IGCSE Level First Language English

YEARS 10 and 11

Year 10 and 11 students enrolling in IGCSE study both IGCSE English Literature and IGCSE First Language English.

At the IGCSE level, Cambridge offers two core English courses: Cambridge Language and Cambridge Literature. Both courses develop students’ language skills, but they differ in their focus and emphasis.

The Cambridge Language course is oriented towards building practical, functional competence in writing, reading, and speaking. It develops students’ ability to communicate effectively across personal, academic, and professional contexts. Students work with a variety of text types and learn to analyse language features for their impact on the reader.

The Cambridge Literature course, by contrast, is directed towards building students’ understanding and appreciation of literary texts. It places greater weight on analysing the techniques and devices authors use to construct meaning and communicate their ideas. Students read and respond to a range of texts, both classic and contemporary, and are expected to write critically and creatively about them.

In short, the Language course foregrounds practical application while the Literature course foregrounds literary analysis and interpretation. 

All Year 11 students sit both Language and Literature papers.

IGCSE LEVEL

FIRST LANGUAGE ENGLISH

This course enables students to:

• Develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately, and effectively in speech and writing 

• Draw on a wide vocabulary and apply correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation 

• Develop a personal style and an awareness of audience

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also builds broader analysis and communication skills, including inference and the ability to organise facts and present opinions effectively. The Language papers provide a strong pathway towards achieving University Entrance at Year 12.

Paper 1: Reading

Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition