ENGLISH. Introducing updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for

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1 Introducing updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for ENGLISH English Language 9093 Literature in English 9695 Language & Literature in English 8695 (AS Level only) The revised Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language, Literature in English and Language & Literature in English syllabuses are available now for first examination in June For Cambridge schools in India, the first assessment of these syllabuses will be in March 2016.

2 Cambridge International AS & A Levels international recognition Cambridge International AS & A Levels are internationally recognised qualifications providing excellent preparation for university education. Taken in more than 125 countries and offering a choice of more than 60 subjects, Cambridge International AS & A Level qualifications are designed to help students develop a deep understanding of subjects, as well as independent learning and constructive thinking skills which are valued by universities. We believe that well-designed curriculum and assessment practices provide an opportunity for learners to demonstrate their ability for creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Schools and learners find Cambridge International AS & A Levels very flexible. Schools can offer almost any combination of the wide choice of subjects available. Learners have the freedom to select the subjects that are right for them they either follow a broad course of study or specialise in a particular area. The Cambridge approach supports schools to develop learners who are equipped for success in the fast-changing modern world. With over learners around the world each year, and doubling every five years, Cambridge International AS & A Levels have been proven to be not just about getting into university but also helping learners to get on at university, in life and employment beyond. They are widely recognised by employers and, every year, thousands of Cambridge International A Level learners gain places at the world s top universities. Ofqual Cambridge International Examinations is recognised by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) the regulator of examinations in England to award qualifications. This means you can be sure our assessments and qualifications are monitored and meet appropriate standards. We work closely with Ofqual to maintain our recognised status. Learn more! More details about support available for these syllabuses can be found at If you have any questions about implementing a new subject, our support teams are always happy to help. Contact us at info@cie.org.uk

3 As part of our regular review process, we re pleased to introduce updates to seven of our most popular Cambridge International AS & A Levels for examinations starting in The refreshed syllabuses retain the familiar features of the qualification and continue to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their ability for creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Following a worldwide consultation to check the syllabuses develop the skills universities require, we have updated our Accounting, Business, Chemistry, Economics, Biology, Physics and Literature in English syllabuses. This document gives an overview of developments in Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses in English. Please refer to the full syllabus document before planning to teach these courses. Important information If your candidates studied the 2015 syllabus please note the following: Assessments in the 2016 examination series are based on the revised syllabus. Candidates can carry forward the result of their AS Level assessments in 2015 to complete the A Level in 2016 (subject to the usual time limit rules for carry forwards). Assessments for candidates retaking the AS or A Level in 2016 are based on the revised syllabus. Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English 4

4 ` LANGUAGE Cambridge International AS & A Level Subject Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093) Our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language syllabus gives learners the opportunity to achieve a full Cambridge International A Level in English Language. It focuses on contemporary English language and communication. Learners analyse texts including print, digital and speech to develop a critical and informed response. Learners gain understanding and knowledge of the features of language and how it is used to achieve different results. They develop their own imaginative and persuasive writing abilities and, at Cambridge International A Level, research specified language topics and communicate their conclusions. The syllabus aims to develop effective, creative, accurate and appropriate communication skills. It also provides a firm foundation for further study of language and linguistics. Successful English Language learners gain lifelong skills including the ability to write clearly, accurately, creatively and persuasively in appropriate styles and forms. They are able to analyse a variety of texts and understand the use of language to inform and persuade. Key concepts We have identified the following key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093) at this level. These concepts help teachers understanding of the subject. The teaching support package helps you to integrate these key concepts into your teaching: n The characteristics of written and spoken texts n The structure of a text or passage n Context: the relationship between a text and its background n The features of imaginative writing n The features of persuasive and argumentative writing n Different types of audiences n The features of spontaneous speech n Language acquisition n Spoken language and social groups n Global English. 5 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

5 Syllabus content Reading, writing, analysis and research There are four components within the overall qualification. For the Cambridge International AS Level, learners take Papers 1 and 2. For the Cambridge International A Level, learners also take Papers 3 and 4. Paper 1 Passages Learners read and analyse a range of English language sources such as advertisements, brochures, leaflets, editorials, news stories, articles, reviews, blogs, investigative journalism, letters, podcasts, (auto)biographies, diaries, essays, scripted speech (e.g. a speech by a politician) and narrative/descriptive writing. The analysis consists of identifying distinguishing features of texts and relating them to the function and context of the writing. The features include vocabulary, figurative language, sentence structure, tone, and the communication of attitudes, bias or prejudice. They must also complete a directed writing task based on the passage(s). Paper 2 Writing Learners develop skills in narrative or descriptive writing. They learn to write imaginatively, using language to create deliberate effects, such as conveying a mood or describing a character. Learners also learn to write in a variety of forms, including magazine features, reviews, scripted speeches, and voiceovers for a specified audience. They learn to present a view clearly, construct an argument carefully and write coherently and persuasively. Paper 3 Text Analysis In Paper 3, learners build on their skills in analysing text gained in Paper 1. They learn to compare the style and language of different texts and develop their skills in using appropriate vocabulary, style and tone for a specified audience. Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English 6

