Course Objectives: As one of the sciences subjects in the IB Diploma Programme, sports, exercise and health science (SEHS) is primarily concerned with the scientific study of human physiology, biomechanics and psychology. Scientists working in these fields attempt to make sense of human physical and mental health and performance through a variety of approaches and techniques, controlled experimentation, and collaboration with other researchers. DP SEHS enables students to engage constructively with topical scientific issues. Students examine scientific knowledge claims in a real-world context, fostering interest and curiosity.
By exploring the subject, they develop understandings, skills and techniques which can be applied across their studies and beyond. The course is organized under three main themes: exercise physiology and nutrition of the human body; biomechanics; sports psychology and motor learning. These themes are distinct, but also share many overlapping features; studying the similarities and connections between them is a central component of the course.
Integral to the student experience of the DP SEHS course is the learning that takes place through scientific inquiry, both in the classroom and in field work or the laboratory. With an emphasis on experimental work, teachers provide students with opportunities to ask questions, design experiments, collect and analyse data, collaborate with peers, and reflect, evaluate and communicate their findings. The DP SEHS course is a recognized academic qualification for admission to higher education institutions and is acknowledged as a science.
Course Outline: The course will consist of 3 core topics as well as an experimental programme as shown below;
Options at Higher Level: The SEHS is now offered at Higher Level consisting of an additional 50 hours of learning, allowing students to develop a deeper and more varied knowledge of the science behind sports. Students are highly recommended to only consider SEHS HL if they have a real interest in Human Biology and have achieved a Grade B or above at GCSE level. Entry Requirements: Students are required to obtain a grade C in Science at GCSE level in order to take this course. A GCSE Physical Education qualification is not a prerequisite but is advantageous. Students will need to have a good level of written and verbal communication skills as well as numeracy skills. It is an advantage to have an interest in sports as well as the sciences. Assessment: The course is assessed through a combination of 3 external (exam papers) which are a variety of multiple choice, short-answer questions and extended-response questions, in addition to an internal scientific investigation. There is no assessment of practical sports performance in the SEHS curriculum.