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International GCSE in English Language

Pearson Edexcel – Qualification Code: 4EA1

Why Study This Course?

The International GCSE in English Language (Specification A) is designed to develop essential communication skills in reading, writing, and spoken English. This qualification is ideal for students who wish to:

  • Enhance their critical reading skills by analysing a range of fiction and non-fiction texts.
  • Develop confident writing skills, enabling them to communicate effectively across different formats and purposes.
  • Improve their linguistic fluency in Standard English, preparing them for further education and professional success.
  • Gain a globally recognised qualification that supports progression to A-Level studies or equivalent qualifications.

Who is This Course For?

This course is suitable for students:

  • Aiming for higher education in subjects such as English Literature, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
  • Seeking to improve their employability with strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Wanting to develop analytical and critical thinking abilities.
  • Preparing for A-Level English Language or Literature.

The course is supported by the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE English Anthology, which contains a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts.

Non-fiction Texts (Component 1)

  • The Danger of a Single Story – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
  • A Passage to Africa – George Alagiah
  • 127 Hours: Between a Rock and a Hard Place – Aron Ralston
  • Young and Dyslexic? You've Got it Going On – Benjamin Zephaniah
  • H is for Hawk – Helen Macdonald

Poetry and Prose Texts (Component 2 & 3)

  • Disabled – Wilfred Owen
  • Still I Rise – Maya Angelou
  • The Story of an Hour – Kate Chopin
  • The Necklace – Guy de Maupassant
  • Whistle and I’ll Come to You (from The Woman in Black) – Susan Hill

The course assesses students based on the following objectives:

Objective Description Weighting
AO1 Read and understand a variety of texts 15%
AO2 Analyse linguistic and structural features 20%
AO3 Compare texts and explore writers’ viewpoints 15%
AO4 Communicate effectively in writing 30%
AO5 Use a range of vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation 20%

Flexible Assessment Routes

Students can choose between exam-based assessment or a combination of coursework and exams, catering to different learning styles.

Globally Recognised Qualification

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE is widely accepted by universities and employers worldwide.

Preparation for Future Studies

This course serves as an excellent foundation for A-Level English Language and Literature.

Course Structure

This qualification consists of one mandatory component and a choice of an additional examined or non-examined assessment.

Component 1: Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing (60%)

Exam Duration

2 hours 15 minutes

Assessment Format

External examination

Skills Assessed

  • Reading comprehension: Students analyse a variety of non-fiction texts
  • Textual analysis: Exploring how language and structure create meaning.
  • Transactional writing: Developing effective writing skills for different audiences and purposes.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Section A (Reading - 45 marks) - Students answer short and extended-response questions based on one anthology text and one unseen non-fiction text.
  • Section B (Writing - 45 marks) – Students complete one extended transactional writing task (e.g., articles, reports, speeches, or letters).

Option 1: Component 2 – Poetry and Prose Texts & Imaginative Writing (40%)

Exam Duration

2 hours 15 minutes

Assessment Format

External examination

Skills Assessed

  • Literary Analysis: Close reading and evaluation of poetry and prose.
  • Creative Writing: Students craft engaging and imaginative pieces.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Section A (Reading - 30 marks) - A critical essay on a poetry or prose text from the anthology.
  • Section B (Writing - 30 marks) – Students complete an imaginative writing task based on given prompts.

Option 2: Component 3 – Poetry and Prose Texts & Imaginative Writing (40%)

Assessment Format: Internally assessed, externally moderated coursework

 

Skills Assessed

  • Analytical Writing: Critical response to set poetry and prose texts.
  • Creative Composition: Students produce imaginative writing pieces.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Assignment A (30 marks) - One analytical essay on any three poetry or prose texts from the anthology (one poetry and one prose text must be included).
  • Assignment B (30 marks) – A creative writing task based on a given theme.

Spoken Language Endorsement (Optional)

Format

Internal assessment under controlled conditions

Assessment Criteria

  • Presentation Skills: Delivering a structured talk or speech.
  • Audience Engagement: Responding to questions and feedback.
  • Spoken Standard English: Effective use of language in a formal setting.

Grading: Pass / Merit / Distinction (reported separately from the final grade).

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