Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0 specification (1EN2)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0 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.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0 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 Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0 (1EN2) 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 Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This qualification in English Language 2.0 is designed for students taking English Language as a stand-alone GCSE. It aims to develop confident, fluent readers and writers who can analyse a wide range of texts and produce writing suited to real-world contexts. The course supports students in acquiring the literacy skills essential for academic progression and employment, while offering engaging content and equal weighting across both examined components. The focus is on functional 19th-century non-fiction and contemporary prose fiction, alongside purposeful writing tasks. The qualification promotes diversity through inclusive text choices and encourages progression to post-16 study. Spoken language is assessed separately, enabling students to develop and demonstrate effective verbal communication.
Subject content breakdown
3.1 Paper 1: Non-Fiction Texts
- Read and understand a wide range of 19th-century non-fiction.
- Identify themes, ideas, bias, and presentation in functional texts.
- Summarise and evaluate writer’s vocabulary, grammar, and structure.
- Develop transactional writing: articles, blogs, formal emails, letters, reports, reviews, speeches, guides.
3.2 Paper 2: Contemporary Texts
- Read and understand unseen 20th- and 21st-century prose fiction and literary non-fiction.
- Analyse, infer, and compare themes, ideas, and techniques across texts.
- Summarise and synthesise content from multiple sources.
- Develop imaginative writing using creative techniques and coherent structure.
3.3 Spoken Language Endorsement
- Deliver a prepared presentation to an audience.
- Respond to questions using spoken Standard English.
- Assessment criteria: audibility, clarity, organisation, vocabulary range, audience awareness.
- Graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction; not included in overall GCSE grade.
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Non-Fiction Texts
- 1 hour 55 minutes, 80 marks, 50% of GCSE.
- Section A: Reading two unseen 19th-century non-fiction texts (short and open response questions).
- Section B: Extended transactional writing task (choose 1 of 2 options).
- Assesses AO1, AO2, AO4 (Reading); AO5, AO6 (Writing).
- 16 marks (20%) allocated to spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Paper 2: Contemporary Texts
- 1 hour 55 minutes, 80 marks, 50% of GCSE.
- Section A: Reading two unseen fiction/literary non-fiction texts (questions on each and both).
- Section B: Extended imaginative writing task (choose 1 of 2 options).
- Assesses AO1, AO2, AO3 (Reading); AO5, AO6 (Writing).
- 16 marks (20%) allocated to spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Spoken Language Endorsement
- Internally assessed, externally monitored.
- Presentation on a chosen topic in formal setting with Q&A.
- Graded: Pass, Merit, or Distinction (not part of GCSE grade).
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0 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.
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