Syllabus: Cambridge Igcse First Language English

SyllabuS
Cambridge IGCSE®
First language English
0500
0522*
For examination in June and November 2016.
Also available for examination in March 2016 for India only.
*This syllabus is approved for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland as a Cambridge International
Level 1/Level 2 Certificate (QN: 500/5782/0).
Cambridge Secondary 2 Version 3

Changes to syllabus for 2016
This document is Version 3 of the syllabus for 2016, published in January 2015.
Key changes previously made in Version 1 for 2016 are as follows:
• The coursework forms were removed. The forms for syllabus 0500/0522 for 2016, and the
instructions for completing them, may be downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples. The
database will ask you for the syllabus code (i.e. 0500 or 0522) and your Centre number, after
which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions when completing each form.
• The front cover and page 8 were amended to include the March examination series of syllabus
0500 for India only.
Changes made in Versions 2 and 3 are as follows:

Page 21 Section 6.5 Component 5 Speaking and Listening Test
The following text has been added after the fifth paragraph:
‘Candidates must take the speaking and listening test once only.’
Pages 20, 21, 23 and 34

References to forms ‘provided in the Appendix’ (which appeared in syllabuses pre-2016) have been
replaced by the following text: ‘may be downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples’
Page 26 Section 7.1.1 Component 4 Coursework Portfolio

The information in ‘4 Drafting assignments’ has been clarified as follows:
‘In order to allow candidates to demonstrate their abilities to the full, teachers must not provide
candidates with any kind of template for their coursework.’
Page 36 Section 7.2.2 Administrative arrangements

The fifth bullet under ‘7 Recording of candidates’ has been amended and separated into three bullets,
with the following words added:
• The speaking and listening test cannot be repeated in the same examination series. If a Centre
has a specific query about this, they should contact Cambridge at info@cie.org.uk
The third sentence of the final bullet under ‘7 Recording of candidates’ now reads:
‘Both sides of each cassette should be used before beginning a new cassette and the contents of
each should be clearly labelled.’
Page 49 Section 9 Additional information for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
The Key Skills information has been removed.
The key changes to the syllabus for 2016 are identified by black vertical lines either side of the text.
Cambridge International Examinations retains the copyright on all its publications. Registered Centres are
permitted to copy material from this booklet for their own internal use. However, we cannot give permission
to Centres to photocopy any material that is acknowledged to a third party even for internal use within a
Centre.
® IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations
© Cambridge International Examinations 2014

Contents
1. Introduction .................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 Why choose Cambridge?
1.2 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE?
1.3 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE First Language English?
1.4 Cambridge International Certificate of Education (ICE)
1.5 How can I find out more?
2. Teacher support.............................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Support materials
2.2 Resource lists
2.3 Training
3. Assessment at a glance ................................................................................................. 6
4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives ..................................................................... 9

4.1 Syllabus aims
4.2 Assessment objectives
4.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components
4.4 Grade descriptions
5. Syllabus content ........................................................................................................... 13
6. Description of components .......................................................................................... 15

6.1 Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core)
6.2 Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)
6.3 Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition
6.4 Component 4 Coursework Portfolio
6.5 Component 5 Speaking and Listening Test
6.6 Component 6 Speaking and Listening Coursework
7. Additional information for Components 4, 5 and 6 ....................................................... 24

8. Other information ......................................................................................................... 47
9. Additional information for England, Wales and Northern Ireland .................................. 48

Introduction
1. Introduction
1.1 Why choose Cambridge?

Recognition
Cambridge International Examinations is the world’s largest provider of international education programmes
and qualifications for learners aged 5 to 19. We are part of Cambridge Assessment, a department of the
University of Cambridge, trusted for excellence in education. Our qualifications are recognised by the
world’s universities and employers.
Cambridge IGCSE® (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is internationally

recognised by schools, universities and employers as equivalent in demand to UK GCSEs. Learn more at
www.cie.org.uk/recognition
Excellence in education
Our mission is to deliver world-class international education through the provision of high-quality curricula,
assessment and services.
More than 9000 schools are part of our Cambridge learning community. We support teachers in over 160
countries who offer their learners an international education based on our curricula and leading to our
qualifications. Every year, thousands of learners use Cambridge qualifications to gain places at universities
around the world.
Our syllabuses are reviewed and updated regularly so that they reflect the latest thinking of international
experts and practitioners and take account of the different national contexts in which they are taught.
Cambridge programmes and qualifications are designed to support learners in becoming:

• confident in working with information and ideas – their own and those of others
• responsible for themselves, responsive to and respectful of others
• reflective as learners, developing their ability to learn
• innovative and equipped for new and future challenges
• engaged intellectually and socially, ready to make a difference.
Support for teachers

A wide range of materials and resources is available to support teachers and learners in Cambridge schools.
Resources suit a variety of teaching methods in different international contexts. Through subject discussion
forums and training, teachers can access the expert advice they need for teaching our qualifications. More
details can be found in Section 2 of this syllabus and at www.cie.org.uk/teachers
Support for exams officers

Exams officers can trust in reliable, efficient administration of exams entries and excellent personal support
from our customer services. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers
2 Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500/0522. Syllabus for examination in 2016.
Introduction
Not-for-profit, part of the University of Cambridge

We are a not-for-profit organisation where the needs of the teachers and learners are at the core of what we
do. We continually invest in educational research and respond to feedback from our customers in order to
improve our qualifications, products and services.
Our systems for managing the provision of international qualifications and education programmes for
learners aged 5 to 19 are certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard for quality
management, ISO 9001:2008. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/ISO9001
1.2 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE?

Cambridge IGCSEs are international in outlook, but retain a local relevance. The syllabuses provide
opportunities for contextualised learning and the content has been created to suit a wide variety of schools,
avoid cultural bias and develop essential lifelong skills, including creative thinking and problem-solving.
Our aim is to balance knowledge, understanding and skills in our programmes and qualifications to enable
candidates to become effective learners and to provide a solid foundation for their continuing educational
journey.
Through our professional development courses and our support materials for Cambridge IGCSEs, we
provide the tools to enable teachers to prepare learners to the best of their ability and work with us in the
pursuit of excellence in education.
Cambridge IGCSEs are considered to be an excellent preparation for Cambridge International AS and
A Levels, the Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) Group Award,
Cambridge Pre-U, and other education programmes, such as the US Advanced Placement program
and the International Baccalaureate Diploma programme. Learn more about Cambridge IGCSEs at
www.cie.org.uk/cambridgesecondary2
Guided learning hours

Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses are designed on the assumption that learners have about 130 guided learning
hours per subject over the duration of the course, but this is for guidance only. The number of hours
required to gain the qualification may vary according to local curricular practice and the learners’ prior
experience of the subject.
1.3 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE First Language English?

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is designed for learners whose mother tongue is English. The
course allows learners to:
• develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing
• learn how to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
• develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.
Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness
of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more
general analysis and communication skills such as synthesis, inference, and the ability to order facts and
present opinions effectively.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500/0522. Syllabus for examination in 2016. 3
Introduction
Prior learning
We recommend that learners who are beginning this course should have a level in English equivalent to
First Language competence.
Progression
Cambridge IGCSEs are general qualifications that enable learners to progress directly to employment or to
proceed to further qualifications.
Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C in Cambridge IGCSE First Language English are well prepared
to follow courses leading to Cambridge International AS and A Level English Language, or the equivalent.
1.4 Cambridge International Certificate of Education (ICE)

Cambridge ICE is a group award for Cambridge IGCSE. It gives schools the opportunity to benefit
from offering a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the achievements of learners who pass
examinations in at least seven subjects. To qualify for the Cambridge ICE award learners are required to
have studied subjects from five groups: two languages from Group 1, and one subject from each of the
remaining four groups. The seventh subject can be taken from any of the five subject groups.
First Language English (0500 and 0522) is in Group 1, Languages.
Learn more about Cambridge ICE at www.cie.org.uk/cambridgesecondary2
The Cambridge ICE is awarded from examinations administered in the June and November series each year.
In India, the Cambridge ICE is also awarded from examinations administered in the March series each year.
This syllabus is also available for examination in March 2016 for India only.
1.5 How can I find out more?

If you are already a Cambridge school
You can make entries for this qualification through your usual channels. If you have any questions, please
contact us at info@cie.org.uk
If you are not yet a Cambridge school

Learn about the benefits of becoming a Cambridge school at www.cie.org.uk/startcambridge. Email us at
info@cie.org.uk to find out how your organisation can register to become a Cambridge school.
Teacher support
2. Teacher support
2.1 Support materials

Cambridge syllabuses, past question papers and examiner reports to cover the last examination series are
on the Syllabus and Support Materials DVD, which we send to all Cambridge schools.
You can also go to our public website at www.cie.org.uk/igcse to download current and future syllabuses
together with specimen papers or past question papers and examiner reports from one series.
For teachers at registered Cambridge schools a range of additional support materials for specific
syllabuses is available from Teacher Support, our secure online support for Cambridge teachers. Go to
http://teachers.cie.org.uk (username and password required).
2.2 Resource lists

We work with publishers providing a range of resources for our syllabuses including textbooks, websites,
CDs etc. Any endorsed, recommended and suggested resources are listed on both our public website and
on Teacher Support.
The resource lists can be filtered to show all resources or just those which are endorsed or recommended
by Cambridge. Resources endorsed by Cambridge go through a detailed quality assurance process and are
written to align closely with the Cambridge syllabus they support.
2.3 Training
We offer a range of support activities for teachers to ensure they have the relevant knowledge and skills to
deliver our qualifications. See www.cie.org.uk/events for further information.
Assessment at a glance
3. assessment at a glance
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)

Candidates must take two components – one of Paper 1 or Paper 2, and one of Paper 3 or Component 4.*
Components
Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core) or Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)
1 hour 45 minutes 50 marks 2 hours 50 marks
Candidates answer three questions on two Candidates answer three questions on two
passages. Passage A will be 500–600 words passages. Passage A will be 650–750 words
long and Passage B will be 300–350 words long. long and Passage B will be 550–650 words long.
This component is set and marked by This component is set and marked by
Cambridge. Cambridge.
This component is eligible for grades C–G and is This component is eligible for grades A–E and is
worth 50% of the total marks. worth 50% of the total marks.*
and
Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition or Component 4 Coursework Portfolio
(Core and Extended) (Core and Extended)
2 hours 50 marks 50 marks
Candidates answer one question on a passage or Candidates submit three assignments, each of
passages totalling 650–750 words, and complete 500–800 words.
a composition task from a choice of four titles. This component is assessed by the teacher and
This component is set and marked by moderated by Cambridge.
Cambridge. This component is eligible for grades A–G and is
This component is eligible for grades A–G and is worth 50% of the total marks.*
worth 50% of the total marks.*
Centres may also choose to enter candidates for the Speaking and Listening Test or for the Speaking
and Listening Coursework. Marks for these optional components do not contribute to the overall grade
candidates receive for the written components. Instead, where candidates perform to an appropriate
standard, certificates record achievement of grades 1 (high) to 5 (low).
Component 5 Speaking and listening Test or Component 6 Speaking and listening

