Compare the written assessment routes
Choose between Paper 2 and the coursework portfolio while recognising the optional, separately endorsed speaking component.
Section Writing · Writing
Exam scope and assessment notes
This route follows Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500, 2027–2029 syllabus Version 1. It maps the Reading, Writing, and Speaking and Listening skill objectives, with original practice texts and model responses. Open-ended writing and speaking are self-checked against stated features; the examples are not official Cambridge answers, examiner marks or grades. Component 3 coursework and Component 4 speaking/listening require centre assessment and external moderation; Component 4 is optional and separately endorsed. The 2024–2026 syllabus, regional variants and live timed-paper grading are not mapped here. The separate 9–1 qualification 0990 has its own 2027–2029 course route; its 2024–2026 syllabus is not mapped. Human teacher review remains important for extended responses and spoken work. Cambridge states that 0990 has the same subject content as 0500 and uses 9–1 grading. For June and November, Cambridge lists 0990 in Administrative zone 3 and for centres in Oman and the UAE. Confirm availability for your centre and exam series with Cambridge International. This route maps the 2027–2029 syllabus only. Cambridge also publishes a separate 2024–2026 syllabus, which is not mapped here.
Before you begin
- Be able to read and write short English responses. Lessons explain the reading, writing and speaking strategy they practise; no prior Cambridge mark scheme knowledge is assumed.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Which route is externally assessed as a written paper?
What you will learn
- Distinguish Paper 2 from Component 3
- Describe the role of optional Component 4
- Plan practice without implying that self-checks award an exam grade
Understand the skill
For 2027–2029, candidates take Paper 1 and either Paper 2 or Component 3. Paper 2 is an externally assessed written paper; Component 3 is a portfolio of three extended writing assignments, internally assessed and externally moderated. Component 4 is optional and separately endorsed, and its marks do not contribute to the written qualification grade.
Separate what the source or task actually gives you from the interpretation you build. Use precise evidence and make each sentence do a clear job for the reader or listener.
Apply it deliberately
Check which route your centre offers and which tasks it requires. Practise the relevant reading and writing skills, keep coursework original and follow centre guidance. Use self-checks to improve clarity and evidence, while a teacher reviews work that needs assessment or moderation.
Check the finished response against the audience, purpose, form and task limits. More than one response may work when it is supported by the source and communicates clearly; the model is one defensible example, not the only acceptable answer.
Pause and explain
Do Component 4 marks contribute to the written grade?
Worked example
A learner says, ‘If I take the optional speaking test, its marks are added to my written grade.’ Correct the statement.
Show the worked solution
- Component 4 assesses speaking and listening.
- It is optional and separately endorsed.
- Its marks do not contribute to the overall written grade.
Answer Component 4 is optional and separately endorsed; it does not add marks to the written qualification grade.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
A candidate plans to take Paper 1 and Component 3. What does Component 3 add?
Give me a hint
Recall the portfolio format and assessment status.
Compare my reasoning
- It replaces Paper 2 as the second written route.
- It contains three extended writing assignments.
- It is internally assessed and externally moderated.
A three-assignment coursework portfolio, internally assessed and externally moderated, instead of Paper 2.
Look for these in your work
- Route identified
- Portfolio size
- Assessment status
A school chooses Component 4 for a candidate. State what it assesses and how its result is reported.
Give me a hint
Separate the endorsed skill from the written grade.
Compare my reasoning
- It assesses speaking and listening.
- It is optional and separately endorsed.
- Its mark does not contribute to the written qualification grade.
The optional speaking/listening test is separately endorsed; it does not add to the written grade.
Look for these in your work
- Skill named
- Optional endorsement
- Grade distinction
A learner uses a model answer checklist to revise a speech. What can the checklist establish, and what still needs human assessment?
Give me a hint
Distinguish useful practice feedback from formal assessment.
Compare my reasoning
- The checklist can help identify structure, audience awareness and clarity.
- It cannot award an official Cambridge mark or endorsement.
- A centre assessor and moderation process remain relevant for Component 4.
It can support revision against clear features, but it cannot award a Cambridge grade; centre assessment and external moderation apply to the optional component.
Look for these in your work
- Feedback use
- No grade claim
- Assessment boundary
Common mistakes
- Assuming every candidate takes both Paper 2 and coursework
- Counting Component 4 toward the written grade
- Treating an AI or self-check as a Cambridge assessment
What can you explain now?
How many extended writing assignments are in Component 3?
Compare with the explanation
Three
The syllabus describes a coursework portfolio of three assignments.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
Which component is optional and separately endorsed?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.