S3 Physical Education Theory Units

Pupils must pick a minimum of one Theory Unit. Additional Theory Units can be picked in combination with other Health and Wellbeing Units (up to three additional).

Shaded units are recommended for pupils who intend to pursue certificated study in the subject in S4/5/6

Factors Affecting Performance The Body in Action

The general aim of this Unit is to enable learners to develop knowledge of the body and how it works. Through both practical and classroom based activities learners will be provided with opportunities to improve their knowledge and Understanding

Introduction to Sports Psychology

Sports psychology is a growing industry; it examines how motivations, beliefs, thoughts and emotions can influence an athletes behaviour in sport. A mental advantage is often the difference between success and failure for an elite sports person. The purpose of this Unit is to develop pupils understanding of psychology and how it is used in sport. Pupils will be faced with a wide range of scenarios both in with, and out with the classroom to develop their knowledge of sports psychology and understand its effects on their own sporting performances. The unit also provides an opportunity for pupils to: Share their experiences and collaborate with classmates to create an improvement plan Gain an appreciation of mental fitness and realise the effects it can have on performance Experience psychological effects in a practical environment Discover the techniques used by elite athletes to overcome nerves, improve training and remain positive

about physical activity and its effects on the body. Learners who complete this Unit will be able to:

Describe (and have a detailed knowledge of) the parts of the body that are used when undertaking physical activity Understand the effects of exercise on the various cardiovascular and muscular systems Describe the various aspects of fitness, and the methods and principles of training that can be used in their development

Sports Science

Sport science is the application of scientific principles to help improve sports performance. This branch of science has grown dramatically in the last 20 years and has resulted in a greater understanding of the demands of elite sport. The qualified sport scientist is, potentially, a useful resource that the coach and athlete can use, to help address issues that may arise in their sport. This unit will develop pupils knowledge and understanding of this field of work and provide them with opportunities to develop the essential skills of the sports scientist. This unit will focus on two of the three main areas of Sports Science:
Psychology Psychology is the area of sport science that deals with the athletes mind. It examines how motivations, beliefs, thoughts and emotions can influence an athletes behaviour in sport. Biomechanics/Anatomy Biomechanics is the area of sport science associated with the analysis of the mechanics of human movement. It explains how and why the body moves in the way that it does. For sports performers, this also means examining the interaction between the athlete and their equipment and the environment.

Sports Journalism
The purpose of the unit is to improve pupils knowledge and understanding, and develop evaluative skills relating to the Sports Journalist. By engaging in team and individual tasks, pupils will demonstrate initiative, creativity and decision making skills. Pupils will also have the opportunity to enhance their ICT, analytical and literacy skills - skills which are transferable to other areas of their study and which will be useful in everyday life. The main aims of this Unit are to enable learners to: Investigate the history of Sports Journalism. Experience the role of a sports writer. Demonstrate the different reporting techniques which inform the public. Engage as active and informed members of a reporting team. Develop and demonstrate knowledge of the principles and factors underpinning journalism.

Sport through the Ages

The purpose of Sport through the Ages is to develop pupils understanding of the underlying influences on sport, and what factors have affected their evolution over the years i.e. the impact of the media, money, and politics. Following this unit will develop pupils research, presentation and reporting skills and allow them to develop their own opinion on why sport varies in different parts of the world. This Unit provides pupils the opportunity to: Investigate the changing nature of sport Investigate commercialisation and its impact on sports Link the information that they see and hear in the media with meaning and understanding Analyse budgets and how they can determine the success or failure of a club/industry?

S3 Physical Education Practical Units

Pupils must pick a minimum of one Practical unit. Additional Practical units can be picked in combination with other Health and Wellbeing Units (up to three additional). Shaded units are recommended for pupils who intend to pursue certificated study in the subject in S4/5/6

Practical Performance
The general aim of this Unit is to to provide learners with opportunities to focus on enhancing their participation and performance in at least two physical activities. The emphasis will be on learners taking part in physical activities and by so doing improve their own physical health and sense of wellbeing. A choice of physical activities will provide learners with personalisation and choice. Activities may include: swimming; various fitness activities; indoor and outdoor team games; aesthetic activities; and racket sports.

Evaluating and Improving Performance

The general aim of this Unit is to enable learners to improve their own performance within physical activity. Learners will be provided with opportunities to consider their own personal performance and to work to improve their own performance in one physical activity. Activities may include: swimming; various fitness activities; indoor and outdoor team games; aesthetic activities; and racket sports. Learners who complete this Unit will be able to:

Body and Mind

Body & Mind will provide an opportunity for pupils to explore the many benefits of Pilates and Yoga. The course will encourage young people to concentrate and engage with their bodies through practical lessons to improve flexibility, balance and muscles strength through various Pilates and Yoga routines. It will also support the way that individual attitudes, values and behaviours are formed and raise pupils awareness of their own body. By actively participating in these activities learners can reflect on and monitor performance to inform and influence personal development. The course will comprise of theoretical and practical activities designed to reinforce and apply knowledge, understanding and skills in meaningful contexts. Pupils will develop a greater understanding of the body through practical and interactive workshops where they can learn about the impact of various movements (i.e. alignment of the spine, muscles used during exercises or stretches).

Learners who complete this Unit will be able to: Demonstrate a range of performance skills within two physical activities Demonstrate organisational skills in preparing for and participating in physical activities Apply safe practices while participating in physical activities Demonstrate an improvement in performance in at least one physical activity Describe (and have a detailed knowledge of) the different methods of evaluating performance within activities Understand the factors that contribute to developing a skilled performance

Games Making
The purpose of the Unit is to develop knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles of activities. The Unit also offers learners the opportunity to create or adapt their very own games in a practical setting. By working cooperatively with other members of their class, learners develop insight into the knowledge of different activities, types of activities, scoring systems and rules. Learners will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their creative flare, and develop skills which are transferable to other areas of study. The main aims of this Unit are to enable learners to: Develop and demonstrate knowledge of the principles and factors underpinning a game/activity. Experience the role of leadership and taking control of a small group in order to complete tasks. Develop co-operation and communication skills within a team to succeed in challenges. Enhance creativity by designing your own game. Opportunity to deliver your new game to other classes within the school.

Teaching Values through Leadership

Understand Sporting Values Demonstrate these Values through a range of Leadership opportunities Deliver these values to others

Pupils will have the opportunity to explore and identify with the Core values of sport and how these are portrayed in the real world. Pupils will also be given the opportunity to develop their leadership and communication skills through a range of practical tasks, culminating in them working in small groups to plan for, and lead an event for P7/S1 pupils.