single, 2 for a double, 3 for a triple, 4 for a home run.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
A count of bases from hits: 1 for a single, 2 for a double, 3 for a triple, 4 for a home run.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
Total FootballEnglish
The Dutch style of the early 1970s in which players constantly exchanged positions, pressed to win the ball high, and kept the team compact.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The Dutch style of the early 1970s in which players constantly exchanged positions, pressed to win the ball high, and kept the team compact.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
touchdownEnglish
In American football, carrying or catching the ball in the opponent’s end zone. It is worth 6 points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
In American football, carrying or catching the ball in the opponent’s end zone. It is worth 6 points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
ToxophilusEnglish
Roger Ascham’s book of 1545, the first book on archery written in English, in the form of a dialogue praising archery as a manly and honest pastime.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Roger Ascham’s book of 1545, the first book on archery written in English, in the form of a dialogue praising archery as a manly and honest pastime.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
trackingEnglish
Watching the ball all the way into the glove or hands.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
Watching the ball all the way into the glove or hands.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
trade (exchange)English
A series of moves in which each player loses the same number of pieces, such as one for one.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
A series of moves in which each player loses the same number of pieces, such as one for one.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 4–7)
training loadEnglish
The total amount of training, combining how much, how hard and how often.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
The total amount of training, combining how much, how hard and how often.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
transition probabilityEnglish
The chance of moving from one state to another in one step.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
The chance of moving from one state to another in one step.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
trip to the lineEnglish
A set of free throws, usually two, given after a foul on a shot.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
A set of free throws, usually two, given after a foul on a shot.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7)
trophy positionEnglish
The moment in the serve when the tossing arm points up, the racket is behind the head and the knees are bent, like a sports trophy.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
The moment in the serve when the tossing arm points up, the racket is behind the head and the knees are bent, like a sports trophy.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7) · Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 4.1 (grade 8–12)
true talentEnglish
The long-run average a player would show over a very large number of attempts; what we are trying to estimate.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
The long-run average a player would show over a very large number of attempts; what we are trying to estimate.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
turn totalEnglish
The points you have gained so far this turn but have not yet kept.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
The points you have gained so far this turn but have not yet kept.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.4 (grade 4–7)
two handsEnglish
Catching with the glove hand and covering the ball with the throwing hand, so it cannot pop out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
Catching with the glove hand and covering the ball with the throwing hand, so it cannot pop out.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7)
two-point tryEnglish
Instead of kicking, a team runs or passes the ball into the end zone from close range after a touchdown, for 2 points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
Instead of kicking, a team runs or passes the ball into the end zone from close range after a touchdown, for 2 points.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 4–7)
U
ulamaEnglish
A modern form of the ancient game, still played with the hips in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A modern form of the ancient game, still played with the hips in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
underhand free throwEnglish
A free throw shot with both hands from below the waist, lifting the ball softly toward the basket.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
A free throw shot with both hands from below the waist, lifting the ball softly toward the basket.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 4–7) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
underhand serveEnglish
A serve in which the arm swings below the shoulder like a pendulum and strikes the ball out of the other hand.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
A serve in which the arm swings below the shoulder like a pendulum and strikes the ball out of the other hand.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.4 (grade 4–7)
unfair gameEnglish
A game whose rules give one player a better chance or more points on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
A game whose rules give one player a better chance or more points on average.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.1 (grade 4–7)
unity of commandEnglish
Placing every part of a force under one responsible leader for a given goal, so that the parts work together.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Placing every part of a force under one responsible leader for a given goal, so that the parts work together.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.2 (grade 8–12)
Unlawful Games ActEnglish
Henry VIII’s law of 1541 that required men to own bows and practise, set minimum shooting distances, and restricted games such as bowls and tennis.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
Henry VIII’s law of 1541 that required men to own bows and practise, set minimum shooting distances, and restricted games such as bowls and tennis.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.3 (grade 8–12)
upsetEnglish
A win by the side with the lower chance of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
A win by the side with the lower chance of winning.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 6.4 (grade 8–12)
V
value of a chanceEnglish
What a chance is worth on average: the points for a win times the probability of winning. Huygens called it the expectation.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
What a chance is worth on average: the points for a win times the probability of winning. Huygens called it the expectation.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.4 (grade 4–7)
Victoria Skating RinkEnglish
An indoor rink in Montreal where the first recorded organised game of ice hockey was played on March 3, 1875.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
An indoor rink in Montreal where the first recorded organised game of ice hockey was played on March 3, 1875.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12)
victory conditionEnglish
The rule that says how a player wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
The rule that says how a player wins.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 8.1 (grade 4–7)
vizierEnglish
The king’s chief adviser. In shatranj this piece stood beside the king and moved only one square diagonally; it later became the queen.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
The king’s chief adviser. In shatranj this piece stood beside the king and moved only one square diagonally; it later became the queen.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.1 (grade 4–7)
volleyballEnglish
A team game in which players hit a ball over a high net with their hands and arms, trying to make it land on the other side.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
A team game in which players hit a ball over a high net with their hands and arms, trying to make it land on the other side.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.3 (grade 4–7)
vulcanizationEnglish
Heating rubber with sulfur to make it strong, springy and steady in heat and cold; Charles Goodyear discovered it in 1839.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Heating rubber with sulfur to make it strong, springy and steady in heat and cold; Charles Goodyear discovered it in 1839.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
W
walk (BB)English
Reaching first base after four balls. It is written BB, for “base on balls.”
