Edexcel IGCSE English Language A specification (4EA1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE English Language A 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 IGCSE English Language A 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 IGCSE English Language A (4EA1) 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
The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in English Language A focuses on developing students' reading, writing, and spoken communication skills. The course aims to enable learners to read a wide variety of texts fluently and with understanding, and to write clearly, effectively, and imaginatively in Standard English. It also seeks to enhance grammatical accuracy, vocabulary use, and knowledge of linguistic conventions. The specification fosters analytical thinking and the ability to evaluate texts critically. Optional speaking endorsement allows learners to develop formal spoken English skills, promoting confidence in communication for academic and professional contexts:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
Component 1: Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing
- Study of contemporary non-fiction texts from Part 1 of the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE English Anthology.
- Analysis of linguistic and structural devices used by writers.
- Exploration of links between writers' ideas and perspectives.
- Development of transactional writing skills, adapting style for various audiences and purposes.
Component 2: Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing
- Study of selected poetry and prose from Part 2 of the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE English Anthology.
- Analysis of language and structural devices in literary texts.
- Imaginative writing skills development, focusing on reader engagement.
Component 3: Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing (Non-examined Assessment)
- Essay on three anthology texts (at least one poem and one prose) analysing language and structure in relation to a chosen focus.
- Imaginative writing task, either narrative or descriptive.
- Assessed on reading, writing, and analytical skills.
Spoken Language Endorsement (Optional)
- Formal presentation, followed by questions.
- Assesses audibility, use of Standard English, organisation, response to feedback.
- Graded as Pass, Merit, Distinction, or Not Classified.
- No marks contribute to overall qualification grade:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Component 1: Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing
- Written exam: 2 hours 15 minutes, 90 marks.
- Section A: Reading questions on one anthology text and one unseen extract (45 marks).
- Section B: Transactional writing task from a choice of two (45 marks).
- Worth 60% of total grade.
Component 2: Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes, 60 marks.
- Section A: Essay on a selected anthology text (30 marks).
- Section B: Imaginative writing task from a choice of three (30 marks).
- Worth 40% of total grade.
Component 3: Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing (Non-examined Assessment)
- Internally assessed, externally moderated.
- Assignment A: Essay on three anthology texts (30 marks).
- Assignment B: Imaginative writing task (30 marks).
- Worth 40% of total grade.
Spoken Language Endorsement (Optional)
- Internally assessed presentation, externally moderated.
- Max 10 minutes.
- Not graded numerically; awarded separately.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Reading comprehension and interpretation – 15%.
- AO2: Analysis of writers' techniques – 20%.
- AO3: Explore connections between texts – 15%.
- AO4: Transactional/imaginative writing effectiveness – 30%.
- AO5: Technical accuracy in writing – 20%.
- AO6: Spoken language (endorsement only):contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE English Language A 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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