OCR A-Level Physical Education Past Papers & Mark Schemes

Paper 1's biomechanics section requires confident mathematical work. Practise calculating angular velocity, momentum, impulse, and interpreting force-time graphs. OCR typically provides data and expects you to apply formulae — know the equations for linear motion (v = u + at, s = ut + ½at²) and angular motion, and practise using them with realistic sporting examples. These calculations offer reliable marks if you are systematic. Psychological theory in Paper 2 must be applied to sporting contexts, not described in abstract. For arousal theory, do not just describe the inverted-U hypothesis — explain how a gymnast performing a balance routine requires low arousal for fine motor control, while a weightlifter requires high arousal for gross motor movements. Use named theories (Zajonc's social facilitation, Vealey's model of sport confidence, Weiner's attribution theory) with specific sporting examples throughout. The socio-cultural paper (Paper 3) requires you to engage with contemporary debates. Questions about commercialisation, for instance, expect you to discuss both benefits (increased funding, greater media coverage, professional pathways) and drawbacks (exploitation, corruption, inequality between sports) with named examples from current sport. Keep up with sporting current affairs throughout the course — recent doping scandals, governance controversies, and participation initiatives provide topical evidence. For the practical performance component, choose your strongest sport — the one where you compete at the highest level. The assessment criteria reward competitive ability and tactical awareness, not just technical skill. If you compete at club or county level, your practical marks will be significantly higher than if you only participate recreationally. The EAPI should demonstrate genuine analytical thinking — identify a specific weakness, explain its physiological or psychological basis, and propose a detailed training programme to address it.