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Exercise 6: Writing an article (Ultimate Guide)

Exercise 6 of the Reading and Writing paper of the IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) exam (0510/0511/0991/0993) is always a formal or semi-formal writing. It can be an article, a report, or a review.

In this article, you will discover how to write an almost perfect article that impresses the examiner and gets you the highest band.

So, what is an article?

An article is a piece of writing written for a large audience, e.g., a magazine or newspaper, on a particular topic, which is meant to be of interest to the reader. It will express a certain viewpoint or perspective — this can be positive or negative depending on the topic.

The purpose of an article is often to inform and persuade the reader. Articles give information about a certain topic and can either persuade the reader that a certain viewpoint is correct (one-sided article; also called opinion article) or provide a balanced argument that lets the reader make up their own mind about the topic (two-sided article). You have the option to choose between writing a one-sided article or a two-sided article.

The Tone and Register of an Article

In the exam, the article is often for your school magazine or your teacher and rarely for the local newspaper.

If it’s for your school magazine, then the audience of the article is the students at your school and possibly the teachers or parents. The tone and register required, therefore, is rather semi-formal .

If, on the other hand, the article is for your teacher or the local newspaper, then the tone and register required is formal.

So, generally, the tone and register of the article should be more formal than exercise 5 but should be engaging.

Now, let’s discover the ideal format for both types of articles.

The format of a one-sided article

Paragraph 1: Introduction (including your opinion)

Paragraph 2: First point supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 3: Second point supporting your opinion with an explanation

Paragraph 4: State a counterargument (an idea from the opposing viewpoint) and counter the counterargument (i.e., explain why this counterargument is invalid). In other words, state a point made by people who have a different opinion from yours and explain why they are wrong.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion (including your opinion again but in different words)

The format of a two-sided article

Paragraph 1: Introduction (without your opinion)

Paragraph 2: One side of the issue either in favour or against

Paragraph 3: The other side of the issue either in favour or against

Paragraph 4: Conclusion (including your opinion)

Introduction

The purpose of the introduction is to inform the reader about the main point (topic) of the article and engage the reader to make them interested in the topic and read the rest of your article.

The main components of an effective introduction are:

  • Topic sentence

Start your article with a topic sentence that introduces the topic to the reader and explains its importance in today’s world. Give forceful statements rather than “I think that”, “maybe” or “perhaps”. For example: “Nowadays, music plays an indispensable role in our lives.”

To write an effective topic sentence, you might use adverbial time phrases and generalizations . Here are some examples of each.

Adverbial time phrases

  • Nowadays/these days/currently
  • Every day/week/year
  • Recently/for many years/decades
  • In the past
  • 10 years ago
  • In the last (few/five) (days/weeks/months/years/decades)

Generalization

  • A large number of / The vast majority (of)
  • Several/some
  • Not many/hardly any/ few
  • In almost all cases
  • In the majority of cases
  • In a large number of cases
  • In most cases
  • In some cases
  • On the whole/ Overall
  • Rhetorical question(s)

Use rhetorical questions (questions that don’t require an answer but make your reader think) to get the reader interested in the topic and encourage them to read on. For example:

  • How would you feel if you had two hours of homework every night?
  • How much longer do animals have to suffer?
  • Could you live with yourself if you missed out on this opportunity?
  • How could we possibly stand the …?
  • What would happen if …?
  • Could your conscience cope with …?
  • Is it really worth …?
  • Do you want to be part of …?
  • Have you ever thought about the positive impact you could have on the world by becoming vegetarian?
  • Your opinion (if it is a one-sided article)

If you are writing a two-sided article, DO NOT give your opinion in the introduction.

If you are writing a one-sided article, give your opinion (whether you support or oppose the viewpoint expressed in the statement).

Here are some opinion phrases to help you express your opinion.

  • In my opinion
  • I concur/agree
  • I believe that
  • It seems to me that
  • I am in favour of
  • I am against the idea of
  • I am strongly opposed to
  • I disagree / I cannot accept

You may also kill two birds with one stone and begin your article with a rhetorical question that introduces the topic to the reader, thus acting as a topic sentence. Here is an example.

“Have you ever thought how school life would be if the school day started later? In my perspective, this will have countless benefits.”

