Physical Education / Sports Studies
The Weston Road Academy - Staffordshire
01785413600
Blackheath Lane, Stafford, ST18 0YG
Course summary

The A-level Physical Education course allows learners to study Physical Education in an academic setting, enabling them to critically analyze and evaluate their physical performance and apply their knowledge of physical activity in developing their knowledge and understanding of the subject. The course is largely centered on the study of both the physiological and psychological issues that impact sporting performance as well as the ever-changing socio-cultural climate in which physical activity and sport are based. As part of the course, learners will evaluate and analyze sporting performances and develop a systematic development plan to facilitate improvement. Unit 01 – Physiological Factors Affecting Performance This unit focuses on developing the learner’s knowledge of the science behind physical activity. This includes the structure and function of key systems in the human body, the forces that act upon us, and the adaptations we make to our bodies through diet and training regimes. Through the study of this component, learners will gain a deeper understanding of key systems in the body and how they react to changes in diet and exercise. They will also study the effects of force and motion on the body and how these effects can be used in physical activities to our advantage. Unit 02 - Psychological Factors Affecting Performance This unit focuses on the psychological factors affecting physical activities and sports. This includes models and theories that affect learning and performance in physical activities, how different methods of training and feedback work, and why their effectiveness differs from person to person. It also includes psychological factors affecting group dynamics and the effects of leadership and stress on performers. Through the study of this component, learners will gain a deeper understanding of the underlying psychological factors that influence our performance in physical activity and sports. They will learn how to apply the theories to practical examples, giving guidance and feedback in constructive ways that are suited to that individual’s personality; therefore assisting in developing practical performance in physical activities and sports. Unit 03 – Socio-cultural Issues in Physical Activity and Sport This unit focuses on the sociological and contemporary issues that influence and affect physical activity and sport for both the audience and the performer and how sport affects society. It includes the emergence and evolution of modern sports and how social and cultural factors shaped the characteristics of sports and pastimes in pre-industrial and post-industrial Britain. The impact of the modern Olympic Games will be understood as well as the impact on society of hosting global sporting events. The ever-evolving modern technology and its influence on sport performers and spectators will be understood and practical examples will be used by learners to show the effect of modern technology Unit 04 – Performance in Physical Education Learners are internally assessed through the Non-Exam Assessment in one practical activity (either performing or coaching one chosen activity from the approved lists) and the Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI).

Entry requirements

The standard entry criteria to study in the sixth form are a 9-4 in at least seven different subjects, including English and mathematics, which would usually be at grade 4 or above. To study other subjects already taken at GCSE you must achieve at least a grade 5 or above in that subject.

How you'll be assessed

Unit 01 - Physiological Factors Affecting Performance. 90 marks 2 hours written paper 30% of Overall Qualification - Applied Anatomy and Physiology - Exercise Physiology - Biomechanics Unit 02 – Psychological Factors Affecting Performance. 60 marks 1 hour written paper 20% of Overall Qualification - Skill Acquisition - Sports Psychology Unit 03 – Socio-Cultural Issues in Physical Activity and Sport. 60 marks 1 hour written paper 20% of Overall Qualification - Sport and Society - Contemporary Issues in Physical Activity and Sport Unit 04 – Performance in Physical Education 60 marks Non-Exam Assessment 30% of Overall Qualification - Performance or Coaching - Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement Assessment Objectives: AO1 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. AO2 – Apply knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. AO3 – Analyse and evaluate the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. AO4 - Demonstrate and apply relevant skills and techniques in physical activity and sport. - Analyse and evaluate performance.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionWest Midlands
Local AuthorityStaffordshire
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressBlackheath Lane, Stafford, ST18 0YG