Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)
Develop critical reading, accurate and effective writing, and communication for different purposes and audiences.
2024–2026 examinations
Course structure and assessment routes
- Take Paper 1 plus either Paper 2 or Component 3. Grades A*–G are available.
- Component 4 is optional and separately endorsed; it does not contribute to the written qualification grade.
Main syllabus content
- Reading and evaluation of texts
- Directed writing
- Descriptive and narrative composition
- Speaking and listening
Use Syllabus for the topic checklist. Where the qualification offers options, follow your chosen route rather than treating every option as compulsory.
0500 assessment structure
Use the route above to identify which components you take. Marks below are raw marks; the stated weightings determine their contribution to the award.
Paper 1
Reading
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Marks
- 80
- Weighting
- 50%
Questions on three reading texts.
Paper 2
Directed Writing and Composition
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Marks
- 80
- Weighting
- 50%; alternative to Component 3
Component 3
Coursework Portfolio
- Duration
- Coursework; no timed exam
- Marks
- 80
- Weighting
- 50%; alternative to Paper 2
Three extended writing assignments; internally assessed and externally moderated.
Component 4
Speaking and Listening Test
- Duration
- Approximately 10–12 minutes
- Marks
- 40
- Weighting
- Optional; separate endorsement
Individual talk and conversation; internally assessed and externally moderated.
Key assessment information
- Written examination papers are externally assessed. The speaking/listening endorsement uses grades 1–5, independently of the overall written grade.
Official sources and verification
Checked 2026-09-04 against the official 0500 syllabus/specification (PDF). 2024–2026 examinations.
Source PDF pages: 7, 8. PDF page positions may differ from printed page numbers.
IGCSEfy is an independent study aid. Check the full official document and your exam-paper instructions, especially exam-year options, equipment and centre arrangements. Older archive papers may follow an earlier syllabus.