The structure if you are writing a one-sided article:

Body paragraph 1: First idea supporting your opinion with an explanation

Body paragraph 2: Second idea supporting your opinion with an explanation ( should be different from the first idea )

Body paragraph 3: State a counterargument (an idea from the opposing viewpoint) AND counter the counterargument (i.e., explain why this counterargument is invalid). In other words, state a point made by people who have a different opinion from yours and explain why they are wrong.

When introducing the opposing argument in the 3 rd body paragraph, use any of the following phrases.

  • Opponents of this idea claim/assert/argue that …
  • Those who disagree/are against these ideas may say/insist that …
  • Some people allege/argue that …
  • Some people may suggest/point out that …
  • A common counterargument is that …
  • It can be argued that …

When countering the opposing argument in the 3 rd body paragraph, use any of the following phrases depending on the context.

  • While this may be true to some extent, …
  • While it is true that …, it is important to consider…
  • While some may believe that … recent studies have shown that …
  • What this invalid argument misses is …
  • What these people fail to notice/take note of is …
  • The evidence, however, disproves this argument because …
  • However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that …
  • However, a closer analysis reveals that …
  • However, this flawed argument overlooks the fact that …

The structure if you are writing a two-sided article:

Body paragraph 1: One side of the issue either in favour or against (mention 2 different ideas )

Body paragraph 2: The other side of the issue either in favour or against (mention 2 different ideas )

General guidelines for both kinds of articles:

  • Read the question carefully and draft a plan for your article in the blank space below the question using a pencil. Here are some steps to follow.
  • Separate the blank space into two parts, one for and one against.
  • Jot down any points that come to your mind in the correct part, along with any interesting vocabulary or expressions suitable for the task. Remember to write briefly and in bullet points.
  • Decide whether you will write a one-sided article or a two-sided article. Weigh up the two sides and see which one has stronger and more convincing arguments. If one side clearly has stronger and more convincing points, write a one-sided article. If you see that both arguments are equally strong or that no side has more compelling arguments, then write a two-sided article and choose four statements (2 for and 2 against). It’s also worth noting that while a two-sided article is easier to write, a one-sided article is the preferred option as it’s more persuasive.
  • Consider how you will begin your article and how you will engage the reader at the start. For example, write some variations of the topic sentence and rhetorical questions that you could use.
  • Choose the most effective ones and begin writing. Remember to spend no more than 5 minutes on the plan.
  • You can use the few prompts given in the question, but it is better to use your own ideas if you want to get higher marks. If, however, you are out of ideas, use the ideas in the question and make sure to paraphrase them (write them in different words) and develop them well.
  • Support your ideas with reasons, evidence, or examples , and use persuasive language features . Remember that you should not just describe the problem but should be convincing in getting the audience to choose a side. Also, the examiner knows that the evidence or examples will be made up and doesn’t expect these to be correct.
  • Keep to the topic (don’t wander away from the main subject of the article). Remind yourself constantly by looking again at the question.
  • Use a variety of linking words and cohesive devices (mainly formal) to create a smooth and logical flow in your writing. Here are some examples.

When presenting the first point (used in the 1 st body paragraph of both one-sided articles and two-sided articles)

  • The main argument in favour of/against is
  • The main point/reason is
  • The most important point/reason
  • The first point/reason
  • First of all
  • First and foremost
  • In the first place
  • On the one hand (used only when writing a two-sided article)

When adding more points (used in the 2 nd body paragraph of a one-sided article and both body paragraphs of a two-sided article)

  • In addition,
  • Furthermore,
  • Additionally,
  • Not only … but also…
  • As well as.
  • Another noteworthy point is …
  • Apart from that
  • What is more

When contrasting ideas (used in the 2 nd body paragraph of a two-sided article)

  • Nevertheless
  • Even though
  • In spite of
  • On the other hand
  • On the contrary
  • By contrast
  • In comparison
  • Alternatively
  • Another option could be

When giving examples

  • For example
  • For instance
  • One clear example is
  • To illustrate
  • In other words

When reasoning:

  • Results and consequences: as a result, consequently, therefore, thus, hence, for this reason, as a result (of), which means that, etc.
  • Reasons and causes: owing to, because (of), on account of, due to, since, as, etc.   

When highlighting and stressing

  • Particularly
  • In particular
  • Specifically

The purpose of the conclusion is to sum up what you have said and express (or re-express) your opinion.

