PRO Elit English | IGCSE First Language English 2019 Paper 2
Anyone gearing up for their IGCSEs in 2019? Way to early, you say? Well, I'd beg to differ. As the saying goes, 'Preparation is the key to success'. A bit of a cliché but not one bit untrue.
Today we are going to look at the changes that will descent and wreak havoc on the 2019 IGCSE First Language English Paper 2. The good news here is that there's only one notable change, but the bad news is that this single change makes it significantly harder to score.
Let's zoom in to where the change is at - Question 3 (Summary). Previously, this was a two-part question where candidates are required to first, list out content points in a note form (not continuous writing), followed by the final summary which is to be written as continuous writing. Candidates need not use their own words in completing the first part of the question, which can be awarded up to 15 marks. The second part of the question is worth 5 marks.
In the 2019 syllabus, Question 3 will no longer be a two-part question. Candidates are required to present their answers in continuous writing, with points addressing the question composed using their own words, right from the start. The word limit remains the same - not more than 250 words. This single attempt is worth 20 marks.
More information on this question:
This question tests the following reading assessment objectives (15 marks):
R1 demonstrate understanding of explicit meanings
R2 demonstrate understanding of implicit meanings and attitudes
R5 select for specific purposes.
The question also tests the following writing assessment objectives (5 marks):
W2 organise facts, ideas and opinions
W3 use a range of appropriate vocabulary
W5 make accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Tips for summary writing:
It is necessary to highlight the major points in the text and arrange them in a list. Go through the list once again and choose the ideas that answer the question. Eliminate irrelevant points, examples and trivial information.
Some authors restate the same ideas throughout the text. So, be careful to avoid repetitions in your list. Remember that the summary must be shorter than the original text.
Paraphrasing is essential in summary writing. Aim to paraphrase main points (rewriting main points in your own words) in a concise manner. Ensure that your writing is clear and straight to the point. Vocabulary skills play an important role here. So start expanding your vocabulary!
Learn up useful transition words as they help with connecting ideas together to create a coherent and concise piece.
It is not necessary to imitate the author of the original text in writing the summary. You should restate the text in your own manner and using your own style. Also, do not quote the writer, but be careful not to distort his/her ideas by your own interpretation.
You do not need to introduce or conclude your summary – this will waste time and words. You could start by using the wording of the question.
The summary should make sense as a separate paper. Even though your task is to retell the main points of the original text, make sure they are tied together logically.