Course Description
For more information about this Cambridge course, visit https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-international-as-level-sport-and-physical-education-8386/
Cambridge International AS Level Sport & Physical Education provides some of the essential skills required for employment or to continue studying physical education or sports science at university. Learners are also able to use their learning in other related courses such as biology, psychology and sociology. The examined component provides knowledge and understanding of the scientific and sociocultural aspects of sport and physical education and the coursework component allows learners to explore two physical activities in depth.
The key concepts for Cambridge International AS Level Sport & Physical Education are:
- Applied anatomy, exercise physiology and biomechanics An understanding of the structure, functions and interrelationships between the skeletal, muscular, circulatory and respiratory systems is essential to analyse how the human body moves in sporting situations and to explain how it adapts to exercise. An introduction to biomechanics enables learners to understand the effects of forces and motion during practical performance.
- Skill acquisition An understanding of skill acquisition allows learners to explain how movement skills are developed. Models, theories and concepts have been proposed to explain motor skill development and elite sporting performance. Learners will be able to critically evaluate and apply these models, theories and concepts of skill acquisition to specific sporting situations.
- Sociocultural influences An understanding of the sociocultural concepts of sport and physical education is essential to have an appreciation of the role of physical activity in society. Sociocultural influences, which include regular participation and excellence in sport, have an impact on the changing nature of sport. The use of performance-enhancing drugs and violence in sport are issues that negatively affect sport. Commercialisation of sport increases the pressure on performers as sport becomes big business. An understanding of the use of technology in sport and an ability to evaluate new technology is necessary to achieve success in sport.
- Performance in physical activity Showing effective performance in physical activities requires the use of a range of skills, techniques, tactics and strategies. Learners apply their theoretical learning to physical activities in order to improve and refine how they perform.