Year 11 Physical Education Units 1 and 2
Overview
Unit 1: The Human Body in Motion
In this unit, you will explore how the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems work together to produce movement. You will examine the role and function of the main structures in each system and their responses to movement. Through practical activities, students will analyse the interactions between these systems at various intensities. You will also investigate conditions and injuries related to the musculoskeletal system and recommend strategies for prevention and management. Students will consider the ethical implications of using permitted and prohibited practices to enhance system performance, evaluating their physiological benefits and potential harms.
Unit 2: Physical Activity, Sport, Exercise & Society
This unit focuses on understanding physical activity, sport, and exercise from a participatory perspective. It introduces types of physical activity and their impact on health and wellbeing, exploring the effects of physical inactivity. Students will engage in practical activities, analyse data on barriers and enablers, and apply the social-ecological model to promote regular physical activity. A personal plan will be created to optimize adherence to national physical activity guidelines. Additionally, students will examine contemporary issues affecting access, inclusion, participation, and performance, considering historical and future perspectives.
Who is it for?
Physical Education is an excellent subject choice for individuals who have a passion for sport and physical activity. It is particularly suited to students who are eager to deepen their understanding of how the human body functions during exercise, sport, and physical activities. Engaging in VCE Physical Education provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing further studies at the tertiary level or in vocational education and training. This course is especially relevant for careers in exercise and sport science, health science, education, recreation, sport development, coaching, health promotion, and other related fields. Through this subject, students gain valuable insights and skills that are essential for both academic and professional success in these areas.
What do you do?
- Discover and explore the interaction between bones and muscles to produce movement through practical and theoretical tasks.
- Investigate the structures and functions of the cardiorespiratory system which allows blood flow at rest and during different exercise intensities.
- Understand the influences that impact lifelong physical activity levels including barriers, enablers, sedentary behaviour and historical and future considerations.
- Participate in a range of physical activities and reflect on the benefits to physical wellbeing.
- Construct and record a physical activity plan that meets national guidelines.
- Investigate the contemporary issues that impact participation in physical activity at the individual, group and national level.
What skills do you need?
There are no prerequisites for entering Unit 1 or 2 Physical Education, however you do need:
- A willingness to participate in a variety of physical activities.
- A commitment to maintaining a weekly submission schedule.
- Observation and research skills for the purposes of analysis.
- Attention to detail when studying human body systems.
- Work initiative and self-management skills, including written and oral communication skills.
What skills do you develop?
Some key skills that you will develop throughout Unit 1 and 2 VCE PE include:
- Defining and participating in a variety of sports, exercise and physical activities.
- Scientific literacy through the Implementation and application of correct anatomical terminology.
- Observation of a variety of movements to explain the interaction between bones, muscles and joints.
- The ability to describe the social, cultural and environmental influences on movement and physical activity.
- Identification of the contemporary issues associated with physical activity and sport.
- The creation of physical activity plans that adhere to national physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines.
Requirements
- No materials required.
Things to think about
- Consider your ability to participate in the prescribed physical activities and if you require any modifications to suit your needs.
- There will be a weekly scheduled online lesson to attend
- Students benefit from maintaining regular communication with teachers and seeking assistance with their learning
- In addition to online lesson attendance students need to allocate time to completely weekly submission tasks and assessment activities
Things you can do now
Head to the VCAA Website and download the 2025-2029 Study Design:
Read the Study Design to become familiar with the requirements and assessments of Unit 1 and 2 VCE PE.
Begin exploring the Musculoskeletal System to identify the major muscles and bones of the human body – Use these videos to help get you started:
The Skeletal System – https://clickv.ie/w/qCTy
The Muscular System – https://clickv.ie/w/RUjx
Visit the following website if you would like to explore more – There is a lot of information here! https://www.getbodysmart.com/
Things to have a look at
2025-2029 VCAA VCE PE Study Design