What Component 3 assesses
A portfolio of three assignments of about 500–800 words each: Assignment 1 (30 marks) writing to discuss, argue and/or persuade in response to a text or texts; Assignment 2 (25 marks) writing to describe; Assignment 3 (25 marks) writing to narrate. The first draft of one assignment is included but is not marked.
- Marks: 80
- Weight: 50% of Cambridge International 0990 (2027–2029 syllabus)
- How it is assessed: Internal (moderated)
- Who takes it: School-based alternative to Paper 2
Component 3 is worth 50% of the 0990 grade and carries 80 marks. Each mark moves the qualification by about 0.63%. The qualification is graded 9–1.
What the examiners reward in Component 3
Writing
- W5. make accurate use of spelling, punctuation and grammar
This is one of the objectives. The 0990 overview lists the full set.
How the routes work in 0990
Every candidate takes Paper 1 (Reading). They then take either Paper 2 (Directed Writing and Composition) or Component 3 (Coursework Portfolio). Component 4 (Speaking and Listening Test) is optional and is endorsed separately.
Its marks do not count towards the overall A*–G grade; certificates record grades 1 (high) to 5 (low) for it. Reading and Writing are each 50% of the qualification.
The trial lesson can work on Cambridge International 0990 Component 3 directly, with timings, mark scheme and your child's own answers.
Question types we practise for Component 3
- Discursive essay: Exploring a topic in a balanced, well-structured way. Skills guide · annotated model response · practice
- Argumentative essay: Arguing a case clearly with reasons and evidence. Skills guide · annotated model response · practice
- Persuasive writing: Persuading a reader using a controlled voice and technique. Skills guide · annotated model response · practice
Where marks are lost on Component 3
Ending a narrative: Collapse under time. The ending is squeezed into one last sentence because the clock ran out. Read the full guide.
Writing description without a plot: Sliding into narrative. A character walks in by the third paragraph. If something happens in sequence, you have stopped describing. Read the full guide.
Preparing for Component 3 with us
Component 3 is marked in school. A teacher builds the skills its tasks reward and gives feedback on drafts. The final work stays the student's own, as the board requires.
See First Language English tuition for how a session runs. Component 3 is one component of Cambridge International 0990, graded on the 9–1 scale. Check the current arrangement for your exam year with your school or the board.