Cambridge IGCSE Arabic - First Language (0508)

In updating this syllabus, we have brought it in line with our other First Language qualifications such as Cambridge IGCSE First Language French and German.

We have reworded the syllabus content and changed the layout so that it is clearer. Although the content looks different, the teaching content remains largely the same.

To better meet the needs of learners, we have updated specimen Paper 1 – now called ‘Reading and Directed Writing’, and replaced the summary task with a directed writing task.

There are three reading texts (one fiction and two non-fiction), and students will answer four questions instead of two.

In specimen Paper 2: Writing, students choose two questions from four, rather than two from eight.

For full details of the changes, please see the 2027-2029 syllabus above.

Support

We are developing a range of resources to help teachers deliver this updated syllabus. We aim to provide a scheme of work and other relevant classroom resources.

Example Candidate Responses will be available following the first examination in 2027. Visit the School Support Hub from June 2027 onwards for details.