A-level PE

In this unit, you will understand the importance of diet and nutrition pre-, during and post-physical activity. You will also study fatigue and recovery, which will build on your knowledge of energy systems in Topic 1: Applied Anatomy and Physiology. You will gain an understanding of how to apply knowledge of energy systems and
how to train, maintain and improve your performance. This includes an understanding of fitness components, methods of training and physiological adaptations. You will also understand how to prevent and rehabilitate from injury. You will be able to demonstrate an understanding of movement analysis through examples to include linear motion, angular motion, projectile motion and fluid mechanics.

In this unit you are required to show an understanding of the nature and development of skills in sport. This understanding could be enhanced and developed through applied practical experiences in the role of either coach and/or performer. You should have an awareness of the relevant learning theories and how they relate to skill development. At A-level, you will develop a detailed appreciation of the role of memory systems in the acquisition of skills. You can relate knowledge of practices, feedback and guidance to practical performance situations. You will be able to understand how quantitative data can be generated in appropriate areas of skill acquisition and be able to produce and evaluate the meaning of such data.

You will understand the role of sports psychology in facilitating optimal sporting performance of an individual athlete, sports teams and individuals in the teams. You will understand the different psychological views, theories and perspectives, as indicated in the specification, and be able to apply this understanding by way of explanation to behaviours that ultimately affect sporting performance. Central to this topic will be the ongoing debate offering explanations between either nature or nurture or the interaction of both. You will look at the theories and then apply the different interpretations of each to the different situations and scenarios identified. You will be able to demonstrate both support for and challenge to a given theory or perspective and provide sporting examples to support this view.

You will understand the dynamic relationship between sport and society. You will understand the parallels between societal changes and sport and will utilise this knowledge and understanding to consider historical and contemporary events and trends and potential future developments. You will understand how, as society developed and became increasingly commercial and political, these phenomena were reflected in sports. You will understand the context of varying ethics, and pressures on performers to cheat and consider a range of factors that influence deviance and the response of national and international organisations. You will understand the relationship between media and sport and the role of social media.