Course outline
Cambridge IGCSE (9-1) English as a Second Language is for learners who already have a working knowledge of the language. This is a core subject which is offered to many of our international pupils to enable preparation for IELTS exam.
This course:
- is suitable for learners whose first language is not English, but who study through the English-medium
- develops learners’ ability to understand and use English in a range of situations
- builds learners’ awareness of the nature of language and the four language-learning skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking
- focuses on practical communication for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-depth language study
- develops transferable skills to complement other areas of the curriculum
- is recognised by many universities as the English language entry requirement for international students
Assessment method
All candidates take three exams. There is no coursework.
Paper 1:
- Reading and Writing 50%
- Candidates respond to reading texts and essay style questions
Paper 2:
- Listening 25%
- Candidates listen to exercises of short and longer texts, answering a range of multiple choice and short answer questions
Paper 3:
- Speaking 25%
- Candidates take part in an interview, short talk and discussion
The speaking component is internally assessed and externally moderated.
