Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510: Command words

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (0510) uses the standard Cambridge command words. The focus is on reading comprehension, summary writing and response to text—different from First Language (0500), which emphasises more complex analysis. Understanding command words helps you match your response to what examiners want.

Command words for reading tasks

Command word	What to do in ESL 0510	Common mistake
Identify	Find and state specific information	Paraphrasing when short answer needed
State	Give a short answer from the text	Overwriting
List	Give several points; may need to be in order	One point when several asked
Give	Produce answer from the passage	Own knowledge instead of text
Quote	Use the exact words from the passage	Paraphrasing
Summarise	Select and present main points; no detail	Including too much detail
Summarise in your own words	Main points; paraphrase; no copying	Copying from passage
Explain	Say why or how; use evidence from text	Only describing what happens
Suggest	Infer from the text; propose meaning	Stating without inference
Compare	Similarities and/or differences	Listing separately
Contrast	Differences only	Including similarities
Describe	What the text says or shows	Adding explanation
What do you understand	Infer meaning; explain	Literal only
How does the writer	Analyse technique and effect	Just identifying

Reading: key principles for ESL

• Use the passage—answers must be supported by the text.
• Quote when asked—exact words from the passage.
• Paraphrase when asked—“in your own words” means no copying; use different vocabulary.
• Match length to marks—more marks usually mean more points or more development.
• Keep it simple—clear, accurate language matters more than complex vocabulary.

Command words for writing tasks

Command word	What to do	Common mistake
Write	Produce the specified form (email, letter, article)	Wrong form
Describe	Create a picture with details	Telling instead of showing
Explain	Give reasons; informative	Persuade when explain asked
Suggest	Propose ideas or recommendations	Too vague
Inform	Convey information clearly	Persuade when inform asked
Summarise	Main points only; no detail	Too much detail
Continue	Extend the passage in same style	Different tone/style
Adapt	Change for new audience/purpose	Copy unchanged
Respond	Reply to the stimulus	Ignoring the stimulus

Writing: form and audience

• Form—email, letter, article, report, etc. Match the form requested.
• Audience—who are you writing for? Adjust tone and register.
• Purpose—inform, describe, explain. Match the task.
• Content—what you say; relevance and development.
• Language—accuracy, range, appropriateness for ESL level.

ESL vs First Language: key differences

Aspect	ESL 0510	First Language 0500
Analysis	Less emphasis on literary analysis	More emphasis on language analysis
Summary	Core skill; paraphrase required	Core skill; may allow more flexibility
Writing	Functional forms; clear communication	Wider range; more stylistic
Vocabulary	Accuracy and clarity prioritised	Range and sophistication valued
Complexity	Appropriate for second language learners	Designed for first language

What examiner reports say

• Reading: Candidates use own knowledge instead of the passage; or copy when paraphrase is required.
• Summarise: Too much detail; not selecting main points; copying instead of paraphrasing.
• Paraphrase: Same words as passage—must use different vocabulary.
• Writing: Wrong form; wrong audience; inaccurate grammar or vocabulary.
• Answer the question—address what is asked; don’t drift off-topic.

Tips for English as a Second Language 0510

1. Read the question—identify command word, form, audience.
2. For reading—use the passage; quote when asked; paraphrase when asked.
3. For summarise—main points only; use your own words; no minor detail.
4. For writing—match form and audience; aim for clarity and accuracy.
5. Vocabulary—use words you know are correct; avoid over-complex language.
6. Past papers + mark schemes show content and language criteria.

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports English as a Second Language 0510 with tutors who focus on reading strategies and writing skills. Explore IGCSE resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.