AQA AS PE specification is designed to be taken over one year. This is a linear qualification. In order to achieve the award, students must complete all assessments at the end of the course and in the same series. AS and A-level specifications in Physical Education should equip students with both a depth and breadth of knowledge, understanding and skills relating to scientific, socio-cultural and practical aspects of physical education. This will require them to: • develop theoretical knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport and use this knowledge to improve performance • understand how physiological and psychological states affect performance • understand the key socio-cultural factors that influence people's involvement in physical activity and sport • understand the role of technology in physical activity and sport • refine their ability to perform effectively in physical activity and sport by developing skills and techniques and selecting and using tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas • develop their ability to analyse and evaluate to improve performance • understand the contribution which physical activity makes to health and fitness • improve as effective and independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with curious and enquiring minds.