Teachers and students alike will love the flexibility of the Drama and Communication Syllabus as it allows learners to explore their own passion areas and interests.
Use these exams to build expression and effective communication, or even hone your collaboration skills.
Exams are available from Introductory through to Grade 6, with the highest two aligning neatly with the classroom curriculum for years 11 and 12. The Grades progress sequentially to build on skills already developed but there are no prerequisites so you can start achieving your exam goal wherever best suits your current knowledge.
What skills will I learn?
Exams support the development of performance skills, language skills, interpretation skills, and response to text. If you do your exam in a group, you'll also enhance ensemble performance skills, collaborative working relationships, negotiating skills, and group decision-making abilities.
What do I need to prepare for an exam?
The main portion of the exam is the performance. After that, there's more interaction with the Examiner and, depending on the Grade, you have various options and choices. The other elements include:
- Documentation: A great tool to develop your program, involve all participants, and create a keepsake of your learning journey.
- Improvisation: Learn to generate ideas and extend your creativity by responding to a dramatic focus provided in the exam.
- Presentation: A pre-prepared element, you get to present a talk or demonstration that shows off what you've learnt throughout your exam preparation.
- Discussion: The Examiner will lead a chat that reflects on the work you've prepared and the process you went through to achieve it.
Have a read of the full Syllabus to find out what options are available for your Grade, and to ensure you've prepared all the requirements for your exam.
Can I do my exam with my classmates?
Yes you can! The flexibility of this syllabus allows you to do your exam in one large class group, in pairs, or you can go it alone as an individual candidate. It's worth noting that duos and groups are assessed as a group, and receive one report (and certificate) for the collective assessment.
Can I have an audience for my exam?
This is one of the few exams where you actually can! Your fellow drama students or your cheer squad can attend and contribute to the discussion at the end of the exam. Please note that not all venues can accommodate this so it's best to contact the friendly team in the AMEB Tasmania office if you're hoping to do this.
Can I write my own material?
Yes! This is another fantastic feature of the Drama and Communication syllabus as it provides a platform for you to explore your own interests and draw upon your personal experience.
Can I use a Drama and Communication exam toward an AMEB Award?
You certainly can! In fact, if you're like many people who love the performing arts, you're probably doing a lot toward achieving your next AMEB Award already! All AMEB exams from Grade 3 upwards - that includes PAA, Rockschool and Classical exams - could go towards an AMEB Award. Find out more about this brilliant program that rewards and recognises achievement in the performing arts here.
What other resources are there?
We always recommend a teacher to help grow your abilities and they're always a fantastic resource. The Syllabus also includes some recommended resources to get you delving into key aspects of your craft.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Drama and Communication exam?
Yes you can! And that goes for any AMEB exam, including all dance, drama, and music syllabuses. In fact, all practical exams are eligible for TCE bonus points from Grade 4 onwards, as well as Theory Grade 2+.
When can I do a Drama and Communication exam?
Our face-to-face exams are available in the June/July and October/November sessions. Alternatively, you can do a Video exam absolutely any time that suits you. To find out more about exam dates, head to our Exam information page.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
