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Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013

BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATION (JSS 3)

Past Questions with Solutions
English Studies 2013
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PAPER I B John does not like education
MULTIPLE CHOICE C. John is a Christian
D John satisfies his needs
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION E The needs of John’s children are provided for
5. Another word or phrase that can replace model as used
Read the passages below and answer the questions that in the passage is
follow by choosing the most appropriate of the options A. generous giver B. good example C. harvester
lettered A-E (Nos. 1-9). D. pillar E. shelter

PASSAGE 1
John lives in a village with his wife and children. He
is a popular farmer in the village. He is into different kinds
of farming. He has a hut in the farm where they relax
during their breakfast and lunch. They always have their
dinner at home. They can also find themselves in the hut
when it is raining, very sunny or even when they are tired.
His children always have their breakfast at home
only on school days. When school closes, they all, after
keeping school related things at home, make their way to
the farm to join their parents. They always cover very
long distances between their home and farm on foot.
They do this without ever complaining. This is simply
because they have good parents.
Even John’s elder children, who are now in higher
schools in the city, come home on holidays to help in the
farming.
John takes good care of his needs and those of his
family members. This is possible because of what he gets
from the farm. He pays the school fees of his children;
buys uniform and books for them. Whatever the children
need is always attended to with ease.
On Sundays, John and all his family members go to
church. They do not remember their farm activities on a
day of worship. His family is a model for many families in
the village.
1. According to the passage, John is
A. a hardworking farmer
B. a man with many wives
C. blessed with only male children
D. planning to go to school
E. the only farmer in the village
2. The hut in the passage, does NOT have one of the
following as its function.
A. A place to stay when the weather is unfriendly
B. Breakfast is eaten in it
C. They have dinner in it
D. A. place for having lunch
E. They relax in it when they are tired
3. John’s children are good because they
A. always obey their parents
B. bring lunch o the farm
C. go to the farm even when it is raining
D. join their parents in their uniform
E. only eat their first meal in the farm
4. One of the following is NOT true of the passage.
A. John and his family do farm work for six days in a
week
PASSAGE II
There was once a dervish in the service of a king.
The king used to give him, daily, a piece of cake and a
bowl of honey. The dervish ate the cake and put the
honey into a jar which he always carried on his head.
Honey, however, in those days was very dear, and one
day the dervish, noticing that his jar was nearly full,
thought of the high price his honey would fetch in the
market.
“I will sell my honey for a piece of gold and buy ten
sheep, all will bring forth young ones so that in the course
of one year, I shall have twenty sheep- their numbers will
steadily increase and in four years, I shall be the owner of
four hundred sheep. I shall then buy a cow and an ox and
acquire a piece of land. My cow will bring forth calves, the
ox will be useful in ploughing my land, while the cows wilt
provide me with milk. In five years time, the number of my
cattle wilt have increased considerably and I shall be the
possessor of great wealth. I shall then build a magnificent
house, acquire slaves and maid-servants and marry a
beautiful woman of noble background. She will become
pregnant and bear me a son; a robust and beautiful child.
A lucky star will shine at the moment of his birth, and he
will be happy and blessed and bring honour to my name
after my death. Should he, however, refuse to obey me, I
will beat him with this stick, thus”.
And so soliloquising, the dervish raised the stick,
which hit the jar and broke it, so that the honey poured
away.
6. The dervish’s was a piece of cake and a bowl of
honey.
A. commission B. price C. rent D. salary E. wage
7. The dervish hoped to have sheep in four years.
A. ten B. twenty C. forty D. twenty-five
E. four hundred
8. Another word that can replace ‘dear’ as it is used in the
passage is. A. common B expensive C. precious
D. lovely E. rare
9. How would you describe the dervish?
A. Dubious B. Diligent C. foolish
D. presumptuous E. greedy
10. Which of the statements is correct according to the
passage? The dervish
A. worked for the king
B. had a wife and a son
C. lived in the palace
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D. eventually became very rich A accident B. cleaning C. parking D. safety
E. lost all he worked hard for E. checking
SECTION B
VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT In the passage below, the numbered gaps indicate
missing words. Against each number in the list below
Complete each of the following questions with the most the passage, five options are offered in columns,
appropriate of the options, lettered A – E (Nos.11-35). lettered A – E. Fill each numbered gap with the most
appropriate of the options.
11. The fruit was ripe and ready to be eaten.
A. fully B. much C. not D. too E. very 26, are not only important as play 27 they are 28 for
12. The boy’s father warned him not to with bad 29. A lot of 30 should, therefore, go into the 31 of toys
friends. for 32. The 33 of a toy to a child 34 partly on the type
A. be familiar B. engage C. go out of toy 35.
D. keep company E. move
13. Several attended the workshop on capacity-building. A B C D E
26. Dolls Cartoon Games Pets Toys
A. delegates B. participants C. persons
27. Equipment Gadgets Implement Materials Substances
D. spectators E. witnesses
28. Apparatus Appliances Facilities Tools Utensils
14. Microsoft ware was by an American, Bill Gates.
29. Consideration Learning Reading Schooling Writing
A. developed B. invented 30. Energy Ideas Studies Thinking Thought
C. introduced D. made 31. Quality Range Option Rejection Selection
E. formed 32. Adolescents Adults Children Parents Youths
15. The National Assembly will pass the on child 33. Alertness Appropriateness Aptness Uniqueness Usefulness
abuse next year. 34. Banks Concerns Confides Depends Permits

A. bill B. decision C. information D. law 35. Invented Manufactured Produced Rejected Selected

E. penalty
16. The new principal stressed the importance
of amongst the students. SECTION C
A. disobedience B. hooligalism GRAMMATICAL ACCURACY
C. lateness D. punctuality
E. truancy Complete each of the following questions with the
17. The staff gave the director a ovation. most appropriate of the options, lettered A – E (36-
A. sitting B. sounding C. standing D. surprising 65).
E. walking
18. My mother-in-law who is my wife’s will visit us 36. The boy won the medal is my brother.
next month. A. which B. who C. whom D. whose E. who’s
A. grand mother B. mother C. old mother 37. The plural form of the word shelf is.
D. old woman E. step-mother A. shelts B. shelfes C. shelves D. shelve
19. The doctor examined the patient in his E. shelves
A. consulting room 38. Jacinta was recently delivered a baby.
B. laboratory A. by B. for C. from D. of E. with
C. labour room 39. The second half of the football match will be
D. theatre played 12pm
E. ward A. about B. at C. below D. off E. with
20. Air has been described as a major health hazard 40. I look forward to my friend again.
in industrial communities. A. be seeing B. be seen C. have seen
A crash B. diffusion C. mishap D. pollution D. see E. seeing
E. raid 41. Rita is the first child of her parents, so she is the
21. The suffix that can be added to the word advantage’ from A. eldest
the list below is B. more oldest
A. ful B. ous C. ment D. ly E. ness C. most eldest
22. Kofo always to the BBC English Service for world D. most older E. oldest
news. 42. The children almost died of
A. switches on B. tunes in C. tunes up A. taste B. test C. testy D. thirst B. thirsty
D. turns in E. turns up 43. Pick out the word that is correctly spelt.
23. Chalk is to teachers as wig and gown are to A. Mathmatics B. Mathematic C. Matimatics
A. actors B. doctors C. drivers D. lawyers D. Mathematik E. Mathematics
E. tailors 44. I prefer white colour red.
24. When the security men asked the officer to join the A. by B. for C. than D. to E. with
queue, he considered it an/a to his dignity 45. Neither the teacher nor the students wrong.
A. affront A. has been B. have been C. is D was E. were
B. compliment 46. Agbo and Jibrin love so much
C. distraction A. each other
D. encouragement E. impediment B. one another
25. Road job should not be left to the FRSC alone C. one and the other
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D. theirselves E. simultaneously
E. themselves 65. The candidates were prevented bringing mobile
47. He was not pleased his son’s performance in the phones into the hall.
last examination. A. against B. at C. from D. to E. with
A. about B. at C. for D. on E. with
48. The graduating students presented with gifts.
A. are been B. have being C. is D was E. were SECTION D
49. We met him at the bank, ? SPOKEN ENGLISH
A. couldn’t we B. did I C. did we D. didn’t we
E. isn’t it Choose from the options, lettered A-E, the one that
50. She is kind her brother is cruel. contains the given phonetic symbol. (Nos. 66-80).
A. but B. even
C. for D. when 66. / i: /
E. which A. Deer B. Feather C. Sea D. Pet E. Week.
51. The man is good that everybody in the village 67. / /
loves him. A. Ear B. Earth C. Leg D. Pet E. Tea D. Tick
A. so B. such C. that D. to E. very 68. / e /
52. You can sit down I stand up A. Air B. Bed C. Bird D. Farm E. Sheep
A. and B. before 69. / æ /
C. but D. though A. Cap B. Car C. Garden D. Money E. Wall
E. while 70. / b /
53. mangoes over there look fresh. A. Lamb B. Mobile C. Plumber D. Tomb E. Womb
A. That 71. / p /
B. These A. Geography B. Lap C. Physics D. Psalm
C. This E. Psychology
D. Those 72. / f /
E. Which A. Goal B Grape C. Graph D. Lamp E. Pillar
54. the intense interrogation, Ruth did not tell the truth. 73. / ei /
A. Above B. Against C. Lespite D. Though A. Bread B. Colour C. Gate D. Gear E. Guest
E. Beside 74. / iə /
55. Uloma is the of the two girls. A. Cake B. Eight C. Fate D. Hear E. Joy
A. more smarter B. most smart C. smart D. smarter 75. / ai /
E. smartest A. Milk B. Name C. Plate D. Raid E. Time
56. Mrs lkpeto likes to show her children. 76. / e /
A. down B. in C. off D. out E. up A. Hair B. Head C. Man D. Tall E. Water
57. The bicycle belongs to Chika and Joy, therefore it is 77. /dƷ/
A. their B. theirs C. theirs D. Them A. Dog B. Glass C. Judge D. Treasure E. Zoo
E. they 78. / /
58. The word ‘agree’ will go with to form a new word. A. Bead B. Girl C. Heaven D. Tar E. Woman
A. dis B. in 79. / θ/
C. mis D. pre A. Matter B. Mother C. Rate D. Thing E. Tin
E. u i 80. / t /
59. Musa has a book, the book is A. Depot B. Fasten C. Hasten D. Listen E. Letter
A. hers B. him C. his D. mine E. ours
60. The principal insisted that the book was expensive for he
student to buy PAPER II
A. so B. such C. that D. too E. very MULTIPLE CHOICE
61. The little boy looked when he saw a huge dog.
A. anxious SECTION A
B. confused
C. shocked DRAMA
D. terrified
E. upset Chijioke Ugwu: Two to Tango
62. You do not attend school on Saturdays, ? 1. Who is the woman known for her mystic power in the
A. are you B. don’t you C. do you D. sn’t it play?
E. you do A. Inyama B. Isiada
63. Kofi ran out of the room and under the staircase. C. Mmegin D. Nwayo
A. hid B. hidden C. hide D. hides E. Okewu
E. is hiding 2. Ikeogu is described as an unnecessary
64. The word is wrongly spelt A. council member B. hero C. prince D. rebel
A. chlorophyll E. traitor
B. draught 3. Igwe Mgachi’s former position is that of a/an
C. millennium A. party supporter
D. psychology B. permanent secretary
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C. second-hand clothes dealer E. Uzochukwu
D. spiritual head 15. Okparah sees Zumji as a bird of prey that is out to
E. town crier his daughter
4. The chairman of Common Peoples Party is A. kidnap B. kill C. poison D. rape E. steal
A. Amaechi B. Chief Sabirius Ogba
C. Ifedinjo D. Okewu
E. Pastor Chibuikem
5. Inyama’s father likes talking about Igwe Mgachi’s SECTION B
A. ailment B. children C. place PROSE
D. political wizardry E. wives
Kayode Adeyemo: Like Father Like Son

