P.E. at A Level

• Course Information
• Student Resources

Course Information

Advanced Subsidiary	AS
Advanced Level	A2
Examination Board	OCR

Course Requirement

• Five GCSE subjects passed at Grade 'C' or above. You must show that you have the ability to cope with the academic demands that will be made of you.
• A GCSE background in PE is very advisable.
• A strong interest in sport and a willingness to work at developing your practical skills in a range of activities.
• A good level of physical fitness.

Course Outline

The course brings together the theory and practice of physical education. It requires candidates to develop practical skills as well as an understanding of a variety of theory topics.

AS	Candidates take Modules 1, 2, 3
A2	Candidates take Modules 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

 

Modules

1. Anatomy and Physiology

The structure and function of the body appropriate to sporting activities, focusing on study of four systems: cardiovascular, skeletal, muscular and respiratory.

Skill Acquisition Skill defined; types of skill, practice and learning conditions for each type; information processing; motivation in sport.

(Assessed via four compulsory, structured questions weighted at 40% of the AS /20% of the A2)

2. Contemporary Studies in Sport

Women in sport; drugs in sport; sport and the media; ethnic preferences; role of the Sports Council and governing bodies; concepts of play, leisure, recreation and sport.
(30% of the AS / 15% of the A2)

3. Practical

Candidates are assessed in two chosen activities, from two different activity profiles.
(30% of the AS mark / 15% of the A2).  They are required to complete a personal performance portfolio on one of their chosen activities.

4. Psychology of Sport

Personality; attitudes; aggression, leadership; effects of audiences on performance; stress management.

Historical Studies in P.E. and Sport Recreation in pre- and post-industrial settings; public schools and the development of professionalism; recreation in urban industrial societies; development of P .E. in state schools; amateurism and professionalism. (30% of A2 / 15% overall)

5. Exercise Physiology

Energy systems; nutrition and sport; principles of training; types of training.

Synoptic Questions Integration of knowledge of principles and concepts across areas of Physical Education.
(40% of A2 / 20% overall)

6. Practical

Candidates are assessed in two activities. Marks are awarded for:

• - Effective performance
• - Understanding performance (30% of A2 / 15% overall)

The course can lead on to a variety of opportunities in Higher Education and on to a wide selection of careers opportunities within the rapidly developing leisure industry. Anyone wishing to discuss the course's subject combinations, or career opportunities should speak to the P.E. Department.

Student Resources