Methodology

This list is based on analysis of Cambridge IGCSE English First Language 0500 past papers (2019–2024), examiner reports and mark schemes. English assesses skills rather than content; “topics” here means question types and assessment focuses that appear most often.

Top 10 most frequently tested skills / question types

1. Reading for meaning (comprehension)

Evidence: Every paper tests comprehension. Examiner reports note lifting and own-words errors.

Covers: identifying main ideas; inferring; using evidence from the text.

2. Summary writing

Evidence: Summary tasks appear regularly. Examiner reports note word limit and own-words errors.

Covers: selecting key points; paraphrasing; concise summary; staying within word limit.

3. Writer’s craft (language and structure)

Evidence: Analysis of writer’s choices. Examiner reports note vague or unsupported comments.

Covers: language features; structural devices; effect on reader; linking to purpose.

4. Writing for audience and purpose

Evidence: Directed writing; adapting style. Examiner reports note register and purpose errors.

Covers: audience; purpose; register; adapting form (letter, article, speech).

5. Use of own words

Evidence: Examiner reports repeatedly highlight lifting. Own-words requirement appears in many questions.

Covers: paraphrasing; avoiding lifting; maintaining meaning.

6. Comparison of texts

Evidence: Comparing ideas, styles or effects across passages. Appears in Paper 1 and 2.

Covers: identifying similarities and differences; comparative language.

7. Evaluation and critical response

Evidence: Judging effectiveness; personal response. Examiner reports note superficial evaluation.

Covers: evaluating writer’s effectiveness; supported opinions; evidence-based response.

8. Vocabulary and inference

Evidence: Meaning of words in context; inferring attitudes. Common in comprehension.

Covers: vocabulary in context; inference; implied meaning.

9. Structure and organisation

Evidence: How texts are organised; effect of structure. Examiner reports note structure analysis.

Covers: paragraphing; openings and endings; sequence; structural devices.

10. Spelling, punctuation and grammar

Evidence: Technical accuracy in writing. Assessed in all writing tasks.

Covers: accurate spelling; punctuation; grammar; sentence structure.

Revision priority

Summary and use of own words are frequently assessed and commonly cause errors. Writer’s craft needs precise analysis with textual evidence. See common mistakes.

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Sources: Cambridge past papers 2019–2024, examiner reports, syllabus.