See how it works
Watch a tutor work through a question.
Say what you're studying, choose a tutor, then work through your homework step by step, take a quick quiz or call your tutor. This one is IGCSE Maths, and every subject works the same way.
Assessment
How Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is assessed
There are no tiers. Everyone takes Paper 1, plus either Paper 2 or the Component 3 coursework. The Speaking and Listening Test is optional and graded separately.
Syllabus 0500, for exams in 2027–2029. The 2024–2026 syllabus has the same structure.
Everyone
Paper 1: Reading
Structured and extended questions on three reading texts
- Time
- 2 h
- Marks
- 80
- Weight
- 50%
Then one of
Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition
A directed writing task and a composition
- Time
- 2 h
- Marks
- 80
- Weight
- 50%
Component 3: Coursework Portfolio
Three extended writing assignments, marked by your school
- Time
- Coursework
- Marks
- 80
- Weight
- 50%
Optional
Component 4: Speaking and Listening Test
An individual talk and a conversation
- Time
- About 10–12 min
- Marks
- 40
- Weight
- Graded separately (1–5)
Your school chooses between the Paper 2 exam and the Component 3 coursework portfolio.
From the official Cambridge International syllabus, checked October 2026. Read the syllabus
Syllabus content
What’s on the Cambridge IGCSE English syllabus
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking and listening
Where marks are lost
Common Cambridge IGCSE English mistakes
Retelling the passage in the language question.
Pick precise words and phrases, then explain the effect of each one. Summarising what happens doesn’t answer the question.
Copying whole phrases into the summary.
Use your own words where you can. Lifting the text shows less understanding than putting the ideas concisely yourself.
Forgetting the audience in directed writing.
Keep the voice, register and purpose the task sets all the way through, whether it’s a letter to a newspaper or a speech to students.
Six english tutors, six ways to learn
Practise past-paper style questions with the exam coach, drill facts before a test with quick revision, or slow down with a step-by-step tutor. Switch any time.
- OliverConcept explainer
- RuthStep by step
- HugoExam coach
- TessaQuick revision
- MalikChallenger
- EllaConfidence builder
Recorded your English lesson?
Upload the recording and get notes, a quiz and flashcards made from what your teacher said, ready to revise for Cambridge IGCSE English.
FAQ
Cambridge IGCSE English questions, answered.
Bring your English questions.
Pick your subject and tutor, make a free account and ask your first question in about a minute.
Meet your tutor