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Learn Public Speaking
PAA’s suite of graded examinations in Public Speaking are tailor-made to support and encourage learners of all abilities to communicate effectively.
No matter the age, level or background of a candidate, PAA’s Public Speaking qualifications from Premiere to Grade 8 will positively influence the learner’s communication skills, confidence, and employability.
Teaching Support
We want you to focus on what matters most… teaching! To complement our syllabus guide, you’ll be able to find additional teaching guidance, exemplar videos, repertoire suggestions, and digital exam guidance – all available for free.
Diverse Repertoire
Depending on the requirements at each grade, candidates will perform a range of speeches, poems, raps, tongue twisters, or stories. There’s also the opportunity to be able to perform original material written by the candidate! Repertoire suggestions champion poets from a range of cultural backgrounds as well as a fair representation of gender, enabling students to feel comfortable performing or studying material which is enjoyable and relevant to them.
Accessible Exam Formats
There are three types of examination formats available across all grades to suit your learners needs: Face-to-Face examinations (schools / venues only), Live Video examinations (schools / venues only), Recorded Video examinations.
For all Levels
This graded suite assesses the complete range of Public Speaking abilities, from complete beginner (Premiere) all the way up to a professional standard (Grade 8).
Ease of Set-up
The PAA Public Speaking syllabus and range of supportive materials are free to download from the website, meaning you can start teaching straight away without any initial cost outlays.
UCAS Points
UCAS points are available at grades 6, 7 and 8, supporting students’ progression onto university courses, or for a career in the performing arts industry.
Public Speaking
How It Works
Download the syllabus for free
Download the PAA Public Speaking syllabus for free to see how you can incorporate these qualifications into your schedule and teaching offering.
Take advantage of innovative resources
PAA offers a range of resources to help you achieve with this syllabus. Exemplar materials, Poem suggestions and additional teacher guidance give you the tools to get started today.
Book an exam day
Once you are prepped and ready, book an exam where our PAA examiners will assess your performance. PAA qualifications are the ideal way for students and individual candidates to be awarded for their hard work.
Exemplar Materials
As part of the PAA Public Speaking syllabus, we provide exemplar videos and marks awarded rationale to make the examinations more accessible.
Grade 1: Task 2 speech exemplar – marks awarded and rationale:
During this speech, there was evidence of secure and thorough preparation (Distinction), and the learner demonstrated consistent understanding, fluency and awareness of the imagined audience (Distinction). Speech was clear and audible throughout (Distinction). There was assured and consistent use of basic vocal skills, facial expression and body language, to reflect the content of the speech (Distinction).
Marks awarded (both Learning Outcomes out of 20): 19. 18.
Overall, based on this speech alone at a Grade 1 level, this learner has been awarded a Distinction grade.
Grade 3: Task 2 speech exemplar – marks awarded and rationale:
There was evidence of thorough preparation on the hobby ‘Basketball’, and the speech was presented with consistent understanding and awareness of the imagined audience (Distinction). There was an animated use facial expression throughout the speech (Distinction) and body language was used effectively to reflect content and mood for the majority (Merit). The delivery of the speech was clear and audible all the time (Distinction) and fluent for the majority (Merit). There was a sustained, varied and convincing use of relevant vocal skills, such as variations in volume, phrasing, and timing, to reflect the content and mood (Distinction).
Marks awarded (both Learning Outcomes out of 20): 18.17.
Overall, based on this speech alone at a Grade 3 level, this learner has been awarded a Distinction grade.
Grade 5: Task 2 speech exemplar – marks awarded and rationale
During Task 2, a confident and convincing explanation of the reasons behind choosing ‘Lord of the Flies’ was demonstrated (Distinction). There was a clear sense of thorough preparation, showing a strong identifiable structure and a detailed understanding of the subject and content during the speech (Distinction). Facial expression and body language were used effectively all the time to reflect the subject and content, and to engage the imagined audience (Distinction). A sense of spontaneity and fluency in this speech was mostly evident (Merit). An effective use of vocal skills was evident throughout, showing variety of vocal emphasis, phrasing, inflection, and tone, which reflected the content of the material and engaged the imagined audience (Distinction).
Marks awarded (both Learning Outcomes out of 20):17.17
Overall, based on this speech alone at a Grade 5 level, this learner has been awarded a Distinction grade.
Grade 8: Task 2 speech exemplar – marks awarded and rationale
There was evidence of thorough preparation and a clear awareness of the reasons behind the choices of the speech on ‘Harnessing the energy of the sun’ (Distinction). The material used demonstrated a highly comprehensive understanding of the topic (Distinction); there was an identifiable structure and the language used was fully appropriate for style and content (Distinction). This speech was delivered with a consistent awareness of fluency, ownership and dynamic variation and a sense of spontaneity was sustained for almost all of the presentation (Distinction).
A sophisticated and effective range of integrated vocal and physical skills were sustained to reflect the style and content of the presentations, and to engage with the imagined audience (Distinction). A technically accomplished demonstration of vocal modulation, audibility and clarity of diction was evident all the time (Distinction); use of facial expression, body language, dynamics, and space were accomplished throughout. (Distinction)
Marks awarded (both Learning Outcomes out of 20): 19.19.