Ayo Olaosebikan: Vengeance 16. Who steals B and B English textbook in the library?
A. Deji B. Leke C. Seyi D. Yomi E. Zomi
6. Who is being referred to as ‘B-Energy’ in the play? 17. The products Deji and Leke want to sell to Brother Jimmy
A. Bonto B. Dr. Biatu C. Dr. Bolu D. Dr. Udoh are
E. Prof. Orefo A. bags B. shoes C. textbooks D. uniforms
7. Ibekwe’s two sisters are E. video cassettes
A. Chioma and Lauretta 18. Mr. Afoloyan observes peeping at another person’s work.
B. Chioma and Lucy A. Damola B. Jessica C. Omolade D. Peju
C. Njideka and Chioma E. Somi
D. Njideka and Mayowa 19. Seyi defines a reform school as a place where
E. Nkiru and Njideka A. old people reside
B. principals go for relaxation
8. “Olboy, I like your spirit. You seem to have more of Nkiru C. students are taught to be arrogant
and less of me in you”. From the above statement, we D. teachers are to punish students
can say that lbekwe is E. young people are trained to be law-abiding
A. gullible 20. Common Entrance Examination Cut-Off point at Beacon
B. indecisive High School is percent.
C. optimistic A. fifty B. fifty-five C. sixty D. sixty-five
D. pessimistic E. seventy
E. weak
9. Mrs. Anderson’s attitude towards Mr. and Mrs. Anyakora
during their visit is
A. carefree Dill Nwankwo: The Ambitious Village Boy.
B. indifferent
C. overbearing 21. The protagonist in the novel is
D. polite A. Chinedu B. Fabian C. Ken D. Obinna
E. snobbish E. Uju
10. The two friends who stood by lbekwe during his family 22. The elder brother of Chike is
predicament are A. Chinedu B. Junior C. Ken D. Uju
A. Bonfo and Mayowa E. Ume
B. Chima and Obinna 23. Mr. Fabian wants Obinna to be in future.
C. Lucy and Lauretta A. frustrated B. indisciplined C. miserable
D. Obinna and Tochukwu D. notorious E. reasonable
E. Tobias and Azuzu 24. Commando’s younger sister is
Pierre Meunier: rnjjanchenna A. Agnes B. Chi-chi C. Nneka D. Suzy
E. Uju
25. Obinna is a pupil at Primary school.
Pierre Meunier: Zumji and Uchenna A. Abigali B. Fabian Excellent
C. NECO Staff D. Nosike Memorial E. Gwen
11. The play takes place in
A. Ake B. Ako C.Ede D. Efo E. Eke
12. Who does Nwachukwu want to give a “good beating”? Bayo Adebowale: Out His mind
A. Ade B. Emeka
C. Father Paul D. Jurbe 26. In which town is “Gossip Corner” located?
E. Zumji A. Abuja B. Ibadan C. Lagos D. London
13. Emeka wants Zumji dead because he is E. Washington, D.C
A. angry B. happy C. jealous D. mad E. wicked 27. One of the following is not a way Alamu acknowledges
14. Okparah’s favourite daughter is greetings from his neighbours.
A. Chinyelu A. Hissing B. Grinning C. Nodding D. Waving
B. Ngozi E. Winking
C. Nneka 28. Alamu’s bosom friend’ in the novel is
D. Uchenna A. Adio B. Dapo C. Esuniyi D. Lagbaja
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E. Mustafa D. rhetorical
29. Caroline’s nationality is E. simple
A. British 40. ‘The sky is smiling happily’ from Rahila Diji’s “Man and
B. Ghananian Nature” is an example of
C. Kenyan A. irony
D. Nigerian B. metonymy
E. Togolese C. personification
30. How many pictures of Josephine does Labake retrieve D. simile
from Alamu’s breast pocket? E. synecdoche
A. Five B. Four C. One D. Six E. Three

PAPER III
SECTION C ESSAY

POETRY
Answer both questions 1 and 2. Your answer to each
should be about 200 words long. You are free to use the
31. Despite the horrors of war in Nnamdi Agbekoba’s
hints below each question and/or any other ones you like.
“Prisoner of War”, the poet is about the future.
A. doubtful
B. empathetic
Each question carries ten (10) marks.
C. optimistic
D. pessimistic
1. Write an essay on the topic:
E. sympathetic
32. The poet’s standpoint in “Let’s Live in Peace” by Michael
My Best Teacher in the School
Dei-Anang is that of a/an
(i) Introduction – Describe who your best teacher is.
A. criminal
B. instructor
(ii) Reasons why he/she is best.
C. law enforcer
D. preacher
(iii) Conclusion
E. spoilsport
33. Segun Okeowo’s “Justice” encourages in life.
2. A friend of yours has just been offered admission to your
A. discrimination
former school. Write a letter congratulating him/her on the
B. fairness
admission offered and advise him/her on how to be the
C. religiousity
best student in the school.
D. rudeness E. wickedness
34. The central theme of David Diop’s “Africa” is
(i) Introduction – congratulate him/her on the offer of
A. hatred B. lamentation C. love D. regret
admission.
E. worship
35. R. L Stevenson’s “Good and Bad Children” teaches all of
(ii) List ways of being the best student.
these EXCEPT that children should be
A. abused and cursed
(iii) Conclusion
B. diligent
C. honest ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER I 2013
D. submissive
E. well-behaved
1.A 7.E 13.B 19.A 25.D 31.E 37.C 43.E 49.D 55.D
36. The tone of R. L Stevenson’s “Good and Bad Children” is
A. accusatory B. appealing 2.C 8.C 14.B 20.D 26.E 32.C 38.D 44.D 50.A 56.C
C. detached D. harsh 3.A 9.D 15.A 21.B 27.D 33.B 39.B 45.E 51.A 57.B
E. imposing 4.B 10.A 16.D 22.B 28.D 34.D 40.E 46.A 52.E 58.A
37. Niyi Osundare’s “The Politician’s Two Mouths” laments
5.B 11.A 17.C 23.D 29.B 35.E 41.A 47.E 53.D 59.C
the promises of the politicians.
A. delayed 6.E 12.D 18.B 24.A 30.E 36.B 42.D 48.E 54.C 60.D
B. good 61.D 62.C 63.A 64.A 65.C 66.E 67.- 68.B 69.A 70.B
C. postponed
71.B 72.C 73.C 74.D 75.E 76.A 77.C 78.B 79.D
D. reliable
E. unreliable 80.E
38. Gabriel Okara’s “Piano arid Drums” uses a lot of
terms.
A. literary B. musical C. political D. religious ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER II 2013
E. satirical
39. ‘You think it’s not beautiful?’ From Sulu Molefe’s “Soweto 1.D. 7.C 13.C 19.E 25.D 31.C 37.E 43.E 49.E 55.A
Sunrise” is an example of question.
2.D 8.C 14.D 20.C 26.D 32.D 38.B 44.A 50.A 56.B
A. direct
B. implied 3.B 9.E 15.E 21.D 27.D 33.B 39.D 45.E 51.B 57.C
C. indirect 4.B 10.B 16.D 22.E 28.A 34.C 40.C
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5.C 11.E 17.E 23.E 29.C 35.A 6.B 12.E 18.C 24.B 30.E 36.E

BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATION (JSS 3)

Past Questions with Solutions
English Studies 2012
============================================================================ ============
OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS A. cutlass and a hole
B. large gourd and a pot
PAPER I C. net scoop and a knife
D. net scoop and a large gourd
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION E. scaler and a net scoop
4. Which of the following statements is true according to
Read the passages below and answer the questions the passage?
that follow by choosing the most appropriate of the A. fishing is allowed to continue at the festival spot until
options lettered A-E (Nos. 1-10). the grand show comes around the following year.
B. once the angler emerges with a catch, the fish is
taken to the pot.
PASSAGE I C. the fishing festival takes place on the River Niger.
D. the lucky fisherman wins a prize.
Argungu Town in Kebbi State is located on the E. the smallest fish is ascertained.
north-western border of Nigeria. An unexpected tumble 5. The passage is mainly about
in the town may land you in Niger Republic. Argungu is A. Argungu biggest fish
home to the popular Argungu Fishing Festival which B. Argungu Cultural Festival
starts in February and spills over into March. The festival C. The fishing competition
takes places on the River Rima. Other events that make D. the lucky fisherman
the Argungu Cultural Festival spectacular are the E. the River Rima
cultural displays, exhibition of handicrafts, archery and
camel or donkey racing.
But it is the fishing competition that is the icing on PASSAGE II
the cake. And it takes place on the very last day. Once
the signal is given, all the participants make a dash for The entire world was starving. There was hardly a
the river, armed with their fishing equipment – a net morsel of food left anywhere. Only the mosquito had a
scoop and a large gourd amidst cheering, singing and little calabash bowl of flour hidden away. Each day the
dancing until one of them emerges from the river with a mosquito mixed a bit of porridge and carefully hid the
‘catch’ bigger than that of anybody else. Once the angler remainder under a stone in the corner of his hut.
emerges with a catch he feels is big enough to win the The ear was starving and in desperation came to
prize, the fish is taken into the scales, where it is seek for food at the mosquito’s house. He was so thin
weighed and the biggest is ascertained. he could hardly walk. As he approached the mosquito’s
The lucky fisherman wins a prize. Then it is house, he saw him hide something under a stone. When
celebrations all through. No fishing is allowed at the the mosquito had gone to bathe in the river, the ear stole
festival spot until the grand show comes around the the bowl of flour and made a big dish of porridge and
following year. shared it with his hundreds of hungry children.
The mosquito returned from his bath and was
Adapted from: tell magazine hungry, so he looked under the stone to get some flour
1. Argungu Cultural Festival takes place in and found that it was gone. He quickly flew to his
A. Argungu State between February and March. nearest neighbour, the ear and demanded for his food.
B. Niger Republic between March and February “If you do not give me back my flour, I shall never
C. Kebbi State between February and March leave you. I will bother you when you hunt or fish or
D. Niger State between March and February sleep”, whined the mosquito. So, when a mosquito
E. Sokoto State between February and March comes to bite a man, the chief of all living things, it first
2. According to the passage, other events that make the goes to the ear and whines, ‘Give me my flour’.
Argungu Cultural Festival spectacular are the following If a man hears this and does not give it, the
EXCEPT. mosquito takes his food where he can find it.
A. archery
B. donkey camel racing 6. According to the passage what was the condition of the
C. handicraft exhibition entire world? The entire world was
D. singing and dancing A. big B. disturbed by the mosquito
E. tumbling C. happy C. looking for flour E. starving
3. Each fisherman is equipped with a 7. The mission of the ear to the mosquito’s house was to
 A. kill him B. listen to him 21. I was not expecting a carpet treatment.
C. play with him D. seek for food A. blue B. brown C. pink
E. take the stone D. purple E. red
8. According to the passage, who is the chief of all living 22. A meal that is eaten very late in the morning and close
things? to afternoon is called
A. Ear B. Flour C. Lion D. Man E. Mosquito A. breakfast-lunch B. brunch C. dessert
9. Where was the mosquito when the ear stole his flour? D. dinner E. lunch
The mosquito went 23. The skin is for feeling as the tongue is for
A. to bite somebody A. breathing B. hearing C. seeing
B. to bathe in the river D. smelling E. tasting
C. to church D. to sleep 24. The judge restrained the landlord from the tenant.
E. hiding under the stone A. attacking B. dismissing C. ejecting
10. The passage can be titled The D. expelling E. punishing
A. Ear and the Flour 25. often robs people of the energy needed to resist
B. Ear and the Mosquito diseases.
C. Flour and the Mosquito A. Inconvenience C. Maltreatment
D. Man and the Mosquito B. Malnutrition D. Pain
E. Stolen Flour E. Poverty

