Teachers and students alike will love the flexibility of the Speech and Performance Syllabus as it allows learners to explore their own passion areas and interests, guided by a structure that explores a broad spectrum of styles, genres, and eras.
Use these exams to build your public speaking, text interpretation, and discussion skills.
The syllabus builds from beginner right through to advanced professional skills of teachers and performers. 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?
The Syllabus supports the development of interpretative and performance skills, with exams providing the opportunity to combine a number of performance skills. Through a diverse range of material, you can achieve secure vocal technique, learn to physically respond to, and present, texts in an imaginative and insightful way.
What do I need to prepare for an exam?
The main portion of the exam is the performance. After that, there's a discussion interaction with the Examiner. You get to choose the theme of your exam and select and prepare your works to create a full program. Depending on the Grade, program elements may include:
- Mime
- Prose
- Poetry
- Storytelling or characterisation
- Drama (an excerpt from a play)
- Talk: your own presentation on an aspect of your chosen theme.
- Original scene (all your own work)
- Object: as a starting point for discussion, and an improvised response to a mystery object.
- Impromptu reading
- 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?
Not for this syllabus - it's a solo mission here only. But, if you do want to do your exam in one large class group, in small groups, or in pairs, check out the other options in the suite of Speech and Drama Syllabuses.
Can I use props for my exam?
Yes you can. You're responsible for bringing them along and setting your stage before you commence. If you're preparing an "Object" component, be sure to bring that along on the day.
Can I write my own material?
Yes! In fact it's a required component of some of the higher Grades. Not only do you get to choose a theme for your exam program, you can also explore your own interests and draw upon your personal experience through Talks and Original Scenes.
Can I use a Speech and Performance 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, speech, and music 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. The practical work is also supported by the Speech and Performance Theory Syllabus, which aligns in the higher grades to take your learning to the next level.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Speech and Performance 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 Speech and Performance Theory Grade 2+.
When can I do a Speech and Performance 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.