In the conclusion:

  • Sum up your main points concisely using concluding phrases. Here are some examples.
  • In conclusion
  • To conclude
  • To reiterate
  • On the whole
  • All things considered
  • After weighing the benefits and drawbacks
  • It can be concluded that …
  • I believe that …
  • Thus, I am of the opinion that …
  • Given these points

Remember to use different words from those used to express the points in the body.

  • Give your final opinion (regardless of whether it’s a one-sided or a two-sided article) and any solution or suggestion if applicable.

The solution or suggestion might be part of your opinion if you’re writing a two-sided article and want to take a balanced view on the issue rather than siding with one side. For example, “In conclusion, it is evident that fast food is a double-edged sword; thus, I strongly believe we should strike a balance between eating fast food and incorporating other healthier options in our diet to mitigate its negative effects.”

Use the opinion phrases stated earlier in the Introduction section to express your opinion, and if it’s a one-sided article, make sure to use different words from those used in the introduction.

  • Include your audience by any of the following ways:
  • Using pronouns like we, us, and you (this is the easiest). Notice how this was used in the previously mentioned conclusion example (bold and underlined)
  • Using rhetorical question(s). For example, “To conclude, I wholeheartedly believe that everyone should pursue higher education. Why not embrace this invaluable opportunity to fast-track your career, build your confidence, and broaden your social circle?”.
  • Leaving the reader with something to think about. For example: “After weighing the benefits and the drawbacks, it is apparent that convenience food, while palatable, may negatively impact other areas of your life. Think about this before you reach for your next snack!”.

Points to keep in mind

  • Organize your article into 4-5 paragraphs (4 if it’s a two-sided article and 5 if it’s a one-sided article). Leave a line between paragraphs or indent the first line of each new paragraph. Don’t do both!
  • Take care of spelling, punctuation, and grammar . This is important as the examiner will look at the accuracy of your language.
  • Use a combination of simple, compound, and complex sentences . A series of long sentences will make your writing difficult to read, and a series of short simple sentences will make your writing boring to read. Balance is the key.
  • Use a wide range of formal vocabulary, including some advanced and less commonly used ones .
  • Use a wide variety of formal linking words. Examples have been mentioned earlier.
  • Use advanced punctuation sparingly (1-3 in the whole article), for example, colon (:) and semicolon (;).
  • Aim to complete towards the maximum word limit (approximately 200 words for the current syllabus and 160 words for the new syllabus). Exceeding the word limit slightly (15-20 words) is fine as long as you write accurately and complete the task within the correct time. If you exceed the word limit by any number of words, be it even 100, no marks will be cut directly, but you increase your chances of making more mistakes and spending more time than required for this exercise, which may affect your mark indirectly. If you write towards the lower limit or below, you are highly unlikely to achieve the highest band for Content as your content is not well developed.
  • Spend about 30 minutes on this exercise : the initial 5 minutes for planning and the last 2-3 minutes for checking your work for simple spelling, punctuation, and grammatical mistakes.
  • Include your audience throughout by using pronouns such as we, us and you.
  • You could give a suitable attention-grabbing title (first letter of each word capital), but it’s not necessary. In fact, many students waste a lot of time trying to come up with a title and end up with their own version which does not match the rubric. As a result, the content is not always focused correctly and tends to follow the direction chosen by the student, rather than the specific requirements of the topic, thus affecting the content marks.
  • Passive voice could be used but not too much.
  • Write legibly

Don’ts :

  • Avoid contractions . However, if the article is for your school magazine, you can use contractions (not recommended).
  • Avoid abbreviations and slang (texting language) such as how r u, OMG, BTW, etc.
  • Avoid using informal vocabulary
  • Avoid listing (firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc.). There is no problem in writing “firstly”, but avoid writing “secondly” and “thirdly”.
  • Avoid repetition of vocabulary and beginning your sentences with the same words . Sometimes, students write 3 or more sentences in a row starting with “The”!

Practice a lot of past papers and get feedback on your writing. If you don’t have a teacher, reread these notes and check for what you have done right and what you haven’t. Read some of the samples on the samples page to see what you have just learned effectively used and incorporated in an article.

Good luck! Go get that A*!

