Physical Education

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (AQA 7582)

A-level Physical Education combines applied theory with practical performance and analysis. This subject should equip students with both a depth and breadth of knowledge, understanding and skills relating to scientific, socio-cultural and practical aspects of Physical Education. We would suggest that students wishing to follow this course should be at a grade 6 or equivalent level in Biology in order to give themselves a strong chance of achieving highly in the final written examinations. Students who are performing to a high standard practically in one sport have the chance to earn high marks in the non-assessment area of the course.

Subject content:

• Applied anatomy and physiology

• Skill acquisition

• Sport and society

• Exercise physiology

• Biomechanical movement

• Sport psychology

• Sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport

Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport

What is assessed?

Section A: Applied anatomy and physiology

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Section B: Skill acquisition

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Section C: Sport and society

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

How it is assessed:

Written exam: 2 hours, 105 marks, 35% of A-level

Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport

What is assessed?

Section A: Exercise physiology and biomechanics

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Section B: Sport psychology

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Section C: Sport and society and technology in sport

- multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

How it is assessed:

Written exam: 2 hours, 105 marks, 35% of A-level

Non-exam assessment: Practical performance in physical activity and sport

What is assessed?

Students are assessed as a performer or coach in the full-sided version of one activity (45 marks)

Students will also produce a written/verbal analysis and evaluation of their own performance or the performance of another (45 marks)

How it is assessed:

Internal assessment, external moderation

90 marks, 30% of A-level

An Advanced level qualification in PE is an essential pre-requisite for specialist study in Physical Education and Sports Studies in Higher Education, and is a suitable qualification for other areas of study such as Medicine and Psychology. The specification provides an excellent foundation for students intending to pursue careers in Teaching, Coaching, Sports Science, Sports Development, Leisure and Recreation, Health and Fitness and Professional Sport.

Overall students will be assessed by a combination of coursework (40%) and written examinations (60%).

Academically, it is expected that students entering Birkdale’s Sixth Form will have achieved a minimum of 5 passes (9 to 5) at GCSE, with at least 4 at grade 6 or higher; we would expect 6 or higher GCSE grades in those subjects being studied to A level. A grade 6 is required to study A Level English and Mathematics, although a grade 7 is preferred in Mathematics. Prospective Further Mathematicians should achieve a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics although a grade 8 is preferred. In addition at Birkdale we look beyond the academic and would wish applicants to become fully involved in the life of the school, offering their skills and abilities in one or more of a number of areas (e.g. drama, sport, music, clubs and societies, etc).