(Core and Extended) Coursework
Approx. 10–12 minutes 30 marks (Core and Extended) 30 marks
There is no question paper. Candidates conduct Candidates take part in at least one individual
an individual task and take part in a discussion. activity, at least one pair-based activity and at
All candidates are recorded during the least one group activity.
administration period. All candidates are recorded for the individual and
This component is assessed by the teacher and pair-based activities. Group activities do not need
moderated by Cambridge. to be recorded.
This component is assessed by the teacher and
moderated by Cambridge.
* A* is available for the overall syllabus if the Extended route is followed.
Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate First Language English

(0522)*
Candidates must take three components – one of Paper 1 or Paper 2, and one of Paper 3 or Component 4
and one of Component 5 or Component 6.**
Components
Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core) or Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)
1 hour 45 minutes 50 marks 2 hours 50 marks
Candidates answer three questions on two Candidates answer three questions on two
passages. Passage A will be 500–600 words passages. Passage A will be 650–750 words
long and Passage B will be 300–350 words long. long and Passage B will be 550–650 words long.
This component is set and marked by This component is set and marked by
Cambridge. Cambridge.
This component is eligible for grades C–G and is This component is eligible for grades A–E and is
worth 40% of the total marks. worth 40% of the total marks.**
and
Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition or Component 4 Coursework Portfolio
(Core and Extended) (Core and Extended)
2 hours 50 marks 50 marks
Candidates answer one question on a passage or Candidates submit three assignments, each of
passages totalling 650–750 words, and complete 500–800 words.
a composition task from a choice of four titles. This component is assessed by the teacher and
This component is set and marked by moderated by Cambridge.
Cambridge. This component is eligible for grades A–G and is
This component is eligible for grades A–G and is worth 40% of the total marks.**
worth 40% of the total marks.**
and
Component 5 Speaking and listening Test or Component 6 Speaking and listening
(Core and Extended) Coursework
Approx. 10–12 minutes 30 marks (Core and Extended) 30 marks
There is no question paper. Candidates conduct Candidates take part in at least one individual
an individual task and take part in a discussion. activity, at least one pair-based activity and at
All candidates are recorded during the least one group activity.
administration period. All candidates are recorded for the individual and
This component is assessed by the teacher and pair-based activities. Group activities do not need
moderated by Cambridge. to be recorded.
This component is eligible for grades A–G and is This component is assessed by the teacher and
worth 20% of the total marks.** moderated by Cambridge.
This component is eligible for grades A–G and is
worth 20% of the total marks.**
* Approved for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

** A* is available for the overall syllabus if the Extended route is followed.
Availability
This syllabus is examined in the June and November examination series. Syllabus 0500 is also available for
examination in March for India only from March 2015.
Detailed timetables are available from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers
For First Language English there are two syllabuses, 0500 (IGCSE) and 0522 (Cambridge International
Level 1/Level 2 Certificate).
Syllabus 0500 (Cambridge IGCSE) has optional Speaking and Listening components which do not contribute
to the overall grade candidates receive. Instead the certificate records performance in Speaking and
Listening as an endorsement (Grade 1–5) on the certificate.
Syllabus 0522 includes compulsory Speaking and Listening which contribute to the overall grade candidates
receive.
0522 appears on the Register of Regulated Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland as
a Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate. This is the official title for all Cambridge IGCSEs
approved by Ofqual.
0522 is also available in administrative Zone 3. Schools outside Zone 3 should contact Cambridge if they
wish to enter candidates for syllabus 0522 instead of syllabus 0500. If you are uncertain about whether you
are in this zone, please refer to Timetabling exams at www.cie.org.uk/profiles/exams_officers/guide/
preparation/timetabling_exams/adminzones/index_html
Specific components on 0500 and 0522 are available to private candidates. Private candidates can opt
for either Paper 1 or Paper 2 and must opt for Paper 3. For 0522, private candidates must also opt for
Component 05.
Only the 0522 syllabus counts towards school performance tables in England.
To access the latest information regarding performance tables Centres should consult the Department for
Education website www.education.gov.uk
Combining this with other syllabuses

Candidates can combine this syllabus in an examination series with any other Cambridge syllabus, except:
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level
• 0510 Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language
• 0511 Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (count-in oral)
• 1123 Cambridge O Level English Language.
Please note that Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate and Cambridge
O Level syllabuses are at the same level.
No candidate may enter for more than one English Language subject.
Syllabus aims and assessment objectives
4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives
4.1 Syllabus aims

The aims of the syllabus are the same for all candidates. The aims are set out below and describe the
educational purposes of a course in First Language English for the Cambridge IGCSE examination. They are
not listed in order of priority.
The aims are to:

• enable candidates to understand and respond to what they hear, read and experience
• enable candidates to communicate accurately, appropriately, confidently and effectively
• encourage candidates to enjoy and appreciate a variety of language
• complement candidates’ ability to work with information and ideas in other areas of study, for example,
by developing skills of analysis, synthesis and the drawing of inferences
• promote candidates’ personal development and an understanding of themselves and others.
4.2 Assessment objectives

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English has three assessment objectives (AOs).
AO1: Reading
Candidates will be assessed on their ability to:
R1 demonstrate understanding of explicit meanings
R2 demonstrate understanding of implicit meanings and attitudes
R3 analyse, evaluate and develop facts, ideas and opinions
R4 demonstrate understanding of how writers achieve effects
R5 select for specific purposes.
AO2: Writing
W1 articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined
W2 sequence facts, ideas and opinions
W3 use a range of appropriate vocabulary
W4 use register appropriate to audience and context
W5 make accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar.
AO3: Speaking and listening

SL1 articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined
SL2 present facts, ideas and opinions in a sustained, cohesive order
SL3 communicate clearly, fluently and purposefully as an individual and in dialogue with other speakers
SL4 use register appropriate to audience and context
SL5 listen to and respond appropriately to the contributions of others.
4.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components

Syllabus code 0500
Component aO1 aO2 aO3 Whole
Reading Writing Speaking assessment
(marks) (marks) and listening %
(marks)
Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core) 40 10 – 50%
or
Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)
Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition 10 40 – 50%
or
Component 4 Coursework Portfolio
Component 5 Speaking and Listening Test – – 30 Separately
or endorsed
Component 6
Speaking and Listening Coursework
Syllabus code 0522*

Component aO1 aO2 aO3 Whole
Reading Writing Speaking assessment
(marks) (marks) and listening %
(marks)
Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core) 40 10 – 40%
or
Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)
Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition 10 40 – 40%
or
Component 4 Coursework Portfolio
Component 5 Speaking and Listening Test – – 30 20%
or
Component 6
Speaking and Listening Coursework
* Accredited for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
4.4 Grade descriptions

Grade descriptions give a general indication of the standards of achievement likely to be shown by
candidates awarded particular grades.
To achieve a Grade a, a candidate will be able to:

• understand and communicate complex information, and select what is relevant for specific purposes
• understand and evaluate subtle facts, ideas and opinions
• present material in a clearly structured, sequenced, developed and detailed way
• describe and analyse experience, expressing effectively what is felt and what is imagined
• recognise implicit meanings and attitudes of a writer, and the means by which they have been conveyed
• show a strong sense of audience and an understanding of appropriate uses of language for different
purposes
• write in well constructed paragraphs, using a full range of appropriate sentence types, and a wide and
mature vocabulary
• demonstrate a high degree of accuracy in use of grammatical structures, spelling and punctuation.
And additionally, for candidates taking the Speaking and Listening components:
• select and use appropriate spoken styles and registers, varying language and expression confidently for
different contexts and to engage audience interest, sustaining discussion through frequent contributions
• listen in a focused and sensitive way, responding effectively to the speech of others.
To achieve a Grade C, a candidate will be able to:

• understand and communicate information, sometimes at a complex level and select what is relevant for
specific purposes
• understand and reflect on facts, ideas and opinions
• present material in a structured and coherent way, with some development and use of detail
• describe and reflect upon experience, expressing appropriately what is felt and what is imagined
• recognise the more obvious implicit meanings and attitudes of a writer, and the general effects
conveyed
• show a sense of audience and an awareness of appropriate uses of language for different purposes
• write in paragraphs, using a variety of sentence types and a varied vocabulary
• demonstrate accuracy in use of grammatical structures, spelling and punctuation.
• use an appropriate style when speaking, and communicate clearly, partly engaging the interest of the
listener; make relevant contributions to discussion
• listen to others, and respond with their own views and ideas.
To achieve a Grade F, a candidate will be able to:

• understand and communicate information at a straightforward level, and select what is relevant for
specific purposes
• understand and describe basic facts, ideas and opinions
• present material with some sense of order and coherence
• describe experience in concrete terms, expressing intelligibly what is felt and what is imagined
• recognise clear meanings and explicit attitudes of a writer, and comment on them at a literal level
• show awareness that language is used in different ways in different circumstances
• write in accurate, simple sentences, using a basic vocabulary
• demonstrate accuracy in simple grammar usage, spelling and punctuation.
• explain ideas, describe events and convey opinions clearly when speaking; sometimes contribute to
discussion
• show a readiness to listen to others, and sometimes respond appropriately.
Syllabus content
5. Syllabus content
Candidates may follow either the Core Curriculum only or the Extended Curriculum, which includes both the
Core and Extended content. Candidates aiming for grades A* to B must follow the Extended Curriculum.
The skills covered in the syllabus are outlined below.
assessment objective 1: Reading
Core Extended
• demonstrate understanding of words and • demonstrate a precise understanding of

phrases within extended texts extended texts
• identify and develop facts, ideas and • synthesise, develop, analyse and evaluate
opinions facts, ideas and opinions
• summarise, paraphrase and re-express • effectively summarise, paraphrase and
• demonstrate some understanding of how re-express
writers achieve their effects • demonstrate understanding of how writers
• recognise and respond to simple linguistic achieve their effects
devices including figurative language • recognise and respond to sophisticated
• extract specific information. linguistic devices
• extract appropriate information for specific
purposes.
assessment objective 2: Writing
Core Extended
• express thoughts, feelings and opinions in • express effectively what is thought, felt and
order to interest, inform or convince the imagined
reader • order and convey facts, ideas and opinions
• convey simple and detailed facts, ideas and effectively
opinions in an orderly sequence • demonstrate a sophisticated use of
• use appropriate vocabulary imaginative and varied vocabulary
• demonstrate some sense of audience and • demonstrate a clear sense of audience and
context context
• demonstrate adequate control of spelling, • demonstrate accuracy in spelling,
punctuation and grammar punctuation and grammar
• attempt a variety of sentence structures. • use effectively a variety of sentence
structures.
Syllabus content
assessment objective 3: Speaking and listening
Core Extended
• describe experience in simple terms and • describe and reflect on experience, and
express intelligibly what is thought, felt and express effectively what is thought, felt and
imagined imagined
• recognise and give statements of opinion • understand and convey complex
and attitude information in a sophisticated way
• present facts, ideas and opinions in an • order and present facts, ideas and opinions
orderly sequence effectively
• communicate with some clarity, focus and • discuss statements of opinion and attitude,
purpose discerning underlying assumptions and
• communicate with some awareness of points of view
audience and context • communicate with clarity, focus and
• make relevant comments on what is heard. purpose
• communicate appropriately depending on
the audience and context
• evaluate and reflect on what is heard.
Description of components
6. Description of components
6.1 Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core)