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
Reaching first base after four balls. It is written BB, for “base on balls.”
Playing the Odds, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7)
warm-upEnglish
A gradual increase in activity before hard exercise that raises muscle temperature and rehearses the movements to come.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
A gradual increase in activity before hard exercise that raises muscle temperature and rehearses the movements to come.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 6.3 (grade 8–12) · Grade 1 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.1 (grade 1) · Grade 2 Physical Education & Health, Lesson 1.2 (grade 2) · +1 more
weaknessEnglish
A pawn or square that cannot easily be defended, such as an isolated pawn or a hole in front of the king.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
A pawn or square that cannot easily be defended, such as an isolated pawn or a hole in front of the king.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 2.3 (grade 8–12)
West Coast offenseEnglish
A system developed by Bill Walsh using short, precisely timed passes as a high-percentage substitute for running plays.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
A system developed by Bill Walsh using short, precisely timed passes as a high-percentage substitute for running plays.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.2 (grade 8–12)
wicketEnglish
In cricket, the set of three upright stumps with two small bails on top that the bowler tries to hit.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
In cricket, the set of three upright stumps with two small bails on top that the bowler tries to hit.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.4 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 3.4 (grade 8–12)
win probabilityEnglish
The chance of winning the game from the current score and time, estimated from a model or from many past games.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
The chance of winning the game from the current score and time, estimated from a model or from many past games.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.2 (grade 8–12) · Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.4 (grade 8–12)
win rateEnglish
The fraction of tries that win: wins divided by tries.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
The fraction of tries that win: wins divided by tries.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 3.3 (grade 4–7)
windowEnglish
The triangle shape made by the thumbs and first fingers of both hands, held above the forehead, through which the setter looks at the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
The triangle shape made by the thumbs and first fingers of both hands, held above the forehead, through which the setter looks at the ball.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.3 (grade 4–7)
WMEnglish
Herbert Chapman’s formation of the late 1920s (3-2-2-3), shaped like the letters W and M, with a center-back added to stop the center-forward.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Herbert Chapman’s formation of the late 1920s (3-2-2-3), shaped like the letters W and M, with a center-back added to stop the center-forward.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
working backwardEnglish
Solving a problem by starting at the end and asking what must happen just before it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Geometry, Lesson 2.6 (grade 9–10)
Solving a problem by starting at the end and asking what must happen just before it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 1.3 (grade 4–7) · Geometry, Lesson 2.6 (grade 9–10)
wrist cock and releaseEnglish
The angle between the lead arm and the club, held in the downswing and released just before impact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
The angle between the lead arm and the club, held in the downswing and released just before impact.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 8–12)
Y
YahtzeeEnglish
Five dice all showing the same number, worth 50 points in the game of the same name.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
Five dice all showing the same number, worth 50 points in the game of the same name.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 7.1 (grade 4–7)
YMCAEnglish
The Young Men’s Christian Association, founded in London in 1844 to help young men grow in body, mind and spirit.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12) · +2 more
The Young Men’s Christian Association, founded in London in 1844 to help young men grow in body, mind and spirit.
Body Mechanics of Sport, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 7.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 4.5 (grade 8–12) · +2 more
yokeEnglish
A thick, padded belt worn around the hips to hit the heavy ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
A thick, padded belt worn around the hips to hit the heavy ball.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.2 (grade 4–7) · Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 1.5 (grade 8–12)
Z
ZanzibarEnglish
An island off the coast of Tanzania, famous for bao players in its town squares.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
An island off the coast of Tanzania, famous for bao players in its town squares.
Sports & Games of the World, Lesson 5.1 (grade 4–7)
zero-sum gameEnglish
A contest in which one side’s gain is exactly the other side’s loss, such as a goal scored or saved.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
A contest in which one side’s gain is exactly the other side’s loss, such as a goal scored or saved.
Playing the Odds, Lesson 4.3 (grade 8–12)
zone defenseEnglish
Each defender guards an area of the court or field, and whoever comes into it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)
Each defender guards an area of the court or field, and whoever comes into it.
Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 6.2 (grade 4–7) · Tactics & Strategy, Lesson 5.3 (grade 8–12)