English as a Second Language

English as a Second Language is a respected qualification that is valued by universities and colleges. The course gives you the opportunity to improve your ability to communicate formally and informally in a range of contexts and to understand a challenging range of texts, styles and registers. Students will always work with authentic English texts so the course prepares students very well for life in an English-speaking country. Reading, writing and listening skills are tested through two examination papers. The speaking test is optional and is awarded separately.

You will study the three examined skills of reading, writing and listening in a structured and engaging way, looking at different topic areas and developing your knowledge, of vocabulary and grammar.

You will have intense preparation for both the reading and writing paper and the listening paper with the option to also have a separate speaking endorsement if desired.

Paper 1: Reading and Writing (66%)

2 hours

• Part 1 – Skimming and scanning skills.
• Part 2 – Read for both gist and detail.
• Part 3 – Read for both gist and detail, follow a line of argument or discussion
• Part 4 – Short piece of writing in response to a given situation. The writing can take the form of a letter, fax or email and students may have to both provide information and ask for required information.
• Part 5 – Factual piece of writing based on own knowledge and interests. The writing can take the form of a report or article.
• Part 6 – Respond to one or two short texts, approximately 500 words in total,and produce a summary for a given purpose and reader.

Paper 2: Listening (34%)

45 minutes

• Part 1 – Listening for detailed information.
• Part 2 – Following a discussion or argument; identifying attitude and opinions of speakers; following instructions.
• Part 3 – Listening to a complex argument or discussion; understanding the overall message; identifying attitudes and opinion.

Exam Board: Edexcel IGCSE (A*-G)

You need to have a good level of English already – around IELTS 5.0. You need to be willing to work hard on improving your English. Reading widely and listening to English media regularly really helps.

When is this exam available?

This exam is available in May/June every year.