The Component 3 dictation question (worth 6 to 10 marks): completing missing notes, rhythms or chords on a score by ear, using pulse, intervals, note values and the conventions of the set works.

What this dot point is asking

Edexcel sets a musical dictation question in Component 3 every year, worth 6 to 10 marks. You hear an extract and complete missing notes, rhythms or chords on a printed score. It tests practical notation skill, hearing pitch and rhythm accurately and writing it down. The specification says the dictation could be completing notes on staff notation or guitar tablature, identifying a rhythm, or completing a chord sequence, all drawn from the conventions of the set works.

What the dictation asks

Step one: fix the metre and key

Step two: work out pitch and rhythm

Step three: sing it back and check

How Edexcel examines this

The dictation appears in Section A and is marked per correct note value or pitch (with partial credit for correct contour or rhythm placement). The mark scheme rewards accurate notation anchored to the given material, so neatness and clear note values matter. The most reliable preparation is regular practice: notate short rhythms and melodies from the set works (whose conventions the dictation uses) until counting the pulse and hearing intervals is automatic. In the exam, do not leave it blank, even a partly correct answer scores.

Try this

Q1. In $4/4$, how many crotchet beats must each bar contain? [Knowledge recall]

• Cue. Four crotchet beats; the note values in every bar must total four.

Q2. What is the first thing to do before notating a melodic dictation? [Short explanation]

• Cue. Fix the framework: count the metre (beats per bar) and identify the key from the key signature and the given starting note.