Rockschool music qualifications are tailor-made for the contemporary musician.
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).
