Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English Literature specification (0475 & 0092)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English 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) IGCSE English 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) IGCSE English Literature (0475 & 0092) 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
Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English fosters enjoyment and appreciation of literary texts across genres, cultures and historical periods. Students explore prose, poetry and drama with a focus on how writers use language to convey meaning and create effects. The course promotes personal engagement, critical thinking and analytical skills through close reading and literary interpretation. It encourages learners to consider universal human concerns and supports progression to further literary study:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
1. Poetry
- Study of 15 set poems from selected anthologies (e.g. Songs of Ourselves Volumes 1 & 2, Ted Hughes selections)
- Understanding language, tone, imagery, structure and themes
- Responding critically and personally to poetic texts
2. Prose
- Study of set novels or short story collections
- Analysis of character, setting, narrative voice and themes
- Encouraged to explore texts from different cultures and time periods
3. Drama
- Study of one or more set plays including Shakespeare
- Understanding dramatic form, characterisation and dialogue
- Analysis of dramatic effects and audience impact
4. Unseen texts
- Interpretation of unfamiliar prose or poetry extracts
- Literary commentary focusing on meaning, style, and language
5. Coursework (optional)
- Two written assignments on different texts
- Emphasis on analytical and/or creative personal response:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Poetry and Prose
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 50 marks, 50% of total grade
- Answer one question on poetry and one on prose (25 marks each)
- Closed text, printed extracts provided
- Assesses AO1–AO4
Paper 2 – Drama
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 50 marks, 50% (if selected)
- Answer two questions: one passage-based and one essay
- Closed text, extracts printed on paper
- Assesses AO1–AO4
Paper 3 – Drama (Open Text)
- 45 minutes
- 25 marks, 25% (if selected)
- One essay question; clean unannotated texts allowed
- Assesses AO1–AO4
Paper 4 – Unseen
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- 25 marks, 25% (if selected)
- One literary commentary on unseen prose or poetry
- Assesses AO1–AO4
Component 5 – Coursework
- 2 assignments (600–1200 words each), 25 marks
- Internally assessed and externally moderated
- Based on two different texts; one may be creative (empathic)
- Assesses AO1–AO4 equally:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE English 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