Saturday, March 15, 2008

IGCSE - English Language & Literature

Some useful information and past papers for those wanting to take the IGCSE exams

Cambridge

IGCSE English (First Language) 0500 William Shakespeare

The First Language English syllabus will develop students' ability to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively in speech and writing. Students will be encouraged to use relevant vocabulary, to employ correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, and to display a sense of style and audience. While there is a strong emphasis on reading and writing skills, an optional test or school-based assessment in speaking/listening is available.

The syllabus will help students to understand and respond appropriately to what they see, hear and experience, and to enjoy the full variety of the English language. In addition, it will complement their other studies by developing general skills such as the ability to analyse, synthesise, make inferences, order facts and present opinions. A study of First Language English will promote personal development and an understanding of self and others. NB: Revisions have been made to the syllabus for examination from the June 2005 session. There are no major changes to task types and skills that IGCSE First Language has always assessed, but teachers need to be aware of adjustments being made to:


  • the layout and wording of Assessment Objectives

  • the duration and numbers of tasks on question papers
  • the weighting of components

  • coursework portfolio requirements (for centres opting for coursework)

  • oral tests (for centres opting for oral tests)

For full details, teachers should consult the syllabus booklet for 2005 and the specimen papers.

Syllabuses:

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Past Papers and Examiner Reports:

Specimen Papers:


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CIE Order Publications


English - Literature (0486)

The syllabus enables students to read, interpret and evaluate texts through the study of literature in English. They develop an understanding of literal meaning, relevant contexts and of the deeper themes or attitudes that may be expressed. Through their studies, students learn to recognise and appreciate the ways in which writers use English to achieve a range of effects, and will be able to present an informed, personal response to the material they have studied. The syllabus also encourages the exploration of wider and universal issues, promoting students' better understanding of themselves and of the world around them.

Syllabuses:

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Past Papers and Examiner Reports:

To view PDF files you will need Adobe Acrobat

CIE Order Publications

IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510

The English as a Second Language syllabus is intended for students who are studying English in order to promote their educational or employment prospects. It reflects the widespread use of English as a medium for academic instruction, commercial activity and entertainment.

Students will learn to use English effectively as a means of practical communication. Work will be related to the kinds of situations students are likely to encounter later in life, and the kinds of topics and interests about which they are likely to need to communicate. There is a strong emphasis on the ability to understand and impart information.

The course will prepare students to work or study in an English-speaking environment, and will provide a sound basis for further development of their English language skills. The study of English as a Second Language will promote personal development and an understanding of self and others.

Syllabuses:

To view PDF files you will need Adobe Acrobat

Past Papers and Examiner Reports:

Specimen Papers:

To view PDF files you will need Adobe Acrobat

Recognition List

A list of universities which will accept grades C or above as suitable proof of competency in English for the purposes of undergraduate study.

  • IGSCE English as a Second Language Recognition list download PDF

CIE Order Publications

Edexcel

IGCSE in English Language (4355)

English as a Second Language (ESL) (4357)

IGCSE in English as a Second Language is designed primarily as a qualification either for candidates obtaining their secondary education through English as a medium of instruction, or studying English in order to enhance their future educational or employment prospects. The test is aimed at candidates at the B2 level of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework.

Candidates at this level are expected to understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics; interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes interaction possible without strain; produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects; and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. Candidates will be expected to communicate formally and informally in a range of contexts, but will be expected to understand a wider range of texts, styles and registers than they can produce. The aim of the IGCSE in English as a Second Language is to test English language competence through realistic and contextualised tasks based on authentic texts. Reading, writing and listening skills are tested through two examination papers. speaking is tested through a face-to-face interview at the centre. The speaking test is optional and endorsed separately.

IGCSE in English Literature (4360)

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