YEAR 11-12
VCE Physical Education
Subject Area
Health and Physical Education
VCE Units
1-4
About the Course
VCE Physical Education explores the complex interrelationships between anatomical, biomechanical, physiological and skill acquisition principles to understand their role in producing and refining movement, and examines behavioural, psychological, environmental and sociocultural influences on performance and participation in physical activity.
The assimilation of theoretical understanding and practice is central to the study of VCE Physical Education. Students participate in practical activities to examine the core concepts that underpin movement and that influence performance and participation in physical activity, sport and exercise.
Through integrated physical, written, oral and digital learning experiences, students apply theoretical concepts and reflect critically on factors that affect all levels of performance and participation in sport, exercise and physical activity.
UNIT 1
The human body in motion
Area of Study 1
How does the musculoskeletal system work to produce movement?
In this area of study students examine the musculoskeletal system of the human body and how the muscles and bones work together to produce movement. Through practical activities they explore the major components of the musculoskeletal system and their contributions and interactions during physical activity, sport and exercise.
Students evaluate the social, cultural and environmental influences on movement, and how the capacity and functioning of the muscular and skeletal systems may act as an enabler or barrier to participation in physical activity. Sedentary behaviour, overtraining and participation at the elite and recreational level are investigated as possible causes of illness and injury to the musculoskeletal system. Students consider a variety of legal and illegal practices and substances used to enhance performance from an ethical and a biophysical perspective.
Area of Study 2
How does the cardiorespiratory system function at rest and during physical activity?
In this area of study students examine the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the human body and how the heart, blood vessels and lungs function at rest and during physical activity. Through practical activities students explore the structure and function of the cardiorespiratory system and their contributions and interactions during physical activity, sport and exercise. Enablers and barriers to the capacity and functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems are investigated from a sociocultural, environmental and physical perspective. Students explore the ethical and performance considerations of the use of a variety of legal and illegal practices and substances specific to each system.
UNIT 2
Physical activity, sport and society
Area of Study 1
What are the relationships between physical activity, sport, health and society?
In this area of study students focus on the role of physical activity, sport and society in developing and promoting healthy lifestyles and participation in physical activity across the lifespan. Students explore the social, cultural and historical influences on participation in various forms of physical activity, including sport. They investigate at the individual and population levels the physical, social, mental and emotional benefits of participation in regular physical activity and the potential negative physical, social, mental and emotional consequences of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour, including hypokinetic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Students investigate sociocultural factors that influence physical activity and consider opportunities and barriers to participation for various population groups and settings. They develop an understanding of the use of subjective and objective methods for assessing physical activity and sedentary behaviour at the individual and population level and compare these to physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines. Students identify and describe the components of a social-ecological model and/or the Youth Physical Activity Promotion Model to assist in the critique and creation of strategies aimed at increasing physical activity and/or reducing sedentary behaviour within a given population. Students create and implement an individual activity plan that meets the physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines.
Area of Study 2
What are the contemporary issues associated with physical activity and sport?
In this area of study students focus on a range of contemporary issues associated with physical activity and/or sport at the local, national and global level. They investigate in detail one issue relevant to physical activity and/ or sport. Possible issues suitable for investigation include declining levels of physical activity across the lifespan, active transport, gender equity in physical activity and sport, cultural diversity and inclusion in physical activity, risk management and safety in physical activity and sport, children and competitive sport, the community and recreation, access to physical activity for population groups such as children, rural and remote communities, cultural groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and people with disabilities.
Students select and explore one issue from a social-ecological perspective to evaluate the effect of individual, social, policy and physical environmental factors on participation in physical activity. Students develop an understanding of the historical, and current perspectives of the issue and forecast future trends. They form conclusions in relation to the impact these factors have on physical activity and sport in society.
UNIT 3
Movement skills and energy for physical activity
Area of Study 1
How are movement skills improved?
In this area of study students examine the biomechanical and skill acquisition principles that can be applied when analysing and improving movement skills used in physical activity and sport. Through coaching and involvement in a variety of practical activities, students investigate and analyse movements to develop an understanding of how the correct application of biomechanical and skill acquisition principles leads to greater efficiency and accuracy in movement skills.
Area of Study 2
How does the body produce energy?
In this area of study students explore the various systems and mechanisms associated with the production of energy required for human movement. They consider the cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular systems and the roles of each in supplying oxygen and energy to the working muscles. They examine the way in which energy for activity is produced by the three energy systems and the associated fuels used for activities of varying intensity and duration. Students also consider the many factors contributing to fatigue as well as recovery strategies used to return to pre-exercise conditions. Through practical activities students explore the interplay of the energy systems during physical activity.
UNIT 4
Training to improve performance
Area of Study 1
What are the foundations of an effective training program?
In this area of study students focus on the information required to form the foundation of an effective training program. They use data from an activity analysis and determine the fitness requirements of a selected physical activity. They also use data collected from participating in a series of fitness tests to inform the design of the training program.
Students determine the relevant factors that affect each of the fitness components, and conduct a series of fitness tests that demonstrate correct and ethical implementation of testing protocols and procedures.
Area of Study 2
How is training implemented effectively to improve fitness?
In this area of study students focus on the implementation and evaluation of training principles and methods from a practical and theoretical perspective. They consider the manner in which fitness can be improved through the application of appropriate training principles and methods. Students identify and consider components of an exercise training session, they monitor, record and adjust training. Students explain the chronic adaptations to the cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular systems.