AS/A2 OCR

If you have a keen interest in sport as a performer, and are keen to learn more of the wider issues related to sport and physical activity then you will enjoy the course.

Course Outline
There are 4 units of assessment - 2 units for AS level and a further 2 units make up A2.

AS Level
Unit 1 - An Introduction to Physical Education

This unit covers a detailed study of anatomy and physiology and the acquisition of skill as it is applied to the practical situation.  It also covers the role of physical activity and its impact on young people developing an active and healthy lifestyle, along with discussion of contemporary sporting issues eg excellence in sport, healthier lifestyles.

A 2 hour written paper examines this unit.  It is 60% of your AS (30% of A2).

Unit 2 - Acquiring, developing and evaluating practical skills in Physical Education You are assessed in acquisition and development of your personal skills in 2 activities from 2 different profiles.  You also have to keep a log of your progress as performer and evaluate a live performance. Internally assessed and externally moderated and is 40% of your AS (20% of A2).

A2 Level
Unit 3 - Principles and concepts This unit covers 3 areas of study:

Historical Studies - historical factors that have influenced the present scene for PE and Sport.

Sports Psychology - psychological factors that can be applied to improve performance  Exercise Physiology - focuses on how the body changes as a result of exercise and the application of physiological concepts to enhance performance through training.

A 2 hour 30 minutes paper examines this unit. 35% of A2.
Unit 4 - The improvement of effective performance and the critical evaluation of physical activities.

This unit builds upon the skills acquired and developed in Unit 2 in one of your chosen activities.  You have to keep a log of your progress as performer and are required to evaluate a live performance.

Internally assessed and externally moderated and is 15% of A2.

Preferred Entry Requirements
Minimum of 4 GCSEs grade C or above; English and Science would be an advantage. A GCSE in Physical Education is not a pre-requisite for the course. Students ideally should be a club performer in at least one of their sports.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.