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Exam Strategy & Marks Prediction

Target your revision using the official 2026 weighting logic.

📊 IB SEHS Curriculum Breakdown

Click each theme to see teaching hours and predicted exam marks per topic
This is all purely guesswork, but it should at least give you an idea of what to expect on the big day.
Please use this alongside (not instead of) your Kerboodle textbook.

⏱️ Teaching Hours: Recommended contact time per topic
📝 Exam Marks: Predicted allocation in Paper 1A (MCQ) & Paper 2 (Short/Extended)

🏃 How do we move?

6 topics • Biomechanics & Energy
⏱️ SL: 24h | HL: 17h ▼
A.2.3 Energy systems SL
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 7h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL3
B.1.3 Muscular function
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 4h HL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL2
Paper 2 HL1
B.1.2 Structure and function of connective tissues and joints
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL1
B.1.4 Levers in movement and sport
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 2 SL1
B.2.1 Newton's laws of motion
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 5h HL: 12h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL3
Paper 2 SL2
Paper 2 HL5
B.1.1 Anatomical position, planes and movement
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h HL: 3h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL1
Paper 2 HL1

💓 How do we respond to exercise/activity?

6 topics • Physiology & Psychology
⏱️ SL: 31h | HL: 0h ▼
A.1.1 Inter-system communication—but not "reproductive hormones"
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 10h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL2
Paper 2 SL4
A.1.2 Maintaining homeostasis, but not A1.2.2
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 6h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL3
A.1.3 Transport
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 7h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL2
Paper 2 SL3
A.2.1 Water and electrolyte balance
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL1
C.2.2 Attentional control
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 2 SL1
C.4.1 Arousal and anxiety
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL1

🎯 How can we optimize human performance?

7 topics • Training & Skills
⏱️ SL: 27h | HL: 13h ▼
A.2.2 Fuelling for health and performance
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 6h HL: 4h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL3
Paper 2 HL2
A.2.3 Energy systems HL
⏱️ Teaching Hours
HL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 HL1
A.3.1 Qualities of training
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 6h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL3
B.2.3 Movement analysis and its application
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 2 SL1
C.2.1 Motor learning processes
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 10h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL4
C.4.2 Coping
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 2h HL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 2 SL1
Paper 2 HL1
A.1.2.2 The body's response to environment (AHL)
⏱️ Teaching Hours
HL: 5h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 HL2

🧠 What are the factors that affect human performance?

5 topics • Psychology & Mechanics
⏱️ SL: 20h | HL: 27h ▼
B.2.2 Fluid mechanics
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 3h HL: 8h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL2
Paper 2 SL1
Paper 2 HL4
C.1 Individual differences
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 4h HL: 6h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL2
Paper 2 HL3
C.3 Motivation
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 8h HL: 8h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL2
Paper 1A HL2
Paper 2 SL4
Paper 2 HL4
C.5 Psychological skills
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 4h HL: 5h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL2
Paper 2 HL2
A.1.1.2 The endocrine system—Reproductive hormones only
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 1h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
-0

🏥 What is the connection between exercise and health?

3 topics • Health & Injury
⏱️ SL: 9h | HL: 13h ▼
A.3.3 Fatigue and recovery (AHL)
⏱️ Teaching Hours
HL: 9h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A HL2
Paper 2 HL4
B.3 Injury
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 7h HL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 1A SL1
Paper 1A HL1
Paper 2 SL3
Paper 2 HL1
A.3.2 Benefits to health of being active
⏱️ Teaching Hours
SL: 2h HL: 2h
📝 Predicted Exam Marks
Paper 2 SL1
Paper 2 HL1
🧮 Calculating the Weighting

Marks are allocated based on teaching hours. Here is the split:

Standard Level 150 Hours Total Teaching
Higher Level 240 Hours Total Teaching
SL Exam 105 Marks
HL Exam 145 Marks
~35%
of the Total Grade comes from Theme A (Physiology). It is the heaviest section for both SL & HL.
20
Marks purely for Data Analysis (Paper 1B). This requires skill practice, not memorization.
Theme A Exercise Physiology & Nutrition

A.1 Communication

SL/HL ~5-8 Marks
💡 Tip: Feedback loops are often tested in MCQs. Know the difference between Negative (stabilizing) and Positive (amplifying).
▼

Expected Mark Allocation:
• Paper 1A (MCQ): SL: ~2-3 marks | HL: ~3-4 marks
• Paper 2 (Extended Response): SL: ~3-4 marks | HL: ~4-7 marks

Topic A.1.1: Inter-system communication - Paper 1A Examples

You will likely get 1-2 MCQ questions testing your understanding of receptors and hormonal responses.

Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q1
What is measured by a baroreceptor?
  • A. Blood pressure
  • B. Heart rate
  • C. pH of the blood
  • D. Carbon dioxide levels of the blood
✓ Correct Answer: A
Why A is correct: Baroreceptors are mechanoreceptors that detect changes in blood pressure, sending signals to help maintain homeostasis.
Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q2
How does epinephrine cause an increase in cardiac output?
  • A. It decreases the contraction force in the myocardium.
  • B. It increases heart rate by increasing the vagus nerve stimulation.
  • C. It increases the contraction force in the myocardium.
  • D. It decreases venous return and increases the stimulation rate of the sinoatrial node.
✓ Correct Answer: C
Why C is correct: Epinephrine (adrenaline) increases both heart rate AND stroke volume by increasing myocardial contractility, which directly increases cardiac output.
Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q3
During exercise, blood insulin levels decrease, but glucose uptake into muscle cells increases. How must other variables change to increase glucose uptake?
Glucose concentration gradient Insulin sensitivity
A. decrease decrease
B. increase increase
C. decrease increase
D. increase decrease
✓ Correct Answer: B
Why B is correct: Both the glucose concentration gradient and insulin sensitivity must increase to compensate for decreased insulin levels while maintaining glucose uptake during exercise.
Topic A.1.2: Maintaining homeostasis (HL Only)

HL students can expect questions on acclimatization and physiological responses to environmental stress.

Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q7
What causes a decline in VO₂ max with increased age?
  • A. Enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity
  • B. Decrease in maximum heart rate
  • C. Increase in fat-free mass percentage
  • D. Increase in stroke volume of the heart
✓ Correct Answer: B
Why B is correct: Maximum heart rate declines with age, which reduces maximum cardiac output and therefore VO₂ max.
Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q13
An athlete who lives at sea level moves to train in a high-altitude climate, resulting in a decreased plasma volume. How does decreased plasma volume alter the normal physiological function of the heart to compensate for the decrease in blood oxygen levels?
Heart rate Cardiac output
A. decreases decreases
B. increases increases
C. decreases increases
D. increases constant
✓ Correct Answer: D
Why D is correct: Heart rate increases to compensate, but cardiac output remains relatively constant because decreased plasma volume reduces stroke volume.
Topic A.1.3: Transport - Paper 1A Examples

Expect questions on cardiovascular and respiratory adaptations to training.

Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q4
What assists expiration?
  • A. The elastic recoil of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles
  • B. The constriction of the bronchioles
  • C. The contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles
  • D. The contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
✓ Correct Answer: A
Why A is correct: Normal expiration is a passive process assisted by elastic recoil of the respiratory muscles and lungs.
Specimen Question HL_P1A_Q5
Which cardiovascular adaptation to endurance training will help to increase cardiac output?
  • A. The decrease in size of the heart muscle
  • B. The decrease in the stretch of the heart muscle
  • C. The increase in size of the heart muscle
  • D. The increase in blood pressure in the aorta
✓ Correct Answer: C
Why C is correct: Cardiac hypertrophy (increase in heart muscle size) increases stroke volume, which directly increases cardiac output (CO = HR × SV).
Paper 1B & Paper 2 Examples

These longer-form questions require detailed explanations with mark schemes.

Paper 1B Example [2 marks]:
Context: Carbon fibre plate (CFP) shoes study

Explain why the study selected only races taking place at sea level.
✓ Model Answer (2 marks)
• altitude affects performance; [1 mark]
• controlled variable; [1 mark]

Why this matters: Paper 1B questions test your understanding of experimental design and controlling variables.
Paper 2 Example [4 marks]:
Context: Rowing training in hot/humid conditions

Explain the body's acute responses to the stresses caused by hot and humid environment during training.
✓ Model Answer (4 marks)
Each complete point (with AND) = 1 mark:

• earlier sweat response/greater volume of sweat AND to maintain core body temperature at 37°C;

• sweat does not evaporate from body/cooling effect lost AND body temperature increases faster;

• vasodilation of skin blood vessels occurs earlier AND to cool blood;

• working heart rates higher AND to move blood to the skin earlier for cooling;
Paper 2 Example [3 marks]:
Context: Rowing race preparation

Explain how endurance training influences VO₂max.
✓ Model Answer (3 marks maximum)
• stimulates physiological adaptations;

• increases heart stroke volume/cardiac output OR increases capillarisation of the muscles;

• improves oxygen transport rate around the body;

A.2 Hydration & Nutrition

SL/HL ~8-12 Marks
💡 Tip: Energy systems (ATP-PC vs Lactic Acid) usually appear in Paper 2.
▼
Paper 2 Example (Short Answer)
Outline the concept of the "Lactate Inflection Point" (LIP). [2 marks]
✓ Model Answer
The LIP describes the exercise intensity where lactate production exceeds the rate of removal. Training near this point improves aerobic endurance.

