Complete LAMDA Performing Arts Graded Examination Dance & Performing Arts specification revision resources. Tailored syllabus coverage with topic breakdowns, quizzes, and practice questions.
Specification Topics
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 7) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 8) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 4) - Core Content
- LAMDA Entry Level Award in Communication (Entry 3) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 5) - Core Content
- LSDE Unit 2: The Application of Professional Knowledge in Communication, Speech and Drama
- LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance _Entry 3_: Acting: Solo/Duologue
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 1) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 1) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 2 Award in Performance (Grade 5) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 8) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 3) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 7) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 2 Award in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Communication (Grade 6) - Core Content
- LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance (Entry 3) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 3) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Communication (Grade 2) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Shakespeare for Performance - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 1 Award in Performance (Grade 2) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 2 Award in Communication (Grade 4) - Core Content
- LAMDA Level 3 Certificate in Performance (Grade 6) - Core Content
- LSDE Unit 3: Demonstrating Practical Teaching Skills relating to Communication, Speech and Drama
- LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance _Entry 3_: Devising Drama: Solo/Duologue
- LSDE Unit 1: Theoretical and Subject Knowledge in Communication, Speech and Drama
- LAMDA Entry Level Award in Performance _Entry 3_: Miming: Solo/Duologue
Top Exam Board Tips
- Select two pieces that genuinely contrast in style, period, or character type to showcase your range and versatility.
- Prepare thoroughly for the discussion section by annotating your script with precise reasons for each vocal and physical choice you make.
- Rehearse in the performance space beforehand if possible, adjusting your projection and blocking to suit the acoustics and audience sightlines.
- Use breath control techniques to manage nerves and maintain vocal power and clarity throughout the performance.
- To excel, meticulously rehearse transitions between pieces and maintain character focus even during silences; the examiner assesses continuity of performance.
- For the sight-reading or impromptu element, develop a bank of vocal warm-ups and mental frameworks to quickly structure thoughts and speak with authority.
- Record your rehearsals to identify personal mannerisms or vocal tics, then consciously work to replace them with more effective communicative choices.
- Always warm up your voice and body thoroughly before the exam to ensure flexibility and control.
- Know your setting and situation intimately – answer knowledge questions by referencing specific details from the piece.
- Make bold, clear choices in characterization; examiners reward commitment even more than subtlety at this level.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Many students rely on superficial emotional display rather than building a truthful, layered character from the text's given circumstances.
- A common error is neglecting vocal variety, resulting in monotone delivery that fails to reflect shifts in thought, emotion, or interaction.
- Students often mistake physical movement for physical characterisation, adding unnecessary or unmotivated gestures that distract from the performance.
- Failing to fully memorise lines leads to a hesitant delivery, breaking the illusion of character and undermining the performer's confidence.
- Misunderstanding the historical or social context of the piece can lead to anachronistic or inappropriate interpretative choices.
- One common error is focusing too heavily on technical delivery at the expense of genuine emotional connection, resulting in a performance that feels mechanical rather than authentic.
- Candidates frequently underestimate the importance of warming up physically and vocally, leading to tension that restricts expression and resonance.
- A frequent pitfall is insufficient preparation for the unseen task, causing hesitation and a lack of fluency in impromptu speaking.
Key Terminology & Definitions
- Core knowledge
- Practical application
- Understand what is meant by ‘working with text’, displaying a knowledge of repertoire,strategies and techniques., Understand what is meant by Devising Drama, Mime and Improvisation., Understand what is meant by Equality and Inclusion within the context ofCommunication, Speech and Drama education., Understand what is meant by Health and Safety within a Communication, Speech and Drama context., Apply and adapt research to relevant contexts and working practice., Organise and present information clearly and coherently.
- Make sense of the written word, Memorise words accurately, Reveal a basic understanding of character, Communicate with sufficient audibility for the performance space, Communicate with sufficient clarity in order to be understood, Reveal an awareness of the performance space in relation to the text, Describe the character, appearance and mood of the acting selection
- Plan lessons within a Communication, Speech and Drama context., Display teaching skills within a Communication, Speech and Drama context., Support learners needs., Assess learners development., Analyse their own performance and needs for Continuous Professional Development.
- Devise a scene that reveals a place and a situation, Engage with the place and situation, Communicate with sufficient audibility for the performance space, Communicate with sufficient clarity in order to be understood, Reveal an awareness of the performance space, Describe the place and situation that they have created
- Understand the process of learning., Understand the process of voice production and the development of oral communication skills., Demonstrate a breadth of knowledge about syllabuses and curriculum in Communication, Speech and Drama., Apply and adapt research to relevant contexts and working practice., Organise and present information clearly and coherently.
- Create a mime scene which includes a sequence of activities, Engage with each activity, Clarify each activity, Reveal an awareness of the performance space, Describe the activities created