We review all of our syllabuses regularly to make sure they continue to meet the needs of our schools. We have made some changes to this syllabus and assessment materials to improve learners demonstrate their ability in written and spoken German. These changes are for examination from 2021.
How has the syllabus changed?
The 2021 syllabus develops language proficiency at Level A2 with elements of B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR).
- The vocabulary list has been updated.
- We have revised the assessment objectives.
- The syllabus content section now includes the sub-skills we expect learners to develop.
For more information on the framework and language proficiency levels, visit the CEFR website.
How has the assessment changed?
- Updated assessment objectives now align with relevant CEFR level descriptors and ‘can do’ statements.
- The Speaking test (Paper 3) has been updated. Candidates will complete one role play and two topic conversations.
- We have made it clearer which sub-skills are assessed in each paper and have included these in the syllabus document.
When do these changes take place?
The updated syllabus is for from June 2021 onwards. Please see the 2021 syllabus above for full details.
Coming soon
We are developing a wide range of support to help you plan and teach the 2021 syllabus.
Support
Look out for a comprehensive support package to help you deliver the updated syllabus including Example candidate responses, a Scheme of work and Specimen paper answers. These resources will be available from April 2019 onwards (before first teaching) through our School Support Hub.
Endorsed resources
View the latest resources that are being developed for the Cambridge IGCSE German (9-1) syllabus (7159).

Cambridge IGCSE German (Hodder)
Strengthen language skills and cultural awareness with a differentiated approach that offers comprehensive coverage of the revised Cambridge IGCSE German syllabus for examination from 2021.
Read more on the Hodder website

Vocab Express Cambridge IGCSE German (Collins)
For learner support. Vocab Express is an online platform for schools that encourages students to learn foreign language vocabulary independently. This course is based on the vocabulary list for Cambridge IGCSE German..
Read more on the Collins website