PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Examination Board: OCR
What will I study?
The Physical Education course takes a multi-disciplinary approach, encouraging the development of different methods of enquiry drawn from a focal point being the performer and the performance. There is much interaction between the theory and practice of Physical Education.
In the AS course students study:
Anatomy and Physiology, this includes the skeletal and muscular systems, motion and movement and the cardiovascular and respiratory systems in relation to the performance of physical activity.
Acquiring Movement skills looks at classification of motor skills and abilities, the development of motor skills, information processing, motor control of skills in physical activity and learning skills in physical activity. Socio-cultural studies relating to participation in physical activity studies physical activity, sport and culture and contemporary sporting issues.
In the A2 course students study:
Historical Studies which includes popular recreation in pre-industrial Britain, Rational recreation in post industrial Britain, 19th century public schools and their impact on the development of physical activities and young people. The developmental stages of athleticism in 19th century public schools and PE in state schools. A number of different case studies are looked at.
Students study scientific areas which include Sports Psychology which includes individual aspects of performance, group dynamics of performance and audience effects and mental preparation for physical activity. The other scientific area studied is Exercise and Sport Physiology which looks at Energy, health components of physical fitness, application of the principles of training and performance enhancement.
The practical part of the course at AS level involves students being assessed in performing in two different activities from two different activity profiles. Candidates can choose to coach or officiate one of these two activities.
At A2 level candidates chose one activity to perform, coach or officiate. It must be from one of the sports chosen at AS level. The practical component equates to 30% of the overall course. 10% of the course will be evaluating and planning for the improvement of performance.
What are the opportunities after A level?
A level Physical Education provides a springboard for further studies at college/university and experience for careers in the sport industry. Degree courses include Sports Studies/Sports Science, Physiotherapy and a good avenue for potential PE teachers.
What are the entry requirements?
A*-B at GCSE Physical Education, Grade B at English and Science GCSE.
Candidates are expected to take an interest in sporting issues and are expected to represent the school or local club in at least one of their practical activity areas.