Kate Thompson, Physical Education and Sport Subject Advisor

As teachers, it’s essential that we guide our students with a clear and accurate understanding of what the GCSE and A Level PE qualifications entail and how they are assessed. While many students and even some staff might assume they know what’s involved, common misconceptions can lead to confusion or misdirected effort. 

In this post, I’ll look at some of the most common misunderstandings about GCSE and A Level PE and offer tips for tackling them effectively in the classroom.

The practical component and logbook

Misconception 

Teachers sometimes believe that the logbook is only supporting evidence and doesn’t matter. 

Reality 

We believe that the consistent, targeted practice and analysis of students’ own skills and abilities are key to succeeding in the practical component. In both GCSE and A Level, students are expected to perform specific sports or physical activities at a level that demonstrates both skill and understanding of the rules, tactics, and strategies involved. The logbook gives the moderator an insight into the level of performance and engagement in the sport, including practical skills that may be developed outside class at sports clubs. 

• For GCSE: Practical performance makes up 30% of the final grade, but students must submit evidence of their performance, including video evidence, if it’s an off-site activity, and a reflective logbook. This logbook is compulsory and must document their progress, including analysis of strengths and weaknesses.
  
• For A Level: The practical assessment requires students to demonstrate competence in one sport, and like the GCSE, the completion of a logbook is compulsory. This logbook must reflect on the students’ performance and include an analysis of their skills and development over time. 

Tips for teachers 

Set aside 5-10 minutes of one theory lesson each week for your students to complete their entries. Remind them that the logbook isn’t just a formality; it’s a key part of the assessment process.

Approved sports for practical assessments

Misconception 

Some students may believe that they can choose any sport for their practical assessment, regardless of whether it’s listed on the official approved activity list. 

Reality 

This is a crucial requirement set by the Department for Education (DfE). Students must choose from an approved list of sports and activities for their practical assessments. Any sport not included on this list cannot be counted toward their final grade, no matter how proficient the student is. This restriction applies to both GCSE and A Level qualifications. 

• For GCSE: Students must select from the approved activity list, which covers a range of team, individual, and outdoor activities. 
• For A Level: The same rule applies, and students are expected to select one sport from the approved list to be assessed in their practical examination. 

Tips for teachers

When discussing your subject with students and parents find out more about their sports and what they want to achieve, and make sure you check the approved list. Advise them to make a decision based not only on their interests but also on their ability to perform and reflect on their chosen activity. The list can be found on the Teach Cambridge website or in the course specification, so be sure to review it with your students early on.

Analysis of performance

Misconception 

Some students may think they are required to analyse their performance only in the sport they are being assessed in. 

Reality 

While students must be assessed in one sport, the analysis of performance can be conducted on any sport from the approved list, not just the one they are being assessed in. This flexibility allows students to choose a sport they feel most comfortable analysing, provided it’s included on the approved activity list. The analysis should demonstrate an understanding of performance in terms of technique, strategy, and areas for improvement. 

Tips for teachers 

There are some sports and activities that are harder to find evidence for, for example goal keeping. If you film school matches, keep them to be used as the video for the analysis. Candidates do who generally do well have selected an activity they were familiar with and had strong knowledge around the activity.

Stay connected

Share your thoughts and comments below. If you have any questions, you can email us at pe@ocr.org.uk, call us on 01223 553998 or message us on X (formerly Twitter) @OCR_PhysEd. You can also sign up to subject updates to receive information about resources and support. 

If you are considering teaching any of our qualifications, use our online form to let us know, so that we can help you with more information.

About the author

Kate Thompson joined OCR in November 2021 having taught for 18 years at primary and secondary school level. Within that time she held various positions including Head of Department and School Sports Coordinator. Kate took 3 years out of teaching to work in South Africa at a University in their sports department and to manage the set-up of a Non-Government sports development project, working in the local township schools.