Overall, based on this speech alone at a Grade 8 level, this learner has been awarded a Distinction grade.
Broad Objectives and Assessment Methodology
The aim of the PAA Public Speaking qualifications is to motivate and encourage learners of all ages and levels through a system of progressive mastery and a flexible approach to the development of skills, knowledge, and understanding required for speaking in public. These skills include:
- Understanding the techniques required for preparation of material for presentations
- Using the vocal and physical skills required for effective public speaking
- Communicating effectively with an imagined audience
- (Face-to-face exams only): Engaging in conversation appropriately, including acquiring effective interview skills at higher grades
- (Recorded Digital exams only): Conveying own ideas and opinions to camera appropriately and effectively
Assessment, Marking and Attainment Bands
All learners are assessed individually by the examiner and receive an individual mark and (on passing) a certificate. The examiner will award marks in line with the published assessment criteria for the relevant grade taken, full details of which can be found later in this document, within the Content Specifications for each grade.
The exams are marked out of 100. The attainment bands are as follows:
| Marks Received | Attainment Level |
|---|---|
| 85 and above | Distinction |
| 65–84 | Merit |
| 50–64 | Pass |
| 0–49 | Unclassified |
Note that marks may be accumulated from any and all components of the exam, with the numerical total forming the final result.
Examination Content, Assessment Criteria and Grade Descriptors
Note that examinations via Recorded Digital have slightly different content, and allow the school or individual to submit pre-recorded exams.
These qualifications assess a range of performance, technical, and communication skills, as well as knowledge and understanding, through the following components:
- Practical Assessment: Learners prepare and present their chosen material, (the specifics of which are dependent upon the grade.
- Discussion/Understanding and Reflection: Learners reflect on their chosen tasks, and communicate their ideas on a variety of topics
(the specifics of which are dependent upon the grade).
Public Speaking Syllabus Specification
Learners may enter for the exam as follows:
- One learner (all grades)
Examination Formats
There are three types of examination formats offered:
- Face-to-Face examination (schools/venues only)
- Live Streamed examination (schools/venues only)
- Recorded Digital Exam (schools/organisations and
individuals)
Note that examinations via Recorded Digital have slightly different content, and allow the school or individual to submit pre-recorded exams.
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- Face-to-Face exams are only offered to schools/venues. Applications from individuals will not be accepted.
- PAA operates a minimum fee policy for Face-to-Face exams. Schools should ensure that there are enough learners scheduled to meet this fee before applying. All current fees can be found below
- The examiner will come to your school/venue. The Principal (or equivalent) is required to meet with the examiner 30 minutes before the start of the first exam to discuss any absences or changes to the day.
- The examiner or an RSL representative, will call the Principal (or equivalent) two days before the exam, to introduce themselves and confirm the information on the schedule.
- The learners are assessed by one examiner, although there may be another examiner present, for training or monitoring purposes. Venues must provide examiners with an adequate table, chair, lighting and access to drinking water or refreshments.
- Venues must provide examiners with an adequate table, chair, lighting and access to drinking water or refreshments.
- Venues must provide an appropriate space to conduct the examinations.
- Copies of exam pieces (if applicable) must be provided.
- A member of staff must be on hand outside the exam room, to support the organisation of learners, to chaperone learners when waiting outside and once the exam is completed.
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Live Streamed Exams are intended to give learners an experience that resembles face-to-face exams as closely as possible.
LSE are venue-based and therefore entire days similar to face- to-face exams can take place. This can include multiple venues in different geographic locations on the same day.
Live Streamed Exams are conducted via online video conference using Zoom, between the learners at the exam venue and the examiner based at another location.
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For RSL recorded digital exams to be valid, there are a number of rules that must be adhered to. It is important that learners and teachers read the Procedure Guide carefully before applying for a recorded digital exam, to ensure they have the best chance of submitting a video that we can accept for submission.
To ensure their video submission is valid, it is important that learners and teachers adhere to this guidance.
Note that the whole exam must be performed and filmed in one continuous take. No editing is permitted. Pdf copies of poems (if applicable) must be uploaded when the exam video is submitted.
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Below are general regulations for all RSL Public Speaking examinations:
- Tasks must be performed in English. For Premiere/Debut poems, any published translation of a non-English poem is permitted.
- Regional accents: Whilst vocal clarity is an assessment criterion, it is accepted that learners will speak English with a wide variety of regional accents. It should be noted that learners are assessed on how clearly they communicate in English, and not on their accent.
- All selections must be performed from memory. However, for speeches only, small prompt cards may be used.
Speeches must not be read.
- For candidates under the age of 18, one chaperone (the adult responsible for the candidate) must be present during the examination.
The chaperone:
- – must be provided by the school/centre
- – may be positioned outside of the exam room, if there is clear vision through the window of the exam door
- – must not lead, direct, or assist the candidate in any way. Note that any interaction between the chaperone and the candidate (except in an emergency) may be classed as assisting the candidate and may be reflected in the candidate’s final mark.