SECTION B In the passage below, the numbered gaps indicate

missing words. Against each number in the list
VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT below the passage, five options are offered in
columns lettered A - E. Fill each numbered gap with
Complete each of the following questions with the the most appropriate of the options.
most appropriate of the options lettered A-E (Nos.
11 - 35) Last 26, 127 on a to Oregun in Lagos State. Before I
29, I had an my 30 belongings 31 into m travelling
11. The football match started immediately the Governor bag the 32 night. Though we early, we 34 there in the
entered the evening.
A. court
B. games reserve A B C D E
C. gymnasium 26. autumn season summer winter year
D. ring
E. stadium 27. barked commented embarked entrusted started
12. The accident had just been wheeled into the 28. transfer transport Trap trek trip
emergency ward.
29. leave Left Let met Set
A. patient B. person C. sickler
D. sufferer E. victim 30. individual peculiar personal Special proper
13. The girt was for losing her school fees.
31. packed Parked sacked Saved Soaked
A. abused B. condemned C. disgrace
D. disowned E. scolded 32. following precious previous proceeding next
14. The President a London bound plane at the 33. left-out took-away took-in took-off Took-up
Aminu Kano International Airport.
A. boarded B. entered C. flew in D. joined 34. felt Get Got Sat Set
E. rode in 35. dead late quickly Sometime soon
15. Cynthia organised a dinner to formally introduce her
to the family.
A. fiancé B. fiancée C. husband
SECTION C
D. man E. spouse
GRAMMATICAL ACCURACY
16. Determination is the key to in life.
A. employment B. hard work C. movement
Complete each of the following questions with the
D. recognition E. success
appropriate of the options lettered A - E (36 - 65).
17. The youth of nowadays need a lot of
A. career B. counselling C. instruction D. talk
36. Peter came to the meeting his serious illness.
E. warning
A. against B. despite C. hence D. in
18. Success at the secondary school level is the of
E. regardless
movement into the tertiary institution
37. The woman accused the boy stealing her money.
A. beginning B. cornerstone C. foundation D. key
A. by B. of C. off D. on E. with
E. starting
38. Simon is not as old we thought.
19. It is in the organization’s that all employees
A. as B. like C. so D. than E. that
work hard.
39. The sentence He said tie might see you the following
A. directive B. intention C. interest D. plan
day, rewritten in the direct form will become,
E. proposal
A. He can see you tomorrow
20. He works in the abattoir, therefore he is a
B. He may see you the following day
A. butcher B. contractor C. doctor D. herbalist
C. “I can see you tomorrow”, he said.
E. trader
 D. “I could see you the following day’ sad he E. whose
E. “I may see you tomorrow” said he 64. The student sometimes by air.
40. The boy could go home by route. A. are travelling B. travel C. travelled
A. all B. each C. either D. every D. travels E. will travel
E. neither 65. Pick out the word that is correctly spelt.
41. We met boys who had caught some fish. A. Totali B. Totalli C. Totally D. Totaly
A. all B. any C. every D. many E. Tottaly
E. much
42. our point of view, the decision is regrettable.
A. At B. From C. ln D. Of E. To SECTION D
43. Neither the borrower the lender was there. SPOKEN ENGLISH
A. and B. from C. nor D. or E. to
44. passengers are to be responsible for their own luggage. Choose from the options lettered A - E the one that
A. All B. Each C. Either D. Every E. Neither contains the given phonetic symbol. (Nos. 66-80).
45. The controversy has been finally to rest
A. laid B. lain C. lay D. lied E. lying 66. /d/
46. The ceremony was rounded with a sumptuous A. bathe B. die C. sooth D. they E. thine
dinner. 67. / t∫ /
A. off B. out C. over D. through E. up A. badge B. chin C. jeer D. jest E. large
47. A lot of students invited to the Literary Day. 68. / ŋ /
A. has been B. have being C. is D. was A. comb B. make C. man D. net E. sing
E. were 69. / ∫ /
48. A basket of oranges presented to the visitor. A. bash B. beige C. decision D. rough
A. are B. have been C. is D. was E. were E. vision
49. The pepper has been by my sister. 70. / i /
A. granted B. grinded C. grinding D. ground A. deep B. die C. fit D. kite E. quay
E. grounded 71. / æ /
50. “Does of you know the answer”? Asked the A. energy B. eye C. van D. very E. war
teacher. 72. / i: /
A. all B. any C. each D. every E. one A. dress B. drug C. eat D. egg E. focus
51. The principal is pleased my performance. 73. / ə /
A. about B. at C. by D. for E. with A. about B. fall C. my D. now E. this
52. The plural form of the word boss is 74. / ۸ /
A. boss B. boss’ C. boss’s D. bosses A. boy B. cup C. fur D. go E. say
E. bossies 75. / u: /
53. I enjoy tennis and squash. A. raw B. take C. trust D. urine E. zoo
A. having played B. having to play 76. / ei /
C. playing D. to have played A. babe B. goal C. height D. neat E. nest
E. to play 77. / a /
54. The old woman smiled at me and away. A. awful B. drawn C. glamour D. hurt E. owl
A. walk B. walk’s C. walked D. walking 78. / ai /
E. walks A. awe B. bait C. coarse D. kite E. taste
55. Givers never 79. / eə /
A. lack B. lacked C. lacks D. lark E. larks 80. A. fern B. here C. lure D. pear E. rear
56. The word comfort will correctly take the suffix 81. / iə /
A. able B. age C. ly D. merit E. ness A. dare B. mere C. neigh D. plate E. there
57. The principal told the students not to allow pleasure to
interfere their studies. PAPER II
A. beside B. for C. on D. over E. with SECTION A: DRAMA
58. I happened her at a party last Christmas.
A. having met B. meeting C. met Chijioke Ugwu: Two To Tango
D. to be meeting E. to have met
59. Every student must be bed by 9.30pm. 1. A sacrifice of a is required to dispatch ailing
A. in B. inside C. on D. over E. under lgwe Mgachi to his death.
60. We did not just criticize the action but also it. A. camel and a horse
A. abuse B. against C. condemned B. cow and a donkey
D. ignore E. support C. cow and a horse
61. I saw her in the library, ? D. donkey and a horse
A. did I B. didn’t I C. don’t I E. horse and a goat
D. Is it E. isn’t it 2. The armed robbers manhandled Inyama because
62. By August 20th, he ten years old. A. she disgraced them.
A. had been B. has been C. is B. she had no money to give them.
D. was E. will be C. she is attractive.
63. The girl bag was stolen is in my school. D. she reported them to the police.
A. that his B. which C. who D. who’s E. they are all drunk.
3. “Current Restaurant” in the play is run by
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
A. Ifedinjo B. Ikeogu C. lnyama D. Isiada
E. Okewu 16. The student that is weak in spelling the word
4. For disgracing the royal family is sent back to her ‘pronunciation” is
parents. A. Babatunde B. Leke C. Seyi D. Tommy
A. lnyama B. lsiada C. Mmegini D. Nwayo E. Yomi
E Onyishi 17. How many personalities are on the high table during the
5. The film used to seduce lnyama by Anthony is entitled orientation exercise?
A. “A Must Watch”. A. Eight B. Four C. Seven D. Three E. Two
B. “A Scar in My psyche”. 18. After the formal introduction, the subject
C. “The Forbidden Fruit”. teacher speaks eloquently.
D. “The Incident Assault” A. English B. French C. Geography D. Hausa
E. “The Life Paradise”. E. Maths
19. The father of the thief in the story is
Ayo Olaosebikan: Vengeance A. disgraced B. expelled C. honoured D. insulted
E. praised
6. Bishop Sanders and Ven Don conducted Mass at the 20. JSS 1A examination invigilator is
Anyakoras’ burial because they A. Mr. Afolayan B. Mr. Macaulay
A. were good Christians C. Mrs. Hassan D. Mrs. Redford
B. are relatives E. Mrs. Williams
C. contributed in building the church
D. died of fire disaster
E. were wretched. Dill Nwakwo: The Ambitious Village Boy
7. Obinnas mother is called
A. Mama Azuzu B. Mama Chioma 21. The leader of the armed robbers is called
C. Mama Obinna D. Mrs. Maduekwe A. Chike B. Commando C. Jack-D
E. Mrs. Onyeka D. Ken E. Obinna
8. lbekwe’s father calls him 22. Obinna is the child of his family.
A. Ibeks, the book wizard A. fifth B. first C. fourth D. second E. third
B. Ibeks, the handsome 23. Ken and Jack-D face a in the end.
C. Ibeks, the intelligent doctor A. death penalty B. disgrace C. life jail term
D. Son of a mighty warrior D. long jail term E. perpetual pain
E. Wise son 24. The person that is asked to disguise as his own uncle is
9. The tragedy that befalls IbeKwe’s family is announced to a
the class by A. barber B. cyclist C. doctor D. motorist
A. Bonfo B. Dr. Biatu C. Dr. Bolu E. nurse
D. Ibekwe E. Prof. Orefo 25. Who spent seven years behind bars?
10. “What do you have with which you’ll grease his palm? A. Chike B. Commando C. Jack-D D. Ken
Tell me!............” E. Obinna
This statement suggests
A. appreciation B. bribe C. favour D. help
E. reward Bayo Adebowale: Out Of His Mind

Pierre Mieunler: Zumji and Uchenna 26. Alamu is employed at Bajok’s Company Limited as a
A. Company Secretary B. Director
11. Uchenna’s father is convinced by to marry C. General Manager
Zumji. D. Public Relations Officer
A. Aunty Neze B. Brother Tongak E. Senior Accountant
C. Father Paul D. Sister Nneka 27. Lawyer Mustafa’s secretary buys her wristwatch from
E. Uncle Okoye A. Dubai B. London C. New York D. Toronto
12. Tongak and Jurbe are from state. E. Washington
A. Enugu B. Imo C. Kogi D. Plateau 28. The young woman from Akokuta whom Esuniyi cures is
E. Taraba later
13. Kachi is Uchenna’s A. employed
A. brother B. cousin C. fiancé D. nephew B. enrolled in a school
E. uncle C. established in business
14. Who among the following is from Plateau State? D. married
A. Bola B. Obinna C. Okparah D. Uchenna E. sent home
E. Zumbi 29. According to the story, the following make money
15. Nwachukwu sets out with the aim of beating through fast lane EXCEPT
A. Kachi B. Okoye C. Paul D. Tongak A. currency controllers
E. Zumji B. delicate millionaires
C. emergency directors.
SECTION B D. international managers.
PROSE E. share holders.
30. The cheque Alamu gives to Labake bounces
Kayode Adeyemo: Like Father Like Son
times.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
A. five B. four C. six D. three E. two

