Accessible language

Using clear, accessible language benefits all learners, especially those with language processing difficulties, such as dyslexia, and those who speak a first language other than English.

Fair and accessible assessments

When we design assessments, we make sure the language used is appropriate to the level of the qualification and to the knowledge, skills and understanding being assessed. It is vitally important to use clear and unambiguous language that does not present unnecessary barriers to a learner’s understanding.

We do not assess learners on their language ability – except where this is part of the course requirements, such as Cambridge IGCSE First Language English.

Clear and consistent command words

Command words tell learners how to answer an exam question or complete an assessment task. If a learner does not know the definition of a command word, they will find it difficult to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding in an assessment.

To help, we have developed a list of command words and their definitions. We also list subject-specific command words in our syllabuses.

See our list of command words

Language support in teaching and learning resources

Teachers using our resources work in a wide variety of contexts, from international schools teaching most subjects in English, to local schools piloting teaching some subjects in English alongside local curricula. Many schools are making the move from an English Language Teaching (ELT) context to bilingual teaching. Language support is key to successful lesson planning and classroom delivery. Our teachers have a wide variety of English language proficiency, and we consider this when developing our resources.