- For Recorded Digital Exams, the camera operator may assume the role of chaperone
- No unauthorised person will be allowed in the examination room during an examination
- Electronic devices are not permitted unless they are needed for a visual/audio aid. In this case they must be switched to airplane mode.
- Premiere/Debut only: Printed copies of chosen poems must be provided.
- Grade 1/2 only: If a poem by an established author is chosen, a printed copy must be provided.
- Recorded Digital Exams only: pdf copies of poems (if applicable) must be uploaded when the exam video is submitted.
- Live Streamed Exams only: pdf copies of poems (if applicable) must be provided at least 7 days before the exam.
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Learners may feel that their presentation would benefit from the use of visual or audio aids. For example, a back-beat for a rap, or a picture for a story or speech. Whilst learners are not assessed separately on the use of visual aids, the way in which they are used may impact the demonstration of an assessment criterion (e.g., clarity, fluency). Therefore, if used, it is advisable to pay particular attention to the following:
- Any equipment used must be provided by the learner, and any set-up time would form part of the time allowance for that Task.
- Visual/audio aids should be clearly seen or heard by the examiner, however visual/audio aids must not hinder or impede the learner’s
ability to demonstrate the assessment criteria for the grade taken. The learner must be the focus, not the visual/audio aid.
- If the use of a visual/audio aid restricts the examiner’s ability to assess the relevant criteria, this may impact the mark awarded.
Examples of this may be, but are not restricted to:
- – The learner can not be seen clearly or consistently due to the placing, size, or poor use of the visual aid
- – The learner can not be heard clearly due to the volume of the audio aid
- Weapons of any kind (e.g. knives, guns) are not permitted.
Resources
Download the syllabus and relevant documentation to support your teaching with PAA Acting for free!
PAA Public Speaking: Syllabus Specification
pdf
906.6 KB
PAA Public Speaking – Syllabus – SQA Accredited (Scotland only)
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3.1 MB
PAA Public Speaking: Additional Guidance
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401.3 KB
PAA Public Speaking: Poem Suggestions (Premiere to Grade 2)
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179.5 KB
PAA Recorded Digital Exam Guide (UPDATE Sept. 2024)
pdf
762.8 KB
PAA Public Speaking: Live Digital Exam Guidance
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178.1 KB
PAA Public Speaking: Examples of pictures for discussion at Grade 3
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2.9 MB
PAA Public Speaking: Examples of advertisements for discussion at Grade 7
pdf
1.8 MB
PAA Public Speaking: Examples of news articles for discussion at Grade 8
zip
9.1 MB
PAA Public Speaking: FAQs
pdf
106.9 KB
Tish Tindall, Head of Centre at Lossie Entertainment Academy
“For over 30 years, I have been adapting SQA units to suit the needs of students whose main barrier to learning is a debilitating fear of speaking ‘out loud’. I have watched learners of all ages and abilities crumble at the thought of discussion, presentation, interaction, and interview. PAA’s suite of graded examinations in Public Speaking is the game changer. Step by step, these beautifully crafted learning & teaching packages walk alongside learners and teachers – pinpointing progress and leading the way towards sustainable success. PAA’s suite of graded examinations in Public Speaking is perfect for every learning and teaching environment. It is flexible, accessible, a true source of inspiration, and a huge opportunity for education and industry.”
Public Speaking Fees
Please see the information below for all Public Speaking fees
| Grade | Recorded Digital | Live Stream | Face-to-Face |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premiere | £30 | £33 | £36 |
| Debut | £32 | £34 | £37 |
| Grade 1 | £37 | £40 | £42 |
| Grade 2 | £38 | £41 | £43 |
| Grade 3 | £38 | £41 | £44 |
| Grade 4 | £45 | £50 | £54 |
| Grade 5 | £49 | £54 | £58 |
| Grade 6 | £57 | £62 | £66 |
| Grade 7 | £66 | £72 | £79 |
| Grade 8 | £78 | £84 | £91 |
Please see “other fees” below relating to UK PAA Graded Exams.
Late Entry, Date Changes & Deferrals
| Service | Applicable When... | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Date Change | Changing exam date/time after appointment slip has been issued | £30 |
| Deferral | Deferring exam to future exam period | £30 |
Please see the UK Graded Exams Date Change & Deferral policy for circumstances where the fee can be waived.
Enquiries about Results / Appeals
| Service | Fee | Cap for Multiple Candidates | Refundable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remark | 50% of Exam Fee | £100 | If marks change by more than +/-5 or there is a change of assessment band |
| First Level Appeal | 60% of Exam Fee | £150 | If enquiry is upheld |
| Second Level Appeal | 75% of Exam Fee | £200 | If enquiry if upheld |
Replacement Certificate
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Replacement Certificate | £15 |
Key dates
PAA examinations are open all year round and can be scheduled to fit with your existing programme.
Need more information?
Please visit our PAA FAQ page to find some useful information to help you get started.
Book your PAA exam!
PAA examinations are open all year round and can be scheduled to fit with your existing programme.