6 Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language Paper 4 Language Topics Learners research three topic areas. The paper contains three questions, each on a separate topic area. Candidates answer two questions. Questions carry equal marks. The topic areas for examination in 2016 are: Topic A: Spoken language and social groups n Specific features of spoken language that are influenced by context n The use of language to include and exclude n Group identity, power and status n Slang, jargon and other non-standard features n Idiolect/sociolect/dialect n Speech sounds and accents n Theories and studies of social variation in language, for example variations according to gender, age, occupation, social class. Topic B: English as a global language n Issues arising from differing ideas of world/global/international English n Kachru s Three Circles: inner circle, outer circle and expanding circle n The local status of English as an official (second) language n Englishes -- standard and non-standard varieties n Cultural effects especially from, for example, British versus American English n National government attitudes: language planning policies n Language death. Topic C: Language acquisition by children and teenagers n The main stages of early development n The different functions of young people s language n Knowledge of some of the theories of how children acquire language, such as imitation and reinforcement (Skinner), the language acquisition device (Chomsky), cognitive development (Piaget) and child-directed (or caretaker ) speech. 7 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

7 Assessment structure Cambridge International AS Level candidates take Papers 1 and 2. Component Paper 1 Passages The paper contains three questions. Candidates answer two questions: Question 1, and either Question 2 or Question 3. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. 15 minutes Paper 2 Writing Candidates answer two questions: one from Section A and one from Section B. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. Weighting 50% 50% Cambridge International A Level candidates take Papers 1, 2, 3 and 4. Paper 1 Passages The paper contains three questions. Candidates answer two questions: Question 1, and either Question 2 or Question 3. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. 15 minutes Paper 2 Writing Candidates answer two questions: one from Section A and one from Section B. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. Paper 3 Text Analysis The paper contains two questions. Candidates must answer both questions. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. 15 minutes Paper 4 Language Topics The paper contains three questions, each on a separate topic area. Candidates answer two questions. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. 15 minutes 25% 25% 25% 25% LANGUAGE

8 Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language Assessment objectives Learners must demonstrate the ability to: n A01: Read with understanding and analyse texts in a variety of forms n A02: Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of English language (including, at Cambridge International A Level, spoken language) and its use in a variety of contexts n A03: Write clearly, accurately, creatively and effectively for different purposes/audiences, using different forms. 9 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

9 LITERATURE IN ENGLISH Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English (9695) Successful Literature in English learners develop a lifelong understanding and enjoyment of literary texts. They will study a range of texts in the three main forms prose, poetry and drama from different periods and cultures. Learners will develop skills of reading and analysis of texts, and are encouraged to undertake wider reading to aid understanding of the texts studied. They will learn skills of effective and appropriate communication, including the ability to discuss the critical context of texts. Key concepts We have identified the following concepts as key to the study of Literature in English at this level. The concepts can serve as tools to understand both familiar and unfamiliar works of literature. The teaching support package helps you to integrate these key concepts into your teaching: n Imaginative literature: the texts as literary, imaginative constructs n Form: the main characteristics of prose, drama and poetry, and how these contribute to meaning and effect n Structure: the organisation of a text or passage, its shape and development and how this contributes to meaning and effect n Genre: the characteristics of, for example, tragedy, comedy or satire n Conventions: the rules or traditional features that are characteristic of a work n Context: the relationship between a text and its background n Audience and readership: the interaction of texts with the reader or audience n Language and style: the variety and use of language and style in different forms, genres and periods n Interpretation: the appreciation and discussion of different critical readings of a text (Cambridge International A Level only). Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English 10

10 Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English Quick view of changes The Cambridge International AS and A Level Literature in English syllabus has been revised. Please read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme. Key concepts We have identified key concepts to help learners make links more easily between the different topics and develop a deeper understanding of their subject. Assessment n In Paper 5, Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts, candidates will answer two questions: one question from Section A (Shakespeare) and one question from Section B. At least one of the questions must be passage-based. n Paper 6 becomes: Paper to the Present. n In Component 8 Coursework, quotations are now excluded from the 3000 word limit. I am impressed by the structure and emphasis. Higher education lecturers aim to recruit students who can construct arguments, think critically, and account for the aesthetic of literary texts. This qualification should make that task easier. Dr Marcus Waithe, Fellow in English and University Senior Lecturer, Magdalene College, University of Cambridge. 11 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