1 hour 45 minutes, 50 marks
Candidates answer three questions on two passages which may be on a similar topic. Candidates write
all their answers in the spaces provided on the question paper. Passage A will be 500–600 words and
Passage B will be 300–350 words in length. Candidates should spend approximately 10 minutes reading the
passages. These passages will be printed on the question paper insert. Dictionaries may not be used.
Candidates taking this component are eligible for grades C–G.

50% of the total marks available for syllabus 0500.
Question 1 Comprehension questions (20 marks)

This is a series of sub-questions in response to Passage A, requiring answers of different lengths and testing
the following reading assessment objectives (20 marks):
R3 analyse, evaluate and develop facts, ideas and opinions
R4 demonstrate understanding of how writers achieve effects.
Question 2 Extended response (15 marks)

This question, in response to Passage A, may be sub-divided.
Candidates write about 200–300 words, responding in one of the following text types: letter, report, journal,
speech, interview, newspaper report or magazine article.
This question tests the following reading assessment objectives (10 marks):
R3 analyse, evaluate and develop facts, ideas and opinions.
The question also tests the following writing assessment objectives (5 marks):
W4 use register appropriate to audience and context.
Question 3 Summary question (15 marks)

This question, in response to Passage B, may be sub-divided.
Candidates write their content points in note form and then their summary as continuous writing of 100–150
words.
W3 use a range of appropriate vocabulary.
6.2 Paper 2 Reading Passages (Extended)

2 hours, 50 marks
Candidates answer three questions on two passages which may be on a similar topic. Candidates write all
their answers in the spaces provided on the question paper. Passage A will be 650–750 words and Passage
B will be 550–650 words in length. Candidates should spend approximately 15 minutes reading the
passages. These passages will be printed on the question paper insert. Dictionaries may not be used.
Candidates taking this component are eligible for grades A–E (and A* at syllabus level).
Question 1 Extended response (20 marks)

Candidates write about 250–350 words, responding in one of the following text types: letter, report, journal,
speech, interview, newspaper report or magazine article.
W4 use register appropriate to audience and context.
Question 2 language question (10 marks)

Candidates write about 200–300 words.
This question tests the following reading assessment objective (10 marks):
R4 demonstrate understanding of how writers achieve effects.
Question 3 Summary question (20 marks)

This question in response to Passage B may be sub-divided.
Candidates write their content points in note form and then their summary as continuous writing of 200–250
words.
W3 use a range of appropriate vocabulary.
6.3 Paper 3 Directed Writing and Composition

2 hours, 50 marks
Candidates answer two questions, one from each section. Candidates write both their answers in the
spaces provided on the question paper. Dictionaries may not be used.
Candidates taking this component are eligible for grades A–G (and A* at syllabus level if the Extended route
is followed).
Section 1 Directed Writing (25 marks)

Candidates answer one question on a passage or passages totalling 650–750 words, printed on the question
paper insert.
This question may be sub-divided.
Candidates use, develop and evaluate the information in a discursive/argumentative letter or article.
This question tests the following writing assessment objectives (15 marks):
This question also tests the following reading assessment objectives (10 marks):
Section 2 Composition (25 marks)

Candidates answer one question from a choice of two descriptive and two narrative titles.
This question tests the following writing assessment objectives (25 marks):

50 marks
This component description should be read in conjunction with Section 7.1 in this syllabus and the relevant
sections of the Cambridge Administrative Guide and the Cambridge Handbook.
The forms required for the conduct and assessment of the coursework portfolio may be downloaded from
www.cie.org.uk/samples (see Sections 7.1.4 and 7.1.5 for details).
Candidates are eligible for grades A–G on this component (and A* at syllabus level if the Extended route is
followed).
Candidates submit a coursework portfolio of three assignments, each of about 500–800 words. The
assignments may be conducted in any order, and are:
assignment 1: informative, analytical and/or argumentative
assignment 2: descriptive and/or narrative
assignment 3: a response to a text or texts of approximately two sides of A4 in total, chosen by the Centre.
The text(s) should contain facts, opinions and arguments. Candidates respond by selecting, analysing and
evaluating the content of the text(s). They may write in any appropriate form they wish. Different candidates
in the same teaching set may choose to respond to different text(s) and/or in different forms.
The coursework portfolio tests the following writing assessment objectives (40 marks):
For Assignment 3 only, the following reading assessment objectives are tested (10 marks):
Work may be handwritten or word-processed.
Dictionaries may be used.
Candidates must include the first draft of one of the three assignments submitted. The first draft will not
contribute to the final internally assessed mark or to the externally moderated mark for the coursework
portfolio.
The coursework portfolio must also include the text(s) used for Assignment 3.
A teacher/moderator at the Centre conducts and internally assesses the coursework portfolio(s) using
the assessment criteria in Section 7.1.3. They send the final marks, a sample of candidates’ coursework
portfolios and completed forms for external moderation by Cambridge before the advertised final date.
Centres will receive a brief report on the outcome of the external moderation.

approximately 10–12 minutes, 30 marks
This component is optional for syllabus 0500 and is separately endorsed with grades of 1 (high) to 5 (low).
For syllabus 0522, candidates must enter for either Component 5 or 6 and this accounts for 20% of the total
marks. Candidates are eligible for grades A to G on this component (and A* at syllabus level if the Extended
route is followed).
There is no question paper for the speaking and listening test. The test is recorded for all candidates.
The forms required for the conduct and assessment of the test may be downloaded from
www.cie.org.uk/samples (see Sections 7.2.3 and 7.2.5 for details).
The speaking and listening test(s) take place during a period before the main examination series (see the
relevant series’ timetable).
Candidates must take the speaking and listening test once only.
There are two parts to the test:
Part 1 Individual Task (3–4 minutes) (10 marks)

The candidate talks for about 3–4 minutes on a single topic or theme which they have selected prior to the
test. For example, a presentation, a talk, a speech or a monologue (e.g. the candidate talks about his or
her reactions to meeting a famous person; the candidate talks about a recent film he or she has seen and
suggests why others would also like it).
The individual task tests the following speaking and listening assessment objectives (10 marks):
SL4 use register appropriate to audience and context.
Dictionaries may be used to prepare the individual task, but they may not be taken into the test.
Part 2 Discussion (6–7 minutes) (20 marks)

The individual task leads into a conversation with the teacher/examiner about the candidate’s chosen topic.
For example, an account of meeting a famous person could be developed into a discussion of wider issues
such as the nature and role of ‘celebrity’ and media intrusion; a talk about a film could be developed into
discussion of wider issues such as censorship, popular culture and the film industry.
The discussion tests the following speaking and listening assessment objectives (20 marks):
SL5 listen to and respond appropriately to the contributions of others.
Dictionaries may not be used in the test.
A teacher/examiner conducts and internally assesses the test(s) using the assessment criteria in Section
7.2.4. This teacher/examiner will usually be someone from the Centre’s English department. They send the
final marks, a recorded sample of the candidates’ performance and completed forms for external moderation
by Cambridge before the advertised final date. Centres will receive a brief report on the outcome of the
external moderation.

This component is optional for syllabus 0500 and is separately endorsed with grades of 1 (high) to 5 (low).
For syllabus 0522, candidates must enter for either Component 5 or 6 and this accounts for 20% of the total
marks. Candidates are eligible for grades A to G on this component (and A* at syllabus level if the Extended
route is followed).
The forms required for the conduct and assessment of the speaking and listening coursework may be
downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples (see Sections 7.3.1 and 7.3.2 for details).
Internal records must be kept of the activities and achievements of each candidate during the course.
The final mark for the speaking and listening coursework will be out of 30.
Candidates are assessed on their performance during the course in at least three different speaking and
listening tasks. The tasks have different contexts as listed below and can be done in any order. Candidates
can conduct different activities within a class.
Task 1 (individual activity) and Task 2 (pair-based activity) are recorded for all candidates.
Task 1 – an individual activity

For example, the candidate talks about his or her favourite hobby; the candidate describes a place that he or
she has visited and enjoyed.
Task 2 – a pair-based activity

For example, two candidates role-play an argument between two neighbours; the teacher interviews two
candidates about how something at school could be improved.
Task 3 – a group activity

For example, candidates discuss in a group who to invite (and why) to open the new local shopping centre;
in a parole board scenario, the teacher presents cases for prisoners, and candidates discuss in a group
whether or not each case merits early release.
Tasks are equally weighted in the final assessment and test the following speaking and listening assessment
objectives (30 marks):
SL5 listen to and respond appropriately to the contributions of others (Tasks 2 and 3 only).
Dictionaries may be used in preparing for the activities, but they may not be used during the activities.
A teacher/moderator conducts and internally assesses the activities using the assessment criteria in Section
7.3. This teacher/moderator will usually be someone from the Centre’s English department. They send the
final marks, a recorded sample of the candidates’ performance and completed forms for external moderation
by Cambridge before the advertised final date. Centres will receive a brief report on the outcome of the
external moderation.
Additional information for Components 4, 5 and 6
7. additional information for Components 4, 5 and 6

7.1.1 General guidance
Please read this information in conjunction with the relevant sections of the Cambridge Handbook and the
Cambridge Administrative Guide.
1. Format of the portfolio