10 responses to “Exercise 6: Writing an article (Ultimate Guide)”

Syed Abdur avatar

Does an article require a title because my teachers have told to write a title for article, for example if the topic is about using phones in school or not then the title should be something like “Should Phones be allowed in Schools or not?” is the title necessary Thank you!

ESL Kings team avatar

The title is optional. If you can think of a good one, write it. If not, then skip it.

Syed Abdur avatar

Great resources! How to start an article that is talking about my experience with a school trip, the question is like a report but it’s an article. For further context: Q) You recently went on a school exchange trip to another country. You stayed with another family and went to school there. Your teacher has aked you to write an article about your experience for the school magazine. Thank you

Thank you for your kind words! You start it like any other article question: with a topic sentence or a rhetorical question. For example, you could write, “Have you ever wondered what it would be like to embark on a school exchange trip to another country? I was recently given this opportunity, and it was unforgettable!”.

Amr Yosry Ali avatar

Very helpful resources thank you for providing these notes and samples, however, at school, my teachers have been telling us to write two-sided-articles,and I have been practicing them for a long time now,but you mentioned that its preferred to write a one-sided. So does writing a two-sided article– As I am more familiar with the structure affect the marks I score for this exercise. Thank you!

Thank you! We’re glad they’re helpful! No, not at all. If you’re more familiar with writing a two-sided article, stick to it. This was just mentioned for people who write both equally well and don’t know what to choose.

mishal avatar

how many words or sentence should be written in introduction part as well in conclusion part if i choose to do two-sided article ,

There is no strict rules to follow, but it’s generally recommended to keep them short (1-3 sentences or 15-40 words).

Kashyav Bhutani avatar

this was extremely helpful and educational i am an IGCSE Grade 9 litreture student and this is something i have nevar Heard of. was not expecting to see this in fle

Thank you for your nice comment! We’re glad you found it helpful!

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How to Write an Outstanding IGCSE English Essay?

  • Author: Litera Centre
  • Updated: November 27, 2023
  • Language: English

Writing an outstanding IGCSE English essay is a skill that can elevate your academic performance and equip you with invaluable communication abilities. Whether you’re a student aiming to excel in your IGCSE examinations or an aspiring writer looking to hone your craft, mastering the art of essay composition is essential. 

In this blog, we’ll delve into the intricacies of crafting exceptional IGCSE English essays. From understanding the essay prompt and organizing your thoughts to perfecting your writing style and enhancing your argumentation, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this academic endeavor with confidence and finesse. 

Let’s dig deeper to unlock the secrets of impressive essay writing.

The Significance of IGCSE English Essay!

Before giving you the tips to ace the IGCSE English essay writing, let’s know the significance of this section first: 

Global Recognition & Standardization: 

The IGCSE English Essay holds immense significance due to its global recognition and standardization. It is administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, which is respected worldwide for its rigorous curriculum and assessments. This means that when a student completes the IGCSE English Essay, their achievement is recognized and respected by educational institutions and employers around the world.

Enhanced Language Proficiency: 

The IGCSE English Essay plays a pivotal role in enhancing a student’s language proficiency. It encourages students to engage with diverse texts, fostering their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. As a result, students become more adept at expressing their ideas and thoughts clearly and effectively, a crucial skill in both academic and professional settings.

Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills:

Another significant aspect of the IGCSE English Essay is its emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. Through analyzing literary texts, students develop the ability to dissect complex ideas, interpret themes, and make persuasive arguments. These skills are not only essential for success in the English subject but are transferable to various fields, including law, journalism, and research.

Cultural Awareness & Empathy: 

The IGCSE English Essay often includes a variety of literary works from different cultures and periods. This exposure fosters cultural awareness and empathy in students as they explore the perspectives and experiences of characters from diverse backgrounds. Such awareness is vital in today’s interconnected world, promoting tolerance and understanding.

Preparation for Advanced Study and Careers: 

Beyond its academic benefits, the IGCSE English Essay serves as a crucial stepping stone for students planning to pursue further education or careers that require strong communication and writing skills. It provides a solid foundation for more advanced English courses, including A-levels and university-level studies. Additionally, in a professional context, effective writing and communication skills are highly valued and can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

In conclusion, the IGCSE English Essay holds great significance in a student’s educational journey. It offers a standardized platform for language development, fosters critical thinking, promotes cultural awareness, and equips students with skills that are valuable both in academia and the professional world. Its benefits extend far beyond the classroom, making it a valuable and worthwhile component of a student’s education.

