Physical Education
Mr S Martin, Mrs N Flower
Why study Physical Education?
In Physical Education (PE) pupils develop knowledge, understanding, confidence and skills in a range of activities, such as games, gymnastics, swimming, athletics, outdoor and adventurous activities and dance. They work as individuals, in groups and in teams. They will have the chance to learn about the principles and practices which lead to good performance.
Discovering what they like to do, what their aptitudes are at school, and how that they can become involved in physical activity helps them make informed choices about lifelong physical activity and leading a healthy lifestyle.
A GCSE in Physical Education will help you towards further study in Physical Education or leisure and recreation or to a career within the sport and leisure industry. A GCSE in Physical Education perfectly adds to the all-round balance of subjects of every student.
From ages 5 to 16, by statute, PE tuition is compulsory.
Students who do not opt to pursue PE at GCSE examination level are given the opportunity to build on and extend their experiences from what is offered in Key Stage 3.
Aims & Objectives:
In Key Stage 4, pupils should have the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and understanding selected from the areas of experience, each of which has a different focus:
- sport - competitive focus
- dance - artistic and aesthetic focus
- adventure activities - outdoor learning focus
- exercise activities - non-competitive forms of exercise
At Key Stage 4, teaching content for most pupils is determined by the programme of study. However, the programme of study also determines the content of specifications at GCSE that are approved for use at Key Stage 4. Where pupils are entered for qualifications, teaching is planned in line with these specifications. We at St Clare’s follow the AQA GCSE Physical Education Specification.
You will study:
- Effective performance in a number of practical areas (marked on 4 sports on the Full course and 2 on the Short course)
- Linking physical activity with diet, work and rest for personal health and a balanced healthy lifestyle
- Making informed decisions about getting involved in a lifetime of healthy physical activities that suit their needs
You will learn:
- To improve your skills and technique in your chosen sports
- To evaluate and improve performance
- To become a referee, performer, coach or organiser in a chosen area of study
- How the body works and how it responds to exercise
- How society impacts on sport and vice versa
Assessment:
SHORT COURSE
Unit 1: Knowledge and Understanding for the Active Participant (Short Course)
- Written Paper – 45 minutes 40 marks – 40%
- Scenario issued to centres in advance of the examination.
Unit 2: The Active Participant (Practical aspect) (Short Course)
- Controlled Assessment – 45 marks – 60%
- 2 assessments (4 for full course) from 2 groups/ways of thinking - at least 1 as player/performer.
FULL COURSE
Unit 3: Knowledge and Understanding for the Active Participant (Full Course)
- Written Paper – 1 hour 30 minutes 80 marks – 40%
- Scenario issued to centres in advance of the examination
Unit 4: The Active Participant (Full Course)
- Controlled Assessment – 90 marks – 60%.
- 4 assessments from at least 2 groups/ways of thinking - at least 2 as player/participant, at least 1 in a different role.
The examination paper covers the full range of grades from A* - G on both specifications
Trips & Excursions:
Extra curricular away fixtures (team games, cross country and athletics meetings) give pupils the opportunity to experience competition in an environment different from what they are used to at their own school.
Modular, timetabled visits to Bridgend Recreation Centre.
Annual ski trip.
Wimbledon trip.
