Cambridge IAL English Language

Cambridge publishes separate syllabuses for 2024–2026, 2027–2028 and 2029–2031, and the syllabus year refers to the year in which the examination will be taken. Check the syllabus document for your own session before you buy resources or plan revision, because task types and assessment criteria differ between these versions.

Cambridge lists Paper 1 Text Analysis, Paper 2 Writing, Paper 3 Language Analysis and Paper 4 Language Topics. Paper 1 carries a new title in the updated syllabus. The syllabus page does not state the duration, mark weighting or question count of each paper, so consult the syllabus document for your year for those details.

At AS Level, text types have been updated and reference to the purpose of different types of writing added. Paper 1 Section A now requires a response to a short prompt plus analysis of the candidate's own writing, and Section B requires comparison of two unseen written texts. Paper 2 Section A introduces a compulsory argumentative essay based on three printed sources.

Yes. Cambridge states that the assessment criteria for all components have been updated to reflect changes to task types and to make them clearer. If you are using mark schemes or guides written for an earlier syllabus year, check them against the criteria in your own syllabus before relying on them for practice.

Cambridge says it is developing a scheme of work and other classroom resources, that Example Candidate Responses will be available following the first examination in 2029, and that teachers should visit the School Support Hub from June 2029 onwards for details. Candidates examining earlier should rely on their syllabus document and endorsed resources.

Start from the syllabus for your examination year and note the skills each paper assesses: critical reading and analysis of texts, and writing clearly and effectively for different purposes and audiences. Build practice around analysing unfamiliar texts and producing your own writing, then check your work against the updated assessment criteria rather than older guides.

The syllabus emphasises both analysis and production. Candidates who only summarise or describe what a text says, without examining how language, form and structure shape meaning for an audience, miss the analytical demand. Equally, candidates who neglect accuracy and audience awareness in their own writing lose marks on the writing components.

No. This page is independent study material and is not endorsed by or affiliated with Cambridge International. The syllabus details summarised here come from Cambridge's public syllabus page for 9093; always confirm requirements, dates and assessment arrangements with Cambridge International or your school before making decisions.