Subject Information

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English offers learners the opportunity to respond with understanding to a rich array of reading texts. They will use these texts to inform and inspire their own writing, and write in a range of text types for different purposes and audiences.

Learners will develop both their speaking and their listening skills, delivering a presentation, and responding to questions and engaging in conversations.

They are encouraged to become appreciative and critical readers, writers, speakers and listeners that have the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing and to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Syllabus Content

The aims of the English Language course are to enable students to:
  • Read a wide range of texts, fluently and with good understanding.
  • Read critically, and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing.
  • Write accurately and effectively, using Standard English appropriately.
  • Develop skills of evaluation, analysis, use and inference.
  • Listen to, understand, and use spoken English effectively.
  • Acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology and linguistic conventions.

English Language Exams

All students sit two examination papers:
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  • Paper 1:  Reading  2 hours  (50% of marks)​
  • Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition 2 hours (50% of marks)
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Course codes: 0990 (1-9), 0500 (*A-G)

​​Prior Requirement & Hours of Study

  • We recommend that learners starting this course should have studied an English medium curriculum for at least 3 years.
  • 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 the English Language..
The Latham School is a registered school with Cambridge Assessment International Education
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