Learning . Caring . Achieving

English Language iGCSE

How is iGCSE English Language Assessed?

iGCSE English Language

40% coursework50% exam10% Speaking & Listening

Why iGCSE?• Accessibility

• Simplicity

• Coursework

Coursework 40%• Capital Punishment – students may argue either for or against• Collect at least five sources – varied in style and viewpoint• Write a speech – approximately 800 – 1200 words• Write a commentary on what has been researched and read• Write a commentary on the speech analysing language and

techniques

The Presentation 10%• Students will present the speech to a panel of teachers • They are filmed• Students will make bullet pointed cards to help them remember key points -

they do not need to learn their speech word for wordWhat are they assessed on?

• The content –• Use of statistics and evidence• Use of rhetorical devices• Delivery

What are the students assessed on in the exam?

• Section A Reading – literary non-fiction

• Short questions about sections of the text up to a total of 25 marks

• Section B Writing – composition

• 1 task with a choice of three - either describe, write a story, persuade. 25 marks

Exam Board Details

• AQA

• iGCSE English Language (AQA certificate) 8705

• www.aqa.org.uk

Responding to questions• What impression might the writer want to give you? What can you `infer` from what

s/he has written?

• What does it suggest to you as a reader?

• We use:• P point• E evidence• A analysis• R reader response• (L) link to question

and an example…

• “ We have adapted perfectly to Liverpool but when it comes to eating we will follow a Spanish timetable. Eating at English times still feels to early so we started arranging barbeques.”

• P Torres suggests that the only thing he hasn’t become accustomed to is the time of day we eat in England. (P) He says, …”but when it comes to eating…Eating at English times still feels too early…” (EV)this suggests that he and his wife needed to find an alternative to formal meals to suit them and their friends, whatever the weather or time of year.(AN) This also suggests to the reader that Torres and his wife like to fit in as well as possible and enjoy having friends round to eat.(R)

and for writing…

• Write about a place you know well.

“Plymouth Hoe is the place for me. I believe there is nowhere in the world more beautiful!

I cannot imagine anything better than standing at the top of The Hoe. As you gaze to your left you see the rolling green hills of Bovisand and Jennycliff; to your right your are treated to the wooded cliffs of Mount Edgcumbe and, if you are lucky, ahead you will see a flotilla of yachts or an imposing Naval vessel making its way to the Dockyard. It is always a treat for the eyes – whatever the weather! “

What will we do…

• Teach the skills• Ensure students have adequate ICT access for coursework research• Ensure they get regular feedback on their progress• Help students by giving them personalised feedback on how to

improve on their drafts• Provide focussed lessons on exam skills with opportunities to practise

throughout the year• Revision and intervention lessons where necessary

How you could help…• Discuss your child’s coursework with them• Encourage them to develop their argument by asking questions• When the time comes for the speaking and listening presentation

encourage them by allowing them to practise on you! Try to be positive as it is quite a nerve-wracking experience• Encourage reading – • Talk together about what you are reading