specification overview
Edexcel International GCSE English Language A (4EA1) is a single-tier linear qualification offered by exam route (Papers 1 + 2) or coursework route (Paper 1 + Coursework component). Paper 1 (Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing) is 2h 15m and 90 marks (60%); Paper 2 (Poetry and Prose Texts + Imaginative Writing) is 1h 30m and 60 marks (40%).
subject content
1. Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing
Paper 1- Section A: one anthology non-fiction text (contemporary) + one previously unseen extract, analysis and comparison
- Section B: Transactional writing (letter, article, report, speech, review)
2. Poetry and Prose Texts + Imaginative Writing
Paper 2- Section A: Anthology poetry and prose (studied), analytical response
- Section B: Imaginative writing (narrative or descriptive) linked by theme to the anthology
3. Coursework alternative (Component 03)
NEA- Assignment 1: A poetry/prose response (analytical)
- Assignment B: Imaginative writing (approximately 700 words) whose purpose is to narrate, describe or entertain
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing) | One anthology non-fiction text + one previously unseen extract + transactional writing | 2h 15m | 90 | 60% | Section A: short and long-answer questions on one anthology non-fiction text and one previously unseen extract (45 marks). Section B: one transactional writing task (45 marks including SPaG) |
| Paper 2 (Poetry and Prose Texts + Imaginative Writing) | Studied anthology poetry/prose + imaginative writing | 1h 30m | 60 | 40% | Section A: one analytical response to anthology poetry/prose (30 marks). Section B: one imaginative writing task linked to anthology theme (30 marks) |
| Coursework (Component 03), alternative to Paper 2 | Assignment A: response to three texts from Part 2 of the anthology (at least one poetry and one prose). Assignment B: imaginative writing | Coursework | 60 | 40% | Two written assignments: Assignment A, a response to three anthology Part 2 texts, of approximately 1200 words; Assignment B, imaginative writing of approximately 700 words. Internally marked, moderated by Pearson |
Schools choose exam route (Papers 1 + 2) OR coursework route (Paper 1 + Component 03). The anthology is set by Pearson and includes both English and international voices, students study it throughout the course.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Read and understand a variety of texts, selecting and interpreting information, ideas and perspectives. | 15% |
| AO2 | Understand and analyse how writers use linguistic and structural devices to achieve their effects. | 20% |
| AO3 | Explore links and connections between writers' ideas and perspectives, as well as how these are conveyed. | 15% |
| AO4 | Communicate effectively and imaginatively, adapting form, tone and register of writing for specific purposes and audiences. | 30% |
| AO5 | Write clearly, using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, with appropriate paragraphing and accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation. | 20% |
key tips for success
Master the anthology inside out
Paper 2 Section A tests the Pearson anthology. Know every poem/prose extract's themes, imagery, structure and voice. Practise linking pieces by theme.
Choose your route early
Exam route (Papers 1+2) vs coursework route (Paper 1 + Component 03). Your school picks. Coursework rewards steady work throughout the course; exam route rewards timed performance.
Nail the Paper 1 anthology-plus-unseen comparison
Paper 1 Section A pairs one anthology non-fiction text (studied) with one previously unseen extract. Practise comparing viewpoints, methods and effect across the two.
Practise transactional formats
Paper 1 Section B: letters, articles, reports, speeches, reviews. Learn conventions for each: greeting, headline, sign-off, direct address, structured argument.
Watch AO5 marks for SPaG
AO5 (spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence range) is 20% across both papers. Losing marks here easily drops a grade, drill common misspellings.
Time-box Paper 1 carefully
2h 15m across the anthology + unseen extract + writing task. Practise pace: ~60 mins for Section A (~30 min per text), ~65 mins for Section B writing + SPaG check.
Where to next
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