SECTION C: POETRY English Language is the Official Language in

Nigeria.
31. Niyi Osundare’s “The Politician’s Two Mouths” portrays
politicians as a/an lot. English language is the official language in Nigeria.
A. amiable B. arrogant C. deceitful D. loyal It is one of the languages for communication in the
E. trustworthy preceedings of United nations Organization.
32. David Diop’s “Africa” ends on a note of for the In Nigeria, the language of instruction in schools for
African continent. most subjects is English. Because of its importance,
A. anxiety B. hope C. indifference D. pessimism English language is alloted five slots on the time table
E. sadness per week. This indicates that English language occurs
33. Michael Det-Anang’s “Let’s Live in Peace” ends on a daily on the tine table.
note of certainty of It is doubtful if any student that has deficiency in
A death B. knowledge C. love D. peace English language can move to the Senior Secondary
E. wealth Level. Every candidate of the Senior Secondary School
34. “Soweto Sunrise” by Sulu Molefe portrays the beauty Examinations conducted by either WAEC or NECO
and joy of a/an society. strives to have a credit pass in English language. An
A. apartheid B. inter-apartheid ordinary pass does not benefit its scorer much because
C. intra-apartheid D. post-apartheid such a student can hardly secure an admission into the
E pre-apartheid university.
35. Segun Okeowo’s “Justice” is rich in the use of English language is important to every profession:
A. allusion B. contrast C. enjambment law, architecture, medicine, teaching, pharmacy,
D. irony E. symbolism engineering and others Art engineer must sit down to
36. Good and Bad Children” by R. L. Stevenson is didactic write his/her report after an inspection on the field or
because it guides children into fearing adults. site. All professions demand written reports. Those who
A. arrogant B. dignified C. greedy D. powerful are proficient in English send in delightful reports for
E. wealthy easy reading.
37. egun Okeowo’s “Salute to the Woman” preaches that English language is of utmost importance to lawyers
the woman should be and in Nigeria. He has to read us aw books written in English
A. cheated, loved B. hated, despised extensively. Lawyers who are skilled speakers will hold
C. loved, protected D. protected, hated their audience spell bound. If the lawyer is a judge,
E. scorned, loved he/she will, of necessity, write his/ her notes and
38. Rahila Dijis “Man and Nature” uses green in the poem to judgement in English language.
represent In essence, every Nigerian needs English language
A. death B. fertility C. moon D. rain E. sun to listen to newscast on radio and television. Those who
39. Rahila Diji’s “A Plea for Peace” calls for do not understand English language wilt be contented
A. action B. dialogue C. haste D. understanding with the translation of the news bulletin Please, pay
E. war proper attention to tour English language lessons. You
40. The predominant device in Niyi Osundare’s “The Land of cannot afford not to strive to be a notable teacher,
Unease” is lawyer, doctor or engineer.
A. irony B. personification C. pun D. simile
E. symbolism Your tutor,

Kunle Dagunduro
PAPER Ill

Answer both questions 1 and 2. Your answer to ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER I 2012
each should be about 200 words long. You are free
1.C 7.D 13.E 19.C 25.B 31.A 37.B 43.C 49.D 55. A
to use the hints below each question and/or any
2 E 8.D 14.A 20.A 26 E 32.C 38.A 44.A 50.C 56.A
other ones you like.
3.D 9.B 15.A 21.E 27.C 33.D 39. E 45.A 51.E 57. E
4.D 10.8 16.E 22.B 28.E 34.C 40.C 46.A 52.D 58.E
1. Write an essay on the topic:
5. 8 11.E 17.B 23.E 29.B 35.B 41.A 47.E 53.C 59.A
Why Some Students Come Late to School
6.E 12.E 18.C 24.C 30.C 36.B 42.B 48.D 54.C 60.C
i. Introduction - Students coming to school
61.B 62.E 63.E 64.D 65.C 86.B 67.B 68.E 69.A 70.C
ii. Reasons why some students come late
71.C 72.C 73.A 74.B 75.E 76.A 77.E 78.D 79.D 80.B
iii. Conclusion

2. Write a letter to the new Senior Prefect in your school
congratulating him on h s election an, advising him on
how to succeed.
i. Introduction - congratulate him on his election
ii. Advise him on how to succeed iii. Conclusion
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER II 2012
1.C 5.C 9.C 13. A 17.C 21.C 25.E 29.E 33.A 37.C
2.B 6.A 10.B 14.E 18.A 22.E 26.E 30.D 34.D 38.D
3.C 7.A 11.E 15.E 19.A 23.A 27.E 31.C 35. B 39. B
4. A 8.A 12.D 16.A 20.A 24.B 28.D 32.B 36.A 40.E
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATION (JSS 3)
Past Questions with Solutions
English Language 2011
============================================================================ ============
PAPER I
MULTIPLE CHOICE
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION
Read the passages below and answer the questions
that follow by choosing the most appropriate of the
options lettered A-E (Nos. 1-10).
PASSAGE 1
Hands, if not kept clean, can be the source of
ill-health. The hands come into direct contact with food
and everything we touch. It is very important to wash
them after using the toilet and before eating, before
handling food and whenever they are dirty.
The habit of nail –bitting is not right and often
courses pain. Dirty finger nail can introduce germ into
the body. The process by which the hands are
softened, fingernails are trimmed, cleaned, and
sometime, vanished is called manicure. A manicure
can be done on your hand and fingernails by you at
home. Professional manicure can also be obtained at
the shop at a price.
Painting or vanishing of fingernails is an old art
of grooming. In some part of the country, locally
available dyes are applied to the nails and hands to
give colour and beautify them. The modern approach
is the use of commercially available nail vanish, which
come in an array of colours. Nail vanishes should be
chosen carefully. Avoid colour that are vulgar or loud.
When too bright or too dull a colour is used, the
fingernails appear repulsive, and is uncomplimentary
to you. Fingernails can also be well groomed without
being painted.
Some habits to cultivate in caring for your
hands are, wash your hands be for meal, before
handling food or cooking, after using toilet and when
ever they are dirty. Do not bite your nails.
Nail- biting result in bad nails and often causes
pain.
1. Which of the following is NOT true according to the
passage?
A. Dirty fingernails can introduce germs into
the body. B. Habit of nail-biting is hygienic
C. Nail-biting causes pain D. Unclean hands can
be the source of ill- health.
E. Wash your hands before handling food.
2. According to the writer, the process by which the
hands are softened, fingernails are trimmed,
cleaned and varnished is called
A. decoration B. furnishing C. grooming
D. manicure E. painting
3. The experts feel one can control germs by
A. biting finger nails
B. choosing varnishes carefully
C. eating balanced diet
D. painting fingers
2009-2013
E. washing hands after toilet
4. From the passage, it can be said that the
writer is a
A. lawyer B. nutritionist C. painter
D. preacher E. teacher
5. A word that can replace cultivate as used in
the passage is
A. develop B. learn C. manipulate
D. imitate E. study
PASSAGE II
When soil is misused and no grass is planted on it, it
will soon be left bare or covered by few poor plants. In
this state, it is especially likely to suffer from erosion-
the removal of the soil by wind or water.
Since there are no roots or creeping plants to hold it
together and protect it from the burning rays of the
sun, it dries into powder as in level areas where few
trees grow to break the force of the wind. The dust
storms of Egypt and Sudan are an example of the way
in which strong wind may blow the fine dust from the
earths surface over distances. If sand of a deserts is
blown away, the farmer may not care very much, but if
the top soil is blow away, the land is ruined. To break
the force of the wind and turn it upwards from the
surface soil, it is good custom to grow wind breaks
made of rows of trees.
6. The passage says that erosion means
A. burning rays of the sun
B. misuse of soil
C. Soil that is left bare
D. soil with only few plants
E. the removal of soil by wind or water
7. Soil is held together and protected by
A. burning rays of the sun few trees
B. roots or creeping plants
C. strong winds wise farmers
8. According to the passage, what is erosion?
A. Blowing away of desert sand.
B. Blowing away of top soil.
C. Burning rays of the sun.
D. Hard working farmers
E. Too much sun
9. Suitable topic for this passage could be
A. Burning rays B. Cure for deforestation
C. Planting of trees D. Soil erosion
E. Wind breaks
10. Wind breaks check erosion by
A. building up sand banks
B. dust storms of Egypt and the Sudan
C. stopping the strong rays of the sun
E. the force of the wind
SECTION B: VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
Complete each of the following questions with the In the passage below, the numbered gaps indicate
most appropriate of the options lettered A – E missing words. Against each number in the list
(Nos. 11-35) below the passage, five options are offered in
11. During elections, voters put their votes into the columns letter A-E. fill each numbered gap with
boxes provided the most appropriate of the options.
A. ballot B. campaign C. rigging D. voters My 26 that is my uncle’s 27 decided
E. voting to 28 about four years after the 29
12. Nigeria has to attract into the country to of her first 30 . Her new love himself was a
boost her economy 31 having 32 his only wife about
A. ambassadors B. competitors two years earlier. He had two children from the first
C. foreigners D. investors E. proprietors 33 who were anxious to have a 34 .
13. What prefix can be added to the word ‘patient’ They complained that they were tired of being
from the list below? referred to as half 35 .
A. Dis B. Im C. In D. Re E. Un A B C D E
26. Aunt cousin mother niece sister
14. He sells newspapers, so he is a 27. Cousin daughter niece sister wife
A. hawker B. journalist C. marketer D. newsboy 28. Be-friend court love marry re-marry
E. vendor 29. death exit divorce hatred quarrel
30. Girl-friend lover madam mistress wife
15. My son’s grandmother who is my visited 31. bachelor groom loner widow widower
us yesterday 32. disowned divorced left lost missed
33. affair contact marriage relationship unity
A. grandmother-in-law B. mother-in-law 34. half-mother mother niece sister step-mother
C. sister-in-law D. step-mother e. step-mother- 35. breed caste children orphans people
in-law
16. It is now very difficult to get a/an to visit a SECTION C
country like Britain. A. aircraft B. insurance GRAMMATICAL ACCURACY
C. passport D. ticket E. visa Complete each of the following questions with the
17. The lawn was beautifully. most appropriate of the options lettered A-E (Nos. 36-
A. carved B. chopped C. mowed D. shaven 60).
E. weeded 36. Miss Bako looks forward to Europe
18. A school principal would be the right for next summer.
the post of Minister of Education. A. had visited B. has visited C. have visited
A. applicant B. candidate C. object D. visited E. visiting
D. personnel E. subject 37. Bimbo is good basketball while her sister
19. The train is expected to stop and pick passengers plays volleyball very well.
at every A. at B. by C. on D. in E. for
A. bus stop B. Junction C. park D. station 38. Big tropical trees were planted on side of
E. terminus the road
20. A would soon be passed on women A. any B. both C. each D. neither
empowerment. E. such
A. bill B. decision C. decree D. law 39. They have eggs than we do.
E. mandate A. fewer B. least C. less D. little E. much
21. The prices of some foodstuffs have gone up 40. School resumes tomorrow, we need to get
because of excess demand and supply. things in town.
A. abundant B. enormous C. excess A. a few B. a little C. few D. little
D. inadequate E. sufficient E. much
22. In a library, books are never lent out. 41. Mr. Uche’s daughters are pretty, but Ada is the
A. catalogued B. documented C. edited of them all.
D. published E. reference A. more pretty B. most pretty C. prettier
23. Mary works as a broadcaster with the state D. prettiest E. pretty
A. Fire service B. hospital C. Police station 42. The man, with his children in a storey
D. Radio station E. social welfare department building
24. There was no meat in the market A. are living B. has lived C. have lived
she bought some fish D. live E. lives
A. except B. since C. so D. unless 43. She goes to school a bus everyday.
E. whereas. A. at B. by C. in D. on E. with
25. I saw John in June last year 44. Which of the two yours
A. before B. presently C. since A. are B. be C. has D. is E. were
D. sometime E. sometimes 45. John has for you.
A. a new B. few news C. much news
D. news E. some news
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
46. I wish I gone for the concert A. is B. has been C. would be D. was
A. couldn’t B. didn’t C. hadn’t D. shouldn’t E. will be
E. won’t 63. The boy bicycle was stolen, is in my
47. They think too much of themselves, class
they? A. his B. who’s C. which D. who
A. do B. don’t C. didn’t D. shall E. won’t E. whose
48. We need not search for the money, we? 64. The children sometimes by air
A. couldn’t B. do C. need D. shall E. won’t A. travel B. travels C. travelled
49. My father owns this company; said John. This D. are travelling E. travels
statement is best reported as John said that 65. We saw him in the library, ?
company. A. are we B. didn’t we C. shall we D. isn’t it
A. his father owned that E. was it
B. his father owned the
C. his father owns that SECTION D: SPOKEN ENGLISH
D. my father owned this Choose from the options lettered A-E, the one that
E. my father owns this contains the given phonetic symbol (Nos. 66-80).
50. “We shall be early to school today”, said the 66. /dƷ/
children. The indirect form of this statement is, A. church B. father C. geography
the children said that, D. then E. thing
A. they shall be early to school next week 67. / /
A. engine B. June C. language
B. they shall be early to school tomorrow
D. match E. pleasure
C. they would be early to school that day
68. /Ʒ/
D. we shall be early to school today
A. blaze B. father C. joy D. pleasure E. village
E. we should be early to school tomorrow. 69. /∫/
51. travelled to the village A. dress B. fish C. house D. sit E. was
A. I and Peter B. Me and Peter C. Peter 70. / /
and her D. Peter and I E. Peter and me. A. boil B. height C. house D. might E. out
52. She wanted me to close my eye 71. / /
A. any B. each C. other D. others E. own A. boy B. coil C. out D. soil E. spoil
53. The task is quite demanding it 72. / /
A. does B. is C. isn’t D. was E. wasn’t A. height B. fail C. might D. noise E. shout
54. The party started hour ago. 73. / /
A. a B. an C. any D. many E. some A. better B. dirty C. girl D. jump E. shirt
55. The sentence I lost my purse, re-written in the 74. / /
A. flour B. look C. pull D. push E. shoe
passive structure will become, A purse
75. / /
lost.
A. borne B. flood C. floor D. mood E. shut
A. had been B. has been C. is D. is being
76. / /
E. was
A. ache B. blot C. couple D. drain E. plastic
56. The sentence He celebrated his birthday, re-
77. / /
written in the passive structure will be, His A. cocoa B. honour C. gentle D. humble
birthday celebrated. E. nephew
A. had been B. had been C. is D. is being 78. /k/
E. was A. colic B. jungle C. knee D. knowledge
57. it was a very tough examination, he E. saviour
came out in flying colours 79. / /
A. although B. since C. so D. thus E. yet A. birth B. guess C. peculiar D. sector
58. My friend in Lagos for ten years now E. wheat
A. had been living B. has lived C. has lived 80. /ai/
A. biometric B. cart C. divorce D. hawk
D. has been living E. have lived
E. punish
59. Which of the words below is correctly spelt?
A. Buttres B. Knowledge C. Loiterring PAPER II: LITERATURE
D. Sacrilage E. Truly SECTION A: DRAMA
60. The prefix neo means Chijioke Ugwu: Two To Tango
A. after B. before C. many D. new E. not 1. The chief driver of Umuasa people is
61. We did not only condemn the action but also A. Isiada B. Mmegini C. Nnenna
it D. Nwayo E. Onyishi
2. Inyama had immortal affair with
A. criticize B. criticizes C. criticized D. must
A. Anthony B. Ifeanyi C. Ifedinjo
criticize E. will criticize
D. Ikeogu E. Okewu
62. By June 30th, she twelve years old 3. The setting of the play is Umuasa
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
A. chiefdom B. emirate C. empire A. Babatunde B. Obese C. Seyi
D. kingdom E. sultanate D. Tommy E. Yomi
4. The oldest living daughter in Umuasa is 20. Which of the following rules and regulations does
A. Isiada B. Mmegini C. Nnenna NOT guide Mrs. Redford’s class?
D. Nwayo E. Onyishi A. Doing all the given assignments
5. Inyama has polluted the land and must cleanse it to B. Leaving school without a duly signed paper
A. escape death B. live happily C. Not to fight with one another
C. obtain Igwe’s forgiveness D. Presence at the assembly for the roll call
D. pacify the ancestors E. Reporting to school early
E. pacify Umuasa people Dili Nwankwo: The Ambitious Village Boy
Ayo Olaosebikan: Vengeance 21. Commando dies of
6. Mrs. Anderson’s attitude to Mr. and Mrs. Anyakora A. bullet wounds B. kidney disease
is described as being C. lung diseases D. heart disease
A. crazy B. humble C. immature E. peptic ulcer
D. polite E. snobbish 22. Who does the gang nick-name “The snake”?
7. Obinna decides to be addressing Ibekwer as A. Chike B. Commando C. Jack-D
A. Booker T B. Commander C. Corporal D. Obinna E. Ume
D. Professor E. Sergeant 23. The school bully at Nosike memorial Primary
8. The name of the student Dr. Biatu impregnates is School is
A. Chioma B. Lauretta C. Lucy A. Bobby B. Commando C. Fabian
D. Mayowa E. Njideka D. Ken E. Obinna
9. Ibekwe’s head of Department is 24. How many snail shells are put around the necks of
A. Dr. Biatu B. Dr. Bolu C. Dr. Chiedu Obinna and Chike for stealing?
D. Dr. (Mrs.) Maduekwe E. Professor Orefo A. Five B. Four C. One D. Three E. Two
10. Lucy falls into a bad mental state when she 25. “Being sent Overseas” as used in the text means
discovers that Dr. Biatu A. going abroad B. to be killed
A. Has travelled abroad C. to be sent on errand D. travelling by boat
B. Is married with three grown-up children E. travelling to another country
C. Is no longer in love with her Bayo Adebowale: Out of His Mind
D. Has been out of school 26. The reason why Alamu sells his car is because he
E. Has made her fail all her courses A. is drunk B. is out of his mind
Pierre Meunier: Zumji and Uchenna C. wants a less fuel-consuming car
11. Okparah belivers Zumji must have bewitched his D. wants to change his car
A. brother B. daughter C. sister E. wants to meet with family needs
D. son E. wife 27. Remi works as a nurse in a hospital
12. Zumji is from which state? A. dental B. general C. maternity
A. Imo B. Lagos C. Kwara D. Niger E. Plateau D. private E. psychiatric
13. The marriage proposed by Zumji and Uchenna is 28. How many person(s) is/are supposedly mad in the
another way of breaking barrier. text?
A. economic B. educational C. ethnic A. Five B. One C. Six D. Three E. Two
D. political E. religious 29. A hired herbalist is brought by Mama to
14. Zumji is taken to Echenna’s after being A. cast spell on Alamu
attacked B. cure Alamu’s malady
A. family church B. father’s house C. defend Alamu’s case
C. friend’s house D. in-law’s house D. protect Alamu E. tame Alamu
E. uncle’s house 30. Alamu’s hard time period makes him look
15. Obinna is sentenced to a imprisonment A. like his age mates B. more handsome
A. life B. three-year C. ten-year C. older than his age D. sophisticated
D. twenty-year E. seven-year E. younger than his age.

