Sports Studies - A Level

Sports Studies A Level involves an analysis of how biological, psychological and sociological knowledge can inform an understanding of sporting performance and technique. You will also study the history and cultural significance of sport.

During the course you will learn how knowledge of human biology and physiology can aid understand of the processes involved in physical activity and how training and appropriate technique can help maximise performance. The psychological aspect of the syllabus focuses on the role of emotion, learning, mental states and group behaviour on athletes’ motivation and success. The course also considers the historical development of Sport – from the ancient Greeks to the modern Olympics, the significance of sport and health activities in modern society, and sport and leisure as a social activity – from leisure centres to football hooliganism.

What will I study in Sports Studies?

AS Units 1 & 2
Applied Exercise Physiology. You will study physiological factors associated with improved performance. For example, the role of the muscular and vascular systems in generating and sustaining sports activity, the general principles of training programmes and the effects of training on the body’s physiology. You will examine the relationship between nutrition, energy and effective performance and stamina, and analyse the physical biomechanics involved in common sporting activities such as push-ups, running and kicking. The AS Level also introduces you to psychological aspects of sporting performance: for example, how to maximise learning of new skills, leadership and team styles, and the effects of motivation and success or failure on group and individual performance.

Practical Coursework. By observing and analysing your own or another sports-persons’ activities you will critically evaluate performance and construct a structured training programme to improve performance.

A2 Units 3 & 4
Physiology & Psychology to Optimise Performance. Building on material covered in the AS Level you will study more advanced physiology. For example, anaerobic respiration, specialist training programmes, the mechanics of movement, and the treatment of injuries. In terms of psychological knowledge, you will examine the role of confidence, stress, anxiety and aggression on performance, and study cultural factors relevant to an understanding of sport: for example, the Olympian ideal, the nature of elite sport, and an understanding of the relationship between spectators, the media, sponsorship and commercial sport.

Practical Coursework. The A2 coursework unit requires you to utilise your knowledge and understanding to improve performance either as a performer, coach or official/referee. Again, the emphasis is on evaluation of your performance and an analysis of how performance can be improved and maximised. There is a huge scope of potential sports activities that can be undertaken. Previous coursework assignments have ranged from football and rugby to fencing and ballet.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is via short answer and essay question papers in the AS and the A2, and two practical coursework projects.

Do I need to have studied Sports Studies before?

No, but you should have a keen interest in sports, although this does not have to be as a performer – it could be as a coach, referee or spectator.

Who will teach me?

The syllabus is delivered by 2 sports specialists: Tony Gear – sports scientist and coach and Hannah Rosa – biologist.

What subjects complement Sports Studies?

Physical Education relates to certain aspects of Biology and Psychology, but could equally well be combined with a range of other A Levels – from languages to Chemistry and ICT.

What careers can Sports Studies lead to?

Professional sports or sports coaching, physiotherapy, teaching, activity leadership, and any career in public service or the leisure and tourism industries linked to sporting activities