• T
he three assignments (together with the first draft of one of them) must be securely fastened (e.g.
by stapling or treasury tags) and each must be marked clearly with the candidate’s name, Centre
number and candidate number.
• W
ork for external moderation must not be sent to Cambridge in plastic folders or bulky and heavy
ring binders.
• A completed Individual Candidate Record Card must be included with each portfolio.
2. assignments: general issues
• Assignments should arise from the programme of study undertaken by the teaching group.
• T
he best assignments are usually those that come from a shared learning experience but are finally
chosen by individual candidates; negotiation of assignments with the teacher is recommended
(bearing in mind that these should be sufficiently challenging to stretch candidates to their
full potential). For example, a class might study types of short story and their structures and
conventions before individual candidates choose their own titles and write their own short stories for
Assignment 2.
• Q
uestions from past examination papers should not normally be used for coursework. Candidates
are not expected to work under timed conditions.
• A
ssignments 1–3 may be completed in any sequence during the course. It is generally better that
candidates do more than three assignments during the course from which a suitable choice can
eventually be made for the final portfolio.
3. assignments: meeting the syllabus requirements
• T
he assignments must clearly demonstrate different writing intentions and styles to the reader. For
example:
assignment 1
assignment 1 Two examples:

informative,
• a logbook/diary giving information on what was done during two days of a
analytical and/or
work experience or an activity weekend (i.e. writing to inform)
argumentative
• an argument from an informed, personal viewpoint about a topical
issue, e.g. arguing against the ill-treatment of prisoners (i.e. writing to
persuade).
assignment 2
Candidates may submit poetry for Assignment 2, but this must be accompanied by some form of
commentary by the candidate, e.g. about how the poem(s) came to be written. The commentary will be
included in the word count.

descriptive and/or
• a detailed description of the people who frequent a local shop, and the
narrative
atmosphere of the shop (i.e. writing to describe)
• a story about internet hacking, demonstrating the candidate’s
understanding of how to create character, significant events and
structure, such as climax or an unusual ending (i.e. writing to entertain).
assignment 3
• Assignment 3 is a piece of directed writing in response to a text or texts chosen by the teacher (or by the
candidate, with the teacher’s approval). This assignment is assessed for both writing and reading skills.
• Centres are advised to set text(s) of about two sides of A4 in length altogether. Text(s) may consist of
controversial facts, opinions and/or arguments which can be analysed and evaluated by the candidate
and can be transformed and integrated into their own views. Note that if a literature text(s) is used,
candidates should respond to the facts, opinions and arguments contained in the text(s) rather than to
the writer’s choice of language and literary devices.
• Text(s) may be of local, national or global interest – or all three – and should be suitable for the ability
range of the candidates. They may be drawn from a variety of sources, e.g. newspapers, magazine
articles, travel writing, text-based websites, propaganda and media. Note that text(s) that are mainly
informative or that provide content which has no development/discussion should not be set.
• The candidate should explain the views presented in the text(s), develop any ideas of interest and argue
with or against them, examining them for inconsistencies and substituting complementary or opposing
views.
• The assignment may be written in any appropriate form (e.g. an article, a letter, or the words of a
speech), but teachers must make sure that Assignment 3 does not have the same form and style as
Assignment 1 in the final portfolio.
• A copy of all texts used for the third assignment must be included with the sample of portfolios sent to
the external moderator.

response to
• Stimulus text(s): several letters published in a newspaper in response to a
texts
proposal for a new development in the locality
Assignment: Analyse and evaluate the information and views you have read
and write an article based on them for the newspaper. Your own views
should be based on the content of the letters.
• Stimulus text(s): a magazine article advocating the cull of a species of

animal that has become a nuisance
Assignment: Analyse and evaluate the information and views expressed
in the article and either (a) write your own article in response or (b) write a
letter to the author of the article.
4. Drafting assignments
• I n coursework, as in preparation for other forms of examination, it is natural for the teacher and
learner to discuss the work and how it is progressing. Teachers will be more confident that the work
is authentic if first drafts (e.g. plans following discussion) are completed in class, and seen and noted
by them.
• T
eachers must not mark, correct or edit draft material prior to submission of the assignment proper,
as this is classed as improper practice. Learners should draft and redraft their work (see point 5
below), and teachers should give general advice.
• I n order to allow candidates to demonstrate their abilities to the full, teachers must not provide
candidates with any kind of template for their coursework.
5. Inclusion of a first draft in the portfolio
• Each candidate’s portfolio must include a first draft of one of the three assignments.
• A
first draft is defined as the first attempt at a continuous piece of writing. It may be word-processed
or handwritten. It does not have to be neat, and may include crossings out and any indications that
sections are to be moved from one part of the writing to another. A first draft may also include
general comments by the teacher.
• C
andidates are encouraged to revise, edit and correct their work and may discuss the process with
their teachers. However, teachers are reminded that their advice must not constitute correction and
that candidates must be responsible for specific corrections of spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Candidates should not submit rough, outline plans.
• T
he first draft of one of the assignments will not contribute to the final internally assessed mark, or
to the externally moderated mark for the portfolio. This draft is for the external moderator’s use only.
It will be used by the external moderator to:
– help understand the process by which the assignment was completed
– provide some evidence of any changes and improvements made by the candidate while working
towards the final assignment
– understand how the Centre assessment has been reached.
• I nformation gained from draft coursework pieces may also be used in the principal moderator’s
report to Centres to help develop teachers’ understanding of the processes involved in coursework.
6. length of assignments
• T
he component description suggests ‘between 500 and 800 words’ for each assignment. This is a
sufficient length to attract the highest marks. Work that is significantly under- or over-length is likely
to be self-penalising.
7. use of word processors
• E
ach assignment may be either handwritten or word-processed. Electronic dictionaries and/or spell
checkers may be used.
• C
andidates should be reminded of the importance of careful proofreading of all their work. Typing
errors, or the use of a wrong choice from a computer spell check or thesaurus, must be counted as
errors, and shown as such.
8. Checking portfolios to ensure that the syllabus requirements have been met
• T
eachers should check the contents of portfolios before finalising them: where candidates have
been given many assignments and have made the final choice themselves, it is easy for two similar
arguments or two similar stories to be included inappropriately.
• I f a portfolio does not meet the syllabus requirements, please follow the information in Section 7.1.2
about awarding marks for incomplete coursework.
9. Checking portfolios for authenticity

• I t is the Centre’s responsibility to guarantee that all coursework submitted by candidates is their
original work. Any work found to have been plagiarised must be removed before the coursework
portfolio is marked. The portfolio should then be marked in the normal way and a mark awarded
for the overall quality. Please follow the information in Section 7.1.2 about awarding marks for
incomplete coursework.
• T
exts which provide material for informative or argumentative work, and which have been scanned/
downloaded from publications, CD-ROMs and the internet, should be shown to the teacher;
the teacher must remind candidates not to copy sections or whole sentences as their own. If
appropriate, references to source material should be provided by the candidate at the end of an
assignment.
7.1.2 Marking instructions

1. Candidates’ marks must be recorded on Individual Candidate Record Cards produced by
Cambridge. These forms, and the instructions for completing them, may be downloaded from
www.cie.org.uk/samples. The database will ask you for the syllabus code (i.e.0500 or 0522) and
your Centre number, after which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions when
completing each form.
2. Teachers provide a comment on the quality of the portfolio overall at the bottom of each candidate’s
Individual Candidate Record Card; they must also mark each assignment by indicating strengths and
weaknesses and by providing a comment at the end. These comments should be directly related to the
assessment criteria in Section 7.1.3. Each item must bear evidence of the marking.
3. Individual assignments may be awarded marks/grades in whatever way is most appropriate for teachers
and candidates. However, the total mark for the portfolio must be based on how the assessment
criteria have been met. This total mark must reflect how achievement has varied across the different
assignments, and how performance has varied across the assessment criteria for each assignment.
Assessment, therefore, usually involves balancing strengths and weaknesses in the candidate’s work
overall. For this reason, the total mark is not necessarily a mathematical calculation based on marks/
grades awarded to individual assignments during the course.
4. The teacher must mark each candidate’s portfolio out of a total of 50, in line with the assessment criteria
in Section 7.1.3.
The total mark for the portfolio is divided into 40 marks for writing and 10 marks for reading. For writing,
a single mark out of 40 is given for the quality of the candidate’s overall performance in the three
assignments. For reading, the mark out of 10 is given according to how well the candidate demonstrates
understanding of the text(s) in the response to the task set for Assignment 3 only.
5. Incomplete coursework
If one piece is not included in the portfolio, one third of the total mark for writing should be deducted.
If the piece missing is Assignment 3, in addition to the reduction of a third of the mark for writing, no
marks can be awarded for reading.
6. Internal moderation
Internal moderation should take place for Centres with more than one teacher/moderator. It is essential
that the marks for each strand of the assessment criteria of candidates from different teaching
groups within each Centre are moderated internally for the whole Centre. This means that the
marks awarded to all candidates within a Centre must be brought to a common standard by the teacher
responsible for co-ordinating the internal assessment (i.e. the internal moderator). A single valid and
reliable set of marks should be produced, which reflects the relative attainment of all the candidates
in the coursework component at the Centre. If the marking of any teacher is found to be lenient or
severe, it should be adjusted to bring it into line with the rest of the Centre’s marking. If the internal
moderator cannot agree the rank order of the candidates in any teaching set, the work of that set must
be remarked.
7.1.3 Assessment criteria

Note: It should not be assumed that a band in the assessment criteria directly equates to a grade. Final
grade thresholds are decided for each series based on available evidence.
Marking: general principles

