GCSE Sports Studies

TEACHER IN CHARGE:  Mr P Dunn EXAMINATION BOARD:  OCR WEBSITE ADDRESS:  www.ocr.org.uk 

GCSE Sports Studies Information Video

What will I study? 

The qualification is divided into three aspects including theoretical knowledge and practical performance. 

J587/01 Physical factors affecting performance and J587/02 Socio-cultural issues and sports psychology  (60%)

These components will assess:  

1.1 Applied anatomy and physiology (body systems & effects of exercise)

1.2 Physical training (components of fitness, types of training and training programmes)

2.1 Socio-cultural influences (engagement patterns of different social groups)

2.2 Sports psychology (mental preparation and goal setting)

2.3 Health, fitness and well-being (diet and nutrition and mental wellbeing) 

J587/01 Practical (40% of final mark) 

You will be assessed in three different practical activities , which must include one team activity, one individual activity and/or another team/individual activity; 

Analysis and evaluation of performance through a controlled internal assessment which reviews your current levels of skills and fitness before creating an action plan to improve upon an area of weakness; 

How many examinations will I take?

Students will sit two written papers both of which last 1 hour and are each worth 30% of total GCSE (9–1). Each paper is assessed out of 60 marks and each paper consists of a mixture of objective response and multiple-choice questions, short answers and extended response items.

What percentage of my final mark is determined by coursework? 

The practical work comprises 40% of the final mark. 

When does the coursework have to be completed by? 

All coursework is to be completed by the end of March in Year 11, including practical logbooks from performances during Year 10 and 11, internal assessment and practical video evidence.

What qualities do I need to be successful? 

● Please note that it is desirable that students who opt for this qualification are practically able and participate competitively in sport outside of school. 

● You must have a keen interest in sport and demonstrate good all round practical skills 

● Demonstrate good organisational skills and take responsibility for your learning by logging your performances, managing your kit and participating in every lesson. 

● Be prepared to improve your skills in a range of sporting activities. For example if you are a keen team games player outside of school, you must dedicate time each week to attend extra curricular practices to improve skills in another activity. 

What sort of teaching styles are typically used?

A variety of teaching styles are used: 

● Retrieval practices to consistently revisit learned content; 

● Group tasks and discussion in lessons to demonstrate understanding of content; 

● Individual tasks to demonstrate understanding of content; 

● Flipped learning to develop knowledge prior to lessons; 

● Learner assessments every week to assess progress; 

● Direct instruction to improve individual skills; 

● Analysis of performances, video and digital camera work; 

● Evaluation of performances as an individual and in a group.

Is there anything else you think I should know about this subject? 

While we value the options choice procedure the PE department will make the final decision as to the correct sport qualification for your child. Due to the nature of the course and the emphasis on a high skill level in a number of sports, we will use our experience to guide you into the correct qualification. We will make this decision based on what we see as the best possible outcome for your child and will discuss this with you further if we need to. It is a very demanding course. Many students who choose this subject are surprised by the amount of class-based work. The time is split, four theory lessons and one practical lesson over two weeks. Lessons will be taught in mixed gender groups and practical lessons will focus mainly on your child's third potential activity. This qualification will support your child with a smooth progression into their education post 16 and beyond.