Step-to-Step Process to Write an Excellent IGCSE English Essay: 

Here are seven steps you must follow to write an outstanding IGCSE English essay: 

Step 1: Understand the Essay Prompt: 

This step involves dissecting the essay question meticulously. In simpler words, you need to identify essential keywords as well as directives, such as “analyze,” “discuss,” or “compare.” 

By carefully deconstructing the prompt, you gain a clear understanding of what the essay requires. This initial comprehension is vital, as it forms the basis for your essay’s direction and structure. It ensures that you don’t deviate from the essay’s core purpose and helps you focus on addressing the specific elements the prompt intends to evaluate, setting the stage for a well-structured and on-point essay.

Step 2: Brainstorm and Plan: 

Here, you take time to gather your thoughts and devise a strategic approach. Start by brainstorming ideas related to the essay prompt, considering potential arguments, themes, and examples. This brainstorming helps clarify your thoughts and allows you to identify the most compelling points to include in your essay. 

Subsequently, create an outline or a mind map that organizes these ideas into a coherent structure. This plan serves as a roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your arguments flow logically and are well-organized. 

By investing time in this step, you set yourself up for a more organized and effective essay.

Step 3: Introduction with a Strong Thesis Statement: 

Needless to say, the introduction serves as the gateway to your essay, and it should be engaging to capture the reader’s attention. It begins with a hook, which can be a quote, a question, or a compelling statement relevant to the topic. 

Following the hook, you must present a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the central argument or purpose of your essay. 

The thesis statement is the essay’s backbone, providing a roadmap for what the reader can expect. It sets the tone and direction for the entire essay and is essential for a well-structured and coherent piece of writing.

Step 4: Body Paragraphs with Evidence and Analysis:

Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence, summarizing the main point of that specific paragraph. Following this, you should provide supporting evidence, which may include quotes from the text, examples, or references to literary elements. 

Once the evidence is presented, you need to engage in in-depth analysis. This means interpreting and explaining the significance of the evidence in your thesis statement. 

The combination of evidence and analysis reinforces your arguments and ensures that your essay is not just a summary, but a critical exploration of the topic, fostering a deeper understanding of the text and its themes.

Step 6: Transition Smoothly Between Paragraphs: 

To maintain the coherence and flow of your essay, you should use transitional words and phrases effectively. These transitions connect your ideas, guide the reader through your argument, and establish logical relationships between paragraphs. 

Common transitional words and phrases include “furthermore,” “however,” “in contrast,” and “conversely.” 

By implementing these transitions, you create a seamless narrative that allows the reader to follow your essay’s progression effortlessly. This step is essential for making your IGCSE English Essay more comprehensible and ensuring that your arguments are presented in a clear and interconnected manner.

Step 7: Conclusion and Final Thoughts: 

In this stage, you need to summarize the key points you’ve made in the body of your essay, restate your thesis statement using different wording, and provide a sense of closure to your argument. 

Your conclusion should offer a concise reflection on the main themes and arguments, reinforcing their significance and relevance. It should leave a lasting impression on the reader, helping them understand the broader implications of your analysis. 

A strong conclusion ties up your essay neatly, leaving a lasting impact and ensuring that your message resonates with the reader.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit: 

This step involves a comprehensive review of your work to eliminate grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues. In addition to basic mechanics, you should also assess the clarity and coherence of your writing. 

Ensure that your arguments and ideas are logically presented and that your essay is well-structured. Reading your essay aloud can help identify awkward phrasing or convoluted sentences. 

Editing is a critical step that polishes your work, ensuring it is clear, concise, and free from distractions. It guarantees that your message is communicated effectively and leaves a lasting positive impression on the reader.

How Can Litera Centre Help You? 

So, are you preparing for the IGCSE English examination, with a specific focus on essay writing? Look no further, as Litera Centre is here to provide you with the expert guidance, valuable resources, and personalized coaching you need to excel in your IGCSE journey.

At Litera Centre, we understand the importance of excelling in the IGCSE English Essay examination, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your academic goals. Our team of experienced educators and English language experts are here to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to tackle the essay writing component of the exam with confidence and precision.

