Physical Education (A Level)
Details
Qualification
A LevelExamination Board
AQASpecification
What Do I Need To Study This Course?
6+ in GCSE PE (although it is not essential) and 6+ in Science.
What Will I Study?
2 theory exam papers across the 2 years. We complete AS topics in Year 1, then complete the remaining, additional, A2 modules in Year 2. Details of the different papers, as well as the diverse range of sections and topics, are listed below:
Paper 1: Section A – Applied anatomy and physiology (cardiovascular system, respiratory system, neuromuscular system, the musculoskeletal system and analysis of movement and energy systems)
Paper 1: Section B – Skill acquisition (skill, skill continuums and transfer of skill, impact of skill classification, principles and theories of learning and performance, use of guidance and feedback and memory models)
Paper 1: Section C – Sport and society (emergence of globalisation of sport in the 21st century, the impact of sport on society and society on sport)
Paper 2: Section A – Exercise physiology and biomechanics (Diet and nutrition, training methods, injury prevention and rehabilitation, biomechanical principles, levers, linear motion, angular motion, projectile motion, fluid mechanics)
Paper 2: Section B – Sport psychology (personality, arousal, anxiety, aggression, motivation, achievement motivation theory, social facilitation, group dynamics, importance of goal setting, attribution theory, self-efficacy and confidence, leadership and stress management)
Paper 2: Section C – Sport and society (concepts of physical activity and sport, development of elite performers, ethics in sport, violence in sport, drugs in sport, sport and the law, commercialisation and the role of technology)
Non-exam assessment (NEA) at the end of the course (Practical performance/coaching in 1 sport and Analysis and evaluation written coursework)
How Will I Be Assessed?
70% theory weighting from both Paper 1 and Paper 2 (both include multiple choice, short answer and extended answer questions and are worth a total of 105 marks)
30% practical weighting – Practical performance/coaching in 1 sport (video evidence required) and analysis and evaluation written coursework
What Next?
A Level PE allows students to play to their strengths and gain dynamic theoretic and practical skills for further education via a range of undergraduate, sport-related courses at university that include sports science degrees, as well as careers linked to Physiotherapy, PE teaching, sport nutrition, sport development and sport journalism.
Suggested Reading List
My revision notes: AQA A Level PE.