IGCSE English Narrative Composition Example with Examiner's Analysis (2025)

Writing a narrative composition for the IGCSE English exam is often seen as the "easy" option, but achieving a Band 1 response (top marks) is notoriously difficult. Many students fall into the trap of writing a simple sequence of events ("and then... and then...") rather than crafting a compelling story with a proper narrative arc. To score high marks under the strict IGCSE marking criteria, you need to demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and the ability to "show, don't tell."

In this guide, iWorld Learning’s ex-MOE teachers break down a Grade 9 (A*) narrative essay to show you exactly what examiners are looking for.

The Exam Prompt

The Common Trap

Most average students would use this sentence at the very end as a cliffhanger. However, examiners often find this cliché. A better strategy is to embed it in the middle of the climax to heighten the tension.

Phase 1: Planning the Narrative Arc

Before writing, successful students spend 5 minutes planning. A Band 1 story must have:

• Exposition: Establishing the setting and atmosphere (Sensory imagery).
• Rising Action: Building tension through pacing.
• Climax: The turning point (Where our key sentence goes).
• Resolution: A reflective ending, not necessarily a "happy" one.

Phase 2: The Model Answer (Band 1 Response)

The grandfather clock in the hallway ticked with a rhythmic malice, each second chipping away at my resolve. Dust motes danced in the singular, anaemic beam of moonlight that pierced the heavy velvet curtains. I wasn’t supposed to be here. The library was strictly out of bounds—a sanctuary for my grandfather’s secrets and his collection of ancient, leather-bound tomes.

My fingers trembled as they grazed the spine of the book mentioned in the will. It was cold to the touch, unnatural. As I pulled it from the shelf, a mechanism clicked deep within the wall. The heavy mahogany bookcase groaned and swung inward, revealing a cavernous darkness that smelled of damp earth and ozone.

I stepped into the void. The air grew frigid. Suddenly, the bookcase slammed shut behind me, sealing the exit with a finality that stopped my heart. I screamed, hammering my fists against the wood, but the sound was swallowed instantly by the oppressive darkness. The silence was louder than any noise I had ever heard. It wasn't empty; it was heavy, pressing against my eardrums like deep water, filled with the weight of a century of buried truths.

Panic clawed at my throat, but I forced myself to breathe. Show, don't tell, I reminded myself, even in fear. I reached into my pocket for my lighter. The flint sparked, and a small, wavering flame illuminated the room. I wasn't alone. Rows of glass cases surrounded me, and inside them, eyes—hundreds of them—were watching.

Phase 3: Examiner's Deep-Dive Analysis

Why did this essay receive top marks? Let’s dissect the techniques used:

1. Mastery of "Show, Don't Tell"

Instead of saying "I was scared," the writer describes the physical reaction: "Panic clawed at my throat" and "My fingers trembled." This allows the reader to feel the emotion rather than just being told about it.

2. Descriptive Vocabulary & Sensory Imagery

The essay is rich in descriptive vocabulary. Notice words like "anaemic beam," "rhythmic malice," and "cavernous." The writer appeals to multiple senses: the sound of the ticking clock, the smell of damp earth, and the touch of the cold book spine.

3. Sentence Variety for Pacing

The writer manipulates sentence variety to control the pace. Long, flowing sentences are used to describe the setting (Exposition). In contrast, short, punchy sentences are used during the climax ("I stepped into the void. The air grew frigid.") to accelerate the heartbeat of the narrative.

Examiner’s Checklist: Do’s and Don’ts

Conclusion

Writing a great IGCSE narrative composition isn't about having the wildest imagination; it's about mastering the craft of language. By focusing on sensory details and varying your sentence structure, you can transform a simple prompt into a Band 1 masterpiece.

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