SECTION B: PROSE SECTION C: POETRY

Kayode Adeyemo: Like Father Like Son 31. The major theme in Niyi Osundare’s “Eating with all
16. Who is made the scapegoat in JSS1A on their first the Fingers” is
day in class? A. enjoyment B. greed and selfishness
A. Babatunde B. Obese C. Seyi C. peace and harmony D. power
D. Tommy E. Yomi E. war and crisis
17. The winner of the prize for the best class-teacher 32. David Diop’s “Africa” is a/an poem
for three consecutive academic sessions is A. emblematic B. epic C. metaphysical
A. Mr. Abiodun B. Mr. Macaulay D. pastoral E. protest
C. Mrs. A. T. Ibironke D. Mrs. Hassan 33. The tone is Segun Okeowo’s Salute to the Woman”
E. Mrs. Redford is that of
18. Peju leaves thousand Naira in her locker A. adoration B. discontent C. hatred
after sweeping D. indifference E. jealousy
A. one B. two C. three D. four E. five 34. R. L. Stevenson’s “Good and Bad Children’s is a/an
19. Who is the exceptionally brilliant boy in JSS1? poem.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
A. entertaining B. ideological C. moralistic (i) Introduction – mention the name of the food
D. political E. romantic (ii) State the reasons(s) why you prefer it
35. “The Politician’s Two Mouths” by Niyi Osundare (iii) Conclusion
shows a distrust for the class. 2. Write a letter to your father informing him about
A. academic B. political C. social your class going to Kainji Dam on excursion.
D. economic E. elite (i) Introduction- explain the reason(s) for the
36. Gabriel Okara’s “Piano and Drums” focuses on excursion
clash of (ii) The importance of the visit and what you are
A. animals B. cultures C. interests expected to learn from it
D. religions E. teams (iii) Conclusion
37. “Man and Nature” by Rahila J. Diji addresses nature
as a to man.
A. checker B. destroyer C. killer ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER I 2011
D. leveller E. sustainers 1. B 11. A 21. D 31. E 41. D 51. D 61. C 71. -
38. The subject matter of “prisoner of War” by Nnamdi
2. D 12. D 22. E 32. D 42. E 52. C 62. C 72. B
P. Agbakoba is
3. E 13. B 23. D 33. C 43. C 53. C 63. E 73. A
A. civil war B. determination C. imprisonment
D. love E. pain 4. E 14. E 24. C 34. E 44. D 54. B 64. A 74. -

39. The tone of Michael Dei Anang’s “Let’s Live in 5. A 15. B 25. D 35. D 45. D 55. E 65. B 75. D

Peace” is that of 6. E 16. E 26. B 36. E 46. C 56. E 66. C 76. C

A. begging B. command C. harassment 7. C 17. C 27. B 37. A 47. B 57. A 67. D 77. B
D. reprimand E. warning
8. B 18. B 28. D 38. C 48. C 58. D 68. D 78. A
40. The theme of Sulu Molefe’s “Soweto Sunrise” is the
9. D 19. D 29. A 39. A 49. A 59. B 69. B 79. C
A. beauty of morning traffic
10. E 20. A 30. B 40. A 50. C 60. D 70. A 80. A
B. beauty of sunrise
C. joy of freedom
D. seriousness of school children
E. sunrise of Soweto ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER II 2011
1. A 6. E 11. B 16. E 21. D 26. E 31. B 36. B

2. E 7. B 12. E 17. E 22. E 27. E 32. E 37. E

PAPER III: ESSAY
Answer both questions 1 and 2. Your answer to each 3. D 8. C 13. C 18. C 23. B 28. D 33. A 38. B

should be about 200 words long. You are free to sue the 4. A 9. E 14. B 19. C 24. E 29. B 34. C 39. A

hints below each question and/or any other ones you 5. D 10. B 15. C 20. B 25. B 30. C 35. B 40. C
like. Each question carries ten 910) marks.
1. Write an essay on the topic:- The Food I Like Best.

BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATION (JSS 3)

Past Questions with Solutions
ENGLISH LANGUAGE 2010
============================================================================ ============
PART A: OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS age, leading it to see its position in society and helping it to
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION develop emotionally.
Another function of the family is economic. Often the
Read the following passage carefully and answer the work that has to be done is divided up according to sex, so
questions that follow by choosing the most appropriate of the that certain tasks are done by men and others by women. In
options lettered A-E(Nos. 1-10). some societies the family itself provides most of its own
needs. As a productive unit it is best seen in hunting,
PASSAGE A gathering and agricultural societies. Through the careful
The family has many basic functions. One of these division of labour, the necessities of food, clothing, shelter
is child bearing. In some societies, this function is considered and protection are provided within the context of the family.
essential. In many cases if the wife does not bear a son, the 1. The passage tells us in the first paragraph that
stability of the family is destroyed. In most cases it is is an important function of a wile.
assumed that the wife is at fault and may be divorced for not (a) child-bearing (b) child-rearing
fulfilling her function. Such conclusions may be scientifically (c) child-training (d) preventing divorce
not necessary but are very real in their social consequences. (e) stabilizing family
Once a child has been born, it must be brought up. 2. A word that could replace assumed as used in the
So child rearing is the second function of the family and it is first paragraph is
a prolonged and difficult task. The newborn child is to be (a) believed (b) concluded (c) established
reared into a mature and responsible member of the society. (d) finalised (e) supposed
Child rearing includes the tasks of providing for the child’s 3. According to the passage, which of the following
material needs such as food, shelter and clothing, teaching it statements is true?
to establish relationships with adults and others of its own (a) Child-bearing is the most important function of
the family.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
(b) Children do not contribute to the family’s
economy.
(c) Every family provides most of its own needs.
(d) It is not easy to rear a child.
(e) It is scientifically true that a wife who does not
bear a son is at fault.
4. The passage is mainly in form.
(a) argumentative (b) descriptive (c) expository
(d) narrative (e) persuasive
5. The most appropriate title for the passage could
be
(a) Child-bearing (b) Child-rearing
(c) Essential functions of a family (d) The family and
its functions (e) The family and the society
PASSAGE B
We Nigerians are a very gay and fun-loving people, so
almost every week someone in the neighbourhood gives
a big party. But wouldn’t it be better if they were less
noisy? You must have lain awake at night, as I have,
unable to get to sleep because of people laughing,
shouting, slamming car doors and revving up their
engines at the beginning as well as before, during and
after a party. And sooner or later someone gives a party
with two bands playing simultaneously, and with
microphones and high-powered amplifiers, too! Each
band alone would be a pleasure to listen to - if we were
able to hear it properly.
But when both play different tunes at the same time,
as they usually do, it Es impossible to enjoy either. What
a waste of good music!
6. According to the passage,
(a) it is impossible to hear two bands playing
different tunes at the same time.
(b) it is possible to enjoy two bands playing different
tunes at the same time.
(c) listening to a band at a time will be interesting.
(d) two bands at the same party always play similar
tunes.
(e) two bands performing at a party is wrong.
7. Simultaneously as used in the passage means
(a) at the same place (b) at the same time (c) near
each other (d) similarly (e) together
8. What the writer does not like is
(a) night party (b) noisy party
(c) regular partying
(d) two bands playing at a party
(e) two bands playing different tunes
9. The passage concludes that any people that usually
give a big party
(a) are noise-makers (b) disturb other
(c) invite two bands (d) love fun (e) waste music
10. The passage is mainly inform.
(a) argumentative (b) descriptive
(c) expository (d) narrative (e) persuasive
SECTION B: VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT
Complete each of the following questions with
the most appropriate of the options lettered
A-E (Nos. 11-25).
11. The boy is a cheat, he cleverly his father’s
signature.
(a) copied (b) forged (c) imitated
(d) signed (e) wrote
2009-2013
12. The Student Union Leader was — in the wake of
the students’ unrest that claimed some
lives.
(a) dismissed (b) driven away (c) punished
(d) rusticated (e) sacked
13. Ships berth at the to load and unload.
(a) airport (b) harbour (c) hanger
(d) park (e) station
14. Having lost his wife, the man has remained a
for fifteen years.
(a) bachelor (b) groom (c) spouse
(d) widow (e) widower
15. His poor mother advised him to borrow books from
the so that he can improve in his
studies.
(a) archives (b) bookshop (c) laboratory
(d) library (e) school
16. Politicians, unlike the military, are expected to
formulate policies that will be beneficial to
the people in their
(a) constituencies (b) localities (c) parties
(d) wards (e) zones
17. The ailing boy was admitted into the children
in the hospital.
(a) office (b) part (c) room (d) section (e) ward
18. In the banking hall, the attends to
customers behind the counter.
(a) accountant (b) cashier (c) manager
(d) operator (e) receptionist
19. The railway authority has ordered for more
to be imported into the country.
(a) buses (b) coaches (c) seats
(d) stations (e) wagons
20. Since the house is going to be a three
building, the wood supporting the decking must
be very strong.
(a) level (b) stage (c) step (d) storey (e) unit
21. The president had a knowledge of the
coup.
(a) bi (b) fore (c) mis (d) pre (e) re
22. What prefix can be added to the word “trace” from
the list below?
(a) de (b) dis (c) mal (d) re (e) with
23. He is my since he was born to my father by
another woman.
(a) cousin (b) half brother (c) nephew
(d) sibling (e) step brother
24. A pregnant woman is advised to start attending the
natal clinic early enough.
(a) ante (b) anti (c) bi (d) post (e) trans
25. He likes power to himself.
(a) acclaiming (b) admitting (c) arrogating
(d) ascribing (e) attributing
SECTION C: STRUCTURE
Complete each of the following questions with the most
appropriate of the options lettered A-E (Nos. 26-50).
26. The children look forward to from their
parents soon.
(a) be heard (b) be hearing (c) have heard
(d) hear (e) hearing
27. The lady about I spoke to you last week is
here now.
(a) which (b) who (C) whom (d) whose
(e) who’s
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
28. Nobody is pleased the arrogant girl’s (d) has having (e) would have
conduct. 47. I own this bag, it’s
(a) about (b) at (c) by (d) on (e) with (a) me (b) mine (c) mine’s (c) my (e) my’s
29. of the five girls has an handkerchief. 48. Mariam won the race because she ran than
(a) Both (b) Each (c) Either (d) Every Esther.
(e) Neither (a) fast (b) faster (c) fastest (d) more fast
30. The new principal us since he reported (e) more faster
for duty. 49. Musa brought of sand to the
(a) had not addressed (b) has not addressed construction site.
(c) have not addressed (d) is not addressing (a) bunches (b) grains (c) heaps
(e) was not addressing (d) pieces (e) piles.
31. The live telecast of the football match was by paid 50. She dedicated the novel her aunt.
advertisement at intervals. (a) at (b) for (c) in (d) on (e) to
(a) interpreted (b) integrated (c) interjected
(d) interrupted (e) interwoven SECTION D: SPOKEN ENGLISH
32. The patients attended the clinic yesterday,
they? Choose from the options lettered A — E the one that
(a) aren’t (b) didn’t (c) don’t (d) weren’t contains the given phonetic symbol (Nos. 51-60)
(e) won’t 51. /s/
33. He bought the sandals the rate of one. (a) reason (b) rice (c) risen (d) shop (e) treasure
hundred naira a pair. 52. / Ồ/
(a) at (b) by (c) for (d) in (e) with (a) both (b) cloth (c) length (d) oath (e) smooth
34. John did not take part the parade. 53. /n/
(a) at (b) for (c) in (d) on (e) with (a) angle (b) frank (c) gang (d) plant (e) thing
35. he is a brilliant member of the class is clear 54. /d3/
to us. (a) bash (b) joke (c) natural (d) ocean (e) rough
(a) Although (b) As (c) Despite (d) For 55. /Λ/
(e) That (a) bury (b) purr (c) song (d) unity (e) unsure
36. Toun’s mother was delivered a baby girl 56. /w/
yesterday. (a) draw (b) new (c) square (d) unity (e) whole
(a) by (b) from (c) for (d) of (e) with 57. / ⌠ /
37. Would you mind me your dictionary? (a) badge (b) basket (c) charge (d) chef (e) scape
(a) lent (b) Tending (c) to lend 58. / θ/
(d) to be lending (e) to have lent (a) breathe (b) cloth (c) smooth (d) step (e) they
38. Each of them an estate. 59. /t/
(a) own (b) owns (C) are owing (d) owing (a) listen (b) parked (c) position (d) thick (e) those
(e) is owning 60. /3/
39. Before I realized it, I duped. (a) axe (b) check (c) gradual (d) page (e) rouge
(a) could be (b) might have been (c) should be
(d) had been (e) have being SECTION E: LITERATURE
40. They rarely come late to school, ? DRAMA
(a) aren’t they (b) do they (c) doesn’t it Felicia Onyewadume: Echoes of Hard Times
(d) don’t they (e) isn’t it
41. I would share my food with Mary than with 61. How many people are in Ojo’s parlour waiting for
Esther. Chief Ladipo’s arrival?
(a) better to (b) instead of (c) other than (a) Five (b) Four (c) Six (d) Three (e) Two
(d) prefer of (e) rather 62. 62. Who arrives Ojo’s parlour last?
42. The statement: At last we saw the sun, rewritten in (a) Adeola (b) Femi (c) Jimo (d) Mr. Akeju
the passive voice will be, At last the (e) Mr. Otubanjo
sun seen. 63. Who does not come to the gathering with his wife?
(a) has been (b) have been (c) is (a) Bello (b) Femi (c) Ladipo (d) Obi
(d) was being (e) was (e) Peter
43. My father has promised me a bicycle after 64. Who falls into the hands of a “419”?
my (a) Bisi (b) Bola (c) Mrs. Akeju
(a) given (b) of given (c) of giving (d) Mrs. Otubanjo (e) Nina
(d) to be giving (e) to give
44. The new students were properly dressed D. Olu Olagoke: The Incorruptible Judge
their uniforms. 65. The money given to Agbalowomeri by Ajala leads to
(a) by (b) from (c) in (d) of (e) with a case because it is a (a) bribe
45. Ade fell his bicycle on his way to school (b) compensation (c) gift (d) levy (e) tax
today. 66. Ajala’s commencing salary is shillings per annum.
(a) by (b) down (c) from (d) off (e) on (a) 10 pounds 172 (b) 20pounds 10
46. Last year I to study every night, because I (c) 20 pounds 171 (d) 172 pounds 10
wanted to pass my exams. (e) 1l72 pounds 15
(a) am having (b) had (c) have
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
67. 67. Agbalowomeri’s lawyer at the trial is
(a) Ajala (b) Arogunmatidi (c) Clerk (d) Lawanson
(e) Okoro
68. 68. Agbalowomeri is eventually sentenced to
years in jail with hard labour.
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 5 (e) 6
PROSE
Agbo Areo: Mother’s Choice
69. 69. Who is referred to as the family scavenger in
the text?
(a) Ade (b) Akpan (c) Frances (d) Ngozi (e) Tola
70. What makes Junior to develop mental sickness?
(a) Curse (b) Endless parties (C) Over-eating
(d) Sleeplessness (e) Use of hard drugs
71. The car used to attend wedding ceremonies by Mrs.
Ogidi is
(a) BMW (b) Honda (c) Mercedes Benz
(d) Peugeot (e) Volvo
72. Kam and Lionel are gaoled for involvement in
(a) alcoholism (b) battering (C) drug addiction
(d) rape (e) theft
Zaynab Alkali: The Virtuous Woman
73. Who accepts the free ride offered by Major?
(a) Aisha (b) Hajjo (c) Laila (d) Nana Al (e) Zaynab
74. What time of the day do the messengers and
cleaners always drag themselves to the office?
(a) 5 O’ clock (b) 6 O’ clock (c) 8 O’ clock (d) 9 O’
clock (e) 10 O’ clock
75. The girls are travelling to College. (a) Christ
the king’s (b) Monica (a) Majesty (d) Queen’s
(e) King’s
76. Who is seen as being arrogant by the girls?
(a) Abdullahi (b) Abubakar (C) Bello
(d) Dogo (e) Sani
POETRY
77. Markwei Martif’s “Life in Our Village” portrays the
village elders as
(a) lovers (b) moralists (c) preachers
(d) ritualists (e) spiritualists
78. The theme of Gabriel Okara’s “Piano and
Drums” is
(a) beauty of African culture
(b) beauty of Western culture
(c) clash of cultures (d) clash of interests
(e) clash of religions
79. 79. The message of Michael Del-Anang’s “Let’s live
in Peace” is the need for
(a) kindness (b) love (c) peace (d) warfare
(e) wealth
80. Ken Tsaro-Wiwa’s “Voice” preaches
(a) love (b) peace (c) unity (d) warfare (e) wealth
PART B: THEORY
SECTION A: LANGUAGE
Answer both questions 1 and 2. Your answer to each should
be about 200 words long. You are free to use the hints below
each question and/or any other appropriate ones. Each
question carries ten marks.
1. You are the leader of the Debate Club of Your
school. Write a closing speech/vote of thanks to be
given at the end of a particular debate.
Hints:
(a) Greetings - Good morning/afternoon;
2009-2013
(b) Mention the names of participants to be
thanked— i.e. The chairman, moderator, etc in
correct order;
(c) The roles which has played;
(d) Use words/expressions showing
appreciation/gratitude;
(e) Conclusion — i.e. wish them safe journey, etc.
Hints
2. Write a letter to your father/mother asking
permission to go and spend your vacation with your
best friend and his/her family.
(a) Introduction (it any)
(b) Where the friend lives;
(c) Why you want to spend with him/her;
(d) Conclusion.
SECTION B: LITERATURE
Answer ONE question, from this section. Each of the
questions carries ten marks.
Felicia Onyewadume: Echoes of Hard Times
3. (a) “‘She left home for the bank before 8.a.m. and
after waiting for over three hours without any trace
of the man, she went to complain to the bank
manager with the account number the man gave
her. She got ‘the shock of her life when the
manager told her that no Benco and Sons Ltd. had
any account with them”.
(I) Who is speaking?
(ii) Who is being addressed?
(iii) Where are they?
(iv) What relationship exists between them?
(v) Who is being discussed about?
(vi) What is the relationship between the man who
could not be traced and the woman referred to
as “She” in the statement?
(vii) In one sentence, state the character trait of the
man who could not be traced.
(viii) What eventually happens to the woman
referred to as “She” in the statement?
Olu Olagoke: The Incorruptible judge
3(b) “Ah, life has not been treating me very well at all,
and that is why I have come to you.
I am in the soup; and you are the only person who
can get me out of it”.
(i) Who is the speaker?
(ii) To whom is the statement made?
(iii) What is the relationship between the speaker
and the addressee?
(iv) Where is the statement made?
(v) Mention the figure of speech employed in the
underlined expression.
(vi) “The soup” as used in the statement is a
metaphor for what?
(vii) Mention the effort made by the addressed to
get the speaker out of “the soup”.
Agbo Area: Mother’s Choice
3(c) Speaker A: ‘... I’ll come later’.
Speaker B: ‘... I’ll switch off the thing, if you want to
be naughty this morning’.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
(i) Who is speaker A?
(ii) Who is speaker B?
(iii) What is the relationship between the two speakers?
(iv) Why does speaker A want to ‘come later’?
(v) What action does speaker B take immediately after this
speech?
(vi) What prevents speaker A from going to school that
particular morning?
(vii) State the cause of the discussion between the two
speakers.
Zaynab Alkali: The Virtuous Woman
3(d) “Bo-Bo, your latrine is over there, you shameless
man”.
(i) Who is the speaker?
(ii) Who is being addressed? (iii) Where are they?
(iv) Who else is present at the scene?
