Speech to Connect — English Speaking Board (International) Ltd QCF Dance & Performing Arts Revision
This element assesses the candidate's ability to communicate effectively through a personal talk supported by visual/audio aids, the memorised performance
Topic Synopsis
This element assesses the candidate's ability to communicate effectively through a personal talk supported by visual/audio aids, the memorised performance of a creative literary piece, the expressive reading of a prepared book extract, and active participation in a two-way discussion. It develops key oracy skills including structuring information, vocal expression, and interpersonal responsiveness.
Key Concepts & Core Principles
- Voice modulation: Using pitch, pace, volume, and pause to add interest and clarity to your speech. For example, slowing down for important points or raising your pitch to show excitement.
- Eye contact and body language: Engaging your audience by looking at them and using natural gestures. Avoid staring at notes or the floor.
- Structure of a talk: A clear beginning (introduction), middle (main points), and end (conclusion). Use signposting language like 'firstly' or 'in conclusion'.
- Memorisation and interpretation: Learning a poem or prose extract by heart and delivering it with understanding of its mood, characters, and meaning.
- Audience awareness: Tailoring your language, tone, and content to suit your listeners. For Grade 2, this means keeping your talk simple, interesting, and appropriate.
Exam Tips & Revision Strategies
- Rehearse the talk with your audio/visual aids to ensure smooth transitions and backup plans for technical issues.
- For memorisation, break the piece into logical sections and practice aloud daily, focusing on meaning and vocal expression rather than rote repetition.
- When preparing the book extract, read it aloud multiple times to internalise the rhythm, and mark breathing points to maintain a natural pace.
- During the discussion, actively listen by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and using short acknowledgements before adding your own viewpoint to show genuine engagement.
Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-reliance on notes during the personal talk, leading to a loss of spontaneity and reduced eye contact with the audience.
- Reciting the memorised poem or prose in a monotonous tone, failing to convey the emotional subtleties of the text.
- During the reading, racing through the passage without pausing for punctuation, which obscures meaning and loses the listener.
- Dominating the discussion by focusing solely on one's own contributions rather than responding to and engaging with others' ideas.
Examiner Marking Points
- Award credit for a talk that includes a clear introduction, developed main points, and a satisfying conclusion, with seamless use of audio/visual aids.
- Expect accurate word-for-word memorisation of the creative piece, with no prompting or hesitation; credit awarded for expressive use of voice to reflect mood and character.
- For the reading, assess the candidate's ability to maintain audience interest through vocal modulation, clear diction, and appropriate eye contact with the text.
- In discussion, look for evidence of attentive listening—such as paraphrasing others' points—and the ability to exchange views respectfully and thoughtfully.