Sports Studies
 SUBJECT Sport and Physical Education
 ADMISSIONS Students will preferably have studied GCSE Physical Education and achieved at least a grade B.
 SYLLABUS AQA
 COURSE The AS/A2 course builds on work started at GCSE. There is a strong element of applying theory to practice. Students should be willing to participate in practical activities, which are used to illustrate theoretical concepts. A level students are expected to commit themselves to school sport, whether playing or coaching or both.
 AS UNITS

Unit 1 - Opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle

Topic list

  • The physiological effects of adopting a healthy lifestyle
  • The short term effect of exercise/performance and the long term effects of training
  • Analysis of movement across a range of sporting actions
  • Acquisition of skills and the impact of psychological factors on performance
  • Opportunites for physical activity, benefits to the individual and society and the potential barriers faced by minority groups

Unit 2 - Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as performer and/or in an adopted role/s

Topic list

  • Execution of skills/techniques in two roles (performer, official/referee/umpire/judge or leader/coach) in a chosen physical activity
  • Analysis of own performance
  • Application of theoretical knowledge to achieve effective performance
 A2 UNITS

Unit 3 - Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport

Topic list

  • Energy sources and systems
  • Elite preparation and training
  • Specialised training and sports injuries
  • The use of psychological theories and techniques to optimise performance
  • Concepts and characteristics of World Games and their impact on the state and individual
  • Development and impact of sports technology on performers, equipment and facilities
  • The development of sport from rational recreation to its modern day format.

Unit 4 - Philosophical Problems

Topic list

  • Optimising performance in competitive or performance conditions in one role
  • Evaluation of own performance in identifying weaknesses
  • Suggesting cause of own weakness and an appropriate corrective measure           
 ASSESSMENT Students are assessed by exam in units 1 and 3 and by practical and written coursework in units 2 and 4.
 CAREERS Careers in sport related subjects is the biggest growth area at present and include sports management, physiotherapy, coaching, teaching, sport and technology.