What should I focus on for LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts?

Warm up your voice and body thoroughly before the exam to ensure you are relaxed and vocally ready.

What should I focus on for LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (2)

Choose a performance piece that you enjoy and understand, as genuine engagement improves communication.

What should I focus on for LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (3)

Rehearse in front of others to get comfortable with maintaining eye contact and managing nerves.

What should I focus on for LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (4)

Use the performance space fully, moving with intention and clarity to support your interpretation.

What should I focus on for LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (5)

If you make a minor mistake, keep going without drawing attention to it; the assessor values continuity and recovery.

What are common mistakes in LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts?

Speaking too quickly or quietly, causing lines to become indistinct or lost.

What are common mistakes in LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (2)

Standing rigidly or moving without purpose, rather than using gesture and movement to enhance the performance.

What are common mistakes in LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts? (3)

Forgetting to interact with the audience, delivering lines to the floor or a fixed point, thus breaking connection.

Dance & Performing Arts

LAMDA

Vocational

Specification: 610/2961/0

This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

Topics

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Ready to practise?

AI-powered quizzes tailored to your specification

Start Practising

Key Features

Master key concepts
Develop exam technique
Apply knowledge effectively

What Gets Top Grades

Distinction / Top Band

Knowledge & Understanding

Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

Uses correct subject-specific terminology
Shows detailed understanding of concepts
Makes accurate connections between topics
Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

Application

Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

Selects relevant knowledge for the question
Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
Uses examples appropriately
Shows awareness of context

Analysis & Evaluation

Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

Constructs logical chains of reasoning
Considers multiple perspectives
Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
Acknowledges limitations and nuances

Key Command Words

LAMDA

State

1 mark

Give a single fact or term

Identify

1 mark

Name, select, or recognise

Outline

2 marks

Set out main features briefly

Describe

2-4 marks

Give an account of what something is like or what happens

Explain

3-6 marks

Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

Compare

2-4 marks

State similarities AND differences (both required)

Analyse

6-9 marks

Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

Evaluate

6-12 marks

Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

Assess

6-12 marks

Make judgments about importance with justification

Calculate

2-4 marks

Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

Common Exam Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

•Speaking too quickly or quietly, causing lines to become indistinct or lost.
•Standing rigidly or moving without purpose, rather than using gesture and movement to enhance the performance.
•Forgetting to interact with the audience, delivering lines to the floor or a fixed point, thus breaking connection.
•Over-performing or exaggerating character traits inconsistently, leading to a lack of believability.
•Neglecting to prepare adequately, resulting in evident lapses in memory or confidence.
•Rushing through the prepared piece without pausing for punctuation or breath, leading to a loss of clarity and expression.
•Using a monotone or flat voice throughout, failing to use vocal variety to convey mood or emphasis.
•Avoiding eye contact by looking at the floor or ceiling, or fixating on one spot, which disconnects from the audience.

Top Examiner Tips

Expert advice for exam success

•Warm up your voice and body thoroughly before the exam to ensure you are relaxed and vocally ready.
•Choose a performance piece that you enjoy and understand, as genuine engagement improves communication.
•Rehearse in front of others to get comfortable with maintaining eye contact and managing nerves.
•Use the performance space fully, moving with intention and clarity to support your interpretation.
•If you make a minor mistake, keep going without drawing attention to it; the assessor values continuity and recovery.
•In the prepared piece, mark your script with breath points and highlight key words for emphasis; practice delivering it as if telling a story to a friend.
•For the conversation, prepare by thinking of two or three things you can say about your piece (why you chose it, what it means) to help you expand when asked.
•Warm up your voice before entering the exam room with gentle humming and tongue twisters to ensure clear articulation from the start.

Specification Topics

21 topics

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 1)

The LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 1) introduces learners to fundamental performance techniques, focusing on clear communication, basic characterisation, and effective use of voice and body. Learners will perform a short solo or duo piece, demonstrating an emerging understanding of how to engage an audience through prepared material. This unit builds foundational skills in interpretation, projection, and stage presence, encouraging confidence and creativity in a supportive, assessed environment.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 1) - Core Content

0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 1)

This subtopic introduces the foundational skills for effective spoken communication, focusing on clear articulation, vocal projection, and engaging with an audience. Learners are expected to prepare and perform a poem or piece of prose, followed by a short conversation with the examiner, demonstrating their ability to convey meaning and respond spontaneously. The emphasis is on building confidence, expressive delivery, and a basic understanding of how to communicate a text’s mood and character.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 1) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 5)

This topic covers the core content for LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 5), including key principles and practices. Learners apply knowledge in practical contexts and demonstrate competency in core performance skills.

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 5) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Shakespeare for Performance

This LAMDA Level 3 Certificate focuses on performing Shakespeare. Learners understand key principles and practices, apply knowledge practically, and demonstrate core performance skills.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 8)

The LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 8) Core Content focuses on advanced acting and performance skills, requiring candidates to demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of vocal and physical techniques, characterisation, and interpretation of both prose and verse from a range of periods. Candidates must integrate these elements to deliver nuanced, engaging performances that communicate complex emotional states and subtext, reflecting the highest grade’s expectation of professional readiness and artistic autonomy.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 8) - Core Content

0 objectives2 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 3)

This unit develops foundational communication skills through performance of poetry, prose, and a sight-reading task, emphasizing clear vocal delivery, interpretative choices, and engagement with the audience. It introduces learners to the principles of effective spoken communication, including breath control, articulation, vocal variety, and the ability to convey meaning and emotion through language.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 3) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 7)

This subtopic forms the foundational framework for the LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 7), encompassing the essential techniques of effective spoken communication, including voice production, clarity of speech, and non-verbal interaction. Learners integrate theoretical understanding with practical delivery to convey meaning, engage audiences, and handle impromptu discussion with confidence. Mastery of these core skills enables compelling public speaking, nuanced interpretation of texts, and articulate conversational ability in assessed contexts.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 7) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips4 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Shakespeare for Performance

This core content element of the LAMDA Level 2 Award in Shakespeare for Performance centres on the practical exploration and interpretation of Shakespeare's text, blending rigorous vocal technique, physical characterisation, and analytical understanding. Learners engage with verse and prose to unlock meaning, rhythm, and emotional truth, developing the skills necessary to communicate complex language with clarity and authenticity to an audience.

