6th Form Prospectus

Physical Education What’s it all about? ‘The only rule is no murder!’ How has the game of football developed from the violent ‘mob’ form of the game? What are the psychological reasons behind Christiano Ronaldo’s success? Where does Jack Grealish get his energy to run his socks off for the full 90 minutes? How does Emma Raducanu handle the pressure at such a young age? These are just some of the questions answered in A level PE. The course covers the physiological, psychological and socio-cultural theoretical topics in four hours per week. This includes how the body and mind process information to develop skills, alongwith delving into sports psychology such as comparing personality traits in athletes such as Mo Farah and Usain Bolt, to understanding aggression and arousal in sport. In addition, the history of sport and current contemporary issues (for example women or technology in sport) are covered, along with the Olympic games and their political exploitation. Finally, it is through Anatomy and Physiology that you gain a thorough understanding of how the body works and adapts to exercise, along with how it moves through Biomechanics. Students also choose one activity from a variety of sports in which to be assessed, either as a performer or coach, as part of their coursework. They will also be expected to verbally analyse a performance and suggest a plan to improve a specific weakness. “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” Michael Jordan (Basketball Legend) To get started: Students are expected to have achieved grade 5 or equivalent in GCSE PE. Transitionworkwill be provided to support students in making the step up to A level PE. The theoretical content is both challenging and rewarding. Each student will be expected to keep a seperate file for all areas and it is important they keep thorough ‘revision friendly’ notes for each topic. Students should follow current issues to do with sport by using a range of media, as well as researching topics in advance, using YouTube and other online search engines. In order to enhance their practical scores, students must ensure they are regular participants in their chosen activity. They may do this by playing for school or club teams. This may be easier for students involved in games activities, though those with strengths in areas such as gymnastics, athletics or swimming must be members of a club, ensuring regular practice. Alternatively, students may choose to be assessed in coaching or officiating a sport. It is a requirement that students take part in sport outside of school or at a KJS club. What next? BeyondA Level, the study of Physical Education can lead on to university degrees in sports science, sports management, healthcare, or exercise and health. The course is fully accepted by institutes of higher education as a bona fide A Level on the same footing as more traditional subjects. Degree courses in sport and exercise science, teaching, sports management, coaching and sports physiotherapy are all directly linked to A Level PE, however some of our former students have gone on to study such courses as forensic science and engineering. A number of PE teachers have become headteachers of schools and colleges. Physical Education can also complement further study in biology, human biology, physics, psychology, nutrition, sociology, teacher training and many more. The transferable skills you learn through your study of Physical Education, such as decision making and independent thinking are also useful in any career path you choose to take. Exam and Assessment Information: OCR The course is 70% theory, 15% practical and 15% coursework at A Level Theory Syllabus • Application of Anatomy and Physiology • Exercise & Sport Physiology • Biomechanics • Skill Acquisition • Sports Psychology • Sport and Society • Contemporary Issues in Sport Our students say … “A level PE is a great experience. Its a great way to learn more about yourself, the history of the Olympics and contemporary issues in sport. We look at how our bodies move and function as well as looking into issues in sports psychology. The course is challenging, but the teachers make it easier to understand in fun and interactive ways by providing lots of resources to help.” Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above including English and Maths AND Grade 5 in a GCSE Science AND Grade 5 in GCSE PE 41