Physical Education

Unit 3 & 4

Course Description

VCE Physical Education explores the complex interrelationships between anatomical, biomechanical, physiological and skill acquisition principles to understand their role in producing and refining movement, and examines behavioural, psychological, environmental and sociocultural influences on performance and participation in physical activity. The assimilation of theoretical understanding and practice is central to the study of VCE Physical Education. Students participate in practical activities to examine the core concepts that underpin movement and that influence performance and participation in physical activity, sport and exercise.

Unit 3: Movement skills and energy for physical activity 

This unit introduces students to the biomechanical and skill acquisition principles used to analyse human movement skills and energy production from a physiological perspective. Students use a variety of tools and techniques to analyse movement skills and apply biomechanical and skill acquisition principles to improve and refine movement in physical activity, sport and exercise. Students investigate the relative contribution and interplay of the three energy systems to performance in physical activity, sport and exercise. In particular, they investigate the characteristics of each system and the interplay of the systems during physical activity. Students explore the causes of fatigue and consider different strategies used to postpone fatigue and promote recovery.

Outcomes - On completion of this unit students will be able to:


Assessment Tasks

Unit 4: Training to improve performance 

In this unit students analyse movement skills from a physiological, psychological and sociocultural perspective, and apply relevant training principles and methods to improve performance within physical activity. Students analyse skill frequencies, movement patterns, heart rates and work to rest ratios to determine the requirements of an activity. Students consider the physiological, psychological and sociological requirements of training to design and evaluate an effective training program. Students participate in a variety of training sessions designed to improve or maintain fitness and evaluate the effectiveness of different training methods. Students critique the effectiveness of the implementation of training principles and methods to meet the needs of the individual, and evaluate the chronic adaptations to training from a theoretical perspective.

Outcomes - On completion of this unit students will be able to:

Assessment Tasks

Booklist requirements:

Resources/Requirements:

Career Pathways

What Courses/Careers this could lead to:

Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Personal Training, Coaching, Exercise Physiologist, Physiotherapist, Sports Management.

Note: Only some courses at Bachelor Degree level will require this course. Some Diploma courses may require this course also.

If you enjoy or are good at this learning area, you can explore these occupations.