Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is designed for learners whose mother tongue is English. The curriculum promotes an enquiry-based approach to learning to develop thinking skills and encourage intellectual engagement. The course allows learners to:
- Develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing
- Learn how to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
- Develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.
Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as synthesis, inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.
Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C in Cambridge IGCSE First Language English are well prepared to follow courses leading to higher secondary curriculum in Indian as well as international schools.
The aims of the syllabus are the same for all candidates. The aims are set out below and describe the educational purposes of a course in First Language English for the Cambridge IGCSE examination. The aims are to:
- Enable candidates to understand and respond to what they hear, read and experience
- Enable candidates to communicate accurately, appropriately, confidently and effectively
- Encourage candidates to enjoy and appreciate a variety of language
- Complement candidates’ ability to work with information and ideas in other areas of study, for example, by developing skills of analysis, synthesis and the drawing of inferences
- Promote candidates’ personal development and an understanding of themselves and others.