1. You are encouraged to use the full range of marks.
2. The general approach is a positive one.
3. Within any band, marks should be awarded on a ‘best-fit’ basis. Thus, compensation between higher
and lower achievement for different aspects is acceptable.
4. Above all else, be consistent in your marking. If you are unsure of the mark to award, err on the side of
generosity. Cambridge’s external moderation process allows for adjustments to be made to consistently
harsh or generous marking.
Table a: band descriptions for writing (assignments 1–3) (40 marks)
band 1 (36–40): Confident and stylistic completion of challenging tasks throughout the portfolio
• W1: Candidates describe and reflect effectively upon experience, give detail and analyse
thoughtfully what is felt and imagined. Arguments are cogent and developed in mature,
persuasive thought.
• W2: Facts, ideas and opinions are ordered logically, each stage in the argument or narrative
carefully linked to the next. Paragraphing is a strength, and candidates are confident in
experimenting where appropriate in the structure of expressive writing.
• W3: Candidates write with assurance, using a wide range of effective vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates vary their style with assurance to suit audience and context in all three
assignments. They use well-constructed sentences.
• W5: Candidates write accurately. They use punctuation and grammatical structures to define
shades of meaning. They spell simple, complex and technical words with precision.
band 2 (31–35): Frequent merit and interest in the choice of content and the manner of writing
• W1: Candidates describe and reflect upon experience, and analyse with occasional success what
is felt and imagined. Some argument is well developed and interesting, although the explanation
may not always be consistent.
• W2: Facts, ideas and opinions are often well ordered so that the construction of the writing is
clear to the reader. Sentences within paragraphs are mostly well sequenced, although some
paragraphs may finish less effectively than they begin.
• W3: Candidates write with some confidence, demonstrating an emergent range of varied
vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates give evidence of understanding the need to write appropriately to audience and
context even if there is not complete consistency in the three assignments. There is some fluency
in the construction of sentences.
• W5: Candidates show some signs of understanding how punctuation and grammatical structures
can be used to aid communication. Errors of spelling, punctuation and grammar are minor, and
rare at the top of this band.
band 3 (26–30): Competent writing with some development of ideas
• W1: Candidates express clearly what is felt and imagined and supply some detail, explanation and
exemplification for the benefit of the reader. Arguments are expressed in a competent series of
relevant points and a clear attempt is made to develop some of them.
• W2: A clear attempt is made to present facts, ideas and opinions in an orderly way, although there
may be some insecurity in the overall structure.
• W3: Candidates write competently, using appropriate, if sometimes unadventurous, vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates make a clear attempt in at least one assignment to write with a sense of
audience and there may also be some evidence of adapting style to context. Sentences mostly
link ideas successfully.
• W5: Candidates use punctuation and grammar competently although the range is not strong.
There may be a number of minor errors especially at the bottom of this band and even occasional
errors of sentence separation.
band 4 (21–25): Satisfactory content with brief development and acceptable expression
• W1: Candidates express with some clarity what is felt and imagined. Arguments are relevant to
the topic and are developed partially with some brief effectiveness.
• W2: There is evidence of overall structure, but the writing may be presented more carefully
in some sections than in others. There may be examples of repetition and the sequence of
sentences within paragraphs may be insecure in places.
• W3: Candidates write with occasional competence, using a mixture of effective and
straightforward vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates show occasional evidence of writing with some understanding of audience and
context, but this is not sustained. Candidates use some complex and some simple sentences.
• W5: Candidates use a limited range of punctuation and grammatical structure with some care,
although occasionally grammatical error will cause the reader some difficulty. There may be quite
numerous errors, particularly of sentence separation and the misuse of commas.
band 5 (16–20): Simple writing, the meaning of which is not in doubt
• W1: Candidates express intelligibly what is felt and imagined. Arguments are expressed with
variable relevance, logic and development.
• W2: Facts, ideas and opinions are presented in paragraphs which may be inconsistent. The overall
structure is unsound in places.
• W3: Candidates use simple, straightforward vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates make slight variations of style according to audience and context, although this
does not seem deliberate. Simple sentences are correctly used and there may be an attempt to
write complex sentences which have a slight lack of clarity.
• W5: Candidates show knowledge of simple punctuation and grammar, but the amount of error,
especially of tense and the use of prepositions, is sometimes considerable. Sentence separation
is often poor, but error does not prevent the reader from understanding what is written.
band 6 (11–15): Writing can be followed despite difficulties with expression
• W1: Candidates make a simple attempt to express what is felt and imagined. Arguments are
expressed very simply and briefly.
• W2: Facts, ideas and opinions may appear in partially formed paragraphs of inappropriate length
and some attempt is made to provide a beginning and an end.
• W3: Candidates use simple, mainly accurate vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates may show occasional, brief acknowledgement of the possibility of writing for
different audiences and contexts, but overall there is little variation of style. Attempts to write
complex sentences may involve repetition of conjunctions and some blurring.
• W5: Candidates occasionally use appropriate punctuation and can spell simple words, but the
reader is not convinced that their understanding, especially of grammar, is adequate.
band 7 (6–10): Some of the writing can be followed
• W1: Candidates occasionally express what is felt, thought and imagined, but they are hampered
by their command of language.
• W2: There may be some signs of an overall structure although inadequate presentation of facts,
ideas and opinions creates blurring.
• W3: Candidates demonstrate a narrow vocabulary.
• W4: Candidates may write appropriately on the whole but their command of language is not
strong enough to acknowledge audience or context. There are unlikely to be more than a few
accurate sentences.
• W5: Weaknesses in spelling, punctuation and grammar are persistent, but the reader is able to
follow at least part of the writing.
band 8 (1–5): Writing does not communicate adequately
• W1: Very simple meanings are attempted, but most of the work is too inaccurate and blurred to
make sense.
• W2: An absence of overall structure and paragraphing leads to confusion.
• W3: Very simple meanings are attempted, but the candidate’s knowledge of vocabulary is too
slight to make adequate sense.
• W4: There is insufficient evidence of audience, context or sentence structures to reward.
• W5: The amount and breadth of error prevents sufficient communication of meaning.
band 9 (0): Writing does not meet the above criteria
Table b: band descriptions for reading (assignment 3 only) (10 marks)
band 1 Candidates analyse and evaluate several ideas and details from the text(s), and
9–10 marks develop lines of thought. Their own ideas are closely related to the original text(s)
and show a good understanding of the main arguments.
band 2 Candidates respond in detail to ideas from the text(s), explaining them and
7–8 marks expressing views on them with varying degrees of effectiveness. There is some
reference to details in the original. Their own ideas are based on those of the
original text(s).
band 3 Candidates show some response to the ideas in the text(s), summarising them and
5–6 marks giving simple views on them. Their own thinking is relevant, if not always tightly
focused on the original text(s).
band 4 Candidates give a response to the original text(s). Their ideas are relevant to the
3–4 marks topic but make only occasional references to individual ideas or details in the
original text(s).
band 5 Candidates write about the topic but there is little evidence that they have read or
1–2 marks understood the text(s).
band 6 There is no discernible reference to the topic or to the text(s).

0 marks
7.1.4 Instructions for completing Individual Candidate Record Cards

1. A copy of the relevant Individual Candidate Record Card can be downloaded from
www.cie.org.uk/samples
2. The database will ask you for the syllabus code and your Centre number, after which it will take you to
the correct forms.
3. Mark the coursework assignment for each candidate according to the assessment criteria provided in
Section 7.1.3.
4. (a) Enter a mark for writing (out of 40) and a mark for reading (out of 10 – Assignment 3 only) in the
appropriate spaces on the record card.
(b) Complete other sections of the form.
5. Add the marks for writing and reading and enter the total mark (out of 50) in the appropriate box on the
record card (‘Total mark to be transferred to Coursework Assessment Summary Form’).
6. Transfer the marks to the First Language English – Component 4, Coursework Portfolio, Coursework
Assessment Summary Form, in line with the instructions in Section 7.1.5.
7. Retain all Individual Candidate Record Cards and samples of coursework.
Note: Teachers should use these record cards only for candidates who have undertaken coursework as part
of their Cambridge IGCSE.
7.1.5 Instructions for completing Coursework Assessment Summary Forms

1. A copy of the relevant Coursework Assessment Summary Form can be downloaded from
the correct forms.
3. List the candidates in an order which allows the information to be transferred easily for submission
to Cambridge at a later stage (i.e. in candidate index number order, where this is known). Show the
teaching group or set for each candidate. The initials of the teacher may be used to indicate group or
set.
4. Transfer each candidate’s marks from her/his Individual Candidate Record Card to this summary form as
follows:
(a) Enter the marks for writing (out of 40) and reading (out of 10 – Assignment 3 only) in the relevant
columns.
(b) Enter the total (out of 50) in the column headed ‘Total Mark’.
(c) In the column headed ‘Internally Moderated Mark’, enter the mark (out of 50) awarded after internal
moderation took place. Leave blank if not applicable. See Section 7.1.2 for information about internal
moderation.
5. Both the teacher/moderator completing the form and, where applicable, the internal moderator(s) must
check the form, and complete and sign the bottom portion.
7.1.6 Arrangements for external moderation

1. External moderation of internal assessment is carried out by Cambridge.
2. The total marks, or where applicable the internally moderated marks for all candidates, should be
submitted to Cambridge separate to the despatch for the moderator. The final dates, sample sizes and
methods for submitting these internally assessed marks are detailed in the Cambridge Administrative
Guide.
3. Please send the following to Cambridge to be sent to the moderator:
• the candidates’ work with the corresponding completed Individual Candidate Record Cards. Only
send the work required for the sample
• the completed Coursework Assessment Summary Form(s), with an asterisk (*) against the
candidates’ names who are in the sample
• the total marks, internally moderated where appropriate, for all candidates.
4. Send the required materials and work to Cambridge, to arrive by the final advertised date in the
timetable. Do not wait until the end of the assessment period before sending these items.
5. If Cambridge’s moderator thinks it is necessary, because the sample received is unsatisfactory
or the process of internal moderation at the Centre has not produced a reliable rank order of
candidates, Cambridge will request further samples. The Centre must send these as soon as the
request is received.
6. Feedback following external moderation
Centres will receive a brief report from the external moderator on the assessment of their candidates’
portfolios. This will usually be sent at the time results are issued.
7.1.7 Resubmission and carrying forward of internally assessed marks

Information about resubmission and carrying forward of internally assessed marks can be found in the

This component is optional for syllabus 0500 and is separately endorsed. For syllabus 0522, candidates must
enter for either Component 5 or 6 and this accounts for 20% of the total marks.
7.2.1 Test structure

Part 1 Individual task (3–4 minutes) (10 marks)
For example, a presentation, a talk, a speech, a monologue.
• The candidate talks for about 3–4 minutes on a single topic or theme selected by the candidate prior
to the test. The talk should be continuous and there should be no need for the teacher/examiner to
intervene. Teachers/examiners only interrupt to ask questions if candidates show no signs of finishing
after about 4½ minutes, or to prompt candidates who are finding it difficult to continue.
• Candidates need to show that they are able to prepare and organise material, are aware of audience,
and that they can select and employ a range of language devices.
• The individual task should be lively and interesting; candidates should therefore prepare a topic in which
they have a personal interest.
• Candidates are encouraged to make presentations which are lively, by perhaps incorporating more
creative presentational styles; taking up a ‘voice’ or presenting a dramatic monologue, for example.
• Candidates may bring a ‘cue card’ (about postcard size) into the examination room, to remind them of
the main points they wish to make. Cue cards should contain a list of points, not continuous sentences.
Candidates may also bring in a limited quantity of illustrative material, which may include maps,
diagrams, statistics, pictures and short articles. Reading from, or reliance on, a script is not allowed.
• Candidates are encouraged to select their own topic. The topic should be appropriate and chosen with
the support and advice of the candidate’s teacher. If a centre has a specific query relating to this, they
should contact Cambridge. The teacher must not be involved in the preparation of material for the
individual task.
This part of the test is to be assessed using Table A of the assessment criteria, which can be found in
Section 7.2.4.
Part 2 Discussion (6–7 minutes) (20 marks)

