Sports, Exercise and Health Science

This course incorporates the traditional disciplines of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, which are studied in the context of sport, exercise and health. 

Students cover a range of topics and carry out practical (experimental) investigations in both laboratory and field settings.  This provides students with the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and understanding necessary to apply scientific principles and critically analyse human performance. 

The internal assessment is based upon practical experimental investigations and not physical performance. This course suits students who like to apply science to sport. 

Core curriculum (SL)

Topic A: Exercise physiology and nutrition of the human body. This involves investigating the nervous system, homeostasis, endocrine system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, diet, energy systems, types of training, fatigue and recovery.

Topic B: Biomechanics. This involves investigating planes of movement, skeletal system, muscle contractions, forces, motion, fluid mechanics, movement analysis and injury. 

Topic C: Sport psychology and motor learning.  This involves investigating personality, mental toughness, transfer of learning, motivation, goal-setting, self-determination, stress and imagery.

There is an emphasise on using mathematical skills in sports science. This involves practical experiments and manipulating data. 

Additional Higher Level 

Students will cover the topics above but investigate them in more depth with further investigation.  

External assessment – 80% - two written papers 

Internal assessment – 20%  - practical experimental investigations 

Internal Assessment/Coursework:  The investigation is usually completed by the end of December of the Autumn term in Year 13

A dynamic approach to the science related skills of research and critical analysis will be a valuable asset for any university course and will begin to prepare students if they are considering studying sports science at university.

 This discipline can also effectively complement other science subjects. Careers for sports science graduates include sports science research, sport and leisure management, sports media, teaching, physiotherapy, sports studies, coaching, and marketing.