Subject Information

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language is for learners who already have a working knowledge of the language and who want to consolidate their understanding in order to progress in their academic or professional career.

The aim is to achieve a level of practical communication ideal for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-depth language study.

The qualification reflects the widespread use of English in education and commerce and also in entertainment.

Syllabus Content

The aims of the English as a Second Language course are to enable students to:

  • Develop the ability to read, write and speak English effectively for the purpose of practical communication.
  • Form a solid foundation for the skills required for further study or employment using English as the medium.
  • Develop an awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills​.

English as a
​Second Language Exams

All students take three components
Core students take:
Paper 1: Reading and Writing 1 hour 30 minutes (60% of the marks)
Paper 3: Listening 40 minutes (20% of the marks)
Extended students take:
Paper 2: Reading and Writing 2 hours (60% of the marks)
Paper 4: Listening 50 minutes (20% of the marks)
Both Core and Extended students take:
Paper 5: Speaking 15 minutes (20% of the marks)

Course codes: 0991(1-9), 0511 (*A-G)

​Core and Extended Papers

To take into account of differing experience of English or abilities, there is a choice between Core and Extended curriculum papers in English as a Second Language..

The Core curriculum is within the ability range of a large majority of students. It provides a full overview of the subject and is targeted at students expected to achieve grades C to G (levels 5 to 1).
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The Extended curriculum has been designed for those learners with greater experience of English or are the more academically able. It is targeted at those expected to achieve grades A* to E (levels 9 - 4).  Please go to Preparing for Taking ExamsIGCSE for more information.

Prior Requirement & Hours of Study

  • We recommend that learners starting this course are not first language speakers of English, but learners who use English as a lingua franca or language of study. Learners are often likely to have studied English in a school that does not use English as the medium of instruction, or did not study English at school but acquired it socially or in the workplace.​
  • It is recommended that 130 hours should be dedicated to complete the subject. However, the number of hours a learner needs to achieve the qualification may vary according to their previous experience of English.
The Latham School is a registered school with Cambridge Assessment International
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