IGCSE English as a Second Language (0511/0991) – Complete Guide & Key Resources

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (0511/0991) equips you to understand, communicate, and respond confidently in international English. On this page, Hodu Academy provides a chapter-wise breakdown of the syllabus, essential skills, examiner tips, worked examples, and FAQs—everything you need to ace the exam!

This page covers: paper-wise content, key exam strategies, sample tasks and answers, summary tables, and must-know tips for both Core and Extended candidates.

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IGCSE English as a Second Language Syllabus Overview (0511/0991)

Paper Skills & Focus
Paper 1/2: Reading & Writing (Core/Extended) Skimming, scanning, reading for detail, note-taking, summary, letter/email/article/report writing, understanding instructions, organizing information, formal/informal register.
Paper 3/4: Listening (Core/Extended) Understanding gist/detail, note-taking, identifying facts, following instructions, choosing correct options.
Component 5: Speaking Speaking clearly and fluently, responding to questions, expressing opinions, describing, narrating, using appropriate vocabulary.

Key Skills & Components

  • Reading for Gist & Detail: Quickly finding main ideas, understanding facts, scanning for answers.
  • Summary & Note-taking: Condensing information, listing main points, using own words.
  • Writing Tasks: Writing emails, articles, reports, letters—clear organization, correct register, accurate grammar, spelling and punctuation.
  • Listening: Understanding announcements, conversations, extracting information, writing answers as you listen.
  • Speaking: Giving opinions, describing events/pictures, narrating, interacting fluently with examiner.
  • Grammar & Vocabulary: Tenses, prepositions, conjunctions, linking words, range of vocabulary for various topics.

Paper-wise Model Tasks, Answers & Tips

Paper 1/2: Reading & Writing
  • Key Tasks: Short-answer questions, information transfer, note-making, summary, email/letter/article/report writing.
  • Sample Reading Q: "What are two benefits of recycling, according to the text?"
  • Sample Writing Task: "Write an email to a friend describing a memorable trip you took."
  • Worked Example (Writing): Hi Sara,
    I wanted to tell you about my amazing trip to the mountains last weekend. The weather was perfect and we went hiking every day...
  • Common Mistakes & Exam Tips:
    • **Read the question carefully—underline keywords.**
    • Don’t copy directly from the text in summaries; use your own words.
    • Organize your writing (paragraphs, introduction, conclusion).
    • Use correct register (formal/informal) for each writing task.
    • Check spelling, grammar, and punctuation before submitting.
Paper 3/4: Listening
  • Key Tasks: Answering multiple choice, short-answer, note completion based on recordings.
  • Sample Question: "What time does the meeting start?"
  • Worked Example: If you hear: "The meeting will begin at a quarter past ten," your answer is 10:15.
  • Common Mistakes & Exam Tips:
    • **Read all instructions before listening.**
    • Don’t panic if you miss an answer—move on, you’ll hear each recording twice.
    • Write answers clearly—spelling counts!
Component 5: Speaking
  • Key Tasks: Describe a picture, answer examiner’s questions, give opinions, narrate, discuss topics.
  • Sample Task: "Describe a time when you helped someone. What happened and how did you feel?"
  • Worked Example: Last year, I helped my neighbor carry groceries when she broke her leg. She was very grateful, and I felt happy to help someone in need…
  • Common Mistakes & Exam Tips:
    • **Speak clearly and at a steady pace.**
    • Expand your answers—don’t just say “yes” or “no.”
    • If you don’t understand, ask for repetition: "Could you repeat that, please?"

Summary Tables & Marking Criteria

Skill What Examiners Look For
Reading Understanding gist and detail, correct answers, own words in summary, following instructions.
Writing Clear structure, relevant content, accurate grammar, appropriate vocabulary, correct register.
Listening Correct information, clear spelling, following question order.
Speaking Fluency, pronunciation, range of vocabulary, communication, interaction with examiner.
Pro Tip: Use official sample answers and audio tracks. Practice with past papers, record your speaking, and ask a teacher or friend for feedback.

How to Revise Effectively for IGCSE ESL

  • Read different English texts (articles, letters, emails, stories) and practice skimming/scanning.
  • Write one paragraph per day—try different genres (formal, informal, descriptive, narrative).
  • Listen to English podcasts or news and write notes on key points.
  • Practice speaking on common topics (your hobbies, a favorite place, recent events) and record yourself.
  • Review grammar rules and make a list of common linking words.
  • Work through past exam papers and model answers from Hodu Academy’s resources.

FAQs – IGCSE English as a Second Language (0511/0991)

  • Q1. How is IGCSE ESL different from First Language English?
    ESL focuses on practical communication skills, basic grammar, and understanding everyday English. First Language English expects more advanced analysis and composition skills.
  • Q2. Can I use a dictionary in the exam?
    No, dictionaries are not allowed in the exam. Practice reading and listening to build your vocabulary naturally.
  • Q3. How are the Speaking and Listening papers assessed?
    Listening is marked by the examiner based on your written answers. Speaking is recorded and sent to Cambridge, assessed for fluency, pronunciation, and content.
  • Q4. Where can I find more practice materials?
    Check Hodu Academy’s ESL playlist on YouTube, official Cambridge sample papers, and past paper books.

Bookmark Hodu Academy English Resources for free video lessons, downloadable worksheets, and updated IGCSE ESL practice tasks!

Last modified: Saturday, 5 July 2025, 3:27 PM