Physical Education – A Level Exam Information
A Level
Course Content
This course follows on from the GCSE programme of study (although this is not a pre-requisite for choosing the course) by enabling students to enhance and deepen their knowledge of leading a healthy and active lifestyle. The content of the course is designed to enable students to enjoy and understand the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle in all its aspects, including the body, mind and society. It provides a route to studying a Sport course at a Higher Education establishment which could lead to career opportunities in the sports industry.
Please note that all lessons are classroom based. Occasionally, we will use practical application to aid the understanding of theoretical concepts.
Course Structure
The course is divided into 3 units:
Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport and sport
Paper 1 is assessed by a 2 hour written examination which accounts for 35% of the final mark. The paper covers the following areas of the course – applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, and sport and society.
Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport
Paper 2 is assessed by a 2 hour written examination which accounts for 35% of the final mark. The paper covers the following areas of the course – sports psychology, exercise physiology and biomechanics, and sport and society and technology in sport
Both examination papers are divided into three sections and have a mixture of multiple choice/objective test questions, short answer questions and extended answer questions.
Non-exam assessment: Practical performance in physical activity and sport
Each pupil is assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity. They also analyse and evaluate performance in this activity to bring about improvement. This part of the course is assessed internally by CHS teachers and moderated by AQA. It accounts for 30% of the final mark and includes a piece of written coursework completed in Year 13.
Skills and Application
This programme of study encourages you to:
- Develop your interest in, and enthusiasm for, a study of Sport Science and its relation to the wider world;
- Develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of Sport Science by exploring its application in society, when playing sport and for leading a healthy and active lifestyle.
Reading and Resources
Pupils will be encouraged to read around the subject and will be provided with suggested outlets for further information. The main thing is to have a genuine interest in sport and to be prepared to read as much as possible about it (and to watch it as well!)
Entry Requirements
Completion of GCSE Physical Education is recommended although not essential.
Exam Board: AQA
