Speech & Drama
Speech and Drama subjects can help students to develop acting and performance skills, self-expression, communication skills, or learn about speech and performance theory.
It is essential that teachers and candidates consult the current syllabus for details of specific exam requirements and regulations. The Manual of Syllabuses (Speech Syllabuses) is available to buy as a digital download through AMEB Connect.
Speech and Performance
This creative, formative syllabus is designed to develop interpretative and performance skills across a broad range of styles, genres and eras. Candidates will achieve secure vocal technique, integrated physical response and imaginative and insightful presentation of texts. They will develop the skills required for interpreting to audiences in a variety of performance spaces.
The syllabus encourages learning through the exploration and interpretation of a diverse range of texts and provides the opportunity to combine a number of performance skills in a single examination.
A list of suggested texts for each grade is printed at the end of the syllabus, but the choice of texts rests with the candidate. Versatility in performance is demonstrated through the selection and presentation of the exam program.
Voice and Communication
This syllabus is designed to support candidates in getting their message across by developing voice and communication skills for everyday life and the professional sector.
The exams begin at preliminary for younger students who may wish to improve their English communication skills. More advanced grades cater for secondary and tertiary students or people working in the corporate sector or broader community. Advanced candidates benefit from completing the certificate (CVCA) and the associate diploma in professional communication (APCA), a recognised qualification in academic and industry spheres.
Candidates are examined individually and receive their own report grading and certificate even though they may take their exam with a group. Members of a group provide support for each other and act as a springboard for discussion.
Candidates will develop confidence to communicate and skills to read effectively, speak with clarity, and make presentations to a variety of audiences.
From the earliest grades, candidates are encouraged to explore the options that are provided for the choice and presentation of the program. Appropriate choice of material enhances the development of individuality, knowledge and self-confidence in communicating with others. Own choice texts facilitate the discussion and conversation, motivated by the program.
Drama and Communication
The Drama and communication syllabus uses creative dynamics, an improvisational approach. This encourages students to come out of their shells and enjoy the creative dynamic of group work.
When it comes to exams, groups can be large, or as small as just two students.
The program targets listening, concentration and movement alongside the art of drama and entertainment.
Speech and Performance Theory
Speech and performance theory students learn how to master communicating in the English language. Students analyse the functional framework of English communication, exploring linguistic tools, vocal modulation, the use of phonetic tools and the study of theatre and communication theory.
This syllabus supports the practical speech and drama studies. Students should be encouraged to sit for theory exams from the earliest grades of the practical subjects.
In higher grades, the syllabuses align as follows:
• Grade 6 Speech and Performance and / or Voice and Communication align with grade 4 Speech and Performance theory
• Grade 7 Speech and Performance and / or Voice and Communication align with grade 5 Speech and Performance theory
• Grade 8 Speech and Performance and / or Voice and Communication align with grade 6 Speech and Performance theory
• CSPA and CVCA practical certificates align with grade 7 Speech and Performance theory
Speech and Performance Theory Grades 1 to 7 are now offered as online exams. Candidates may sit these exams at any convenient time within twelve months of purchase.
Enrolling for exams
Exams in Speech & Performance, Voice & Communication and Drama & Communication are offered in five Metropolitan Practical Sessions and two Country Practical Sessions. Diploma exams are held at the AMEB Studios in Hawthorn: Associate exams in each of the five Metropolitan Practical Sessions, Licentiate exams in early July and mid September. <Click here for enrolment dates>
Enrolments for online Written exams are made through AMEB Connect. Once an exam is purchased, the enrolling person will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment by email which will contain an Exam Key and Exam PIN. These provide access to the exam via the AMEB ONLINE website. Please note the Exam Key expires twelve months after purchase.
All Associate and Licentiate Diploma candidates can enrol up to six weeks in advance of their written exam. The exam date, venue and supervision arrangements are negotiable. Please contact us for more information.
Licentiate candidates can enrol for Section III at a time of their choice and must submit their dissertation within six weeks of enrolling. The dissertation topic must be approved by the AMEB before starting the dissertation.
| Speech and Performance Fees 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | $ | 106.00 |
| Grade 1 | $ | 114.00 |
| Grade 2 | $ | 121.00 |
| Grade 3 | $ | 135.00 |
| Grade 4 | $ | 143.00 |
| Grade 5 | $ | 152.00 |
| Grade 6 | $ | 172.00 |
| Grade 7 | $ | 204.00 |
| Grade 8 | $ | 235.00 |
| Certificate of Speech & Performance | $ | 262.00 |
| Associate (S. I): Practical – Performer | $ | 415.00 |
| Associate (S. II): Written – Performer | $ | 205.00 |
| Licentiate (S. I): Practical – Teacher | $ | 535.00 |
| Licentiate (S. II): Written – Teacher | $ | 250.00 |
| Licentiate (S. III): Dissert. – Teacher | On Application | |
| Drama & Communication Fees 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Introductory | $ | 226.00 |
| Grade 1 | $ | 226.00 |
| Grade 2 | $ | 226.00 |
| Grade 3 | $ | 261.00 |
| Grade 4 | $ | 280.00 |
| Grade 5 | $ | 280.00 |
| Grade 6 | $ | 310.00 |
| Voice & CommunicationFees 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | $ | 106.00 |
| Grade 1 | $ | 114.00 |
| Grade 2 | $ | 121.00 |
| Grade 3 | $ | 135.00 |
| Grade 4 | $ | 143.00 |
| Grade 5 | $ | 152.00 |
| Grade 6 | $ | 172.00 |
| Grade 7 | $ | 204.00 |
| Grade 8 | $ | 235.00 |
| Certificate in Voice & Communication | $ | 262.00 |
| Associate (Section I): Practical | $ | 415.00 |
| Associate (Section II): Folio | $ | 205.00 |
| Speech & Performance Theory Fees 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | $ | 90.00 |
| Grade 2 | $ | 92.00 |
| Grade 3 | $ | 96.00 |
| Grade 4 | $ | 102.00 |
| Grade 5 | $ | 107.00 |
| Grade 6 | $ | 112.00 |
| Grade 7 | $ | 130.00 |
All prices are in Australian dollars and include GST.