How to mark Cambridge IGCSE Maths 0580 papers
To mark IGCSE Maths 0580, award M marks for correct methods, A marks for accurate answers that depend on those methods, and B marks for independent correct results. Apply follow through (ft) where the mark scheme allows it, and ignore subsequent working once the correct answer is seen. Since 2025, Papers 1 and 2 are non-calculator, so check arithmetic working more carefully than on older past papers.
This guide covers the current 0580 structure, the marking rules that matter most, and the disputes that come up in every department.
What changed in 0580 from 2025?
The 2025–2027 syllabus changed the paper structure:
| Paper | Tier | Calculator | Duration | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Core | No | 1 h 30 min | 80 | 50% |
| Paper 3 | Core | Yes | 1 h 30 min | 80 | 50% |
| Paper 2 | Extended | No | 2 h | 100 | 50% |
| Paper 4 | Extended | Yes | 2 h | 100 | 50% |
Core candidates can achieve grades C–G. Extended candidates can achieve A*–E. All papers include a list of formulas. Cambridge says the standard and demand of the questions did not change.
Why it matters for marking mocks. If you set a pre-2025 Paper 2 as a mock, students may have expected to use a calculator, and the old Paper 2 was shorter. Use post-2025 or specimen papers where you can. If you must use older papers, note the difference when you report the grade.
From March 2026, Cambridge is also redesigning question-paper layouts for accessibility. It says content, demand and question types are unchanged.
The marking rules that decide most marks
1. Dependency between M and A marks
An A mark normally depends on the related M mark being earned or implied. If the method is wrong, a correct-looking final answer usually doesn't earn the A mark. The exception is where the mark scheme says otherwise, or the answer is a B mark.
2. Any correct method gets credit
The 0580 maths-specific marking principles say any correct method should be credited, even if it isn't the one in the mark scheme. If a student solves simultaneous equations by substitution and the mark scheme shows elimination, the method marks are still available.
3. Marks once gained are not lost (isw)
If the correct answer appears and the student then spoils it, for example by rounding unnecessarily or converting it wrongly, ignore the later working. This doesn't apply if the later working shows the student didn't understand what they found.
4. Misreads cost one mark
If a student copies a number from the question wrongly but then works correctly, deduct one A or B mark rather than all the marks. The misread must not make the question easier.
5. Follow through (ft)
Only apply follow through where the mark scheme shows "ft". Then credit correct work using the student's own wrong value from an earlier part.
Five marking disputes and how to resolve them
| Situation | Usual resolution |
|---|---|
| Correct answer, no working, on a "show your working" question | Check the scheme. Where working is required, a bare answer may earn less than full marks. |
| Two different answers written, neither crossed out | Don't choose for the student. Mark the one in the answer space, or treat it as a contradiction according to the scheme. |
| Correct answer seen in working, wrong answer on the answer line | Usually M marks only. The A mark goes to the answer the student committed to, unless the scheme says otherwise. |
| Answer given to the wrong accuracy (e.g. 2 s.f. when 3 s.f. is needed) | Check the general guidance. Answers should normally be exact or to 3 s.f., and angles to 1 d.p. Wrong accuracy usually loses the A mark. |
| Crossed-out work that is better than the final attempt | Mark the uncrossed attempt. Only mark crossed-out work if nothing else replaces it. |
Always check the specific mark scheme's guidance before applying these. Conventions can differ between series.
How to mark a 0580 mock efficiently
- Split the paper into "point" and "judgement" questions. Almost every 0580 mark is point-marked, so maths is one of the best-suited subjects for AI-assisted first marking.
- Mark by question across the cohort. You'll see the same method errors repeatedly and mark them consistently.
- Watch the working on non-calculator papers. On Papers 1 and 2, the arithmetic working often earns the method marks, so check it line by line.
- Record marks per question, not just totals. This feeds your question-level analysis.
- Convert to grades with the right threshold table. Use the series and variant your paper came from. See IGCSE mock grade boundaries for a worked 0580 example with June 2026 thresholds.
Can AI mark IGCSE maths working?
Yes, as long as the tool reads handwritten working rather than just the final answer. The Learning Mate reads handwritten maths working and marks each question part against the mark scheme you provide. It shows why each M, A or B mark was or wasn't given, so you can change any decision in a click. Students see their marks and feedback when you publish them.
FAQ
Is IGCSE Maths Paper 2 non-calculator?
Yes. From 2025, 0580 Paper 2 (Extended) and Paper 1 (Core) are non-calculator. Papers 3 and 4 allow a calculator.
How many marks is 0580 Paper 4?
Paper 4 (Extended, calculator) is 2 hours, 100 marks and 50% of the qualification under the 2025–2027 syllabus.
What grades can a Core 0580 candidate get?
Core candidates can achieve grades C to G. Extended candidates can achieve A* to E.
Can I give method marks if the final answer is wrong?
Yes. M marks are awarded for a correct method, even if the final answer is wrong. The A mark that depends on it is lost.
Should I use pre-2025 0580 past papers for mocks?
You can, but old Papers 1 and 2 were calculator papers with a different length and mark total. Use specimen or post-2025 papers where possible, and note any difference when reporting grades.
Sources
- Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics 0580 syllabus 2025–2027: cambridgeinternational.org
- 0580 June 2024 Paper 41 mark scheme: cambridgeinternational.org
- 0580 June 2026 grade threshold table: cambridgeinternational.org