IGCSE English as a Second Language (Count-in Speaking) (9-1) (0991) Tutors

1. Offered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, IGCSE English as a Second Language (Count‑in Speaking) (9–1) (0991) is a globally recognised exam testing Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking skills. ESL means English as a Second Language. Exam format includes two written papers (Reading & Writing, Listening) and one Speaking test. Real‑life tasks might be writing an email to a friend or participating in a group discussion.

2. Often called Cambridge IGCSE ESL; sometimes referred to as IGCSE English Second Language; fewer use the shorthand English ESL IGCSE; a few say “IGCSE 0991.”

3. Major topics cover: • Listening for gist and detail (e.g. understanding announcements on a train platform) • Reading comprehension (articles, adverts, graphs) • Writing letters, emails, reports (like drafting an invite for a school event) • Speaking: picture-based prompts, role‑plays, discussions (for instance debating environmental issues) • Grammar and vocabulary use within context (prepositions, phrasal verbs) • Functional language such as giving directions or asking for clarification

4. IGCSE ESL began in the late 1980s to meet growing demand for standardised English assessment worldwide. In 1994 Cambridge launched the first 0991 series, with Listening added in 2001 to sharpen real‑world comprehension. The Speaking component became count‑in for grades in 2011, ensuring oral skills mattered equally. A 9–1 grading scale replaced A*–G in 2019, aligning with other Cambridge IGCSE subjects. Over time, digital listening tests were introduced, and exam papers now reflect global contexts—from business email examples to social media posts—preparing students for univeristy and beyond.

If you want to learn IGCSE English as a Second Language (Count‑in Speaking) (9‑1) (0991), MEB offers one‑on‑one online tutoring with a personal tutor. If you are a school, college or university student and want top grades in assignments, lab reports, live assessments, projects, essays or dissertations, try our 24/7 instant online homework help. We prefer WhatsApp chat, but if you don’t use it, you can email us at meb@myengineeringbuddy.com

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This Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (0991) is special because it tests all four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The speaking exam is counted in the final grade. It uses real-life topics, clear tasks and a 9‑1 grading scale. It is known world‑wide and helps build everyday English skills for non‑native speakers. It also offers clear mark schemes and helpful study materials.

One advantage is that it improves practical speaking and listening more than literature subjects. Universities and employers value its focus on real communication. However, some students find the speaking test stressful compared to written‑only subjects. Preparing for four skills can take more time. Also, non‑native speakers may need extra support to reach higher grades. Still, it is less theory‑heavy than literature and offers more practical use of language.

Taking IGCSE English as a Second Language (0991) 9-1 syllabus opens doors to higher study. Many move to Cambridge AS & A Level English or Literature. Others choose university courses in media, communications or business. Some prepare for IELTS or TOEFL for global universities.

Graduates can work in teaching, content writing, editing or customer service. Growing remote work means online ESL tutors and support agents are in demand. Global firms seek clear communicators for roles in marketing, public relations and human resources, especially post‑pandemic.

Popular roles include ESL teacher, translator, content creator and learning support assistant. Work often involves planning lessons, writing materials, giving presentations and marking tests. These tasks build confidence and real‑world skills valued in many industries.

We study IGCSE ESL to build real‑life communication skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Test preparation boosts confidence, exam strategy and time management. Graduates gain an edge in university entry and the global job market. Strong English also helps travel, research and cross‑cultural teamwork.

Start by learning the exam format: there are two speaking tasks. Listen to sample answers so you know what examiners expect. Build useful everyday vocabulary by reading short articles and noting new words. Practice speaking five minutes a day on different topics; record yourself to spot mistakes. Work with a partner or use online language exchange to get real feedback. Finally, do past speaking papers under timed conditions so you’re comfortable on exam day.

This exam tests everyday English, so it’s not impossible. If you already speak some English, it won’t feel too hard once you know the tasks. Like any skill, the more you practise, the more confident you’ll become. Many students find the format clear and the questions familiar when they’ve done enough drills and mock tests.

You can study by yourself if you’re disciplined: use textbooks, watch videos, and join online groups to swap feedback. But a tutor speeds up progress by correcting your mistakes and giving tips. Live feedback helps you improve pronunciation, grammar, and structure faster than alone.

At MEB, our tutors guide you through each speaking task with 1:1 lessons, mock exams, and personalized feedback. We’re available online 24/7, so you can fit sessions around your schedule. We also help with assignments and practice materials, all at an affordable fee designed for busy students.

Most students spend about two to three months preparing, studying five to seven hours a week. If you’re starting from basic level, allow extra time to build vocabulary and confidence. If you’re already around B1 level, six weeks of focused practice can be enough to aim for a strong grade.

Useful resources: YouTube channels like British Council LearnEnglish, BBC Learning English and Cambridge Assessment’s own clips. Visit cambridgeinternational.org for past papers and examiner reports, and use websites like Exam English or Flo-Joe for practice. Recommended books: Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language Coursebook (Marty Price & Dave Evans), Cambridge Grammar and Vocabulary for the IGCSE (Luke Prodromou), and Oxford English for Cambridge IGCSE.

College students, parents, tutors from USA, Canada, UK, Gulf etc: if you need a helping hand, be it online 1:1 24/7 tutoring or assignment support, our tutors at MEB can help at an affordable fee.