Literature Syllabus 2027
Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English · 0475
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What is this course?
Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English (0475) gives you the chance to explore some of the greatest writing in the English language – from Shakespeare to contemporary texts. You'll study drama, prose and poetry, learning how writers use language and structure to create meaning and engage their readers.
The course is all about reading carefully, thinking critically and supporting your ideas with evidence. It might sound daunting at first, but don't worry – that's exactly what this website is here to help you with!
How is it assessed?
Paper 1 – Poetry & Prose
One poetry question + one prose question. Compulsory for all candidates.
Paper 2, 3+4, or 3+5
Choose: Paper 2 (Drama), OR Paper 3 (Open Text) + Paper 4 (Unseen), OR Paper 3 (Open Text) + Component 5 (Coursework).
Assessment Objectives
Every question across every paper tests all four assessment objectives equally (25% each). Understanding what each one asks for is the key to writing strong answers.
The Four AOs
- AO1Show detailed knowledge of literary texts, supported by reference to the text
- AO2Understand meanings and contexts; explore texts beyond surface meanings to show deeper awareness of ideas and attitudes
- AO3Recognise and appreciate how writers use language, structure and form to create effects
- AO4Communicate a sensitive and informed personal response to literary texts
Paper Breakdown
Click each paper to see exactly what's expected and how it's assessed.
📚 Mr P's Literature Tip
Whatever paper route you take, your personal response matters. Examiners want to hear YOUR voice – so don't just describe what happens; explore HOW and WHY the writer made their choices, and what effect that has on you as a reader.
Set Texts for 2027
Set texts change each year – always check the official Cambridge syllabus for your examination year. Below are the texts for 2027.
Paper 1 · Poetry
Choose one anthology
- Songs of Ourselves, Volume 115 specified poems (Shakespeare – Heaney)
- Songs of Ourselves, Volume 2, Part 315 specified poems (Cato – Szirtes)
- Kumukanda by Kayo Chingonyi15 specified poems
Paper 1 · Prose
Choose one text
- Chinua AchebeThings Fall Apart
- Lesley Nneka ArimahWhat It Means When a Man Falls from the Sky
- Jane AustenPride and Prejudice
- Anita DesaiFire on the Mountain
- Kiran DesaiHullabaloo in the Guava Orchard
- Susan HillI'm the King of the Castle
- Harper LeeTo Kill a Mockingbird
- Stories of Ourselves, Volume 210 specified stories (Rossetti – Gunesekera)
Papers 2 & 3 · Drama
Choose one or two plays
- Pearl CleageBlues for an Alabama Sky
- Shelagh DelaneyA Taste of Honey
- Chinonyerem OdimbaPrincess & The Hustler
- William ShakespeareA Midsummer Night's Dream
- William ShakespeareAntony and Cleopatra
What skills will you build?
Reading & Analysis
- Read closely and respond to literal and deeper meanings
- Analyse how writers use language, structure and form
- Understand context and its effect on meaning
- Explore themes, ideas and attitudes across texts
- Write critical commentaries on unseen texts
Response & Expression
- Communicate a confident personal response
- Support arguments with well-chosen textual evidence
- Write in an informed, evaluative way
- Appreciate different literary forms: poetry, prose, drama
- Explore universal themes and human experience
Literary Forms Covered
The course covers all three main literary forms. Your assessment route determines which you study in depth.
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