With our tailored coaching, you’ll receive personalized attention and support, ensuring that you fully grasp the intricacies of essay writing, including structure, argument development, and grammar. 

Don’t leave your IGCSE English success to chance. Let Litera Centre be your partner in achieving excellence in your examinations. Join us today and take a step closer to taking your IGCSE English examination.

References:

https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/how-to-write-brilliant-essays/

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Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge igcse english as a second language (speaking endorsement) (0510).

  • Syllabus overview

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language is for learners who already have a working knowledge of the language.

The syllabus:

  • is suitable for learners whose first language is not English, but who study through the English-medium
  • develops learners’ ability to understand and use English in a range of situations
  • builds learners’ awareness of the nature of language and the four language-learning skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking
  • focuses on practical communication for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-depth language study
  • develops transferable skills to complement other areas of the curriculum.

Marks for the speaking component in this syllabus do not contribute to the overall grade candidates receive for the written components. A count-in speaking component is offered in Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (0511).

The syllabus year refers to the year in which the examination will be taken.

  • -->2022 - 2023 Syllabus update (PDF, 153KB)
  • -->2024 - 2026 Syllabus update (PDF, 174KB)

Syllabus updates

We have updated this syllabus to make it clearer and more accessible for both teachers and learners and to make sure that it reflects current educational thinking.

Please see the 2024-2026 syllabus document above for full details on the changes.

What are the main changes to the syllabus

To support teachers and learners, we have:

  • removed tiering (research suggests that in language qualifications students should access the full grade set to achieve their best possible outcome)
  • made the Listening paper 100% multiple-choice in response to feedback from teachers.
  • simplified and improved the accessibility of the teacher/examiner notes in the speaking component
  • removed the summary task from the Reading and Writing paper and replaced it with a new multiple-choice question in response to feedback from teachers who told us that some students struggle with the summary task.

What are the main changes to the assessment

  • With the removal of tiering, there are now three components which are accessible to all candidates: Paper 1 Reading and Writing, Paper 2 Listening and Component 3 Speaking Test.
  • We have made changes to the duration and number of marks available on the Listening paper and Speaking test.
  • We have split the assessed part of the Speaking test into three smaller parts to make it clearer to teachers/examiners and students what is expected from them. Teachers/examiners can now make notes in the test.
  • To reduce the burden on teachers/examiners and to allow them to focus on assessing the candidate, we have listed al the questions on the speaking assessment card.
  • We have updated the mark schemes for all components.

When do these changes take place?

The updated syllabus is for examination from June 2024 onwards. Examinations are available in June and November, and in March 2024 for India only.

Please see the 2024-2026 syllabus above for full details.

Coming soon

We are developing a comprehensive range of resources to help teachers deliver this updated syllabus.

We aim to provide a scheme of work and other relevant classroom resources. Example Candidate Responses will be available following the first examination in 2024. Visit the School Support Hub from June 2022 onwards for details.

Endorsed resources

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language front cover (Collins)

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Third edition) ( Collins)

This course provides complete coverage of the updated syllabus for examination from 2024 and features a wide variety of topics, authentic texts and creative activities that cover all four skills.

Read more on the Collins website

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language front cover (Cambridge University Press)

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Sixth edition) (Cambridge University Press)

Build key English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills through exciting topics such as fashion and food with clear and accessible guidance. Also includes step-by-step writing activities and language/grammar tips. CEFR Exit Level B1/B2.

Read more on the Cambridge University Press website

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language front cover (Marshall Cavendish Education)

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Second edition) (Marshall Cavendish Education)

The series focuses on building strong communication skills and linking language in real-world contexts to prepare students to be future-ready.

Read more on the Marshall Cavendish Education website

Success International English Skills for Cambridge IGCSE (Fifth edition) front cover (Cambridge University Press)

Success International English Skills for Cambridge IGCSE (Fifth edition) (Cambridge University Press)

Explore ten engaging topic-based units whilst advancing English writing, speaking, reading and listening skills. Guidance to help students understand how they learn and exam-style activities are also included. CEFR Exit Level B2+/C1.

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Second edition) (Hodder Education) front cover

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Second edition) (Hodder Education)

Confidently navigate the Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language syllabus with an all-encompassing course companion. Expertly formulated to ensure students develop practical language skills and key cultural knowledge, it provides real-world, internationally focused guidance.

