Cambridge (CIE) A Level Spanish Language & Literature specification (9844)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) A Level Spanish Language & Literature exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
Examiner-written revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) A Level Spanish Language & Literature specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) A Level Spanish Language & Literature (9844) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Cambridge (CIE) specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Cambridge International A Level Spanish Language & Literature course aims to develop high-level language proficiency, critical reading, and analytical skills. It encourages learners to engage with both language and literature in Spanish at an advanced level, promoting sophisticated communication skills in everyday and abstract contexts. The course fosters intercultural understanding, intellectual curiosity, and personal reflection. It supports the development of independent research skills and prepares students for higher education or professional environments where advanced Spanish is required. The syllabus enables learners to explore Spanish culture and literary heritage while acquiring transferable skills in analysis, critical thinking, and communication.Subject content breakdown
Culture
- Popular entertainment (cinema, streaming, gaming, internet) and its role in society
- Celebrity culture, role models, and cultural identity expression
- Preservation of cultural heritage, festivals, and traditions
- The arts: theatre, music, visual arts, dance, literature, film; access, funding, representation
Health and well-being
- Role of sport, physical and mental health, fitness, healthcare provision
- Nutrition: diets, environmental and ethical aspects of food production
- Managing well-being: work–life balance, leisure, relaxation
Education and future plans
- Education systems, student issues, school as life preparation
- Access, barriers, and alternatives to further/higher education
- Career options, employment, working practices, job satisfaction, volunteering
Community and society
- Equality, diversity, social prejudices, immigration, integration
- Lifestyle: family, relationships, urban/rural living, social isolation
- Society: organisation, law, citizenship, rights and responsibilities
Our responsibility for the planet
- Environmental issues: climate change, biodiversity, pollution
- Sustainable living: natural resources, consumerism, energy use
- Protecting the world: sustainable tourism, global cooperation, environmental movements
Science and technology
- Scientific and technological innovation: medical advances, AI, privacy
- Social media: benefits, dangers, communication, online communities
- Technology in education, workplace, and access
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Reading
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 40 marks
- Multiple-choice and matching questions on various text types
- Tests comprehension, inference, vocabulary, and language structures
- 33% of qualification
Paper 2: Writing
- 2 hours, 40 marks
- Section A: Argumentative or discursive essay (300–400 words)
- Section B: Descriptive or narrative essay (300–400 words)
- Assessed on content, linguistic range and organisation, and language accuracy
- 33% of qualification
Paper 3: Literature
- 2 hours, 40 marks
- Section A: Passage-based question (400–500 words)
- Section B: Essay question on set text (400–500 words)
- Open-book exam with unannotated set texts allowed
- 33% of qualification
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Reading – 33%
- AO2: Writing – 33%
- AO3: Literature – 33%
Set Texts (Rotation by Year)
- Examples include La casa de Bernarda Alba, Nada, El coronel no tiene quien le escriba, Como agua para chocolate, La sombra del viento, and Las bicicletas son para el verano
Availability
- June and November series
- Open to private candidates
- Exam papers in Spanish; dictionaries not permitted
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) A Level Spanish Language & Literature isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
Share this article