Emma, age 8, can turn cartwheels, do the splits, and do handsprings. This is probably due to which two factors of growth in middle childhood?
A) ligaments not firmly attached to bones; increasing muscle strength
B) hardening of the bones; tightening of ligaments
C) muscles that are loosely attached to bones; undeveloped muscle tone
D) underdeveloped hip and knee joints; muscles that do not fully develop until adolescence

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ability to turn cartwheels, do splits, and do handsprings is likely due to a combination of ligaments not yet firmly attached to bones and increasing muscle strength, both of which are factors of growth in middle childhood. Option B is incorrect because hardening of the bones and tightening of ligaments would actually limit flexibility. Option C is incorrect because loosely attached muscles and undeveloped muscle tone would make it more difficult to perform these activities. Option D is incorrect because underdeveloped hip and knee joints and incomplete muscle development would again limit flexibility and make it more difficult to perform these activities.

Emma, Age 8, Can Turn Cartwheels, Do the Splits, and Do