Practical Performance and Analysis
What you must know
This domain tests your ability to perform, observe and evaluate physical activity.
You must be able to describe and demonstrate core techniques in at least one activity: correct stance, grip, footwork, timing and follow-through. For example, in a basketball set shot: feet shoulder-width, knees bent, ball balanced on the fingertips, elbow under the ball, extend upward and follow through with the wrist. In a sprint start: crouch, hands behind the line, drive with the back leg, rise gradually.
Know how to analyse performance. Use observation (live or video) and checklists of key technical points. Identify strengths and weaknesses, then link each weakness to a cause and a corrective practice. For example, a weak shot may be caused by poor elbow alignment, corrected by close-range form drills.
Understand notational analysis - recording counts of passes, shots, tackles or errors - and simple statistics such as success rate. Be able to write a short action plan with SMART targets and a review date. Know the roles of performer, coach, official and spectator, and the importance of fair play and etiquette.
Traps to watch
Examiners penalise vague answers like "he needs to practise more". Always name the specific technique, the fault, the cause and the corrective drill. Another trap is confusing strength (what the performer does well) with weakness.
Worked example
A netball player's chest pass is accurate but slow. Observation: the ball is held too low. Cause: elbow not raised. Correction: partner drills passing from chest height, 20 repetitions, three sets, reviewed after two weeks. SMART goal: complete 18 of 20 passes at chest height in two weeks.