IGCSE English as a Second Language (0510/0993) – Syllabus, Skills, Model Answers & Revision Tips

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) 0510/0993 is designed to help students develop confident English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills for real-life, academic, and exam contexts. Here at Hodu Academy, find a full guide to the syllabus, exam format, speaking tips, model answers, examiner advice, revision checklists, and more.

This page is perfect for students, parents, and teachers looking for practical resources and tips to excel in every part of the IGCSE ESL exam—including the Speaking Endorsement.

🎥 Complete English Video Lessons:
Get in-depth explanations and walkthroughs for every chapter on our YouTube English Playlist. Perfect for visual learning and step-by-step guidance!

IGCSE ESL Syllabus Overview (0510/0993)

Component Skills Assessed
Reading Understanding texts, gist, specific information, inference, skimming/scanning, opinion, and attitude
Writing Summaries, informal/formal letters, emails, articles, reports, stories, accurate grammar & vocabulary
Listening Understanding spoken information, main ideas, detail, opinions, following instructions, note-taking
Speaking (Endorsement) Fluency, pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, responding to questions, discussion, expressing opinions

Core Skills & Language Focus

  • Comprehension: Identifying main ideas, detail, attitude, and purpose in both written and spoken texts.
  • Writing: Structuring texts (opening, main points, closing), using paragraphs, linking ideas, appropriate tone/register.
  • Grammar & Vocabulary: Correct tenses, word forms, collocations, and varied vocabulary.
  • Editing: Checking work for accuracy and correcting errors.
  • Listening: Listening for gist, detail, and understanding instructions or opinions.
  • Speaking: Clear pronunciation, natural intonation, giving opinions, justifying answers, taking part in conversation.

Exam Format & Paper Breakdown

Paper Content Tips
Paper 1/2: Reading & Writing (Core/Extended) Comprehension, summary, various writing tasks Plan answers, include all points, use clear structure
Paper 3/4: Listening (Core/Extended) Multiple-choice, gap-fill, note-taking Read questions before listening, check spelling
Component 5: Speaking Endorsement Short talk, topic discussion, general conversation Speak clearly, extend answers, give reasons & examples

Model Answers & Sample Questions

Reading Sample:
Question: What are the two main reasons given for recycling in the passage?
Model Answer: The passage says recycling saves energy and reduces the amount of waste in landfills.

Writing Sample (Formal Email):
Write an email to your principal suggesting improvements for the school library.
Model Opening: Dear Principal,
I am writing to suggest some improvements for our school library. Many students would benefit from a wider variety of books and more comfortable study areas...

Listening Sample:
Question: What time does the museum open on Saturdays?
Model Answer: It opens at 10 a.m. on Saturdays.

Speaking Sample:
Describe your favourite season and explain why you like it.
Model Answer: My favourite season is winter because the weather is cool and I enjoy celebrating festivals with my family. I also like wearing warm clothes and drinking hot chocolate.

Speaking Endorsement Tips & Examiner Advice

  • Practice common topics: Family, hobbies, school, travel, technology, health, festivals, the environment.
  • Extend your answers: Give reasons, examples, and details (“because...”, “for example...”).
  • Speak clearly and naturally: Don’t rush. Use intonation and stress for emphasis.
  • Use a range of vocabulary: Try to include adjectives, linking words, and different tenses.
  • Don’t memorize full answers: The examiner wants natural conversation, not rehearsed speeches.
  • Ask for clarification if needed: (“Could you please repeat the question?”)
  • Pronunciation matters: But don’t worry about your accent—just focus on being clear.
  • Listen actively: Show interest and respond to the examiner’s prompts.
  • Record yourself speaking: Play it back to check for mistakes and areas to improve.

Summary Tables & Useful Phrases

Situation Useful Phrases
Giving Opinion I think..., In my opinion..., From my point of view..., I believe that...
Agreeing/Disagreeing I agree with you because..., I’m not sure I agree because..., That’s a good point, but...
Making Suggestions Why don’t we..., We could..., How about...?
Explaining This is because..., The reason is that..., For example,...
Asking for Clarification Could you repeat that, please? What does ... mean?

How to Revise for IGCSE ESL

  • Read a wide range of texts—news articles, emails, stories, and instructions.
  • Listen to English audio—podcasts, audiobooks, news reports—note new words.
  • Write every day—emails, letters, reports, reviews, stories—focus on structure and accuracy.
  • Record yourself speaking on different topics and review for fluency and grammar.
  • Learn and practice common question types and command words (“summarise”, “describe”, “suggest”).
  • Revise grammar basics—tenses, conditionals, passive, modals, connectors.
  • Use Hodu Academy’s YouTube ESL playlist for tips and practice exercises.

Tip: Always check your answers for accuracy. Practise past papers and speak English as much as you can—confidence comes with practice!

FAQs – IGCSE English as a Second Language (0510/0993)

  • Q1. What’s the difference between 0510 and 0993?
    The syllabus and assessment are the same. 0993 is for schools outside the UK (International); both include the Speaking Endorsement.
  • Q2. Do I need a perfect accent in the Speaking test?
    No—clarity, fluency, and communication are more important than accent. Be natural and confident.
  • Q3. How can I improve my writing?
    Plan your answer, check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and use varied sentences and connectors. Practise with model answers and get feedback.
  •  
Last modified: Saturday, 5 July 2025, 5:17 PM