(v) What object does the speaker point to?
(vi) What is the addresse’s reaction to the statement?
BASIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATION (JSS 3)
Past Questions with Solutions
English Language 2009
============================================================================ ============
OBJECTIVE SECTION
A: COMPREHENSION
Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow by choosing the most appropriate of the
options lettered A – E (Nos. 1 – 10)
PASSAGE 1
Have you ever thought about noise? We in Africa
are accustomed to noise of all sorts. In our warm climate,
we are bound to hear more noise in our homes, whether
we want to or not, than people living in a cold climate with
their doors and windows shut.
Obviously not all the noises your own family makes
are pleasant. No one likes to hear a baby crying and
crying, or someone humming the same line from a song
over and over again. We do not like to hear other people
quarrelling, either. Yet we all know that if there is more
than one child in the household, quarrels are inevitable. 1.
So, even in your own home, not all the noises you hear
are the ones that you want to hear. If your father wanted
to listen to the news on the radio when you preferred a
music programme, you would not enjoy the news, would
you? If someone in the family regularly snored at night,
you could do nothing to stop it, unless the snorer was 2.
younger than you.
In a hot climate like ours we have to listen to other
families’ noise too. We hear our neighbours’ laughter and
quarrels as well as our own. We get to know our 3.
neighbours through the noise they make, almost as much
as in any other way. And don’t forget, they know us from
the noise we make!
The trouble is that we do not always consider other
people when we are making a noise. This is particularly
important in a hot climate, where any noise we make
soars out of our open windows and doors, or off our 4.
verandahs, right into other people’s lives. We should
consider other people but we don’t. Nowadays, instead,
we all seem to prefer to force other people to listen to all
sorts of noise whether they want or not. Haven’t you ever 5.
been lying in bed with a fever when someone has walked
2009-2013
(vii) What is the reaction of the third person present to
the statement?
(viii) Mention the figure of speech employed in the use of
“latrine”.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE 2010
down the Street with a transistor radio, shattering the
peace and preventing you from getting to sleep? A lot of
noise that irritates us is not made iii order to irritate us; it
is made because someone is being inconsiderate.
Too much noise is not only unpleasant, it can interfere
with work, although at times a little agreeable music might
be a help, not a hindrance, to intellectual effort.
FROM
New Oxford Secondary English Course
The passage states that people in Africa are accustomed
to noise because……………………
A. noises are made in their homes.
B. the climate is warm
C. their doors and windows are always open.
D. they are Africans. E. they like it.
Which of these does the writer think may help a student?
A. Agreeable music. B. Humming a song.
C. Pleasant noise. D. Unwanted music.
E. Unpleasant noise.
Which of the following is true according to the passage?
A. A lot of noise is made in order to irritate us.
B. Climate will not influence the impact of noise on us.
C. Noise coming from a baby’s cry is not always irritating.
D. Too much noise does not affect our activities.
E. We seem to prefer other people to listen to all sorts of
noise whether they want it or not.
A summary of the passage is that noise is
A. inconsiderate. B. inevitable.
C. irritating D. undesirable.
E. unpleasant
A suitable title for the passage could be……….. of Noise.
A. Causes B. Effects C. Origin
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
D. Sources E. Types 8. Animals are beneficial to plants because they…………
A. do not live entirely on their own.
PASSAGE II B. eat them. C. feed on them.
Living things are divided into two kingdoms plants D. make them grow richer.
and animals. In order to stay alive they require energy, E. serve as fertilizer when dead.
and this comes from food. It is because plants and 9. A word that can replace “fuel” as used in the passage
animals feed in different ways that we can tell them apart. is…………
Plants can actually make their own food, then use it A. energy. B. fertilizer. C. food.
to live and grow on. it comes from the gas, carbon- D. gas. E. juices.
dioxide in the air, and water in the ground As this is all 10. The most suitable title for the passage could be…………
around them, plants do not need to move. They have the A. Animal and Plant Kingdoms.
special chemical chlorophyll in their leaves and with this B. Differences Among Living Things.
they change the carbon-dioxide and water into food such C. Food Chain. D. Living Things
as sugar and starch. Leaves are the great chemical E. Similarities Among Living Things.
factories of nature.
Animals have no chlorophyll and cannot make food, SECTION B
but must get t horn plants. This is why they need to move
VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT
about to find food. They must also have nervous system
for smelling, seeing hearing, tasting and touching. This Complete each of the following questions with the
helps them find their way about and know what is gong most appropriate of the options lettered A - E
on around them. Because plant food is a solid animals (Nos. 11- 25).
need a mouth to take it in. Food is then broken up by the 11. He wants to start so h bought some chicken and chicks.
teeth or beak, and digested in the food canal by juices so A. business B. livestock C. piggery
that t can be carried away and stored up in at or the liver. D. poultry E. ranch.
Later it can be used as “fuel’ for growing and moving 12. The state government is providing……….at subsidized
about. Any unused food or waste s passed out of the rates to farmers to encourage them and improve crop
body. production.
Waste from animal may no useful as a fertilizer by A. chemicals B. cutlasses C. labourers
making the soil en which plants grow richer and more D. land E. plants.
fruitful. Also when plants and anima’s die they are broken 13. The fastest sprinter was given a medal at the athletic
up by bacteria and what is left helps to improve the soil. competition.
In this way, by making food out of air and water, plants A. bronze B. copper C. gold D. neck E. silver.
give life to animals. Then, animals and plants put back 14. The………..blew his whistle to signal the end of the
food into soil when they die. football match.
Since no animal lives forever, it must have young to A. captain B. commissioner
carry on its kind. This is called reproduction. The young of C. linesman D. referee E. umpire
animals are either born or hatched from eggs. In this way 15. Most ships dock at the to load and unload goods.
we can recognize an animal - it moves and grows, it A. airport B. garage C. port
senses things, it feeds and digests with a mouth and food D. station E. terminus
passage it excretes or gets rid of waste food and poisons 16. David is engaged to Mary, so she is his……….
and it reproduces. The remarkable thing is that all A. bride B. fiancée C. girlfriend D. niece E wife.
animals do these things, in spite of great variety of 17. Musa calls her his………… since she is the daughter of
shapes and sizes and different ways of living. his wife’s brother.
No animal can live entirely on its own. Sooner or A. daughter B. daughter-in-law
later it must feed, and this means on a plant or another C. cousin D. nephew E. niece
animal. An amoeba feeds on tiny plants or animals. In 18. Christians or Muslims go on………..to the Holy Land.
turn, it gets caught by a slightly larger water creature A. excursion B. journey C. pilgrimage
such as water-fleas. These can sometimes be seen D. trip E. tour.
swarming in ponds jerking about in the water. Next, a 19. A Nigerian won the 200 metres race.
newt catches water fleas for food. Then water beetle A. athlete B. citizen C. delegate
pounces on and kills the newt with its powerful jaws. A D. spectator E. footballer.
little later, a fish catches the beetle. Suddenly, the fish too 20. The…………for the job will have both written and oral
becomes a victim: from above a watchful heron darts interviews.
forward with its sharp beak - and the fish is caught. In this A. applicants B. clients C. contestants
way a food chain is built up like a pyramid. D. candidates E. people
21. Cholera is a/an……………..disease.
From: Children Encyclopaedia A. communicable B. dangerous
C. endemic D. terminal E. transferable
6. The writer suggests that both plants and animals……… 22. The adjectival form of the word ‘friend’ is……………..
A. feed on each other. B. feed and die. A. friends B. friend C. friendliness
C. have chlorophyll. D. make food. D. friendly E. friendship
E. move about. 23. The noun form of the word ‘inhabit’ is………..
7. The passage is best described as a/an…….piece. A. inhabited B. inhabits C. inhabitants
A. argumentative. B. descriptive D. inhabitable E. uninhabited.
C. expository. D. narrative
E. persuasive.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
or question 24 and 25 choose the words that are 41. The man relocated because he was suspicious………his
wrongly spelt from the options lettered A - E neighbour.
24. A. business A. about B. by C. in D. of E. with
B. fake 42. Peter,…….books on my table belong to me.
C. sudden A. that B. these C. this D. those E. which
D. supplementary 43. John,…………is the name of the tree used for the
E. truly boundary?
25. A. disapprove A. that B. what C. when D. which E. whose
B. illiterate 44. “I am hungry” is re-written in reported form
C. ledger as………hungry.
D. pledge A. He said he was B. He says I was
E. refuse C. He said I am D. I am E. I was
45. The police came much later after the
SECTION C robbers………………..
STRUCTURE A. had gone B. have gone C. has went
Complete each of the following questions with the D. have go E. have gone
most appropriate of the options lettered A - E (Nos. 46. I can…………the aroma of the soup all around me.
26 - 50). A. feel B. hear C. perceive D. smell E. taste
26. There was steady power supply………..the party lasted. 47. The rice turned so soft because the water used was……..
A. before B. still C. until D. when A. so little B. so small C. too few D. too many
E. while E. too much
27. Pupils are not allowed to sit on…………. tables. 48. Julie performed so well………….she was awarded a
A. a teachers’ B. teacher C. teacher’s scholarship
D. teachers’ E. the teacher’s A. and B. because C. but D. since E. that
28. Mr. and Mrs. Ado………….. gone to the village 49. My barber-neighbour gives me a nice hair
A. are B. had C. has D. have E. was A. cot B. court C. cult D. curt E. cut
29. The woman waited in vain for her friend’s return……….. 50. Ngozi’s wrist-watch cost much more than the rest,
three hours. therefore, it is the……………..
A. at B. during C. for D. in E. since A. expensive B. least expensive
30. ………..he failed to turn up is still not clear to any one. C. less expensive D. more expensive
A. That B. When C. Where E. most expensive
D. Whether E. Why SECTION D
31. Which of these verbs can be used both transitively and SPOKEN ENGLISH
intransitively? Choose from the options lettered A – E the one that
A. Buy B. Eat C. Hate D. Like contains the given phonetic symbol (Nos. 51-60).
E. Sleep 51. / З: /
32. What belongs to………….obviously belongs to nobody in A. bud B. chair C. girl D. met E. pair
particularly. 52. / ۸ /
A. each person B. everybody C. no one A. bucket B. future C. journey D. tailor E. turn
D. somebody E. someone 53. / θ /
33. The children refused to eat…………they were hungry. A. Breathe B. fought C. they D. though E. thumb
A. although B. and C. because 54. / t /
D. since E. while A. bath B. jumped C. path D. these E. thin
34. Many students would prefer to study Medicine………… 55. / ŋ /
read Law. A. cotton B. dozen C. know D. night E. strong
A. better than B. different from 56. / ∫ /
C. instead of D. other than A. church B. lodge C. preach D. punch E. shop
E. rather than 57. / ν /
35. The statement. We ate yam, re-written in the passive A. five B. fine C. fist D. flip E. flop
voice will be…………….. 58. / I /
A. We have eaten yam B. Yam is eating A. heap B. heat C. heed D. seat E. sit
C. Yam is eaten D. Yam was eaten 59. / a: /
E. Yam was being eaten A. cap B. card C. laboratory D. lack E. lad
36. The GSM operators have……..assurance to make 60. / k /
enough cards available. A. kernel B. knives C. knob D. knock E. knotty
A. gave B. give C. given D. gives E. giving
37. The patient was discharged……………….the hospital PART B: LITERATURE
yesterday. DRAMA
A. around B. at C. from D. in E. with Felicia Onyewadume: echoes of Hard Times
38. Stanley’s shop is stocked……….a wide range of items. 61. Deola does not want to marry Chief Ladipo
A. by B. for C. in D. to E. with A. does not want to offend her parents
39. People should always look……………they leap. B. hates him
A. after B. as C. before D. since E. when C. is not old enough for marriage
40. The students were at games when I visited,……….they? D. is still in school
A. aren’t B. can’t C. isn’t D. wasn’t E. weren’t E. wants to stay permanently with her parents
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
62. Chief Ladipo introduces Messrs Bello and Obi to Jide as POETRY
his………..
77. In Michael Dei – Anang’s ‘Dear Africa’, Africa is likened to
A. brothers B. cousins C. personal assistants
a
D. sons E. employees A. farmer B. forest C. river D. snake E. woman
63. Tuned and the big man who gives him N100 meet at
78. The poet’s main ambition in Osadebay’s ‘Ambition’s is
his…………. A. dignity B. good health
A. father’s house B. mother’s shop C. school
C. long life span D. sound education
D. teachers house E. uncle’s workshop
E. wealth
64. The woman who brings a letter from the village for Jide is
79. The title of Pius Oleghe’s ‘Sweet Sorrow’ is a good
Mrs…………………
example of
A. Akiju B. Joseph C. Olumide D. Otubanjo E. Peter
A. antithesis B. assonance C. consonance
D. irony E. oxymoron
D. Olu Olagoke: The Incorruptible Judge
80. Osadebay’s ‘Greatness’ teaches that true greatness is
65. The counsel for the defence is………………
achieved through
A. Arogunmatidi B. Durodola C. Faderin A. connection B. education C. hard work
D. Lawanson E. Okoro D. inheritance E. kind deeds
66. Agbalowomeri is………….years old.
A. forty-four B. forty-three C. forty-two ESSAY
D. thirty-four E. twenty-two
67. Ajala is presented in the play as a/an……………… SECTION A: LANGUAGE
A. arrogant child
B. child who knows his rights Answer both questions 1 and 2. Your answer to each
C. fortunate child should be about 200 words long. You are free to use
D. small child the hints below each question and/or any other
E. troublesome child appropriate ones. Each question carries ten marks
68. The people that are so fond of kolanuts, according to
Femi, are the…………. 1. Write an essay on the topic:
A. elders B. menfolk C. northerners D. rich The Subject I dislike.
E. womenfolk (i) Introduction e.g. the name of the subject etc.
Prose (ii) Why you dislike the subject e.g. the teacher etc.
(iii) Conclusion.
Agbo Areo: Mother’s Choice
2. You have just learnt that your younger cousin has gained
69. Mr. and Mrs. Ogidi are blessed with….……….children. admission to a boarding school. Write a letter
A. five B. four C. six D. three E. two congratulating him/her and giving your advice on how to
70. The following descriptions are true about Mr. Ogidi cope with life in a boarding school.
EXCEPT that he is a/an (i) Introduction and pleasantries.
A. busy and hard-working man (ii) Wish him/her well on his/her admission and tell
B. compromising husband C. extravagant man him/her about life in a boarding school.
D. law-abiding citizen E. titled man
71. Mrs. Ogidi’s favourite car is…….. (iii) Conclusion.
A. BMW 520 B. Honda Accord
C. Mercedes Benz 480
D. Peugeout 505 evolution E. Volvo 720
72. The character referred to as “family scavenger” in the text SECTION B: LITERATURE
is……………..…….
Answer ONE question from this section. Each of the
A. Ade B. Francis C. Kam D. Peter E. Tola
questions carries ten marks.

