Why Physical Education?
Physical Education aims to provide individual students with the knowledge and understanding to enhance their own performance, through learning in, learning about and learning through physical activities. The specification combines historical, scientific, sociological and psychological elements into a rounded, integrated course of study that encompasses students' enthusiasm for the subject.
Course Overview
A-Level
From September 2012 the A’ level Physical Education will be following the OCR syllabus. This syllabus takes a multi-disciplinary approach, encouraging the development of different methods of enquiry, the focal point being the performer and the performance.
The course looks at the interaction between the theory and practice of Physical Education. Students will need to analyse and evaluate theories and data, form opinions and express answers in a structured essay style.
AS Physical Education
UNIT 1 = 60% (2 Hr Exam) UNIT 2 = 40% (Coursework)
Within the theoretical element of the course pupils will study the following areas and how they affect performance;
-Anatomy and Physiology.
-Acquisition of Skill.
-Socio-Cultural Studies.
Within the practical element of the course pupils will need to:-Perform 2 activities…or
-Perform 1 activity and coach/lead 1 activity…or
-Perform 1 activity and officiate 1 activity.
In addition each pupil will need to carry out an oral critical evaluation of a live performance with suggestions for improvement.
A2 Physical Education
UNIT 3 = 70% (2 ½ Hr Exam) UNIT 4 = 30% (Coursework)
Within the theoretical element of the course pupils will study the following areas and how they affect performance;
-Historical Studies.
-Sports Psychology.
-Exercise & Sport Physiology.
Within the practical element of the course pupils will need to:
-Perform 1 activity…or
-Coach/lead 1 activity…or
-Officiate 1 activity
In addition each pupil will need to carry out an oral critical evaluation of a live performance with suggestions for improvement.
As the vast majority of lessons within school are used to teach the theoretical components of the course and prepare students for their oral critical evaluation, it is highly recommended that candidates are actively taking part in sport outside of school.
Physical Education is considered by most universities as a Social Science and is a good subject to follow for entry onto increasingly popular courses such as sports studies, sports and leisure recreation management, sports coaching courses, PE training, sports science, sports journalism and physiotherapy.