• The individual task leads into a conversation with the teacher/examiner about the candidate’s chosen
topic. The role of the teacher/examiner in this conversation is that of an interested and sympathetic
participant, allowing the candidate every opportunity both to put views forward, and to seek information
and opinions from the teacher/examiner.
• During the individual task, teachers/examiners are likely to make notes in order to help them ask
appropriate questions.
• Candidates must be prepared to supply additional factual material where appropriate and to express and
defend a point of view. In order to give the candidate every opportunity to do this, questions are of the
‘tell me more about ...’, ‘why?’ and ‘how?’ variety, rather than closed questions which may be answered
by ‘yes/no’.
• Candidates should be encouraged to consider how a conversation might develop around their chosen
topic; if they cannot think of six questions they could be asked, the topic is unlikely to be easy to
discuss.
• Candidates should not be made to feel embarrassed about expressing viewpoints that are not those of
the teacher/examiner. The teacher/examiner may wish to ask questions about those views, but must
not be antagonistic towards the candidate.
• The teacher/examiner should normally allow 6–7 minutes for each candidate. If a candidate ‘dries
up’ after a few minutes, the teacher/examiner should keep trying to make conversation so that the
candidate is given every opportunity to do themselves justice. Teachers/examiners should be ready to
explore another aspect of the topic if candidates are obviously out of their depth. Questions should be
rephrased (rather than repeated) in an attempt to continue the dialogue.
• Teachers/examiners should beware of talking too much and of candidates being given credit for what
the teacher/examiner has actually said. Candidates are responsible for showing that they can converse
adequately; at the same time the teacher/examiner must make sure the candidate is given every
opportunity to converse by following up any opening given.
This part of the test is to be assessed using Table B of the assessment criteria, which can be found in
Section 7.2.4.
7.2.2 Administrative arrangements

1. T imetabling
• T
he speaking and listening tests take place in the two months before the main examination period,
as notified on the timetable. Each Centre will decide on a convenient time within this period for its
tests.
• T
o allow sufficient time for moderation, please keep to the dates given for completing the speaking
and listening tests, conducting internal moderation where applicable, and for sending recordings and
marks to Cambridge.
2. Materials for the speaking and listening test
• There is no question paper for the speaking and listening test.
• M
arking instructions and the Oral Examination Summary Form (see Section 7.2.3) for conducting and
assessing the speaking and listening test must be photocopied as required.
• T
he Centre must provide its own CDs (for the recording of the test for external moderation) and
these must be of good quality. (Note that it is permissible to use audio cassettes, but the use of CDs
and digital recording equipment is strongly preferred.)
3. appointment of teacher/examiner(s)
• E
ach Centre selects its own examiner. This is usually a teacher from within the English department,
but could be someone local from outside the Centre.
• T
he teacher/examiner conducts and assesses the test and submits a recorded sample for
moderation by Cambridge.
• T
o make it easier to keep a common standard, there should be only one teacher/examiner per
Centre.
• B
efore the start of the examination period, Centres with large numbers of candidates (more than 30)
must get agreement from Cambridge to use additional teachers/examiners.
• Cambridge is not responsible for any fees agreed.
4. The Oral Examination Summary Form
(a) The Oral Examination Summary Form is a working document, on which the marks for each section
of the test are to be entered in detail, as specified in the instructions in Section 7.2.5. Be very careful
to check all additions.
(b) The total marks, or where applicable the internally moderated marks, should then be submitted to
Cambridge as detailed in the Cambridge Administrative Guide.
5. Despatch and return of marks and forms

(a) The total marks, or the internally moderated marks where applicable, are to be returned to
Cambridge once all the speaking and listening tests have been completed. The final date for receipt
is the end of the examination period for the speaking and listening tests as detailed on the timetable.
Do not wait until the end of the assessment period before sending them.
(b) Copies of all marks are to be kept by the Centre in case of postal losses or delays.
6. arrangements for the test
• T
he Speaking and Listening test should be taken once only; candidates must not repeat the test. If a
centre has a specific query relating to this, they should contact Cambridge.
• E
xamination conditions must be in place in the area where the tests take place. A supervisor must
be present outside the examination room to make sure that candidates leaving the room do not
communicate with those waiting to enter. Candidates may bring a ‘cue card’ (about postcard size)
into the examination room to remind them of the main points they wish to make. Cue cards should
contain a list of points, not continuous sentences. Candidates may also bring with them a limited
quantity of illustrative material, which may include maps, diagrams, statistics, pictures and short
articles. Candidates are not allowed to have a script, nor are they allowed to consult dictionaries.
• R
equests for special consideration must be made on the special consideration forms supplied to the
Centre, and returned to Cambridge as indicated.
• C
andidates must be examined on their own. No other person should be present during the test, with
the exception of another teacher/examiner, the moderator, or an officer from Cambridge.
• T
he teacher/examiner should be positioned so that they face the candidate when they enter the
room, with a table between the teacher/examiner and the candidate. Do not allow candidates to sit
in a position where they can see what the teacher/examiner is writing on the mark sheets, as this
can be distracting.
• A
good teacher/examiner tries to put candidates at ease and sends candidates out of the
examination smiling, no matter how good or bad their performance. The use of expressions such as
‘very good’, which a candidate may interpret as comments on performance, should, however, be
avoided.
• O
ther recommendations for teacher/examiners: do not walk about or distract candidates in any way
(e.g. by doodling or fiddling with papers); always appear interested, even in mundane matters; never
show undue surprise, impatience or mockery; never correct a candidate.
7. Recording of candidates
• Each teacher/examiner must record the speaking and listening test for all candidates they examine.
• C
entres must check well in advance that a suitably quiet room is available and that their recording
equipment is working. Please avoid rooms that are too close to a playground, recreation room or
noisy classroom. Unnecessary background noise must be excluded.
• T
he recording equipment and the CD(s) should be tested in situ before the actual test, ideally with
one of the candidates. It is essential that new unrecorded CDs are used. These must be supplied by
the Centre. A recorder with external microphones is recommended so that separate microphones
can be used for the candidate and the teacher/examiner. If only one microphone is used, it should
be placed facing the candidate. With a softly-spoken candidate, the microphone should be placed
nearer to the candidate before the start of the test. Please do not adjust the volume control during
an examination.
• Each recording should be introduced clearly by the teacher/examiner as follows:
“Centre name and number: e.g. New School, Wellington; Centre number NZ999
Examination: Cambridge IGCSE First Language English, Syllabus 0500/0522, Component 5, Speaking
and Listening Test
Examiner: e.g. Ms Tui Smith
Date: e.g. 2nd March, 2015”
Each candidate should be introduced clearly by the teacher/examiner as follows:

“Candidate number: e.g. 0123
Candidate name: e.g. Charlie Cheng”
At the end of the recording, please state “End of recording”.
• O
nce a test has begun, do not interrupt or repeat the recording. On no account should you stop
and re-start the recording during a test.
• T
he speaking and listening test cannot be repeated in the same examination series. If a Centre has a
specific query about this, they should contact Cambridge at info@cie.org.uk
• T
he contents of each CD must be clearly labelled. Before the set of recordings is sent to Cambridge,
make spot checks to ensure every candidate can be clearly heard.
• For Centres using cassette tapes, in addition to the above, the recording should begin at the start of
side 1. Care should be taken to avoid long gaps and extraneous noise. Both sides of each cassette
should be used before beginning a new cassette and the contents of each should be clearly labelled.
At the end of the recording on each side of the cassette, the teacher/examiner states: “No further
recordings on this side.” Cassettes should be rewound to the start of side 1 before they are sent to
Cambridge.

1. Candidates’ marks must be recorded on the Oral Examination Summary Form produced by Cambridge.
This form, and the instructions for completing it, may be downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples.
The database will ask you for the syllabus code (i.e. 0500 or 0522) and your Centre number, after which
it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions when completing each form.
2. The total mark for the two parts to the test must be based on how the assessment criteria have been
met.
3. The teacher must mark each candidate’s test out of a total of 30, in line with the assessment criteria in
Section 7.2.4. The total mark for the test is divided into 10 marks for speaking on Part 1 (Individual task),
and 10 marks for speaking and 10 marks for listening on Part 2 (Discussion).
If more than one teacher/examiner is used within a Centre, it is essential that the marks for each
strand of the assessment criteria are moderated internally for the whole Centre. This means that
the marks awarded to all candidates within a Centre must be brought to a common standard by the
teacher responsible for co-ordinating the internal assessment (i.e. the internal moderator). A single valid
and reliable set of marks should be produced which reflects the relative attainment of all the candidates
in the test at the Centre. If the marking of any teacher is found to be lenient or severe, it should be
adjusted to bring it into line with the rest of the Centre’s marking. If the internal moderator cannot agree
the rank order of the candidates in any teaching set, the work of that set must be remarked.

grade thresholds are decided for each session based on available evidence.

1. You are encouraged to use the full range of marks, bearing in mind that it is not necessary for a
candidate to give a faultless performance for maximum marks to be awarded within any single category.
Table a: band descriptions for Component 5, Part 1 – Individual task (10 marks)
band 1 Full and well organised use of content; lively delivery sustaining audience interest;
9–10 marks employs a wide range of language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) accurately
and sometimes eloquently.
band 2 Sound use of content; delivery may occasionally be stilted, but audience interest is
7–8 marks generally maintained; employs a good range of language devices (e.g. tone, irony,
emphasis) soundly.
band 3 Adequate use of content; delivery is secure but at times unimaginative, resulting in
5–6 marks some loss of audience interest; language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) are
used safely and appropriately.
band 4 Content is thin or perhaps inconsistently used; delivery is not secure, resulting in
3–4 marks significant loss of audience interest; limited employment of language devices (e.g.
tone, irony, emphasis) with some inaccuracy.
band 5 Content is mostly undeveloped and/or very thin; delivery is weak and the audience
1–2 marks is generally lost; not able to use language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) or
devices used with serious error.
band 6 Does not meet the above criteria.