Zaynab Alkali: The Virtuous Woman

3. (a) Felicia Onyewadume:
73. The first real fight of Nanaa’s life takes place………….. ECHOES OF HARD TIMES
A. at home B. at school C. at the fountain “Why not, can’t you see that the antidote for Stomach
D. inside the train E. inside ‘Yakuri Adjustment Palava (SAP) is to engage yourself in
74. Who is the father of the ‘privilege girls’ in the village? whatever you know how to do best?”
A. Bello B. Boni C. Dogo D. Sale E. Sani (i) Who is the speaker?
75. The village mad woman who lives in the market place (ii) Who is the listener?
is………………. (iii) Where is the speaker when the statement is made?
A. Hauwa B. Laila C. Manya D. Twins’ mother (iv) What circumstance leads to the statement?
E. Zainab (v) What does the word “antidote” mean?
76. According to the college’s famous verse, a virtuous (vi) State the full meaning of SAP as used in the
woman is known by her…………. passage.
A. bangles and clothes (vii) In one sentence, state the intention of the speaker
B. kaftan and headgear towards the listener.
C. love and hatred (viii) What is the relationship between the listener and
D. rubies and bags the speaker?
E. strength and honour (ix) Mention the TWO things implied in the statement.
Examsguru.Net – BECE / NECO / JUNIOR WAEC PAST QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS 2009-2013
(b) D. Olu Olagoke: (iv) State, in one sentence, the circumstance that is
THE INCORRUPTIBLE JUDGE actually responsible for the mood
“No, your lordship. Far from me to suggest that. But what (v) In one sentence, state your view about the
I am asking you to do is to help me, save me, don’t character of the speaker.
convict me”. (vi) What news later changes the mood of the speaker?
(i) Who is the speaker and to whom is he/she (vii) Who breaks the news?
speaking? (Viii) Mention the TWO things which Mr. Ogidi advises
(ii) Who else is with them? his son to do when he gets abroad.
(iii) Where are they? (ix) Where are the speaker and the addressee?
(iv) Mention the THREE things which the speaker will
lose if he is convicted. (d) Zaynab Alkali: THE VIRTUOUS WOMAN
(v) In what TWO ways is the addressee different from ‘Listen, child’, he began without looking up, ‘those visitors
the speaker? who came, do you know them?’
(vi) What is the addressee’s relationship with the (i) Who is speaking?
character mentioned in question (ii)? (ii) Who is being addressed?
(c) Agbo Areo: MOTHER’S CHOICE (iii) Mention any FOUR qualities of the child in question.
‘As I cam back, I just don’t know how the memory of my (iv) Mention the names of the TWO visitors.
late mother came to my mind. I wish she were (v) What is the request of the visitors?
alive………I remembered with tears’. (vi) What is the reaction of the speaker to their request?
(i) Who is the speaker?
(ii) Who is being addressed?
(iii) In one sentence, describe the mood of the speaker

ENGLISH LANGUAGE 2009

1.C. 9.A 17.E 25.B 33.A 41.D 49.E 57.A 65.A 73.C
2.A 10.D 18.C 26.E 34.E 42.D 50.E 58.E 66.A 74.B
3.E 11.D 19.A 27.D 35.D 43.B 51.C 59.B 67.B 75.C
4.B 12.A 20.A 28.D 36.C 44.A 52.A 60.A 68.C 76.E
5.D 13.C 21.A 29.C 37.C 45.A 53.E 61.D 69.D 77.E
6.B 14.D 22.D 30.E 38.E 46.C 54.B 62.E 70.C 78.A
7.C 15.C 23.C 31.B 39.C 47.E 55.E 63.E 71.A 79.E
8.E 16.B 24.E 32.B 40.E 48.E 56.E 64.C 72.E 80.C