Read more on the Hodder website

Important notices

Find out more about our range of English syllabuses to suit every level and ambition.

For some subjects, we publish grade descriptions to help understand the level of performance candidates’ grades represent.

We paused the publication of grade descriptions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the temporary changes to the awarding standard in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

As the awarding standard has now returned to the pre-pandemic standard, we are working to produce up-to-date grade descriptions for most of our general qualifications. These will be based on the awarding standards in place from June 2023 onwards.

Check the Submit for Assessment page and the samples database for information and guidance on submitting moderated and examined work using Submit for Assessment.

School Support Hub

Teachers at registered Cambridge schools can unlock over 30 000 teaching and learning resources to help plan and deliver Cambridge programmes and qualifications, including Schemes of work, Example candidate responses, Past papers, Specimen paper answers, as well as digital and multimedia resources.

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iGCSE ESL Hub

Search our growing IGCSE ESL database of free lessons and activities to suit your learning needs for English skills for the IGCSE examinations.

  • Language Skills ... Listening Skills  (17) Reading Skills  (22) Speaking Skills  (5) Writing Skills  (12)
  • Culture and Lifestyle (1)
  • Environmental Issues (9)
  • Exercise 1 (6)
  • Exercise 2 (11)
  • Exercise 3 (5)
  • Exercise 4 (7)
  • Exercise 5 (7)
  • Exercise 6 (7)
  • Family and lifestyle (8)
  • Fitness and Sport (2)
  • Health and Wellbeing (7)
  • Listening Test (11)
  • Media And Entertainment (10)
  • Science and Technology (6)
  • Speaking Test (5)
  • Travel and Adventure (8)

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Elephant Artists

Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Islands

IGCSE ESL Listening Ex 1 Set 2

Eight Short Recordings Set 2

Five short recordings set 2

Five Short Recordings Set 2

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Book Reviewer

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A Demonstration in a Town

sports lessons, after-school activities, report

How to Write a Report for IGCSE ESL

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How to Write a Review

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COMMENTS

  1. Exercise 6: Writing an essay (Ultimate Guide)

    Exercise 6 of the Reading and Writing paper of the IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) exam (0510/0511/0991/0993) is always a formal or semi-formal writing. It can be an article, an essay, a report, or a review. In this article, you will discover how to write an almost-perfect essay that impresses the examiner and gets you the highest band.

  2. Writing: Exercise 6 (Writing an article)

    For the core paper 1 take 20 minutes for this exercise. For the extended paper 2, 30 minutes should suffice to answer this question. Spend 10 minutes to come up with a plan, 15 minutes to organise and write your article. Use the 5 minutes left to read over your article, make changes and correct spelling, grammar and punctuation errors.

  3. Exercise 6: Writing an article (Ultimate Guide)

    Exercise 6 of the Reading and Writing paper of the IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) exam (0510/0511/0991/0993) is always a formal or semi-formal writing. It can be an article, a report, or a review. In this article, you will discover how to write an almost perfect article that impresses the examiner and gets you the highest band.

  4. IGCSE ESL Essay Top Tips (2024-2028)

    Top Tips on how to write an essay for IGCSE ESL. Free resources available https://www.eslecollege.com/igcse-esl-hub/

  5. PDF Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language

    Cambridge IGCSE ™ Language . Think about the audience that the article is for. The tone of the article should be formal but should be engaging. Each paragraph should have a different idea. Use linking words which suit a formal type of writing, such as 'Firstly', 'Furthermore' or 'In conclusion.' Use correct spelling, punctuation ...

  6. How To Write An Outstanding IGCSE English Essay?

    Step 1: Understand the Essay Prompt: This step involves dissecting the essay question meticulously. In simpler words, you need to identify essential keywords as well as directives, such as "analyze," "discuss," or "compare.". By carefully deconstructing the prompt, you gain a clear understanding of what the essay requires.

  7. Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English as a Second Language (Speaking

    CIE IGCSE English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement): Past Papers. Browse our range of Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Past Papers and Mark Schemes below. Testing yourself with IGCSE English past papers is a great way to identify which topics need more revision, so you can ensure that you are revising as effectively as possible to help you get ready for your IGCSE English exam.

