In today's globalised world, knowledge of English is becoming an integral part of the educational process. The Cambridge IGCSE programme offers a unique approach to teaching English, providing students with not only a high level of language skills, but also a deep understanding of the cultural and literary aspects of the English-speaking world. The peculiarities of teaching in English in this programme make it one of the most popular international educational programmes among secondary school students.
IGCSE English as a Second Language
The IGCSE English as a Second Language course is designed for students who already have a working knowledge of the language. The course focuses on developing students' ability to understand and use English in different situations. Course highlights:
- This Cambridge IGCSE programme is suitable for learners whose first language is not English but who are learning through the medium of English. It allows students to develop language skills in an environment where English is used as the main medium of communication.
- Teaching in English develops learners' ability to understand and use English in a variety of situations. Students learn to communicate effectively in everyday and academic contexts.
- The Cambridge IGCSE programme develops students' awareness of the nature of language and the four skills of language learning: reading, writing, listening and speaking. This ensures the comprehensive development of language competences.
- It focuses on practical communication for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-depth study of the language. English language teaching, practical tasks and projects encourage students to use the language actively.
- The Cambridge IGCSE programme develops skills that can be applied to other parts of the curriculum. This ensures that language skills are integrated across academic disciplines.
The marks awarded for the spoken component of this syllabus do not affect the overall marks candidates receive for the written components. The English as a Second Language programme offers a spoken component that allows students to develop their communication skills without compromising their academic achievement.
The Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English course
The Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English programme opens up the world of English literature to students. This course is taught in English and aims to develop the ability to understand stylistic and linguistic nuances and to navigate the subtleties like a native speaker. The main features of the course include the following aspects:
- Discover the world of literature in English. Students study different genres and eras of literature, which broadens their cultural and intellectual horizons.
- Understand the stylistic and linguistic nuances, navigate the subtleties like a native speaker. This helps students to better understand and analyse literary works.
- Work in small groups of 4-8 people with a teacher once a week and take 2 lessons on the Optima platform. Small groups in the Cambridge IGCSE programme ensure an individual approach and effective interaction with the teacher.
- Analyse style, study details and literary devices. Students learn to recognise and appreciate the literary techniques used by writers.
- Complete tests and open-ended tasks, start discussions, and prepare for IGCSE exams. Practical tasks and discussions help you to gain a deeper understanding of the material and develop analytical skills.
- An innovative approach to learning, communication with the teacher, consultations, feedback on written work, tutoring, and teaching in English. These elements provide support to students at all stages of learning and help them achieve high results.
Cambridge IGCSE English Literature enables students to read, interpret and evaluate texts through the study of literature in English. Students develop an understanding of the literal meaning, relevant context and deeper themes that can be expressed through the medium of English. They learn to recognise and appreciate the ways in which writers use the English language to achieve a range of effects and will be able to present a reasoned personal response to the material they have studied. The programme also encourages the exploration of broader and more universal issues, contributing to students' understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Conclusions
Thanks to its modern methodology, English language teaching and innovative technology, the Cambridge IGCSE programme is an ideal choice for those who aspire to high academic achievement and a successful career in the future.
The IGCSE English as a Second Language course is an integral part of the Cambridge IGCSE programme, providing students from different language backgrounds with the opportunity to achieve a high level of English language proficiency. This course not only improves language skills but also promotes the development of analytical and critical thinking. By focusing on practical communication and teaching in English, students learn to use English effectively in everyday situations and academic tasks. The development of all four language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking - ensures students' all-round development and readiness for further study at higher education level.
Cambridge IGCSE English Literature provides students with a deep understanding of English literature and the cultural contexts in which it develops. By analysing the stylistic and linguistic nuances of literary works, students develop aesthetic and analytical thinking and form their own personal reactions to what they read. Thanks to innovative teaching methods and practical assignments, students are able not only to understand but also to evaluate literary works, broadening their cultural outlook and preparing them for successful entry into international universities and colleges.