The WJEC Eduqas AS Level in Physical Education offers a comprehensive study of the physiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that influence physical activity and performance in sports. This qualification is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in understanding how to improve performance, analyze fitness, and understand the societal role of sport.

Aims and Objectives:

• Develop Knowledge and Understanding: Students will learn about the factors influencing physical activity and performance, including exercise physiology, biomechanics, sport psychology, and the role of technology in sport.

• Apply Theory to Practice: The course allows students to link theoretical knowledge with practical performance, honing their skills in physical activities and sport.

• Promote Lifelong Learning: Encourages critical and reflective thinking, preparing students for further study or careers in sports, fitness, and education.

Qualification Overview:

• Duration: Teaching from 2016, assessment from 2017.

• Assessment Components:

  • Component 1: Exploring Physical Education (70% of qualification)

    • Written Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes, assessing theoretical knowledge across all content areas.

  • Component 2: Improving Personal Performance in Physical Education (30% of qualification)

    • Non-Exam Assessment: Practical performance (either as a player/performer or coach) and a performance analysis and evaluation of the chosen activity.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Component 1: Exploring Physical Education:

   • Exercise Physiology: Benefits of physical activity, responses to exercise, long-term adaptations, and energy systems.

   • Biomechanics and Movement Analysis: The structure and function of the musculoskeletal system, joint movements, and the application of Newton's laws in sport.

   • Sport Psychology: Personality, stress, anxiety, motivation, and aggression in sports contexts.

   • Skill Acquisition: Learning and performance curves, stages of learning, methods of practice, and the application of feedback.

   • Sport and Society: The role of sport in society, the impact of social and cultural factors, and issues of social inclusion.

2. Component 2: Improving Personal Performance:

   • Practical Performance: Students must demonstrate proficiency in one activity (approved by the Department for Education) in a competitive environment.

   • Performance Analysis and Evaluation: Students must critically analyze their performance, set goals for improvement, and assess training methods.

Assessment:

• Component 1: Written examination (1 hour 45 minutes), assessing knowledge across all areas.

• Component 2: Non-exam assessment where students are assessed on their practical performance and self-analysis, with a report of their findings.

Grading:

• Grades: A to E, with U for unclassified.

• Retake Opportunities: Students can resit the qualification, with the requirement to resit all components in the same series.