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    CCEA as-level Physical Education

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    Course overview

    The CCEA as-level Physical Education specification covers 2 topics with 6 learning objectives (601/8904/6). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    • 2 topics
    • 6 learning objectives
    Ofqual Regulated: 601/8904/6

    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    601/8904/6
    Awarding Organisation
    CCEA
    Regulatory Type
    GCE AS Level
    National Level & Units
    as-level • 2 units
    Sector Subject Area: Sport, leisure and recreation
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.
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    About this course

    About CCEA as-level Physical Education

    This CCEA AS-Level Physical Education course offers a comprehensive exploration of the factors that influence physical activity and sport. You will study the scientific underpinnings of performance, including applied anatomy and physiology, alongside the socio-cultural and psychological dimensions that shape participation and excellence. The specification is designed to develop your theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing you for further study or careers in sport, health, and exercise science.

    The course is structured into two main components: one focusing on theoretical concepts and the other on practical performance. You will investigate how the body systems respond to exercise, how skill is acquired, and how contemporary issues affect sport in society. Assessment combines written examinations with a practical performance assessment, ensuring a balanced evaluation of your abilities. This integrated approach helps you connect classroom theory with real-world sporting contexts.

    Assessment Structure

    The CCEA AS-Level Physical Education qualification is assessed through two components. Component 1 is a written examination worth 50% of the AS-level (25% of the full A-level), lasting 2 hours and covering applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, and sport and society. Component 2 is a practical performance assessment, also worth 50% of the AS-level (25% of the full A-level), where you are assessed in one physical activity as a performer or coach, alongside a written analysis of performance. Both components contribute to your overall AS grade, and if you continue to the full A-level, these marks carry forward.

    Why Choose CCEA?

    • CCEA offers a clear and manageable specification that integrates theory and practice seamlessly, making it easier to see how concepts apply to real sporting situations. The practical assessment allows you to showcase your strengths in a single activity, which can be less demanding than multi-activity assessments used by other boards.
    • The assessment structure is balanced, with equal weighting between written and practical components, which can suit students who excel in either area. Additionally, CCEA provides extensive support materials and past papers specifically tailored to the Northern Ireland curriculum, ensuring you have access to relevant resources.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between AS and A-level Physical Education with CCEA?
    The AS-level is a standalone qualification that is half the content of the full A-level. It is typically taken in the first year of study and covers the core topics. If you continue to the full A-level, your AS results contribute 50% of your final grade, and you will study additional topics in the second year, such as exercise physiology and sports psychology. This structure allows you to decide after AS whether to continue, and it provides a solid foundation for further study.
    How is the practical performance assessed in CCEA AS Physical Education?
    The practical performance component requires you to be assessed in one physical activity, either as a performer or as a coach. You will be filmed and assessed by your teacher against specific criteria, and your work is moderated by CCEA. You must demonstrate effective performance, decision-making, and the ability to apply tactics or strategies. Additionally, you will complete a written analysis of your performance, which is submitted as part of the assessment. This component is worth 50% of your AS grade.
    Are there any prerequisites or recommended prior learning for this course?
    While there are no formal prerequisites, it is recommended that you have studied GCSE Physical Education or a related science subject, as this provides a useful foundation. A genuine interest in sport and physical activity is essential, as is a willingness to engage with scientific concepts. Good practical ability in at least one sport is also beneficial, as you will be assessed on your performance. If you have not studied PE at GCSE, you can still succeed, but you may need to do extra reading to catch up on key concepts.
    What career paths can this AS-level lead to?
    This AS-level can lead to a range of careers in sport, health, and education. It provides a strong basis for degrees in sports science, physiotherapy, sports coaching, or physical education teaching. It also develops transferable skills such as analysis, communication, and teamwork, which are valued in many other fields. Many students go on to study sports-related courses at university, while others pursue careers in personal training, sports management, or the leisure industry.
    How does CCEA's specification differ from other exam boards like AQA or OCR?
    CCEA's specification is tailored to the Northern Ireland curriculum and is often seen as more straightforward in its structure, with a clear division between theory and practical. Unlike some boards that require assessment in two sports, CCEA assesses you in just one activity, which can be less stressful and allows you to focus on your strongest sport. The theory content is similar to other boards, but CCEA's assessment style may include more short-answer questions and fewer extended essays, which can suit some students. Additionally, CCEA provides resources that are specifically aligned with the Northern Ireland context.
    Assessment and exam guidance

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    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

    CCEA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

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