AQA A-Level Physical Education
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56 topics
Course topics56 topics
- 3.1.3.1.1 Pre-industrial (pre-1780)7 objectives
- Principles and theories of learning and performance13 objectives
- Projectile motion4 objectives
- Fluid mechanics6 objectives
- Violence in sport5 objectives
- 3.2.3.1.9 Group dynamics9 objectives
- 3.2.3.1.4 Anxiety3 objectives
- The role of technology in physical activity and sport22 objectives
- Respiratory system17 objectives
- Use of guidance and feedback12 objectives
- 3.1.2.5.1 General information processing model, to include:13 objectives
- Sport psychology2 objectives
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About this course
About AQA A-Level Physical Education
The AQA A-Level Physical Education course (7582) is a rigorous and comprehensive qualification that develops your theoretical understanding and practical performance in sport and physical activity. The specification is designed to give you a deep insight into the scientific, sociological and psychological factors that underpin performance, while also allowing you to demonstrate your own sporting abilities.
Over the two-year linear course, you will explore key themes such as applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, sport and society, exercise physiology, biomechanical movement, sport psychology, and the role of technology in sport. The content is split into two theoretical exam papers and a practical non-exam assessment (NEA), ensuring a balanced approach that assesses both knowledge and physical competence.
This specification encourages you to become an informed performer, coach or official, with the ability to critically evaluate and improve performance. It is highly regarded by universities and employers, providing excellent preparation for further study or careers in sport, health and education sectors.
Assessment Structure
The qualification is assessed through two written exam papers and one non-exam assessment (NEA). Paper 1 (Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport) is a 2-hour written paper worth 105 marks, accounting for 35% of the A-level. Paper 2 (Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport) is also 2 hours and 105 marks, worth 35%. The NEA (practical performance and written analysis) is worth 90 marks, contributing the final 30%. The total maximum mark for the A-level is 300.
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA provides a clear, logically structured specification that is well-resourced with past papers, mark schemes and examiner reports, making revision straightforward and focused.
- The balance between theory and practical assessment (70% theory, 30% practical) allows you to showcase both academic understanding and sporting talent, which appeals to a wide range of students.
- AQA is one of the most popular exam boards for A-Level PE, meaning teachers are experienced, and you benefit from a large community of learners and high-quality published resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own sport for the AQA A-Level PE practical assessment?
How is the written coursework (analysis and evaluation) structured in AQA PE?
What is the difference between AQA A-Level PE and other exam boards?
How difficult is it to get an A* in AQA A-Level PE?
What resources are available to help with AQA A-Level PE revision?
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing the roles of different receptors (chemoreceptors, proprioceptors, baroreceptors) in regulation.
- •Inaccurate application of joint actions to specific planes and axes.
- •Failure to distinguish between the different energy systems and their specific contribution to exercise intensity.
- •Misinterpreting graphs related to physiological responses.
- •Confusing agonist/antagonist muscle roles in specific movements.
- •Confusing the roles of different receptors (chemoreceptors, proprioceptors, baroreceptors) in regulation.
- •Inaccurate application of joint actions to specific planes and axes.
- •Failure to distinguish between the different energy systems and their specific contribution to exercise intensity.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Practice interpreting physiological data and graphs frequently.
- •Ensure clear understanding of the relationship between planes of movement and axes of rotation.
- •Use specific sporting examples to illustrate theoretical concepts.
- •Focus on the 'why' and 'how' of physiological changes rather than just recall.
- •Be prepared to link physiological knowledge to recovery and training adaptations.
- •Practice interpreting physiological data and graphs frequently.
- •Ensure clear understanding of the relationship between planes of movement and axes of rotation.
- •Use specific sporting examples to illustrate theoretical concepts.
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