IGCSE World Literature
Cambridge IGCSE World Literature develops critical reading and response to poetry, prose, and drama from around the world, including works in translation.
Difficulty
Moderate
Popularity
40%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
May/June & October/November, annually
Written exam + coursework
Grades A*–G (or 9–1 in some regions)
C / Grade 4 = standard pass | A*/9 = highest
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 — Set Texts | 1 hour 30 minutes | Passage + essay questions | 60% |
| Coursework — Assignments | Coursework | 2 essays | 40% |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Challenging
Popularity score
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Study Tips
- 1
Practice writing timed essays regularly; a brilliant essay that is never finished scores poorly.
- 2
Plan before you write: a clear, debatable thesis and 3–4 organized arguments beat unstructured brilliance.
- 3
Read examiner reports and high-scoring sample answers to internalize what top marks look like.
- 4
Work through Cambridge past papers and mark schemes — examiner wording is consistent year to year.
- 5
Read examiner reports: they tell you exactly which mistakes cost students marks last session.
Past Exam Questions
Explain what is meant by Poetry Analysis and identify the techniques a writer typically uses to convey it.
Analyse how a writer uses language, structure, and form in relation to Prose Analysis. Quote specific evidence and explain its effect on the reader.
"A writer's treatment of Drama reveals their deeper purpose." Discuss this view, developing a clear argument supported by close textual analysis.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Writing without a clear, arguable thesis, so the essay drifts.
- ✕
Poor time management that leaves essays unfinished.
- ✕
Retelling the plot instead of analyzing the writer's choices and their effects.
Official Resources
Free, official study material for IGCSE World Literature — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
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