Most of my learners are not First Language English speakers, and their written English is not fluent. Does this disadvantage them?

No, learners are assessed on the content they produce, not on their English.

The majority of learners are not First Language English speakers, so examiners are very experienced in assessing the work of learners whose English is in some way deficient. They are instructed to be sensitive in the interpretation of what has been written and to give the benefit of the doubt to the learner. No marks are given for spelling, grammar, expression or any other non-subject criterion. In fact, most learners have no trouble making themselves understood.

For a small minority, however, weaknesses in their English prevent them from being able to express their answers as effectively as possible. They may not understand the questions with the necessary precision. The answers they produce may be weakened by their inability to express what it is they have to say, and this may have an impact on their overall performance.

All IGCSE courses are reviewed to ensure that the language in the syllabus document and the assessments use a plain English style. IGCSEs are courses taught through the medium of english, designed to be taken by students who are either working at a basic and/or independent  level. For more information, please refer to this link on our public website.