There is a huge difference between knowing how to play a game and knowing how to examine a game. When it comes to the practical component of Physical Education, many students assume that “showing up and playing hard” is enough to secure an A.
Below is the exam paper download link
Past Paper On Hockey, Netball And Soccer (Practical Exam) For Revision
Above is the exam paper download link
The reality? Practical exams are about technical execution, tactical awareness, and the ability to demonstrate specific drills under a watchful eye. Whether you’re pivoting on the netball court, executing a “push pass” on the hockey turf, or organizing a defensive wall on the soccer pitch, you need a plan. To help you prep, we’ve provided a breakdown of what to expect, along with a downloadable past practical paper to guide your training sessions.
Field Side Q&A: Cracking the Practical Assessment
What exactly are examiners looking for during a practical sports exam? It’s not just about who scores the most goals. Examiners use a specific rubric divided into Isolated Skills (can you dribble around cones without losing the ball?) and Formal Game Play (do you make the right pass at the right time?). They are looking for “efficiency of movement.” If you look frantic, you lose marks. If you look composed and technically sound, you win them.
How do I prepare for a “Practical” exam using a “Paper”? It sounds counterintuitive, doesn’t it? But a past practical paper tells you the exact drills the examiners will likely set up. It lists the “Assessment Criteria”—the checkboxes the examiner is ticking while you play. By reading the paper, you know that in Soccer, they aren’t just watching your kick; they are checking if your non-kicking foot is planted correctly.
What are the most common drills I should practice for Hockey? In almost every practical assessment, you’ll be asked to demonstrate:
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The Indian Dribble: Showing control and wrist flexibility.
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Accuracy in Passing: Usually a push pass or hit over a 10-meter distance into a small target.
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Defensive Shadowing: Demonstrating the correct “flat stick” tackle position without committing a foul.
Netball feels so restrictive with the footwork rules. How do I avoid “nervous fouls”? The key is the “Landing Foot.” In a practical exam, the examiner will watch your feet more than the ball. Practice the “one-two” landing rhythm until it’s muscle memory. Also, remember your Obstruction distance (3 feet or 0.9m). If you’re too close during the “Defending the Shot” phase, you’ll drop points for lack of rule knowledge.
Can I gain marks for “Leadership” or “Communication” on the pitch? Absolutely. Most practical papers include a section on “Social and Emotional Skills.” This means talking to your teammates, pointing out open spaces in Soccer, or directing play in Netball. Silence is often interpreted as a lack of game awareness. Be the “vocal engine” of your team.
Where can I find the specific drills used in previous years? We’ve got you covered. Below is a link to a curated past paper that outlines the specific skill tests and game-play scenarios used in recent practical assessments.
Download the Hockey, Netball, and Soccer Practical Revision Paper Here
(Note: Embed your PDF or Google Drive link here for your readers)
The “Practical” Checklist: 3 Things to Do Before Exam Day
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The Gear Check: Ensure your mouthguard (Hockey), shin guards (Soccer), and appropriate non-marking shoes (Netball) are ready. Showing up without the right safety gear can lead to an immediate point deduction.
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The “Coach” Mindset: Imagine you are teaching a beginner. If you can explain the mechanics of a “chest pass” or a “corner kick” while doing it, you truly understand the skill.
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Simulate the Drill: Don’t just play a match. Set up the specific cone drills mentioned in the past paper and time yourself.
Final Whistle
The practical exam is your chance to shine outside of the classroom. Use the past paper provided above to turn the “unknowns” into a rehearsed performance.
