Paper 2 Writing - English Language for GCSE/IGCSE - Class 10 PDF Download

Paper 2 Overview

Paper 2 is the elective secondary examination in the CIE IGCSE English Language program. While Paper 1 is obligatory, for the remainder of the IGCSE, you have the choice to either sit Paper 2 as an examination or complete a coursework portfolio. It's mandatory to undertake either Paper 2 or Component 3 (coursework).
In the following guide you will find:

• An overview of Paper 2
• A breakdown of Paper 2
• What skills are being assessed

The Directed Writing and Composition exam, also known as Paper 2, spans a duration of 2 hours. In this assessment, candidates respond to two questions: Question 1 and either Question 2, 3, 4, or 5. The total marks allocated are 80. These marks are categorized into two skill sets: reading and writing.

• Total marks for writing = 65
• Total marks for reading = 15 

In addition to receiving your question paper and answer booklet, you will be provided with an insert containing one or two texts. Question 1, mandatory and derived from the reading texts, carries equal weighting to the other question. Both questions are valued at 40 marks each, requiring an even distribution of time between them. While the primary focus of assessment is on writing skills, it's important to note that Question 1 also includes up to 15 marks for reading.

Paper 2 breakdown

What skills are being assessed

This IGCSE comprises solely two assessment objectives, each contributing 50% to the total grade. These objectives are further subdivided. As the majority of marks in this paper stem from writing, the table below commences with AO2.

Comprehensive guidance on addressing each question in this paper can be found within the provided revision manuals:

• Question 1: Directed Writing
• Section B: Composition