Physical Education (PE)
Curriculum Aims
We aim for everybody to:
- develop into physically literate students;
- become inspired to discover and reach their personal best;
- have an outward looking perspective on activity and challenge;
- be comfortable working in isolation or as part of a team;
- be able to use a range of tactics and strategies to overcome opponents in direct competition through team and individual games;
- leave school with the skills and confidence to continue to participate in a number of sports, enabling them to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
Curriculum Information
Qualifications
There are two examination options at KS4. The GCSE PE option follows the OCR specification whilst the alternative option is a Cambridge National – Sports Studies.
PE - GCSE
The GCSE option consists of two papers and a coursework element.
Paper 1 is based on the physical factors affecting performance and covers the structure and function of the muscular and skeletal system, movement analysis, the cardiovascular and respiratory system, the effects of exercise on the body, the components of fitness, methods and principles of training and injury prevention.
Paper 2 looks at the sociocultural issues in sport and sports psychology; topics studied include sports psychology, engagement patterns, commercialisation of sport, ethical and social issues around physical activity, and health, fitness and wellbeing.
The coursework is on analysing and evaluating performance and is completed in year 11.
Summary of Assessment
The GCSE option is 70% theory and 30% practical. Students need to compete in 3 sports, 1 individual, 1 team & a choice of 1 from either.
Paper 1: Physical factors affecting performance
- Written exam: 1 hour
- 60 marks
- 30% of the qualification
Paper 2: Socio-cultural issues and sports psychology
- Written exam: 1 hour
- 60 marks
- 30% of the qualification
Practical performances – Non-examined assessment
- 60 marks
- 30% of the qualification
Analysis and evaluation of performance – Non-examined assessment
- 20 marks
- 10% of the qualification
Sports Studies - Cambridge National Qualification
Sports Studies consists of 3 units. The exam-based content looks at the Contemporary issues in sport. It covers a range of topical and contemporary issues in sport, relating to; participation levels and barriers, promotion of values and ethical behaviour, the role of high-profile sporting events, the role of national governing bodies and how technology is used within sport.
Performance and leadership in sports activities form part of the non-examined section of the course. This unit looks at how to develop skills as both a performer, in two different sporting activities, and as a leader in one activity. As a leader, students will have the opportunity to plan, lead and review safe and effective sporting activity sessions.
Increasing Awareness in Outdoor and Adventurous Activities is another non-examined unit. This unit explores a range of outdoor and adventurous activities and the benefits they offer to individuals and groups. Students will apply real-life examples to understand how these activities can improve physical fitness, mental wellbeing, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. They will develop their ability to evaluate the challenges and risks involved, as well as the importance of safety, planning, and leadership in outdoor environments.
Summary of Assessment
Sports Studies consists of a 40% written exam and 60% is non-examined. Students need to perform in 2 sports, these can be team or individual.
Contemporary issues in sport
- Written exam: 75 minutes
- 70 marks
- 40% of the qualification
Non-examined assessment - 60% of the qualification combined
Sports leadership
- 60 marks
Increasing Awareness in Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
- 60 marks
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