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 6)

This element covers the theoretical underpinnings and practical application of advanced communication techniques, including vocal modulation, audience engagement, and structured argumentation. Learners explore how to analyze and adapt communication strategies for diverse contexts, developing the ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and conviction in both prepared and spontaneous situations.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 6) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance (Entry 3)

This element introduces the fundamental building blocks of performance, focusing on clear communication, basic vocal and physical skills, and storytelling. It equips learners with the essential tools to create a simple, credible character and engage an audience through controlled expression. Practical application involves preparing and performing a short scene or poem, applying these core skills to convey meaning effectively.

LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance (Entry 3) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 3)

The Core Content at Grade 3 focuses on consolidating foundational performance techniques, including character development, vocal modulation, and physical awareness, through the preparation and delivery of a monologue or duologue. Candidates learn to interpret text, convey emotion, and engage with an audience, building the discipline and creativity needed for confident performance.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 3) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 2)

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 2) Core Content focuses on developing foundational speaking and listening skills, enabling learners to communicate with clarity and confidence. Learners explore the use of voice, body language, and interaction to convey meaning, interpret simple texts, and engage in basic conversational exchange, building a platform for effective personal and social communication.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 2) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Shakespeare for Performance

This core content introduces learners to the foundational skills required for performing Shakespeare, focusing on unlocking meaning through verse speaking, character exploration, and physical storytelling. It provides the essential toolkit for approaching classical text with confidence, clarity, and creative engagement, preparing candidates to demonstrate competence in a solo or duologue performance examination.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content

0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 2)

This subtopic focuses on building a solid foundation in performance skills, including vocal projection, articulation, physical expression, and character interpretation. Learners apply these core techniques to a prepared piece, demonstrating the ability to engage an audience through clear communication and creative choices, which are assessed in a practical examination.

LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 2) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 4)

This subtopic focuses on the fundamental elements of effective spoken communication, including vocal projection, clear articulation, appropriate register, and non-verbal cues. Practical application involves structuring and delivering coherent messages in both scripted and spontaneous contexts, essential for academic, professional, and social interactions.

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 4) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 6)

This subtopic encompasses the fundamental artistic and technical competencies required for solo or duo performance at Grade 6 LAMDA examinations. It focuses on the integrated development of interpretative, vocal, and physical skills to create compelling characterizations, alongside a critical understanding of the chosen repertoire and performance theory. Mastery of core content ensures candidates can effectively communicate with an audience and engage in reflective discussion about their work.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 6) - Core Content

0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 8)

This subtopic encompasses the advanced communication skills required at LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 8), focusing on the synthesis of vocal and physical techniques to deliver compelling performances across a range of genres. Learners explore the art of effective communication through the interpretation of prose, poetry, and drama, while also developing critical self-reflection and the ability to engage an audience with confidence and authenticity. The core content ensures candidates can apply theoretical understanding to practical work, demonstrating maturity, creativity, and proficiency in both prepared and impromptu speech.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 8) - Core Content

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 4)

This unit develops fundamental acting competencies required for LAMDA Level 2 Performance examinations. Learners practice vocal and physical techniques to create believable characters, interpret text, and connect truthfully with an audience. Emphasis is on applying theoretical principles in practical performance of set pieces.

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 4) - Core Content

0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Entry Level Award in Communication (Entry 3) 

This unit introduces foundational communication skills essential for effective personal and social interaction. Learners develop the ability to speak clearly and confidently in a supportive setting, focusing on articulation, vocal projection, and active listening. Practical application involves preparing and delivering a short talk or recitation, demonstrating control of pace, pause, and non-verbal cues to engage an audience.

LAMDA Entry Level Award in Communication (Entry 3)  - Core Content

0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 5)

This subtopic covers the essential components of effective spoken communication at Grade 5, focusing on the application of vocal technique, clarity of speech, and interpretive skills when presenting literary or factual material. Candidates learn to engage an audience through thoughtful use of pace, pitch, tone, and pause, ensuring their delivery conveys meaning and emotion accurately. Practical tasks include performing prepared pieces and participating in a discussion, which together demonstrate competency in both performance and spontaneous communication.

LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 5) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 7)

The LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 7) core content centres on the advanced interpretation and presentation of dramatic repertoire. Learners are required to perform two contrasting monologues or a monologue and a duologue from memory, demonstrating secure characterisation, nuanced vocal and physical techniques, and a coherent directorial vision. Practical application demands thorough textual analysis, creative risk-taking, and the ability to engage an audience with authentic and sustained performance energy.

LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 7) - Core Content

0 objectives4 tips5 pitfalls

Ready to master Dance & Performing Arts?

Start practising with AI-powered quizzes tailored to your LAMDA Vocational specification.

Get Started Free