Sports Science (G10)

• Develop a scientific understanding of how the human body responds to exercise, from the cardiorespiratory and energy systems to the musculoskeletal system, using precise terminology.

• Appreciate the role of science in enhancing human performance and well-being by applying scientific principles of training and recovery to fitness and health challenges.

• Analyze and interpret data from fitness tests and biomechanical assessments to accurately evaluate and predict athletic performance.

• Communicate effectively the connections between scientific concepts (like energy systems and biomechanics) and their practical application in strength and conditioning programming.

• Develop an interdisciplinary approach by appreciating how the fields of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports psychology intersect to provide a holistic view of athletic performance.

• Understand the ethical implications of sports science, including considerations related to training methods, testing, and psychological strategies.

• Explore how a scientific approach to training and skill acquisition can enhance personal identity, mental well-being, and motivation in a sports context.

Exercise Physiology

A1: The cardiorespiratory system allows bodies to supply oxygen and remove waste products through gaseous exchange during sustained aerobic exercise.

A2: Strength and conditioning programming requires safety considerations, benchmark testing and application of the principles of training.

A3: Fitness tests can be used as predictive measurements for an individual's aerobic capacity and VO2 max.

A4: Energy systems support adenosine triphosphate production by utilizing different energy sources and respiration processes to meet varying demands.

A5: People use methods of training to develop aerobic capacity through exercising at specific intensities.

A6: Recovery aims to reduce fatigue through sufficient sleep, treatment of injuries, and applying strategies to enhance health and well-being.

Biomechanics

B1: The musculoskeletal system involves the interplay of joints, muscle groups and bones to create movement. 

B2: Strength, speed and power represent components of fitness that can be tested and developed through effective training    methods.

B3: Biomechanics involves analysing forces, motion, and physical properties of the body to gain insights into overall performance.

B4: Movement analysis involves a phased approach to understand how forces, motion, and body mechanics interact.

Sports Psychology and Motor Learning

C1: Motor learning involves motivation to acquire and refine skills by leveraging abilities and selecting appropriate techniques.

C2: Effective coping strategies enable athletes to regulate arousal, manage anxiety, and maintain emotional control to optimize performance.

The Sports Science course options will focus on students developing:

• Collaboration within groups in classwork, project work and practical work

• Communication and presentation of scientific concepts and the scientific method

• Hands on practical skills and techniques in both field and laboratory settings

• Analytical skills of patterns and trends in data

• Critical thinking around application of scientific understanding

• Creativity in designing independent investigations and solving problems

There will be a variety of assessments, both formative and summative, that vary in their form and purpose. These will include assessment through practical skills, extended responses to conceptual questions, communication in science, project work, laboratory and anticipated field work, and tests of knowledge and understanding.