Paper 2: The Optional Second Exam for CIE IGCSE English Language

 Paper 2 is the optional second exam for the Cambridge IGCSE English Language (First Language) course.

You must take Paper 1, and then either sit Paper 2 or complete Component 3 (coursework) as the second part of the qualification.

This means you can choose Paper 2 as an exam or Component 3 as a coursework portfolio—either path will fulfil the IGCSE requirements.

 

Overview of Paper 2 (Directed Writing & Composition)

1. What You’ll Do
• The exam lasts 2 hours and consists of 2 questions:
1. Question 1: Directed Writing (40 marks)
2. Question 2, 3, 4, or 5: Composition (40 marks)
2. Scoring Breakdown
• Total Marks: 80
• Reading Skills: 15 marks (part of Q1)
• Writing Skills: 65 marks (across both questions)
3. Use of Insert
• You’ll receive one or two texts. For Q1, select relevant information from these sources to craft your directed piece.

 

Why It Matters

 You’ll need to show understanding of provided reading texts (Q1) and prove your writing skills through creative or descriptive tasks (Q2–Q5). Think of it as combining your analytical thinking with your imaginative flair.