Show sustained literary analysis with reference to the text and its effects.

Component 5 – Coursework (optional)

Where it fits in the IGCSE English Literature (0475) assessment

• The qualification consists of four written papers (Paper 1 – Unseen Poetry, Paper 2 – Unseen Prose, Paper 3 – Set‑text Poetry, Paper 4 – Set‑text Prose) and the optional Component 5 – Coursework.
• Each Assessment Objective (AO1‑AO4) contributes roughly 25 % of the total mark for the whole qualification (≈ 6‑7 marks of the 25‑mark coursework portfolio and a similar proportion of the written papers).
• Centres may allow you to sit:
  • Only the written papers,
  • Only the coursework, or
  • Both (if the centre’s policy permits).
• Component 5 is internally marked by the teacher and externally moderated by Cambridge. It counts for 25 marks (≈ 25 % of the final GCSE grade).

Learning Objective

Show sustained literary analysis with reference to the text and its effects.

How the Coursework Fits into the Syllabus

• Optional – you may choose to sit the written papers, the coursework, or both (if your centre allows).
• Internally marked by the teacher and externally moderated by Cambridge.
• Counts for 25 marks (≈ 25 % of the total GCSE grade). Each Assessment Objective (AO1‑AO4) contributes equally (≈ 6‑7 marks each).
• Allows you to explore texts in depth and develop a personal, sustained argument.

Assessment Objectives (AO1‑AO4) and Weighting

Structure of the Coursework Portfolio

• Two separate analytical assignments.
• Each assignment must be between 600 – 1 200 words (quotations included, bibliography excluded).
• The total portfolio is worth 25 marks. Exceeding the word‑limit may result in a penalty.
• Both assignments are marked against the same AO1‑AO4 criteria as the written exams.

Set‑Text Requirements

• Each assignment must be based on a complete set‑text from the syllabus (or a text of equivalent scope approved by the centre – see Syllabus §3).
• The text must be originally written in English; translations, abridged or simplified editions are not permitted.
• The two assignments must be on different texts. One assignment may repeat a set‑text you have already used for Papers 1‑4, but you cannot use the same text for both assignments.

Choosing Your Text(s)

Select texts that you feel confident analysing and that offer a range of literary techniques.

1. Availability of supporting material (notes, commentaries, critical viewpoints).
2. Variety of themes, characters and techniques across the texts.
3. Personal interest – genuine enthusiasm sustains motivation.

Planning Your Analysis

Effective planning is essential for sustained analysis. Follow these steps for each assignment:

1. Identify a focus – a theme, character, motif, or literary device you will explore.
2. Form a thesis statement – a clear, arguable claim about your focus.
3. Gather evidence – select relevant quotations, note act/scene/line or page numbers, and consider contextual information.
4. Analyse the effect – explain how the technique influences meaning, tone, atmosphere or reader response.
5. Link back to the thesis – ensure each paragraph contributes to the overall argument.

Structure of a Portfolio Piece

• Introduction – set the context, introduce the text, and present your thesis.
• Body paragraphs – each should contain:
  • Topic sentence linking the paragraph to the thesis.
  • Evidence (quotation with accurate reference).
  • Analysis of language, form or structure and its effect.
  • Link back to the overall argument.
• Conclusion – restate the thesis in light of your analysis, summarise key points, and comment on the wider significance of the text.

Assessment Criteria (same as the written exam)

Mark‑scheme levels – Internal marking follows Cambridge’s level‑based scheme (Levels 8‑0, see Syllabus §19). Teachers should consult the official mark‑scheme when assigning marks, ensuring that each AO receives the appropriate number of marks (≈ 6‑7 marks per AO).

Internal Marking & Moderation

The teacher marks each assignment using the Cambridge marking scheme and records the marks on a Coursework Assessment Summary Form (CASF). The centre then submits a random sample of marked coursework to Cambridge for external moderation. This process guarantees consistency and fairness across all centres.

Tips for Sustained Analysis

• Keep a running list of literary devices you encounter while reading.
• Practice writing mini‑paragraphs that focus on a single technique.
• Seek feedback from teachers or peers and revise accordingly.
• Balance description and analysis – always ask “so what?” after quoting.
• Use transitional language to show connections between ideas.

Example Outline for a Portfolio Piece

1. Introduction
   • Title, author, genre and brief context.
   • Specific focus (e.g., use of imagery to convey isolation).
   • Clear thesis statement.
2. Paragraph 1 – Technique A
   • Topic sentence linking the technique to the thesis.
   • Quotation with accurate reference.
   • Analysis of language and its effect.
   • Link back to the overall argument.
3. Paragraph 2 – Technique B
   • Same structure as above, focusing on a different device.
4. Paragraph 3 – Contextual Link
   • Explain how historical, biographical or cultural context enhances the technique’s impact.
5. Conclusion
   • Restate the thesis in light of the analysis.
   • Summarise key points.
   • Offer a final thought on the text’s broader significance.

Portfolio Checklist

• Both assignments have a clear thesis and sustained argument.
• Each paragraph contains evidence, analysis, and a link to the thesis.
• Quotations are correctly referenced (act/scene/line or page number).
• Literary terminology is used accurately.
• Spelling, punctuation and grammar are checked.
• Word count for each assignment is between 600 – 1 200 words.
• Assignments are based on two different set‑texts that meet the syllabus requirements.