Physical Education

Overview
We use a variety of teaching methods including experiment, pair and group work, use of ILT, individual study, problem-solving and presentations.

Course Outline
AS Level
Unit 1: An Introduction to Physical Education
• Anatomy and Physiology – includes the skeletal and
muscular systems; motion and movement; the cardiovascular and respiratory systems in relation to the performance of physical activity.
• Acquiring Movement Skills – includes classification of motor skills and abilities; the development of motor skills; information processing; motor control of skills in physical activity; learning skills in physical activity.
• Socio-Cultural Studies relating to Participation in Physical Activity – includes physical activity; sport and culture; contemporary sporting issues.
Unit 2: Acquiring, Developing and Evaluating Practical Skills in Physical Education
• Performance of two sports from two different activity profiles.
• Evaluating and planning for the improvement of performance via observation of a live performance of another student .

A2 Level
Unit 3: Principles and Concepts across different areas of Physical Education
• Historical Studies – includes popular recreation in pre-industrial Britain; rational recreation in post-industrial Britain; Nineteenth century public schools and their impact on the development of physical activities and young people; the developmental stages of athleticism in nineteenth century public schools; case studies; drill, physical training and Physical Education in state schools.
• Sports Psychology – includes individual aspects of performance; group dynamics of performance and audience effects; mental preparation for physical activity.
• Exercise and Sport Physiology – includes energy; health components of physical fitness; application of the principles of training; performance enhancement.
Unit 4: The Improvement of Effective Performance and the Critical Evaluation of Practical Activities in Physical Education Practical skills include:
• performance in one of the chosen activities studied for AS Level.
• Evaluation, appreciation and the improvement of performance via the live performance of another student.

Assessment
Coursework (40%)
Examination (60%)
Examining Board – OCR.

Special Entry Requirements
It is important to have a wide interest in sport rather than just one activity.

Prohibited Options
None.

Career and Progression Opportunities
Physical Education is well established as a qualification for entry into Higher Education, and offers a good foundation for those degree and HND courses where subject requirements are not limiting. It also offers an ideal foundation for degree courses in Sports, Science/Sports Studies, Leisure Studies, Recreation Management, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Teaching and other professions in related fields.

Coursework
There is a combination of practical performance in two sports and verbal evaluation of a live observed performance in one of the chosen sports. The spoken coursework is developed through homework and class tasks throughout the year .

Teaching Methods
A large variety of teaching methods are used, but a great emphasis is put on learning via practical means.

Complementary Subjects or Enrichment Courses
Sports Leaders is always a useful addition. Likewise, playing sport for the College is encouraged, but not compulsory .

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.