A.3 Response

SL/HL ~12-18 Marks
💡 Tip: This is the biggest topic. Expect long questions on Fatigue, Recovery (EPOC), and Training Adaptations.
▼
Paper 2 Example (Extended Response)
Explain the physiological causes of peripheral fatigue in high-intensity activities. [4 marks]
✓ Model Answer
1. Depletion of PC (Phosphocreatine) stores.
2. Accumulation of Hydrogen ions (H+) causing acidosis.
3. Decrease in muscle pH inhibiting enzyme activity (e.g., PFK).
4. Impaired calcium release interfering with muscle contraction.
Theme B Biomechanics

B.1 Generating Movement

SL/HL ~5-8 Marks
💡 Tip: Memorize the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class levers. Most human joints are 3rd class (Speed/ROM advantage).
▼
Paper 1A Example (MCQ)
In a bicep curl (upward phase), which class of lever is operating at the elbow?
✓ Correct: 3rd Class
Why: The Effort (bicep insertion) is located between the Fulcrum (elbow) and the Load (dumbbell).

B.2 Forces & Motion

SL/HL ~10-15 Marks
💡 Tip: The "Money Topic" for calculations. Practice F=ma and Newton's 3rd Law (Action/Reaction).
▼
Paper 2 Example (Calculation)
Explain how Newton's 3rd Law applies to a sprinter leaving the blocks. [3 marks]
✓ Model Answer
1. Action: Sprinter applies force backwards against the blocks.
2. Reaction: Blocks apply an equal and opposite force forwards on the sprinter.
3. Result: This ground reaction force propels the sprinter out of the blocks.

B.3 Injury

SL/HL ~5-8 Marks
💡 Tip: Distinguish clearly between Acute (sudden) and Chronic (overuse) injuries.
▼
Paper 1A Example (MCQ)
Which of the following is an example of an acute injury?
✓ Correct: Fracture from a tackle
Why: Acute injuries result from a specific, identifiable traumatic event (like a collision). Tendonitis is chronic.
Theme C Sports Psychology

C.1 Individual Differences

SL/HL ~5-8 Marks
💡 Tip: Know the "Self-Fulfilling Prophecy" (how expectations influence performance).
▼
Paper 2 Example (Short Answer)
Define "Self-Fulfilling Prophecy" in sport. [2 marks]
✓ Model Answer
When an expectation (by coach or self) influences behavior so that the expectation becomes true. E.g., a coach expects failure, gives less feedback, and the athlete fails.

C.2 Motor Learning

SL/HL ~8-12 Marks
💡 Tip: Stages of Learning (Cognitive -> Associative -> Autonomous) are a staple question.
▼
Paper 1A Example (MCQ)
Which stage of learning is characterized by trial-and-error and reliance on visual feedback?
✓ Correct: Cognitive Stage
Why: The beginner (cognitive stage) needs to think about what to do and relies on visual cues.

C.3 Motivation

SL/HL ~5-8 Marks
💡 Tip: Understand "Goal Orientation Theory" (Task-oriented vs Ego-oriented).
▼
Paper 2 Example (Short Answer)
Distinguish between "Task Orientation" and "Ego Orientation". [2 marks]
✓ Model Answer
Task: Success is defined by personal improvement and effort.
Ego: Success is defined by comparison to others and winning.

C.4 Stress & Coping

SL/HL ~8-12 Marks
💡 Tip: Not all stress is bad. Know "Eustress" (positive) vs "Distress" (negative).
▼
Paper 1A Example (MCQ)
Which term describes "good stress" that enhances performance?
✓ Correct: Eustress
Why: Eustress provides the focus and energy needed for peak performance.

C.5 Psychological Skills

HL ONLY ~10-15 Marks
💡 Tip: PETTLEP Imagery is high-value for HL. Memorize the acronym.
▼
Paper 2 Example (Extended Response)
Explain what the acronym PETTLEP (Holmes, Collins) stands for. [7 marks]
✓ Model Answer
Physical (nature of movement)
Environment (location)
Task (the skill itself)
Timing (speed of imagery)
Learning (stage of athlete)
Emotion (feelings associated)
Perspective (internal vs external)
Paper 1B Hub Experimental Skills
Strategy: Find these specific graphs in your textbook using the titles below. The exam questions will ask you to analyze these exact types of trends.

Topic A.2 Data: HIIT Energy

Skill: Tables
▼
[Find Table 2 in Textbook A.2]
Title: "Mean VO2, energy expenditure (EE) during exercise..."
(a) Calculate the difference in mean energy expenditure between HIIT and CONT groups. [1]
✓ Answer
10.0 - 7.6 = 2.4 kcal/min

Topic B.3 Data: Injury Rates

Skill: Comparison
▼
[Find Table 3 in Textbook B.3]
Title: "Injury incidence by injury type for both groups"
(a) Identify which group had the lower limb injury rate. [1]
✓ Answer
The Intervention Group (35 injuries vs 51 in control).

Topic C.4 Data: Coping & Resilience

Skill: Trends
▼
[Find Table 4 in Textbook C.4]
Title: "Coping strategy scores... Source: Secades et al."
(a) Identify the group with the highest score for imagery. [1]
✓ Answer
The High Resilience group (Score: 3.67).