11 Syllabus content Learners study a range of poems, prose and plays, with options from the canon of English Literature and modern texts in English. Cambridge International AS Level Literature in English For Cambridge International AS Level Literature in English there are two compulsory papers: n Paper 3 Poetry and Prose n Paper 4 Drama. Learners study four set texts at Cambridge International AS Level. Cambridge International A Level Literature in English For the full Cambridge International A Level Literature in English there are three compulsory papers plus one from a choice of optional papers. The compulsory papers are: n Paper 3 Poetry and Prose n Paper 4 Drama n Paper 5 Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts. Cambridge International A Level candidates must also choose one of the following: n Paper to the Present n Paper 7 Comment and Appreciation n Component 8 Coursework. Overall, Cambridge International A Level candidates study eight set texts, or six set texts plus two unseen texts, if Paper 7 Comment and Appreciation is chosen. LITERATURE

12 Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English Set texts For examinations in 2016, questions will be set on the following texts. Please check the syllabus for 2017 and 2018 set texts. Paper 3 Poetry and prose (Learners study one from each section) Section A Poetry Wilfred Owen Songs of Ourselves Ted Hughes Section B Prose Edith Wharton Jhumpa Lahiri Stories of Ourselves Paper 4 Drama (Learners study two plays) Selected Poems Selected Poems Selected Poems. The House of Mirth The Namesake Selected Stories. Paper 5 Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts (Learners study one from each section) Section A Shakespeare William Shakespeare William Shakespeare Section B Jane Austen Geoffrey Chaucer George Eliot John Keats Charles Dickens Christina Rossetti Measure for Measure Othello. Emma The Wife of Bath s Prologue and Tale The Mill on the Floss Selected Poems Great Expectations Selected Poems. Ama Ata Aidoo and Anowa William Shakespeare William Shakespeare Robert Bolt Alan Ayckbourn The Dilemma of a Ghost A Midsummer Night s Dream Anthony and Cleopatra A Man for all Seasons Absurd Person Singular. Paper to the present (Candidates study two) Katherine Mansfield Aravind Adiga Liz Lochhead Arthur Miller WB Yeats Athol Fugard Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Selected Stories The White Tiger Selected Poems Death of a Salesman Selected Poems The Road to Mecca and My Children! My Africa! Americanah. 13 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

13 Assessment structure Cambridge International AS Level candidates take Paper 3 and Paper 4 only. Component Paper 3 Poetry and prose Candidates answer two questions: one question from Section A Poetry and one question from Section B Prose. Externally assessed. Weighting 50% Paper 4 Drama Candidates answer two questions on two plays. Externally assessed. 50% LITERATURE

14 Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English Assessment structure Cambridge International A Level candidates take Papers 3, 4 and 5 and either Paper 6 or 7 or Component 8. Component Paper 3 Poetry and Prose Candidates answer two questions: one question from Section A Poetry and one question from Section B Prose. Externally assessed. Weighting 25% Paper 4 Drama Candidates answer two questions on two plays. Externally assessed. 25% Paper 5 Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts This paper contains two sections: Section A Shakespeare and Section B other pre-20th Century Texts.Candidates answer two questions: one question from Section A and one question from Section B. At least one of the questions candidates answer must be a passage-based question, chosen from either Section A or Section B. Externally assessed. 25% 15 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

15 and either Paper to the Present Candidates answer two questions on different texts. Externally assessed. 25% or Paper 7 Comment and Appreciation Candidates answer two questions on different texts. Candidates write critical appreciations of previously unseen passages. Externally assessed. 25% or Component 8 Coursework Available on special application only. Candidates submit a folder of two essays on different texts. Internally marked, externally moderated. 50 marks 25% Assessment objectives Candidates must demonstrate: n AO1: The ability to respond to texts in the three main forms (Prose, Poetry and Drama) of different types and from different cultures. n AO2: An understanding of the ways in which writers choices of form, structure and language shape meanings. n AO3: The ability to produce informed, independent opinions and judgements of literary texts. n AO4: The ability to communicate clearly the knowledge, understanding and insight appropriate for literary study. n AO5: The ability to appreciate and discuss varying opinions of literary works (Cambridge International A Level only). LITERATURE

