Curriculum Area: Humanities
Physical Education AS/A Level
This is an interesting and broad-based course which aims to develop knowledge, skills and understanding of factors affecting sport performances and physical exercise. You will analyse current sport practice in the UK, which might for example include the teaching, coaching and funding of sport activities, and compare these with provision in other countries. You will evaluate how social, moral and cultural issues affect sport and how global trends impact on the industry. In addition, you will develop an understanding of how skills are learned, and how they improve performance when applied to physical activity.
Advanced Subsidiary (AS)
The course is divided into two units, the outline details being:
| Unit 1 | Opportunities for the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle |
| Unit 2 | Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or in adopted role(s) |
Advanced Level (A2)
The two modules to be covered for A2 will be:
| Unit 3 | Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport |
| Unit 4 | Optimising practical performance in a competitive situation |
Methods of Teaching and Learning
The course is tutored by well qualified members of staff. Students will receive tuition in the form of lectures, theoretical and practical observation and in visual presentations and analysis of video recordings of their own performance. Students will also be required to follow self-study and submit assignments relating to all aspects of the course.
Methods of Assessment
| Unit 1: Opportunities for the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle | 2hr written examination | 60% of total AS marks/30% of total A level marks |
| Unit 2: Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or in adopted role(s) | Internal assessment and internal assessment of video evidence provided by student, with external moderation | 40% of total AS/20% of total A level marks |
| Unit 3: Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport | 2hr written examination | 30% of A level marks |
| Unit 4: Optimising practical performance in a competitive situation | Internal assessment, with external moderation | 20% of A level marks |
Resources
Support for students is mainly provided in the Library and Information Centre, which provides access to the Internet and is extremely well stocked with the latest issues of Physical Education books, journals, CD ROMs and newspapers.
Progression
The full Advanced Level [A2] in Sport and Physical Education provides a sound base for students who wish to proceed to Higher Education as well as being a useful background for any career in the Sport environment. It combines well with a wide variety of other subjects on offer at Saint Brendan’s.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade C or above or the equivalent from four subject areas including GCSE English and Mathematics plus GCSE Science at B grade or above. You will also need to perform at high club or county level.
Charges
During the course visits could be arranged to include Revision days and a visit to an Exercise Physiology lab.