A Level Physical Education
What is it about at sixth-form level?
Studying A Level Physical Education will give you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports participation and performance. A level PE is a diverse subject covering a wide range of different topics. The students will look at how the body works when we are exercising and how the mind works to allow is to optimise our performance. They will also investigate the history of sport and how sport has developed into how we know it today. They will look at all levels of sport including from participation to elite level athletes and how we learn the skills necessary to reach the highest levels.
Why study it and what skills does it develop?
PE is a facilitating subject as you are going to study topics from across a range of subject areas such as anatomy and physiology and sports psychology. You will learn how to assesses synoptically and be asked to link issues across topics which are key skill universities are looking for.
What prior knowledge and skills are required?
Grade 5 in GCSE Maths and Science would be advisable, but not essential. You should have an interest in a broad range of sports and the related issues. For the practical element 15% of the grade is based on your ability to perform or coach a sport. Having previous experience of playing or coaching at a good standard would be advantageous.
How is the course assessed?
A level
At the end of the course the students will sit two written exams – Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport and Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport. In each paper students will answer questions on the topics they have studied. Question types include multiple choice, short answer and extended writing in the form of 8 and 15-mark questions. Each exam lasts 2 hours and is worth 35% of the A level.
In addition, there is a non-exam assessment whereby students are assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity. Plus: written/verbal analysis of performance. It’s assessed via Internal assessment, external moderation and is worth 30% of the A-level.
Reading
AQA A-level PE (Year 1 and Year 2)
By D. Cox
Published by Osborne Books, ISBN 978-1905777143
By Carl Atherton (Author), Sue Young
(Author), Ross Howitt (Author)
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