IGCSE English - First Language (9-1) (0990) Tutors

IGCSE English – First Language (9‐1) (0990) is an English language qualification by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). It evaluates reading comprehension and expressive writing for native speakers aged 14–16, combining analysis of fiction, non‐fiction and visual texts with transactional and creative tasks. Exam format includes two written papers.

Popular alternative names include: - Cambridge IGCSE English First Language - Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) English First Language 0990 - IGCSE First Language English - English Language First Language (0990) - Cambridge 0990 English L1

Reading Comprehension focuses on inference, tone identification, summarising and scrutiny of language techniques. Writing covers narratives, descriptive and persuasive essays, plus transactional pieces like letters and reports. Grammar and vocabulary demand precise sentence structures, correct punctuation and an expansive lexicon. Text types range from fiction or poetry to non‑fiction and visual media. Context and audience matter. Imagine analysing a film review for a blog, or composing a project update email.

1988 saw the launch of the original IGCSE, offering First Language English papers in an O‑level style. By 2001 syllabus updates introduced more diverse text types and focused on real‑world writing tasks. In 2017, Cambridge announced a shift to the 9–1 grading scale, and the new (9‑1) specification (0990) appeared in exams from 2019. That transition gave clearer differentiation at top grades. Assessment methods remained two written papers. Regular minor tweaks ensure the course stays relevant—review panels include teachers and examiners from across the globe to accomodate emerging literacy trends and digital media.

Do you want to learn IGCSE English – First Language (9‑1) (0990)? At MEB, we offer 1 on 1 online tutoring for this course.

Our tutor can help you with: • Assignments • Lab reports • Tests and quizzes • Projects • Essays and dissertations

We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can chat with us on WhatsApp. If you do not use WhatsApp, email us at meb@myengineeringbuddy.com

Most of our students live in the USA, Canada, the UK, the Gulf, Europe and Australia.

Students ask for our help when they: • Have hard subjects • Have too many assignments • Face tough questions • Have health or personal issues • Have learning difficulties • Work part time or miss classes

If you are a parent and your ward is finding this subject hard, contact us today. We will help your ward do well in exams and homework. They will thank you!

MEB also offers help in over 1000 other subjects. Our tutors are experts. They make learning easier and help you succeed. It is smart to get help when you need it. This makes school less stressful.

Cambridge IGCSE English First Language (9‑1) (0990) is special because it tests real‑world reading and writing. It uses unseen texts, creative writing and transactional tasks to build clear expression and critical thinking. Its 9‑1 grades match global standards, giving fair feedback. The course is flexible, suits first‑language speakers and helps them use English confidently across exams and life.

Compared to other subjects, it sharpens writing and analysis more. Its clear criteria help students aim for precise answers. Teachers give feedback on style and structure, which builds strong communication skills. Yet it can be time‑heavy, with lots of reading and essays. Grading may feel subjective, and non‑native speakers might struggle. It has less focus on maths or science facts.

Students who do IGCSE English First Language (0990) often move on to subjects like Cambridge International AS & A Levels in English, Literature or related courses. They can also join the International Baccalaureate diploma or vocational studies that build on reading and writing skills.

In today’s job market, many IGCSE English learners become content writers, editors, teachers or communications assistants. They may work in media, marketing or digital teams, writing blogs, reports and social media posts. Their day‑to‑day tasks include proofreading, research, and crafting clear messages for different audiences.

We prepare for IGCSE English to sharpen our ability to read, write and speak well. The tests teach us to understand texts deeply, use correct grammar and express ideas clearly. This builds confidence and helps us learn faster in other subjects too.

The skills gained in this course are useful everywhere. Strong English helps with university applications, job interviews and teamwork. It also boosts digital literacy for online learning, social media, and today’s global workplace.

Start by getting the official Cambridge IGCSE First Language English syllabus and breaking it into reading and writing targets. Read a variety of texts—newspaper articles, short stories, reports—and underline key points and language features. Practice writing clear essays, letters and summaries under timed conditions. Review model answers to see how they use structure and vocabulary. Get feedback on your work, make a list of common mistakes, then revise and try again until you feel confident.

Many students worry it’s hard, but it’s really about regular practice. You’ll need good reading skills to spot ideas and language techniques, and strong writing skills to organise your own ideas clearly. If you work steadily through the syllabus and learn from feedback, you’ll find it very doable.

You can self-study if you’re disciplined and use quality resources, but a tutor speeds up progress. A tutor gives instant feedback, helps you focus on weak areas and keeps you on track. They’ll also show you exam strategies and model answers you might miss on your own.

MEB offers dedicated IGCSE English tutors available 24/7 for one-on-one online sessions. We provide personalised lesson plans, mock exam practice and detailed feedback on every essay. You’ll get study schedules, sample papers and constant support—all at affordable rates designed for busy students.

Most learners need about 3–6 months of steady study—around five hours a week—to cover the syllabus, practise exam questions and get feedback. If you already write well, you might finish in closer to three months; if you need more reading or writing practice, plan for up to six months.

Useful resources (around 80 words): Cambridge IGCSE First Language English Coursebook by Marian Cox, Oxford IGCSE English Skills by Lin Lougheed, Cambridge Past Papers on cambridgeinternational.org, BBC Bitesize English IGCSE section, Revision World IGCSE English, YouTube channels like Mr Salles Tutorials for English, Mr Bruff’s exam advice, English with Lucy for writing tips, and Quizlet for key vocabulary flashcards.

College students, parents, tutors from USA, Canada, UK, Gulf etc are our audience—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.