Performance in physical education (H555/05) — OCR A-Level Physical Education

Performance in physical education (H555/05) is an OCR A-Level Physical Education non-examined assessment (NEA) component worth 30% of the qualification, where students are assessed as a performer or coach in one activity. It requires demonstrating effective performance, application of skills, tactics, and leadership, alongside a written analysis of performance (AOP) evaluating strengths and weaknesses.

Performance in physical education (H555/05) is the non-examined assessment (NEA) component of OCR A-Level Physical Education, contributing 30% to the final grade. It requires students to demonstrate their ability as a performer or coach in one activity from the approved list, showcasing effective performance, tactical awareness, and leadership. This component is internally assessed and externally moderated, with a written Analysis of Performance (AOP) that evaluates strengths and weaknesses and sets targets for improvement.

This component is crucial because it assesses practical application of theoretical knowledge from other components, such as physiological factors and psychological influences. It bridges the gap between knowing and doing, requiring students to apply concepts like skill acquisition, decision-making, and feedback in real-world contexts. The AOP also develops analytical and evaluative skills, which are essential for higher education and careers in sport.

In the wider subject, this component complements the written exams by providing a holistic view of the student's abilities. It encourages lifelong participation in physical activity and develops transferable skills such as self-reflection, goal-setting, and communication. Mastery of this component demonstrates a well-rounded understanding of physical education, making it a vital part of the A-Level.

• →Effective performance: Demonstrating consistent, skilful execution of techniques and tactics in a competitive or performance setting.
• →Tactical awareness: The ability to read situations, make decisions, and adapt strategies to outwit opponents.
• →Leadership and communication: Directing a team or group, motivating others, and communicating effectively during performance.
• →Analysis of Performance (AOP): A written evaluation of strengths and weaknesses, using evidence and SMART targets for improvement.
• →Application of theory: Using knowledge from anatomy, physiology, psychology, and sociology to enhance performance.

• Demonstration of core and advanced skills in one chosen activity
• Effective application of tactics, strategies, and/or compositional ideas
• Adherence to rules and conventions of the activity
• Performance under applied conditions

• 💡Ensure the chosen activity is from the official approved list found in the OCR guide to NEA
• 💡Clearly identify the role (performer or coach) for assessment
• 💡Ensure performance is demonstrated under applied conditions to meet assessment criteria
• 💡Use video analysis to support your AOP – it provides concrete evidence and shows a professional approach.
• 💡In your practical assessment, always demonstrate a range of skills and tactics, and show adaptability to different situations.
• 💡When writing your AOP, use a clear structure: introduction, strengths, weaknesses, and SMART targets. Ensure each point is justified with examples.

• Misconception: The NEA is just about being good at sport. Correction: It also requires analytical and evaluative skills, especially in the AOP, which is worth a significant portion of the marks.
• Misconception: You can only be assessed as a performer. Correction: You can also be assessed as a coach, which requires different skills like planning and observation.
• Misconception: The AOP is just a description of your performance. Correction: It must be an analysis, meaning you must evaluate strengths and weaknesses with evidence and propose improvements.

1. 1Week 1: Review the assessment criteria for your chosen activity and identify the key skills and tactics required. Watch exemplar videos of high-level performances.
2. 2Week 2: Film your own performance in a competitive setting and analyse it against the criteria. Note strengths and weaknesses.
3. 3Week 3: Write your AOP draft, focusing on evaluation and SMART targets. Get feedback from your teacher.
4. 4Week 4: Refine your AOP and practise your practical skills, focusing on areas identified as weaknesses. Do a mock assessment.
5. 5Week 5: Finalise your AOP and ensure your practical evidence is complete. Do a final review of the criteria.

• 📋Analysis of Performance (AOP) written task: You will write an evaluation of your performance, so practise structuring your analysis with evidence and SMART targets.
• 📋Practical assessment: You will be observed performing, so ensure you demonstrate a variety of skills and tactics in a competitive context.
• 📋Coaching assessment (if applicable): You may be assessed on your coaching ability, so prepare a session plan and be ready to explain your decisions.
• 📋Short-answer questions on the NEA: In written exams, you may be asked about the NEA process, so understand the requirements and assessment criteria.