16 LANGUAGES Cambridge International AS & A Level Subject AND LITERATURE Cambridge International AS Level Language & Literature in English (8695) The Language & Literature syllabus encourages an appreciation of literature in English of different types and from different cultures, and develops the key skills required to read, analyse and communicate effectively in English. By studying a range of texts prose, poetry and drama learners understand more about writers choices of structure and language, and develop their abilities to form independent opinions about what they read. Learners also improve their understanding of the English language and how it is used, extending their skills across a range of writing styles, including imaginative, discursive and argumentative. This syllabus is only available at Cambridge International AS Level. Key concepts We have identified the following key concepts for Cambridge International AS Level Language & Literature in English. The teaching support package helps you to integrate key concepts into your teaching. The concepts set out below offer ways to approach the study of Paper 2 Writing: n The features of imaginative writing the ingredients which may help to form different types of creative responses. For example, aspects of structure and particular linguistic skills and forms of expression such as varying sentence structures or selecting effective vocabulary. n The features of persuasive and argumentative writing including the different techniques and devices employed in conveying points of view, exemplification and cohesive reasoning in different formats for different types of audiences. The key concepts below offer ways to approach the study of Paper 9 Poetry, Prose and Drama: n Imaginative literature: the texts as literary, imaginative constructs n Form: the main characteristics of prose, drama and poetry, and how these contribute to meaning and effect n Structure: the organisation of a text or passage, its shape and development and how this contributes to meaning and effect n Genre: the characteristics of, for example, tragedy, comedy or satire n Conventions: the rules or traditional features that are characteristic of a work n Context: the relationship between a text and its background n Audience and readership: the interaction of texts with the reader or audience n Language and style: the variety and use of language and style in different forms, genres and periods. 17 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

17 Quick view of changes The Cambridge International AS Level Language and Literature in English syllabus has been updated and now includes key concepts. Please read through the whole 2016 syllabus before planning your teaching programme. Key concepts n We have identified key concepts to help learners make links more easily between the different topics and develop a deeper understanding of their subject. Set texts For examinations in 2016, questions will be set on the following texts. Please check the syllabus for 2017 and 2018 set texts. Paper 9 Poetry, Prose and Drama (Candidates study two of the following, each from a different section): Section A Poetry Wilfred Owen Songs of Ourselves Ted Hughes Selected Poems Selected Poems Selected Poems Section B Prose Edith Wharton The House of Mirth Jhumpa Lahiri The Namesake Stories of Ourselves Selected Stories Section C Drama Ama Ata Aidoo The Dilemma of a Ghost and Anowa William Shakespeare Anthony and Cleopatra Robert Bolt A Man for All Seasons Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English 18

18 Cambridge International AS & A Level Languages and Literature Assessment structure All candidates take Paper 2 and 9. Component Paper 2 Writing Candidates answer two questions: one question from Section A and one from Section B. Questions carry equal marks. Externally assessed. Weighting 50% Paper 9 Poetry, Prose and Drama This paper contains three section: Section A Poetry, Section B Prose and Section C Drama. Candidates answer two questions, each from a different section. Externally assessed. 50% Assessment objectives Candidates must demonstrate: n AO1: A knowledge and understanding of features of English language n AO2: The ability to write clearly, accurately and effectively for a particular purpose or audience n AO3: The ability to respond to texts in two or three main forms (Prose, Poetry and Drama), of different types and from different cultures n AO4: An understanding of how writers choices of form, structure and language shape meanings n AO5: The ability to produce informed, independent opinions and judgements of literary texts n AO6: The ability to communicate clearly the knowledge, understanding and insight appropriate to literary study. 19 Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for English

19 Support for teachers Take advantage of the range of support, training and events for teachers that we offer. Support online Cambridge schools can access all the materials they need to teach Cambridge programmes from the Teacher Support site, including full syllabuses, specimen question papers, mark schemes, examiner reports, teacher guides, schemes of work, lesson plans and discussion forums. Go to Expert advice Our subject experts are there to help you at all stages of your teaching through our active discussion forums. Training and professional development Cambridge teachers can build their knowledge and skills through the Cambridge Professional Development programme. Whether you are interested in furthering your subject knowledge, developing your teaching skills or networking with other professional colleagues, there are online and face-to-face opportunities. Textbooks and resources Comprehensive support for Cambridge International AS & A Level programmes includes a range of textbooks, recommended resources, online resources and training. Learn more! Getting in touch with Cambridge is easy. For more information on Cambridge International AS & A Level programmes go to us at info@cie.org.uk or telephone +44 (0) Introducing our updated Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses for Business subjects 20

20 Cambridge International AS & A Level subjects Cambridge International AS Level English Language is for learners who can already communicate effectively in English. The syllabus develops learners ability to write clearly and persuasively using different styles and registers, and to analyse a variety of complex texts in different forms and styles. Learners choosing Cambridge International AS and A Level Literature in English will critically analyse a range of texts in the three main forms prose, poetry and drama from a wide range of different periods and cultures. Cambridge International AS Level Language and Literature in English Cambridge International AS & A Level English Literature English Language Cambridge International AS & A Levels syllabuses build on the foundations of Cambridge IGCSE, the world s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. For our full list of Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses visit Cambridge International Examinations 1 Hills Road, Cambridge, CB1 2EU, United Kingdom t: f: e: info@cie.org.uk IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations Cambridge International Examinations, May 2014 * *