Possibly the most valuable skill you can develop is that is of communication. It's applicable everywhere: in your daily relationships, in an interview, or presenting to an audience.
The Voice and Communication Syllabus is designed to prepare you for exactly these sorts of situations. It provides a structure in which you can build your confidence and develop skills such as reading effectively, speaking with clarity, and preparing presentations for a variety of audiences.
Exams are available from Preliminary through to Associate so there's an entry point for absolutely everyone - regardless of prior experience. There are also no prerequisites so you can start achieving your exam goal wherever best suits your current knowledge and comfort.
What skills will I learn?
The Syllabus supports development in skills such as:
- Effective reading aloud and the ability to convey the meaning behind text.
- Spatial awareness and how to prepare for engaging with an audience.
- Clarity of speech and projection.
- Active listening skills and techniques for discussion.
- Communicating personal responses, and with elements of persuasion.
- Vocal health and effective use of its range.
And, by doing your exam, you'll have the perfect opportunity to put all those new skills to the test and gain a deeper understanding of how you physically respond when engaging with an audience.
What do I need to prepare for an exam?
The main portion of the exam is the performance, with an additional component for interaction with the Examiner. Depending on the Grade, you have various options and choices to construct your program, such as:
- Prose: A prepared passage of text from a non-fiction source, complete with your own introduction.
- Poetry: Choose a poet and read their poem/s, along with an introduction about why you like them.
- Choice: Each Grade has different options here and there's heaps of variety. You'll essentially prepare a presentation of your choice. This could be about a song, topic, or object you like; a world issue that you're concerned about; a story; or perhaps even a joke.
- Discussion: The Examiner will lead a chat that reflects on the work you've prepared and the process you went through to achieve it.
- Preparation: In higher grades, you'll start your exam by demonstrating an exercise/warm-up activity of your choice.
We always recommend referring to the 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.
What sort of flexibility do I have in how I do my presentation?
Lots! You can choose your own texts and the syllabus actually encourages you to find topics that you're personally passionate about and will support you in your growth. You can present your program thematically, and in any order. If you're worried about the cohesion of your program, or if your audience (and Examiner) will understand the frame of reference for each chosen piece, you can include Links to explain your choices, and help unify your program.
Can I do my exam with my classmates?
Yes you can! The flexibility of this syllabus allows you to do your exam as an individual or in a group. Your group can even include students working toward different Grades, and you can each gain your own personal qualification. It's important to note that, even in a shared exam, each Candidate must present a full program of their own. And make sure you double check the syllabus - the maximum group size varies depending on which Grade you're doing.
Can I have an audience for my exam?
This is one of the few exams where you actually can! In fact, it's even encouraged. Due to communication lying at the heart of this syllabus, the way you interact and engage with your audience is core to your assessment. Your audience can be just your Examiner, or a support group of up to five of your cheer squad (in addition to any co-Candidates).
What does my support group do?
Your support group joins you for your exam but they don't get assessed like you do. They act as an audience for your presentation and support your efforts. They also contribute to group discussions, which can be a great experience for students wanting to develop their own discussion skills and get an insight into the exam environment before giving it a go themselves. Be sure you word up your colleagues because it's important that they understand their function in the exam room.
Can I write my own material?
Yes! In fact, it's a requirement of this syllabus. There are a couple of sections to the exam that involve preparing an existing work (eg prose and poetry) but the exam is designed so that you write your own material to gain experience in how to prepare for a presentation. This is another fantastic feature of the Voice and Communication syllabus as it provides a platform for you to explore your own interests and draw upon your personal experience.
Can I use props?
You sure can. It's your responsibility to bring them to your exam and to have them ready to use before beginning your program. We recommend bringing smaller items (eg a hat, photo, book etc) so that they're easier to handle. Props can be used to support your presentation, as a point of reference, or to help generate discussion.
Can I use a Voice 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 reading and resources. If you're keen to gain a deeper understanding, the Speech and Performance Theory Syllabus aligns neatly to support your learning.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Voice 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 Voice 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.
