IGCSE 2026 Exam Trends: Cambridge English as a Second Language 0510

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (0510) tests reading and writing (Core or Extended) and listening; speaking is optional (endorsement or count-in). Here are recent trends for 2026.

Paper format and structure

• Reading and Writing: Core (Papers 1 and 3) or Extended (Papers 2 and 4). Listening: Paper 5 (Core) or Paper 6 (Extended). Speaking: optional. Structure is unchanged for 2025–2026.
• Reading tasks include note-taking, comprehension (short answers, multiple choice), summary, and form-filling or short responses based on texts. Texts are often informational or practical (e.g. leaflets, notices, articles).
• Writing includes short responses (e.g. email, note) and longer continuous writing (e.g. article, letter). Accuracy (spelling, grammar, punctuation) and task completion are both credited.

Question types and topics that keep coming up

• Reading: Skimming and scanning for specific information; identifying main ideas; inferring meaning; vocabulary in context. “Use your own words” and “no more than X words” are strictly applied; lifting long phrases loses marks.
• Note-taking and summary: Selecting key points; rephrasing where required; staying within word limits. Redundancy and repetition are penalised.
• Writing: Form (email, letter, article) and purpose (inform, persuade, describe) must match the task. Relevance to the prompt and organisation (paragraphs, linking) are rewarded. Range of vocabulary and structures is credited when accurate.
• Listening: Key information (numbers, names, dates); gist and detail; opinion and attitude. Following instructions (e.g. number of words, spelling) is essential.

Are papers getting easier or harder?

• Standards are maintained via grade boundaries. Reports highlight recurring issues: lifting from the passage instead of using own words, ignoring word limits, off-topic or underdeveloped writing, and listening errors due to mishearing or wrong format (e.g. singular/plural).
• No reported shift in difficulty; success depends on task focus, accuracy, and time management.

Similarity to past papers and predictability

• Format and task types are very similar to past years. Past papers are a good guide to text types, question styles, and mark allocation.
• Topics (e.g. travel, environment, school, technology) vary; skills (comprehension, summary, short/long writing, listening for detail) are predictable.
• Exact questions are not predictable; marking focus (own words, word limit, relevance, accuracy) is consistent.

Examiner expectations and marking

• Reading: Points are credited for summary and comprehension; excess wording or repetition is not. Own words must be used where specified.
• Writing: Content (ideas, relevance) and language (accuracy, range) are both marked. Consistent errors in spelling or grammar cap the language mark; task fulfilment (addressing the prompt, suitable length) is essential.
• Listening: Exact wording or acceptable paraphrase as per the mark scheme; spelling must be correct where it is clearly heard. Format (e.g. one word, two words) must be followed.
• Marking follows the published criteria; no indication of marking becoming harsher.

Assessment style and skills in demand

• Information transfer – from text to notes, form, or summary; selection of relevant points.
• Practical writing – appropriate register (formal/informal) and purpose; clear organisation.
• Listening – concentration, note-taking, and following instructions (number of words, spelling).

Focus areas for 2026 revision

1. Own words and word limits – practise rephrasing; count words; avoid lifting.
2. Summary – select key points; combine and condense; stay within limit.
3. Writing tasks – match form and purpose; plan; check relevance and accuracy.
4. Listening – practise with past papers; note format requirements; check spelling of key terms.
5. Time management – allocate time to reading, writing, and checking.

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Based on current syllabus and examiner reports. Always use the latest Cambridge 0510 syllabus for your series.