What should be called if a severe error occurs when attempting GL4 and a lifted position is not attained?

When a severe error occurs during a GL4 attempt and a lifted position is not achieved, the situation is handled by calling the element as GL2 and starting at GL3, which represents lowering by one level. This approach acknowledges the error while still recognizing the skater's attempt.

Calling it GL2 reflects that they did not adequately perform the difficulty required for GL4 but still managed to execute some element or element skills, thus allowing for a score that recognizes the performance. Starting at GL3 indicates that while they did not succeed at the highest level, their execution merits recognition at this intermediate level.

This system of calling elements ensures that skaters are evaluated fairly based on their performance level, encouraging improvement while accurately reflecting their execution. The other choices do not align with the protocol that addresses severe errors in the context of level attainment, which is why they are not suitable in this scenario.