GCSE | English as an

Additional Language

English as a Second Language at Leighton Park

Exam Board: Edexcel
Syllabus Code: 4ES1

The English as a Second Language IGCSE course requires students to communicate formally and informally in a range of contexts, and to understand a wider range of texts, styles and registers than they can produce themselves. The aim of the Edexcel International GCSE in English as a Second Language (ESL) is to test English language competence through realistic and contextualised tasks based on authentic texts. 

Students develop the ability to:

• read for both gist and detail
• write in response to a given situation
• listen to a complex argument or discussion, understand the overall message and identify attitudes
• participate in extended discussion

This course builds a foundation for students wishing to progress to further study in English speaking environments. It is a linear qualification, examined through external assessment at the end of the course.

In addition to the IGCSE ESL, EAL students may have the opportunity to sit the internationally recognised Cambridge examinations (either First Certificate in English or Cambridge Advanced Examination). These exams are taken at a nearby centre and cost approximately £120.

Paper 1 (4ES2/01): Reading – 1 hour examination – 25% weighting

The Reading paper contains texts of varying lengths. They increase in challenge, complexity and length throughout the exam.

Paper 2 (4ES2/02): Listening – ¾ hour examination – 25% weighting

The Listening paper contains recorded extracts of varying lengths. They increase in challenge, complexity and length throughout the exam.

Paper 3 (4ES2/03): Writing – 1 ¼ hour examination – 25% weighting

The Writing paper contains three tasks, each with a specific context and target reader. For the second task there are three options and the student is required to complete one option only. The third task is always a summary task in which the student is asked to extract information from source text and summarise the text as a whole.

Paper 4 (4ES2/04): Speaking – 22-23 minutes recorded examination – 25% weighting

The Speaking paper is divided into three assessed tasks, with the first task being a warm-up activity. The students are allowed 10 minutes’ preparation time under supervised conditions to prepare for the role play and picture tasks. They are allowed to make notes, which they are allowed to bring into the exam room.

If you have any queries about this course, please contact Head of Department: Harriet Custance.