IGCSE Language A

Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition

Two tasks, two hours, eighty marks. Section A tests your ability to shape writing for a real-world purpose. Section B is your chance to write a composition that engages and surprises.

2 hours80 marks50% of qualification

Section A - Directed Writing

Directed Writing

Reading 15 marks • Writing 25 marks

40 marks

Read a short stimulus text (sometimes two) and respond in a specific form - a letter, speech, article or report - for a clear purpose and audience. 250-350 words.

Directed writing guide

Section B - Composition (choose one)

You pick ONE of four titles - two descriptive, two narrative. 350-450 words. Marked on content and structure (16) plus style and accuracy (24).

40 marks

Descriptive composition

Create a vivid setting, atmosphere or moment using sensory detail and figurative language. No plot twists required - focus on imagery.

Open guide

40 marks

Narrative composition

Tell a focused, well-structured story with clear characters, conflict and resolution. Aim for restraint over spectacle.

Open guide

Suggested timing plan

5 min - read

Read the Section A stimulus text and Section B titles.

50 min - Section A

Plan (5), draft (40), proofread (5). Stay within 350 words.

55 min - Section B

Plan (8), draft (40), proofread (7). Stay within 450 words.

10 min - check

Final pass for spelling, punctuation, tense consistency.

Aligns with Cambridge syllabus 0500

IGCSE Language A hub

IGCSE Language A

Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition

Two tasks, two hours, eighty marks. Section A tests your ability to shape writing for a real-world purpose. Section B is your chance to write a composition that engages and surprises.

2 hours80 marks50% of qualification

Section A - Directed Writing

Directed Writing

Reading 15 marks • Writing 25 marks

40 marks

Read a short stimulus text (sometimes two) and respond in a specific form - a letter, speech, article or report - for a clear purpose and audience. 250-350 words.

Directed writing guide

Section B - Composition (choose one)

You pick ONE of four titles - two descriptive, two narrative. 350-450 words. Marked on content and structure (16) plus style and accuracy (24).

40 marks

Descriptive composition

Create a vivid setting, atmosphere or moment using sensory detail and figurative language. No plot twists required - focus on imagery.

Open guide

40 marks

Narrative composition

Tell a focused, well-structured story with clear characters, conflict and resolution. Aim for restraint over spectacle.

Open guide

Suggested timing plan

5 min - read

Read the Section A stimulus text and Section B titles.

50 min - Section A

Plan (5), draft (40), proofread (5). Stay within 350 words.

55 min - Section B

Plan (8), draft (40), proofread (7). Stay within 450 words.

10 min - check

Final pass for spelling, punctuation, tense consistency.

Aligns with Cambridge syllabus 0500

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Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition

Section A - Directed Writing

Section B - Composition (choose one)

Suggested timing plan

Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition

Section A - Directed Writing

Section B - Composition (choose one)

Suggested timing plan