How do we collect, present and interpret data to analyse movement and fitness?
Collecting qualitative and quantitative data, presenting it in tables and graphs, calculating averages and range, and interpreting results against normative data.
A focused answer to Edexcel GCSE PE on the use of data: collecting qualitative and quantitative data, presenting it in tables and graphs, calculating the mean, median, mode and range, and interpreting results against normative data tables.
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What this dot point is asking
Edexcel wants you to collect qualitative and quantitative data, present it in tables and graphs, interpret it accurately, calculate averages and range, and analyse and evaluate results against normative data. This is the use-of-data topic, embedded throughout Component 1.
Collecting data: quantitative and qualitative
Presenting data in tables and graphs
Data is presented in tables (rows and columns of values) and graphs (bar charts for comparing categories, line graphs for showing change over time). A clear table or graph makes patterns easy to read, for example a line graph of heart rate against time shows it rising during exercise and falling during recovery. Always read the axis labels and quote figures from the graph when you describe a trend.
Calculating averages and range
For the data set 4, 6, 6, 8, 11: the mean is , the median is 6, the mode is 6, and the range is . The mean uses every value, so it is the most representative average, but a single very high or low value (an outlier) distorts it; the median ignores the size of extremes, so it is more reliable when there is an outlier. The range measures consistency: a small range means values are close together (a consistent performer), a large range means they are spread out.
Interpreting against normative data
So a sit-and-reach score of 41 cm only means something once you compare it to the normative band for that age and sex. A good analysis describes the data, explains what it shows, compares it to normative data, and then draws a conclusion that links back to the question, while noting the limits of a single test or small sample.
Exam-style practice questions
Practice questions written in the style of Pearson Edexcel exam questions on this dot point, with worked answer explainers. The year tag is the paper they imitate, not the source.
Edexcel 20194 marksA squad records resting heart rates of 60, 64, 64, 70 and 72 beats per minute. Calculate the mean, median, mode and range of these values.Show worked answer →
A Component 1 data calculation (use of data), one mark per correct statistic.
The values in order are . Mean beats per minute. Median (the middle value) . Mode (the most common value) . Range beats per minute.
Markers reward each correct value; a common error is forgetting to order the data before reading off the median.
Edexcel 20213 marksA performer scores 41 cm on the sit and reach test. Table 3 of normative data rates 35 to 44 cm as good for a male of their age. Interpret the result and explain how the performer should use this normative data.Show worked answer →
A Component 1 normative-data (use of data) interpretation question.
Award marks for: a score of 41 cm falls in the 35 to 44 cm band, so the performer's flexibility is rated good for their age and sex; comparing to normative data lets them judge their result against the wider population rather than in isolation, and shows whether flexibility is a strength or a target for training.
The mark needs the comparison to the band and the value of using normative data, not just reading the number.
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Sources & how we know this
- Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Physical Education (1PE0) specification — Pearson Edexcel (2016)