As we approach the final countdown to GCSEs, it’s the perfect time to focus on those topics that consistently trip students up. We’ve analysed data from Educake to highlight some of the trickiest areas in GCSE PE in 2023–24 and asked Planet PE’s Richard Bucknall to share his go-to strategies for teaching them.
Whether you’re revisiting these areas in revision lessons or planning some targeted interventions, these quick wins could help your students turn confusion into confidence.
1. The musculoskeletal system
Educake average score: 46.09%
In 2023–24 this was the hardest topic with students getting fewer than half of the questions correct on average. Students often find it tricky to understand how muscles and bones work together to create movement, especially when they have to apply that knowledge in exam scenarios.
Watch: Richard Bucknall’s tips for teaching the musculoskeletal system.
A handy mnemonic: Agonist is the shorter word, just like it’s the muscle that’s shortening and contracting during movement.
2. Planes and axes of movement
Educake average score: 62.62%
Abstract, spatial concepts like planes and axes can be tricky to get your head around and tricky to teach. Many students get tangled up in the terminology and struggle to link planes and axes to actual sports movements.
Watch: Richard Bucknall’s tips for teaching the planes and axes.
Tip: Get students to think about the type of movement before trying to pair it with a plane/axis.
3. The cardiovascular system
Educake average score: 67.46%
Students often struggle with misconceptions in this topic. Overcomplicating simple answers can also lead to confusion and missed marks, making it harder to grasp how the cardiovascular and respiratory systems work together.
Watch: Richard Bucknall’s tips for teaching the cardiovascular system.
Tip: Simplify concepts by starting with the basics e.g. “oxygen in, carbon dioxide out”. Encourage students to use clear, simple language in their answers and avoid overcomplicating concepts.
