Oxford AQA IGCSE English Language specification (9270)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Oxford AQA IGCSE English Language 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 Oxford AQA IGCSE English Language 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 Oxford AQA IGCSE English Language (9270) 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 Oxford AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The OxfordAQA International GCSE in English Language develops students' confidence and skill in reading, writing, and (optionally) speaking English. It focuses on comprehension, analysis, and communication across a range of contemporary and literary non-fiction texts. Learners explore how writers use language to achieve effects and produce structured, purposeful writing for different audiences. The qualification encourages independent learning, research, and the ability to respond creatively and critically to real-world themes. With optional non-exam and spoken elements, it offers flexibility and strong progression to A Level study or further academic pathways:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Literary non-fiction and composition
- Read and analyse one literary non-fiction text (e.g. autobiography, travel writing, letters).
- Explore structure, language effects, writer’s purpose and ideas.
- Compose one extended piece from three options: descriptive, imaginative, argumentative or discursive writing.
Source-based reading and directed writing
- Read 5–6 texts (fiction, non-fiction, and visual sources) on a theme; questions require synthesis, comparison and language analysis.
- Write for a specified purpose and audience using source material; options include article, letter, report or speech formats.
Non-exam assessment (alternative to Paper 2)
- Carry out independent research on a self-chosen topic.
- Use at least five sources (literary, factual, media, etc.) and write an extended task plus a reflective commentary.
- Demonstrate source integration, synthesis, appropriate structure and grammar.
Speaking and listening (optional endorsement)
- Deliver a 5–10 minute formal presentation (speech, debate, interview, etc.).
- Engage with audience and respond to questions.
- Tasks may align with classroom topics or personal interests.
Skills developed
- Reading: inference, synthesis, language and structural analysis.
- Writing: audience awareness, vocabulary control, coherence, grammar and punctuation.
- Speaking: clarity, structure, interaction, vocabulary use. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Literary Non-Fiction and Composition
- 2 hours; 80 marks; 60% of qualification.
- Section A: Analyse one literary non-fiction text (40 marks).
- Section B: Write one extended response from three options (40 marks).
- Assesses reading (AO1, AO2) and writing (AO4, AO5).
Paper 2: Source-Based Reading and Directed Writing
- 2 hours; 80 marks; 40% of qualification.
- Section A: Answer reading questions on 5–6 themed texts (40 marks).
- Section B: Complete one directed writing task linked to reading (40 marks).
- Alternative to NEA.
Non-Exam Assessment (NEA)
- 60 marks; replaces Paper 2.
- Write one researched task + commentary (self-selected topic).
- Centre assessed, AQA moderated; assesses reading and writing.
Optional Speaking & Listening Endorsement
- Separate grade: Pass, Merit or Distinction.
- Presentation on a specific topic, followed by Q&A.
- Internally assessed and recorded.
Assessment Objectives (for Papers and NEA)
- AO1: Reading – 50%
- AO2: Writing – 50%
- AO3: Speaking and listening – reported separately
Grading
- 9–1 scale; linear structure; Paper 1 and either Paper 2 or NEA count towards final grade.
- First assessment from May/June 2018:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Oxford AQA IGCSE English Language 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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