0 marks
Table b: band descriptions for Component 5, Part 2 – Discussion (20 marks)

For Part 2, separate marks for each category (speaking, listening) should be arrived at.
Speaking listening
band 1 Extends the subject matter and elicits band 1 Responds fully to questions
9–10 marks responses from the listener; speaks 9–10 marks and develops prompts; deals
on equal terms with the listener. confidently and sometimes
Employs a wide range of language enthusiastically with alterations in
devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) the direction of the conversation.
accurately and sometimes eloquently.
band 2 Subject matter is organised and band 2 Responds appropriately and in
7–8 marks expressed competently; attempts to 7–8 marks some detail to questions and
speak on equal terms with the listener prompts; deals appropriately with
but with a varying degree of success. most of the changes in direction
Employs a good range of language of the conversation.
devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis)
soundly.
band 3 Deals with the subject matter band 3 Responds to questions adequately
5–6 marks adequately; the listener is generally 5–6 marks but deals less effectively
but not always prominent. Language with prompts; changes in the
devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) direction of the conversation are
are used safely and appropriately. occasionally dealt with.
band 4 There is evidence of some linking band 4 Provides limited response to
3–4 marks together of ideas relating to the 3–4 marks the questions and struggles
subject matter but it is inconsistent; to develop prompts; tends to
accepts that the listener is in full maintain the direction of the
control of the conversation. Limited conversation.
use of language devices (e.g.
tone, irony, emphasis) with some
inaccuracy.
band 5 Simple facts and ideas are expressed band 5 Responds simply or is unable to
1–2 marks with generally unsuccessful attempts 1–2 marks respond to questions or prompts;
at organisation; is barely capable of cannot recognise changes in the
engaging in a two-way conversation. direction of the conversation.
Not able to use language devices
(e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) or devices
used with serious error.
band 6 Does not meet the above criteria. band 6 Does not meet the above criteria.
0 marks 0 marks
7.2.5 Instructions for completing Oral Examination Summary Forms

1. A copy of the Oral Examination Summary Form can be downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples
the correct forms.
3. List the candidates in an order which allows the information to be easily submitted to Cambridge at a
later stage (i.e. in candidate index number order, where this is known). Give a brief description of each
candidate’s individual task (e.g. ‘Human Rights’, ‘Hockey’, etc.) in the column provided.
4. Enter the marks for the individual task and the discussion (speaking and listening) in the relevant
columns.
5. Add the marks and enter the total (out of 30) in the column headed ‘Total Mark’.
6. In the column headed ‘Internally Moderated Mark’, enter the mark (out of 30) awarded after any internal
moderation took place. Leave blank if not applicable. See Section 7.2.3 for information about internal
moderation.
7. Both the teacher/examiner completing the form and, where applicable, the internal moderator(s) must

submitted to Cambridge separate to the despatch for the moderator. The final date, sample sizes and
Guide.
• the recording of candidates’ work, and only candidates required for the sample, with the
corresponding completed Oral Examination Summary Form. On this form place an asterisk (*)
against the candidates’ names who are in the sample
4. Send the required materials and marks to Cambridge, to arrive by the end of the examination period as
advertised in the timetable. Do not wait until the end of the assessment period before sending these
items.
speaking and listening test. This will usually be sent at the time results are issued.


This component is optional for syllabus 0500 and is separately endorsed. For syllabus 0522, candidates must
enter for either Component 5 or 6 and this accounts for 20% of the total marks.
7.3.1 Administrative arrangements

1. Materials for the speaking and listening coursework
Individual Candidate Record Cards and Coursework Assessment Summary Forms for speaking and
listening coursework may be downloaded from www.cie.org.uk/samples. Centres devise their own
tasks to help candidates demonstrate the skills outlined in the assessment criteria.
2. appointment of internal teacher/moderator(s)
• This is usually a teacher from within the English department, but could be someone local from
outside the Centre.
• The teacher/moderator conducts and assesses the activities and submits a recorded sample for
moderation by Cambridge.
• To make it easier to keep a common standard, there should only be one teacher/moderator per
Centre.
• Before the submission of samples, Centres with large numbers of candidates (more than 30) must
get agreement from Cambridge to use additional teachers/moderators.
• Cambridge is not responsible for any fees agreed.
3. Recording of candidates
• Task 1 and Task 2 for all candidates should be recorded.
• C
entres must provide a suitably quiet room and check that their recording equipment is working.
Please avoid rooms that are too close to a playground, recreation room or noisy classroom.
Unnecessary background noise must be excluded.
• T
he recording equipment and the CD(s) should be tested in situ before the activity, ideally with one
of the candidates. It is essential that new unrecorded CDs are used. These mut be supplied by the
Centre. A recorder with external microphones is recommended so that separate microphones can
be used for the candidate and the teacher/moderator. If only one microphone is used, it should
be placed facing the candidate. With a softly-spoken candidate, the microphone should be placed
nearer to the candidate before the start of the recording. Please do not adjust the volume control
during a recording. (Note that it is permissible to use audio cassettes, but the use of CDs and digital
recording is strongly preferred.)
• Each recording should be introduced by the teacher/moderator as follows:
“Centre name and number: e.g.: New College, Johannesburg; Centre Number ZA999
Examination: Cambridge IGCSE First Language English, Syllabus 0500/0522, Component 6: Speaking
and Listening Coursework
Moderator: e.g. Ms Sally Jones
Date: e.g. January 7th 2015”
Each candidate should be introduced clearly by the teacher/moderator as follows:
“Candidate number: e.g. 3210
Candidate name: e.g. Kelvin Johnson”
At the end of the recording, please state “End of recording”.
• O
nce a recording has begun, do not interrupt the recording. On no account should you stop and
re-start the recording during an activity. The contents of each CD must be clearly labelled. Before the
CD is sent to Cambridge, make spot checks to ensure every candidate can be clearly heard.
• For Centres using cassette tapes, in addition to the above, the recording should begin at the start of
side 1. Care should be taken to avoid long gaps and extraneous noise. Both sides of each cassette
should be used before beginning a new cassette. At the end of the examining on each side of the
cassette, the teacher/moderator states: “No further recordings on this side.” Cassettes should be
rewound to the start of side 1 before they are sent to Cambridge.

1. Candidates’ marks must be recorded on Individual Candidate Record Cards produced by
Cambridge. These forms, and the instructions for completing them, may be downloaded from
www.cie.org.uk/samples. The database will ask you for the syllabus code (i.e. 0500 or 0522) and
your Centre number, after which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions when
completing each form.
2. Individual tasks may be awarded marks/grades in whatever way is most appropriate for teachers and
candidates. However, the total mark for the tasks must be based on how the assessment criteria have
been met. This total mark must reflect how achievement has varied across the different tasks, and how
performance has varied across the assessment criteria for each task. Assessment, therefore, usually
involves balancing strengths and weaknesses in the candidate’s work overall. For this reason, the total
mark is not necessarily a mathematical calculation based on marks/grades awarded to individual tasks.
3. The teacher must mark each candidate’s coursework out of a total of 30, in line with the assessment
criteria in Section 7.3.3. The total mark for the coursework is divided into 10 marks for speaking on Task
1 (Individual activity), 5 marks for speaking and 5 marks for listening on Task 2 (Pair-based activity) and
10 marks for speaking and listening on Task 3 (Group activity).
4. Incomplete coursework
If one task is not included in the submission, one third of the total mark should be deducted.
Internal moderation should take place for Centres with more than one teacher/moderator. It is
essential that the marks for each strand of the assessment criteria of candidates from different
teaching groups within each Centre are moderated internally for the whole Centre. This means
that the marks awarded to all candidates within a Centre must be brought to a common standard by the
teacher responsible for co-ordinating the internal assessment (i.e. the internal moderator). A single valid
and reliable set of marks should be produced, which reflects the relative attainment of all the candidates
in the speaking and listening coursework component at the Centre. If the marking of any teacher is
found to be lenient or severe, it should be adjusted to bring it into line with the rest of the Centre’s
marking. If the internal moderator cannot agree the rank order of the candidates in any teaching set, the
work of that set must be remarked.

grade thresholds are decided for each session based on available evidence.

1. You are encouraged to use the full range of marks, bearing in mind that it is not necessary for a
candidate to give a faultless performance for maximum marks to be awarded within any single category.
Table a: band descriptions for Component 6, Task 1 – Individual activity (10 marks)
band 1 Full and well organised use of content; lively delivery sustaining audience interest;
9–10 marks employs a wide range of language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) accurately
and sometimes eloquently.
band 2 Sound use of content; delivery may occasionally be stilted, but audience interest is
7–8 marks generally maintained; employs a good range of language devices (e.g. tone, irony,
emphasis) soundly.
band 3 Adequate use of content; delivery is secure but at times unimaginative, resulting in
5–6 marks some loss of audience interest; language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) are
used safely and appropriately.
band 4 Content is thin or perhaps inconsistently used; delivery is not secure, resulting in
3–4 marks significant loss of audience interest; limited employment of language devices (e.g.
tone, irony, emphasis) with some inaccuracy.
band 5 Content is mostly undeveloped and/or very thin; delivery is weak and the audience
1–2 marks is generally lost; not able to use language devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) or
devices used with serious error.

0 marks
Table b: band descriptions for Component 6, Task 2 – Pair-based activity (10 marks)
For Task 2, separate marks for each category (speaking, listening) should be arrived at.
Speaking listening
band 1 Extends the subject matter and elicits band 1 Responds fully to questions and
5 marks responses from the listener; speaks on 5 marks develops prompts; deals confidently
equal terms with the listener. Employs and sometimes enthusiastically with
a wide range of language devices (e.g. alterations in the direction of the
tone, irony, emphasis) accurately and conversation.
sometimes eloquently.
band 2 Subject matter is organised and band 2 Responds appropriately and in some
4 marks expressed competently; attempts to 4 marks detail to questions and prompts;
speak on equal terms with the listener deals appropriately with most of
but with a varying degree of success. the changes in direction of the
Employs a good range of language conversation.
soundly.
band 3 Deals with the subject matter band 3 Responds to questions adequately
3 marks adequately; the listener is generally 3 marks but deals less effectively with
but not always prominent. Language prompts; changes in the direction
devices (e.g. tone, irony, emphasis) are of the conversation are occasionally
used safely and appropriately. dealt with.
band 4 There is evidence of some linking band 4 Provides limited response to the
2 marks together of ideas relating to the subject 2 marks questions and struggles to develop
matter but it is inconsistent; accepts prompts; tends to maintain the
that the listener is in full control of the direction of the conversation.
conversation. Limited use of language
with some inaccuracy.
band 5 Simple facts and ideas are expressed band 5 Responds simply or is unable to
1 mark with generally unsuccessful attempts 1 mark respond to questions or prompts;
at organisation; is barely capable of cannot recognise changes in the
engaging in a two-way conversation. direction of the conversation.
Not able to use language devices (e.g.
tone, irony, emphasis) or devices used
with serious error.
band 6 Does not meet the above criteria. band 6 Does not meet the above criteria.
0 marks 0 marks
Table C: band descriptions for Component 6, Task 3 – Group activity (10 marks)
band 1 Can argue ideas and opinions in persuasive detail without dominating the rest of the
9–10 marks group; adept at acting as group leader; usefully refers back to previous points; always
looks to suggest new approaches and to move forward; listens sympathetically and
considers the views of others fully.
band 2 Can argue ideas and opinions soundly but may at times overshadow other members
7–8 marks of the group; is capable of leading the group but with only partial assurance; refers
back to previous points soundly but not entirely successfully; recognises the need to
suggest new approaches but implements this only partially; listens with a degree of
sympathy for others’ views but has a tendency to interrupt at times.
band 3 Frequent but generally brief contributions are made; generally accepts a position of
5–6 marks group member rather than facilitator/leader; makes occasional reference to previous
points; may help to support new approaches but rarely initiates them; listens
carefully and responds briefly but appropriately to others.
band 4 Brief and infrequent contributions are made; plays a limited part in the group; cannot
3–4 marks make use of previous points; follows the general drift of the discussion but struggles
to support new approaches; listens inconsistently and may even drift away from the
discussion.
band 5 May only make one or two contributions or may offer mostly inappropriate
1–2 marks contributions; plays no real role in group membership; is largely ignorant of previous
points; does not offer support for new approaches; may appear to listen but shows
little evidence of listening.

