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    Eduqas as-level Physical Education

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    Course overview

    The EDUQAS as-level Physical Education specification covers 2 topics with 6 learning objectives (601/8839/X). 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: 601/8839/X

    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)
    601/8839/X
    Awarding Organisation
    Eduqas
    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 Eduqas as-level Physical Education

    This Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education course offers a comprehensive exploration of the interconnected worlds of sport, exercise, and health. You will delve into the scientific principles underpinning performance, the socio-cultural factors that shape participation, and the practical application of skills in a sporting context. The specification is designed to develop your theoretical knowledge and your ability to analyse and evaluate real-world sporting scenarios.

    The course is structured around three core areas: applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, and sport and society. You will study the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the mechanics of movement, and the psychological and biomechanical factors that influence learning and performance. Additionally, you will examine the historical and contemporary issues affecting sport in the UK, including the impact of modern technology and the role of funding. This holistic approach ensures you gain a well-rounded understanding of physical education, preparing you for further study or a career in the sport and fitness industry.

    Assessment Structure

    The Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education qualification is assessed through two written examination papers and one non-examined assessment (NEA). Paper 1 focuses on applied anatomy and physiology and skill acquisition, contributing 50% of the total AS grade, with a duration of 2 hours and a total of 100 marks. Paper 2 covers sport and society, also contributing 50% of the AS grade, lasting 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 80 marks. The NEA component involves practical performance in one sport or activity and a written analysis of performance, which is internally assessed and externally moderated, contributing 20% of the overall AS grade. This structure balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of your abilities.

    Why Choose Eduqas?

    • Eduqas offers a clear and straightforward specification that is well-structured, making it easier for students to understand what is expected of them. The assessment papers are designed to be accessible, with a mix of short answer and extended response questions that allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding effectively.
    • The practical NEA component is flexible, allowing you to be assessed in a sport or activity of your choice, which can be a significant advantage if you have a particular strength or passion. This flexibility helps you to achieve your best possible grade in the practical element.
    • Eduqas provides excellent support resources for both teachers and students, including detailed specification documents, past papers, and mark schemes, which are invaluable for exam preparation. This support can help you to feel more confident and prepared for your assessments.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between the AS and A-Level Physical Education qualifications from Eduqas?
    The AS-Level is a standalone qualification that is typically taken in the first year of study and covers half the content of the full A-Level. It is assessed through two written papers and a practical assessment, as described above. The A-Level is a two-year course that builds on the AS content, with additional topics such as sport psychology and biomechanics, and is assessed through three written papers and a practical assessment. If you take the AS-Level, it does not count towards your final A-Level grade, but it can be used as a stepping stone to the full A-Level.
    How is the practical assessment (NEA) structured for Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education?
    The NEA for Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education consists of two parts: practical performance in one sport or activity, and a written analysis of performance. You will be assessed on your ability to perform the skills and tactics in a competitive or formal setting, and you will also be required to analyse and evaluate your own performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. The practical performance is worth 40 marks, and the analysis is worth 40 marks, making a total of 80 marks, which is then scaled to contribute 20% of your overall AS grade.
    Are there any specific sports or activities that I can choose for the practical assessment?
    Eduqas allows you to choose from a wide range of sports and activities for the practical assessment, including team sports like football, netball, and rugby, individual sports like athletics, swimming, and gymnastics, and even activities like dance and outdoor pursuits. The key requirement is that the activity must be one that allows you to demonstrate the skills and tactics outlined in the specification. It is important to check the approved activity list provided by Eduqas to ensure your chosen sport is eligible.
    What is the best way to revise for the written exams in Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education?
    To revise effectively for the Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education exams, you should start by familiarising yourself with the specification and the command words used in exam questions. Create concise revision notes for each topic area, using diagrams and mind maps to help visualise complex processes like the cardiac cycle or the stages of learning. Practice past papers and use the mark schemes to understand how to structure your answers, particularly for extended response questions. Additionally, apply your knowledge to real-world sporting examples, as this will help you to answer application questions more confidently.
    Can I study Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education if I am not taking A-Level Physical Education?
    Yes, you can study the Eduqas AS-Level Physical Education as a standalone qualification, and it is a great option if you want to gain a qualification in the subject without committing to the full two-year A-Level. The AS-Level is designed to be a complete qualification in its own right, and it can be useful for university applications or for pursuing careers in the sport and fitness industry. However, if you later decide to continue to the A-Level, you would need to start the A-Level course from the beginning, as the AS content is not directly transferable.
    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

    Eduqas
    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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