What 0511/03 assesses
A recorded test of about 10–15 minutes in total: an unassessed introduction and warm-up, then Part 1 interview, Part 2 short talk (with 1 minute of preparation) and Part 3 discussion. Four criteria, each marked out of 10: grammar, vocabulary, development and pronunciation.
In 0511 these marks count towards the grade. In 0510 the same test is reported separately.
- Time: 10-15 minutes
- Marks: 40
- Weight: 25% of Cambridge International 0511 (2027–2029 syllabus)
- How it is assessed: Conducted and marked internally by the centre (teacher-examiner); externally moderated by Cambridge from submitted audio recordings
- Who takes it: All candidates (no tiering or route options)
0511/03 is worth 25% of the 0511 grade and carries 40 marks. Each mark moves the qualification by about 0.63%. The qualification is graded A*–G.
What the examiners reward in 0511/03
Speaking
- S4. demonstrate control of pronunciation and intonation
This is one of the objectives. The 0511 overview lists the full set.
Listening
- L4. demonstrate understanding of what is implied but not directly stated
This is one of the objectives. The 0511 overview lists the full set.
Preparing for Cambridge International 0511 Paper 3? The paid trial hour can start with a timed look at that paper.
Question types we practise for 0511/03
- ESL speaking: discussion: Developing and structuring ideas in a spoken discussion. Skills guide · annotated model response · practice
Where marks are lost on 0511/03
Preparing a speaking topic: Memorising a script. The talk sounds flat and collapses when a question interrupts it. Read the full guide.
The ESL speaking test (0510 and 0511): what to expect: One-sentence answers that make the examiner do all the work. Read the full guide.
Preparing for 0511/03 with us
A teacher practises the 0511/03 speaking format with your child in live conversation and gives feedback on each answer. See English as a Second Language tuition for how a session runs.
0511/03 is one component of Cambridge International 0511, graded on the A*–G scale. Check the current arrangement for your exam year with your school or the board.