ESB Graded Examinations in Speech Teacher Guidance: Foundation

 Content – (1) go beyond easily recognisable events and stories; (2)  give the opportunity to explore emoƟons, moods and   atmosphere outside the student’s immediate experience; and (3)  could contain imaginary people (and places for Grade 2 and Grade  3).   If students are struggling to make a choice, consider selecƟng a small  number of poems and monologues that contain the opportunity for  vocal variety. Allow each group (for example 6 students) to read and  pass the pieces round. Each student might then select one or two to  read aloud to their group. You could then ask students who have  chosen the same piece to work together.   Advise students to consider their introducƟon to their chosen piece.  Ask them to write down a list of reasons why they find their choice of  poetry interesƟng. Explaining these reasons in their introducƟon will  help them connect to the audience and awaken interest in their  choice.     Encourage students to pracƟse their piece oŌen. PracƟsing regularly  will help students to feel less hesitant about delivering it. Once a piece  is secure in the memory, students can also start to layer it by   experimenƟng with pitch, tone, pace and pause. This will help them to  begin to bring the poem or monologue to life.    Please see the Suggested Choices  secƟon for a list of recommended  pieces of poetry and drama.  For further guidance about choosing poetry, drama and prose, please watch  this video:

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