Why should I study GCSE PE?

GCSE PE is a fabulous option for anyone who loves sport and is interested in developing a more detailed understanding of a range of sporting activities and how our bodies facilitate and adapt to our engagement and participation in sports.

How will I be assessed in GCSE PE?

60% of your overall grade comes from 2 exams, both exams are 1 hour long and they contain a mixture of objective response and multiple-choice questions, short answers and extended response items.

The topics of the exams are:

1) Physical factors affecting performance

2) Socio-cultural issues and sports psychology

30% of your overall grade comes from three sporting activities . At least one 'team' and one 'individual' sport from the approved activity list. These must be performed in competitive situations - you must regularly take part in fixtures of competitions.

The final 10% of the overall grade consists of a written task that is completed under controlled conditions. This is your Analysis and Evaluation of a performance. This performance can be your own or a peer's performance.

Is there a written exam for GCSE PE?

Yes, there are 2 written exams for GCSE PE. These will be sat in year 11. These exams are 1 hour long and they contain a mixture of objective response and multiple-choice questions, short answers and extended response items.

How many practical/ theory lessons a week will I have?

This will be timetable dependent, however it is likely that 3/4 of your lessons will be classroom theory based. There will be more time given over to theory lessons compared to time working practically.

Do I have to play sports outside of school to take GCSE PE?

Technically no, however it is a massive advantage. To achieve the top grades in the practical assessment you need to be playing the sport regularly. Otherwise you are going to struggle with the practical side. You also need to have video evidence of you playing the sport competitively and this is a lot easier if you play outside of school.

Can I take GCSE PE if I'm only good at one sport?

You will be assessed in 3 sports - at least one team and one individual. So you need to have 3 sports that you are confident in.

What sports am I allowed to be assessed in for GCSE PE?

Page 16 and 17 for Team Sports

Page 64 and 65 for Individual Sports

List of accepted sports & activities

How much of my grade is based on my practical demonstration of sports?

30% of your overall grade is based on practical ability in at least one team sport and at least one individual sport.

10% of your overall grade is based on Analysing and Evaluating Performance.

Can I be assessed as an umpire/ referee, coach or leader in GCSE PE?

No, you have to be physically taking part as a performer within the activity. Please have a look at this link and it will show you what sports you can take part in.

List of accepted sports & activities

Do I have to be good at/ enjoy science to take GCSE PE?

No, but it could be an advantage as one of the exams is focused on Anatomy and Physiology. You will be learning about:

• Skeleton

• Muscular system

• Movement analysis

• Cardiovascular and respiratory system

• Effects of exercise on the body systems

How can I succeed in GCSE PE?

In order to be a successful GCSE PE student all you need is enthusiasm, resilience, determination, independence, curiosity, confidence and be willing to embrace challenge !

You will be provided with all of the necessary resources to support you but ultimately it will be down to you to make the most of them. Your teacher will do everything they can to facilitate your learning but the responsibility to take on board and apply advice is ultimately down to you.

You will need to be prepared to spend some time, out of lessons, consolidating the learning that has occurred in class and revisiting terminology, techniques and skills regularly. You will also need to be willing to attending extra curricular clubs/ play for sports teams outside of school. This additional practical time will enhance your skills and practical ability and may also provide valuable evidence for your practical exam.

What can I do once I have completed the course?

Taking GCSE PE means you will:

• Add an extra dimension to your personal skills profile which will impress anyone who reads your CV

• Have the confidence to push yourself out of your comfort zone and experience new opportunities

• Be able to study AS, A level and Vocational PE & Sports courses to further your knowledge of the subject

• Find it easier to maintain an active lifestyle as you move into adulthood

• Provide opportunities to move into the world of work in the sports industry. GCSE PE can help support careers in the following jobs:

• Sports science.

• PE teacher.

• Physiotherapist.

• Professional sportsperson.

• Sports coach/consultant.

• Sports policy at local and national level.

• Diet and fitness instructor.

• Personal trainer.

• Sports Journalist/ Broadcaster

• Sports development officer