  8. PDF English as a Second Language (0510) (Speaking Endorsement)

    Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510 (Speaking Endorsement) syllabus for 2024, 2025 and 2026. Syllabus overview ... Structured and essay style questions Externally assessed Paper 2 Approximately 50 minutes Listening 30% 40 marks Candidates listen to five exercises of short and

  9. Writing: Exercise 6 (Writing a Review)

    For the core paper 1, spend about 20 minutes in this exercise. For the extended paper 2, spend 30 minutes on this exercise. Allot 5 minutes to plan the points you will include in each paragraph. Take 20 minutes to write your review, keeping in mind all the above tips. Use the final 5 minutes to proofread and make any changes.

  10. How to write an essay

    Hey there! Are you preparing for your upcoming IGCSE ESL p1 exam? Here's a video on essay writing: A step-by-step guide to writing the perfect essay.Remember...

  11. PDF Cambridge IGCSE 0510 English as a Second Language specimen paper 1 for

    ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 0510/01 Paper 1 Reading and Writing For examination from 2024 SPECIMEN PAPER 2 hours You must answer on the question paper. No additional materials are needed. INSTRUCTIONS Answer all questions. Use a black or dark blue pen. Write your name, centre number and candidate number in the boxes at the top of the page.

  12. English as a Second Language (Count-in speaking) (0511)

    Specimen papers. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0511 syllabus information, resource materials and past papers.

  13. IGCSE ESL, Argumentative Essay writing JUST in 4 MINUTES (part 1)

    This video shows you how to create a quality Argumentative Essay that can earn you A*. #igcseenglish#esl#argumentativeessay#cambridgeinternationaleducation

  14. PDF Cambridge IGCSE / IGCSE (9-1) English as a Second (for ...

    Cambridge IGCSE / IGCSE (9-1) English. as a Second . Language 0510/0511 / 0993/0991 (for examination from 2024) Writing an essay Overview . The purpose of an essay is to present an argument or point of view and give examples or reasons to support it. The topic will be a question or an issue which people generally have different opinions about.

  15. PDF Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510

    Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510/0511 2 Example task . This is an example of a . Paper 1 Exercise 6. task. We have annotated the question below with some . for candidates to help them prepare their answer and encourage them to focus on what the question is asking for. This information is not given to candidates in the examination.

  16. Descriptive Writing: How to Get Full Marks

    She has over 16 years' experience of working in education, teaching English Literature, English Language, Functional Skills English, ESOL and on Access to HE courses. She has also held curriculum and quality manager roles, and worked with organisations on embedding literacy and numeracy into vocational curriculums.

  17. English as a Second Language (Speaking endorsement) (0510)

    Syllabus overview. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language is for learners who already have a working knowledge of the language. The syllabus: is suitable for learners whose first language is not English, but who study through the English-medium. develops learners' ability to understand and use English in a range of situations.

  18. Cambridge IGCSE ESL: Paper 2 Exercise 7 Essay Writing May ...

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hermestestprepHello, everyone! This is Mr. Abdulwahab again with some more educational videos! In this new series of video...

  19. IGCSE English as a second Language

    Written by English as a second language specialist, Peter Lucantoni, this series provides clear and accessible guidance for English reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Engaging topics, such as lifestyles and food, bring authentic English to life. This series has been developed to support teachers and students of the Cambridge IGCSE ...

  20. IGCSE ESL Hub

    Search our growing IGCSE ESL database of free lessons and activities to suit your learning needs for English skills for the IGCSE examinations. Culture and Lifestyle (1) Environmental Issues (9) Exercise 1 (6) Exercise 2 (11) Exercise 3 (5) Exercise 4 (7) Exercise 5 (7) Exercise 6 (7) Family and lifestyle (8) ...

  21. Writing: Exercise 5 (Letter writing)

    Sarah. Iman Hashim. Exercise 5 is a letter writing task. This is almost always an informal letter. (We'll detail formal letters here as well, just in case!) INFORMAL LETTERSThese are usually to your friends or family, usually asking you to detail a recent event you took part in and they didn't. You must be familiar with the format….

  22. IGCSE English Language Past Papers & Questions by Topic

    IGCSE English Language. Our extensive collection of resources is the perfect tool for students aiming to ace their exams and for teachers seeking reliable resources to support their students' learning journey. Here, you'll find an array of revision notes, topic questions, fully explained model answers, past exam papers and more, meticulously ...