← Physical Education syllabus

EnglandPhysical Education

Sports psychology (Component 02)

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How can setting the right goals improve a performer's training and confidence?

The use of goal setting to improve and optimise performance, the SMART principle of goal setting, the difference between outcome and performance goals, and the benefits of setting goals.
A focused answer to OCR GCSE PE Component 02 on goal setting: why performers set goals, the SMART principle (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound), the difference between outcome and performance goals, and how good goal setting improves motivation, confidence and performance.
9 min answer →

How do coaches guide learners, and what kinds of feedback help a performer improve?

The types of guidance (visual, verbal, manual and mechanical), the types of feedback (intrinsic and extrinsic, knowledge of results and knowledge of performance, positive and negative), and how each suits beginners and elite performers.
A focused answer to OCR GCSE PE Component 02 on guidance and feedback: the four types of guidance (visual, verbal, manual, mechanical), the types of feedback (intrinsic and extrinsic, knowledge of results and performance, positive and negative), and which suit beginners and elite performers.
9 min answer →

How does a performer take in information and turn it into the right action?

The basic model of information processing (input, decision making, output and feedback), and how a performer uses information processing to respond to a stimulus during physical activity and sport.
A focused answer to OCR GCSE PE Component 02 on information processing: the basic model (input, decision making, output and feedback), how a performer takes in information, selects and makes a decision, executes the action, and uses feedback, with sporting examples.
9 min answer →

How do performers control their nerves and prepare their minds to perform their best?

The techniques used to prepare mentally for performance (mental rehearsal, visualisation/imagery, selective attention and positive self-talk), arousal and its effect on performance, and how to control arousal.
A focused answer to OCR GCSE PE Component 02 on mental preparation: the techniques performers use to prepare mentally (mental rehearsal, visualisation and imagery, selective attention, positive self-talk), the effect of arousal on performance, and how performers control their level of arousal.
9 min answer →

How do we classify sporting skills, and why does it matter for how we practise them?

The classification of skills on continua (simple to complex, open to closed, and others), the characteristics of each type, and the use of classification to plan practice and analyse performance.
A focused answer to OCR GCSE PE Component 02 on skill classification: classifying skills on the simple-to-complex and open-to-closed continua (and others), the characteristics of each type, and how classification helps a coach plan practice and analyse performance.
9 min answer →