A2 Physical Education

AS/A2 PHYSICAL EDUCATION

AQA (1-2 years)

Course Content

The syllabus is concerned with the study of Physical Education and Sport through a number of disciplines. The syllabus focuses on the following aspects in detail:

• Applied Physiology, Skill Acquisition and Opportunities for Participation.
• How the application of physiological, biomechanical and psychological knowledge can optimise performance.
• Evaluation of contemporary influences in sport and their impact on the performer.
• The performance, analysis and evaluation of a physical activity when adopting 2 of the following roles: performer, leader/coach or official.
  

AS Examination

Unit 1

Opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle

Written Paper: 2 hours

Weighting: 60% of AS marksand30% of A Level marks

Topics covered include applied physiology, skill acquisition and opportunities for participation and the application of theoretical knowledge to a practical situation.

Unit 2

Analysis and evaluation of physical activity

Weighting: 40% of AS marksand20% of A Level marks

You will be assessed on your ability to perform, analyse and evaluate the execution of core skills/techniques in isolation and a structured practice adopting two of the roles of: performer, coach/leader and official and look at the theoretical factors that improve performance.

A2 examination

Unit 3

Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary Issues within sport

Written Paper: 2 hours Weighting: 30% of A Level marks

Topics covered include how the application of physiological, biomechanical and psychological factors can optimise performance. An evaluation of the contemporary influences in sport also takes place with a further evaluation of their impact on the modern performer.

Unit 4

Optimising practical performance in a competitive setting

Weighting: 20% of A Level marks

You will be assessed on your ability to perform, analyse and evaluate your own performance of the core skills/techniques in a full competitive situation when participating as one of the following: performer, coach/leader and official. Then using your knowledge and understanding identify your weaknesses; suggest the causes of these weaknesses and appropriate corrective measures.

Methods of Teaching

Due to the wonderfully diverse nature of the course, a wide variety of teaching and learning styles will be utilised by the teaching staff including group work, individual assignments, presentations and practical work. This will require you to be flexible and to make positive contributions in all aspects of the course.

Your progress is regularly checked, as are your file and notes. Each week, lunchtime workshops are accessible where a member of the teaching staff is available to help with more complex or individual problems. For the practical work you will be assigned to a member of the teaching team for specialist help.

Methods and Patterns of Assessment

You will be required to undertake as part of your assessment, for both AS and A2, a written paper and also to perform a practical analysis and evaluation of a physical activity adopting 2 of the following roles at AS (one role at A2) a performer, coach/leader or an official.

Financial Implications

It is recommended that students purchase a textbook (approx. cost £20), although there are some copies available on loan. An A level PE polo shirt and whistle will also be required (approx cost £20).

Essential handouts will be provided but students must pay for extra photocopying and materials for note taking.

The College has Student Support Funds for those students who have difficulty meeting any costs incurred.

Career Possibilities

Physical Education is recognised as an entry qualification for both specialist courses and any other degree course. The subject further equips students with the skills and knowledge for entrance into the world of work. Current careers available within the sporting industry include; Sports Science, Sports coaching in the UK and abroad, Sports Development and Physical Education teaching. Subject staff are always available to give you guidance with Higher Education applications and career opportunities within this field.