Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
WHY STUDY PHYSICAL EDUCATION?
A level Physical Education will appeal to those students who have reached a high level of performance in a range of
physical activities and who have the ability and the desire to acquire a detailed appreciation of the background to such
activities. The course develops a knowledge and understanding of the ideas and processes relevant to a selection of
physical education activities, looking in depth at physiological, psychological and socio-cultural aspects that impact
performance. The course also looks at how to develop a balanced active and healthy lifestyle.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
The course aims to provide a knowledge and understanding of the conceptual basis, structure and function of a
representative selection of physical education activities while developing understanding and problem-solving skills
including interpretation and evaluation. The structure of the course will help develop planning and practical skills for
effective performance in addition to fostering an ability to relate practice to theory and theory to practice. An
understanding of the scientific, socio-cultural and environmental factors which influence physical education will also be
developed, while the course will provide an experience which is valuable both as a means of personal development and
as a foundation for employment or more advanced study.
SKILLS NEEDED FOR AND DEVELOPED IN THE COURSE
A keen interest in and enthusiasm for physical education. An ability to work independently is essential although it is
equally important to be able to work effectively with others as a member of a team. The course will provide an
opportunity to develop and demonstrate the key skills of communication, analysis and evaluation of performance.
Students will also acquire a large body of factual information and improve their own learning and performance in
addition to enhancing their problem-solving skills.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE COURSE
A high level of performance in a range of physical activities and/or coaching or officiating. We would recommend good
B grades in both GCSE Science and GCSE Additional Science or a B grade in GCSE Biology. Pupils who do not quite
fulfil this requirement but who can demonstrate potential in other appropriate areas may be accepted on to the course.
Course followed: Physical Education
Examination Board: OCR
CONTENT OF THE COURSE UNITS
Unit 1:
Unit 2:
An Introduction to Physical Education. In this unit pupils develop a greater understanding of the structure
of the human body and how it responds during the performance of a variety of physical activities. Pupils
also develop an understanding of how they can effectively acquire and improve their movement skills in a
variety of physical activities. This unit is also directly concerned with the philosophical and sociological
investigation of institutional education and sport. Candidates will study major issues such as excellence in
sport as well as sub-cultural issues such as “deviance in sport”.
Coursework: Acquiring, developing and evaluating practical skills in PE. This unit focuses on the
acquisition and development of physical skills. Throughout this unit pupils will add to and update a personal
Performance Portfolio, with the ultimate aim of using this information to help to improve their own practical
performance.
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