0 marks
7.3.4 Instructions for completing Individual Candidate Record Cards

1. A copy of the relevant Individual Candidate Record Card can be downloaded from
2. The database will ask you for the syllabus code and Centre number, after which it will direct you to the
correct forms.
3. Mark the coursework tasks for each candidate according to the assessment criteria provided in Section
7.3.3.
4. Enter a description of each of the three coursework tasks (individual activity, pair-based activity and
group activity) and the mark for each task in the appropriate spaces.
5. Add the marks for the three tasks and enter the mark (out of 30) in the Total Mark box on the record card.
6. Transfer the marks to the First Language English – Component 6, Speaking and Listening Coursework
Assessment Summary Form in line with the instructions in Section 7.3.5.
7. Retain all Individual Candidate Record Cards and samples of recorded coursework.
Note: Teachers should use these record cards only for candidates who have undertaken coursework as part
of their Cambridge IGCSE.
7.3.5 Instructions for completing Coursework Assessment Summary Forms

1. A copy of the relevant Coursework Assessment Summary Form can be downloaded from
2. The database will ask you for the syllabus code and Centre number, after which it will direct you to the
correct forms.
3. List the candidates in an order which allows the information to be transferred easily for submission
to Cambridge at a later stage (i.e. in candidate index number order, where this is known). Show the
teaching group or set for each candidate. The initials of the teacher may be used to indicate group or
set.
4. Transfer each candidate’s marks from their Individual Candidate Record Card to this form as follows:
(a) Enter the marks for the individual activity (‘Task 1’), the pair-based activity (‘Task 2’) and the group
activity (‘Task 3’) in the relevant columns.
(b) Add the marks and enter the total (out of 30), in the column headed ‘Total Mark’.
(c) In the column headed ‘Internally Moderated Mark’, enter the mark (out of 30) awarded after any
internal moderation took place. Leave blank if not applicable. See Section 7.3.2 for information about
internal moderation.
5. Both the teacher/moderator completing the form and, where applicable, the internal moderator(s) must

submitted to Cambridge separate to the despatch for the moderator. The final date, sample sizes and
Guide.
• the recordings of Task 1 and Task 2, and only candidates required for the sample, with the
corresponding completed Coursework Assessment Summary Form. On this form place an asterisk
(*) against the candidates’ names who are in the sample
4. Send the required materials and marks to Cambridge, to arrive by the end of the examination period
as detailed in the timetable. Do not wait until the end of the assessment period before sending these
items.
speaking and listening coursework. This will usually be sent at the time results are issued.

Other information
8. Other information
Equality and inclusion

Cambridge International Examinations has taken great care in the preparation of this syllabus and
assessment materials to avoid bias of any kind. To comply with the UK Equality Act (2010), Cambridge has
designed this qualification with the aim of avoiding direct and indirect discrimination.
The standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers for candidates with disabilities
or learning difficulties. Arrangements can be put in place for these candidates to enable them to access the
assessments and receive recognition of their attainment. Access arrangements will not be agreed if they
give candidates an unfair advantage over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.
Candidates who are unable to access the assessment of any component may be eligible to receive an
award based on the parts of the assessment they have taken.
Information on access arrangements is found in the Cambridge Handbook which can be downloaded from
the website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficer
Language
This syllabus and the associated assessment materials are available in English only.
Grading and reporting

Cambridge IGCSE results are shown by one of the grades A*, A, B, C, D, E, F or G indicating the standard
achieved, A* being the highest and G the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that the candidate’s performance fell
short of the standard required for grade G. ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on the statement of results but not
on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no results) and Y (to be issued) may also appear on the
statement of results but not on the certificate.
Entry codes
To maintain the security of our examinations, we produce question papers for different areas of the world,
known as ‘administrative zones’. Where the component entry code has two digits, the first digit is the
component number given in the syllabus. The second digit is the location code, specific to an administrative
zone. Information about entry codes can be found in the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries.
Additional information for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
9. additional information for England, Wales and

Northern Ireland
This syllabus appears on the Register of Regulated Qualifications (http://register.ofqual.gov.uk) as a

Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate. In other contexts it is known as a Cambridge IGCSE..
Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificates are approved for regulation in England, Wales and
Northern Ireland and are eligible for inclusion in school and college performance tables.
For up-to-date information on the performance tables, including the list of qualifications which count towards
the English Baccalaureate, please go to the Department for Education website and search on ‘performance
tables’.
Candidates who are awarded grades D to G will have achieved an award at Level 1 of the National
Qualifications Framework. Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C will have achieved an award at
Level 2 of the National Qualifications Framework.
Prior learning
Candidates in England who are beginning this course should normally have followed the Key Stage 3
programme of study within the National Curriculum for England.
Other candidates beginning this course should have achieved an equivalent level of general education.
Progression
Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificates are general qualifications that enable learners to
progress directly to employment, or to proceed to further qualifications.
This syllabus provides a foundation for further study at Levels 2 and 3 of the National Qualifications
Framework, including GCSE, Cambridge International AS and A Level, and Cambridge Pre-U qualifications.
Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C are well prepared to follow courses leading to Level 3
qualifications such as GCE AS and A Level English Language, or the Cambridge International AS and A Level
in English Language or the equivalent.
Grading and reporting

Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate results are shown by one of the grades A*, A, B, C, D,
E, F or G indicating the standard achieved, A* being the highest and G the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ indicates that
the candidate’s performance fell short of the standard required for grade G. ‘Ungraded’ will be reported on
the statement of results but not on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no results) and Y (to be
issued) may also appear on the statement of results but not on the certificate.
Additional information for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Overlapping qualifications
Every qualification is assigned to a national classification code indicating the subject area to which it belongs.
Candidates who enter for more than one qualification with the same classification code will only have one
grade (the highest) counted for the purpose of the school and college performance tables. Centres may
wish to advise candidates that, if they take two qualifications with the same classification code, colleges are
very likely to take the view that they have achieved only one of the two qualifications. Candidates who have
any doubts about their subject combinations should seek advice, either from their centre or the institution to
which they wish to progress.
Spiritual, moral, ethical, social, legislative, economic and cultural issues

The study of First Language English demands from candidates an understanding of the cultural contexts
from which spring the many forms and varieties of the English language. In undertaking a course in First
Language English, candidates are likely to extend their linguistic knowledge and ability and widen their
appreciation of social and cultural issues. The study of a range of writing may raise spiritual, moral, ethical,
economic and social issues and help develop candidates’ awareness of other cultures.
Sustainable development, health and safety considerations and international

developments
This syllabus offers opportunities to develop ideas on sustainable development, health and safety
considerations and international developments by way of the varied content of reading material, writing
tasks and speaking and listening discussions.
Cambridge International Examinations
1 Hills Road, Cambridge, CB1 2EU, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1223 553554 Fax: +44 (0)1223 553558
Email: info@cie.org.uk www.cie.org.uk
® IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations
© Cambridge International Examinations 2014
*7486069364*

Syllabus: Cambridge Igcse First Language English

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Cambridge Secondary 2 Version 3

Changes made in Versions 2 and 3 are as follows:

Pages 20, 21, 23 and 34

Page 26 Section 7.1.1 Component 4 Coursework Portfolio

Page 36 Section 7.2.2 Administrative arrangements

® IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations

© Cambridge International Examinations 2014

3. Assessment at a glance ................................................................................................. 6

4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives ..................................................................... 9

5. Syllabus content ........................................................................................................... 13

6. Description of components .......................................................................................... 15

7. Additional information for Components 4, 5 and 6 ....................................................... 24

8. Other information ......................................................................................................... 47

9. Additional information for England, Wales and Northern Ireland .................................. 48

1.1 Why choose Cambridge?

Cambridge IGCSE® (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is internationally

Cambridge programmes and qualifications are designed to support learners in becoming:

Support for teachers

Support for exams officers

Not-for-profit, part of the University of Cambridge

1.2 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE?

Guided learning hours

1.3 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE First Language English?

1.4 Cambridge International Certificate of Education (ICE)

First Language English (0500 and 0522) is in Group 1, Languages.

Learn more about Cambridge ICE at www.cie.org.uk/cambridgesecondary2

1.5 How can I find out more?

If you are not yet a Cambridge school

2.1 Support materials

2.2 Resource lists

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)

Component 5 Speaking and listening Test or Component 6 Speaking and listening

* A* is available for the overall syllabus if the Extended route is followed.

Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate First Language English

* Approved for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Detailed timetables are available from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Combining this with other syllabuses

4. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

4.1 Syllabus aims

The aims are to:

4.2 Assessment objectives

AO3: Speaking and listening

4.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components

Syllabus code 0522*

* Accredited for use in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

4.4 Grade descriptions

To achieve a Grade a, a candidate will be able to:

To achieve a Grade C, a candidate will be able to:

To achieve a Grade F, a candidate will be able to:

The skills covered in the syllabus are outlined below.

assessment objective 1: Reading

• demonstrate understanding of words and • demonstrate a precise understanding of

assessment objective 2: Writing

assessment objective 3: Speaking and listening

6.1 Paper 1 Reading Passages (Core)

Candidates taking this component are eligible for grades C–G.

Question 1 Comprehension questions (20 marks)

Question 2 Extended response (15 marks)