First Language English (0500)
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is designed for learners whose first language is English. The course enables learners to:
- develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing
- use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
- develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.
Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.
Link to full syllabus: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/Images/414236-2020-2022-syllabus.pdf
Key Benefits
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English allows learners to:
- develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing
- learn how to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
- develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.
Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.
Our programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding of a subject and help to develop the skills learners need for their next steps in education or employment.
Recognition and progression
The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE First Language English gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language.
Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements.
UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and skills, has carried out an independent benchmarki
ng study of Cambridge IGCSE and found it to be comparable to the standard of GCSE in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge IGCSE qualifications are accepted as equivalent to UK GCSEs by leading universities worldwide.
Resources
The following are the preferred resources at Istanbul International School:
- Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Coursebook
- Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Workbook
Cambridge International Examinations
All candidates take:
Paper 1
Reading – 50% (2 hours)
Structured and extended writing questions
Questions will be based on three reading texts
Externally assessed
Paper 2
Directed Writing and Composition – 50% (2 hours)
Extended writing question and a composition task
Externally assessed
Candidates can also take:
Component 6
Speaking and Listening Test (10 – 12 minutes)
Separately Endorsed
Individual Talk and Conversation
Internally assessed and externally moderated
Subject
