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Use of English
1 9 83 - 2 0 0 4
JAMB
Questions And Answers
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Use of English 1983

COMPREHENSION building on such a small space as we have
C. the gateway to the university is being rebuilt
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that follow it. D. major part of the project should be completed in the
next few weeks.
The approach to the University is being restructured E. visitors should be debarred from using the gates in
to ease the flow of traffic, give better security and provide an the meantime.
appropriate introduction to a seat of higher learning. The Works
and Services Complex is also under construction , and we intend 5. Which of these is NOT among the reasons given by the
to move into the completed {major}part of it within the next few author for enumerating the examples of the current
weeks. development?
All these projects are being executed with an eye to A. to show that we are capable of executing approved
aesthetics, for we recognize the important influence of a beautiful projects.
and healthy environment on its inhabitants and feel that a cluster B. to convince the Government that we can be trusted
of buildings on a small space such as we have , should be so with task.
well designed as to have a beneficial psychological and C. the inconvenience currently being experienced will
sociological effect on all members of the community. go on indefinitely.
I have gone to these lengths to itemize these examples of D. we are fully aware of the inconveniences being caused
current development for two main reason. Firstly , to advise you but we do not want you to complain.
that the road diversions and other physical inconveniences E. we have the capacity to complete worthy projects
currently being experienced will be on the increase because of within the scheduled time.
intense development activity. We therefore appeal to you to
bear with us in full knowledge and consolation that such II
inconveniences are temporary and will soon yield final tangible Is work for prisoners a privilege to save them from the
results. Secondly, to demonstrate our capacity for executing demoralizing effects and misery of endless unoccupied hours?
approved projects with dispatch, and to assure Government Is it something added to a prison sentence to make it harder and
that we are up to the task. Indeed, I can assure Government that more unpleasant, or something, which should have a positive
its ability to disburse funds to us will be more than matched by value as part of a system of rehabilitation?
our capacity to collect and expend them on executing various Those magistrates who clung to sentences of hard labour
worthy projects in record time. doubtless looked upon strenuous work as an additional
punishment. This point of view is widely accepted as right and
1. From the passage we can gather that proper, but it ignores the fact that unwillingness to work is often
A. there is not muchconsideration for the health of one of the immediate causes of criminality. To send prisoners
the inhabitants. back to the outside world, more than ever convinced that labour
B. there is deliberate effort to inconvenience the is an evil to be avoided, is to confirm them in their old way of
people life.
C. buildings are put up anyhow It has been said that the purpose of prison work in a
D. projects are carried out without approval programme of rehabilitation is twofold: training for work and
E. the inconveniences suffered by the inhabitants training by work. The prisoner, that is to say, needs to be trained
will be for a while. in habits of industry; but over and above this, he will gain
immeasurably if it is possible to rouse in him the consciousness
2. Unless it can be shown that the money voted for projects of self-mastery and of purpose that the completion of any
can be spent on them in good time. worthwhile piece of work can give to the doer. He may find a
A. the development activity will not be intense. pride of achievement in something more satisfying, and more
B. it will not be easy to convince the Government of socially desirable, than crime. But these things can only come
our executive ability when the work itself has a purpose and demands an effort.
C. it will not be difficult to ask Government for funds
D. our final results will be unreliable. 6. According to the author, some magistrates sentence
E. the road diversions and other inconveniences prisoners to hard labour because.
will continue. A. some prisoners are unwilling to work.
B. work is a privilege
3. An eye to aesthetics in this passage means C. prisoners need to learn a trade
A. regard for space. B. beneficial psychological effects D. it is an additional punishment
C. regard for health D. consideration for beauty E. it is a means of rehabilitation.
E. a cluster of buildings.
7. Which of these is NOT the purpose of work in a programme
4. In this passage the author tries to explain why of rehabilitation?
A. it is necessary to establish the Works and Services A. training the prisoners to have satisfaction in work.
Complex in the University. B. developing in them a pride in a sense of achievement.
B. beauty should not be taken into consideration when C. developing in them more satisfaction in work than in crime.
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D. helping them to accelerate their reform and discharge. 12. The ‘Save the Children Fund’ in Malawi helps needy
E. training them for work and by work. children by
A. finding families which are willing to adopt the
8. The author thinks that strenuous work in prison. children
A. is a privilege for the prisoners B. finding sponsors for the children’s education and
B. may do more harm than good by opening nutrition centers
C. is part of their punishment C. giving loans and scholarships to students who
D. is a right and proper thing cannot afford to continue their education
E. should be an additional punishment. D. running institutions which give free food
E. clothing and lodging poor children without parents.
9. What the author is trying to put across in this passage is that
A. crime does not pay 13. Samuel Mpetechula was able to graduate from Chancellor
B. prisoners should be made to work hard because
C. work is more desirable than crime A. of the financial assistance given to him by his sponsors
D. life in prison is one of misery. B. his uncle paid his education fees.
E. work in prison without a purpose is bad. C. he was able to win a scholarship to the university
D. the SCF subsidized his educational expenses
10. Demoralizing in this passage means E. of the assistance given to him by the Australian
A. deforming B. reforming C. agonizing Government.
D. destructive E. corrupting.
In questions 14 and 15 choose the meaning which best fits the
underlined phrases taken from the passage.
III
The Save the Children Fund (SCF) was first started in 14. Combat malnutrition means
London on 19th May, 1919 by an English woman --- named Miss A. struggle against the easing of the wrong type of food
Jebb. It is now a worldwide organization, dedicated to helping B. fight ill health caused by over-feeding
needy children everywhere. The SCF of Malawi was formed in C. wipe out ignorance
1953, under the patronage of His Excellency the Life President D. fight to wipe out ill health caused by lack of food
Ngawazi Dr. H. Kamuzu Banda. E. fight against hunger.
‘Our job in Malawi is to give those unfortunate children
15. Deprived of means
the rights that they are deprived of through no fault of theirs.
A. spared B. prevented from getting C. robbed of
These are internationally recognized as the ten rights of children
D. unable to take. E. snatched from.
and include protection, care, food and accommodation, and
relief’, a spokesman for the Fund explained.
IV
One of those who benefited from the help of the Fund is
At the time of the troubles in Ireland, a priest said, ‘Man
Samuel Mpetechula, a graduate of Chancellor. His sponsorship
is half beast.’ A diplomat replied, ‘Yes. And the beast is the half
started in 1967. The SCF of Malawi found him sponsors. They
I like the best.’ The priest meant that few beasts behave as badly
were Mr. and Mrs. Sutton of Australia who paid his school fees
as man when man makes up his mind to behave badly. If you
and continued to help him financially throughout his University
look at the folly and cruelty of today’s world, it is hard to disagree
education.
with the diplomat or the priest. But human nature can be changed.
Mr. Mpetechula said, ‘They even built a house for me at
Anybody, if that is what they most want to do, can change the
home and looked after my family while I was a student. They
most difficult person they know. The art of changing people has
were really helpful to me, and the thought that there were these
been lost in the modern world. That is why the modern world
sponsors caring for me from thousands of kilometers away from
has lost its way.
here was an encouragement for me to work hard at college’.
There are two ways of looking at human nature. One is to
Another important function of the work of the SCF is in
make the best of it as it is and assume that it is the raw material of
the field of nutrition. With the help of the Australian Government,
life which cannot be altered. That is what most people in the free
the SCF established two nutrition rehabilitation centers for
world do today. In these circumstances, if you expect the worst,
children; one at Mpemba and another in Mulanje. ‘The object of
you are seldom disappointed. Faith today has become irrelevant
the centre’, explained Mr. Petre Chimbe, the Executive Secretary
to the everyday needs of so many people in positions of
of the Fund, ‘is to combat malnutrition in children, by giving
responsibility because they do not expect faith to change men.
them the proper food.’
Another way of dealing with human nature is to exploit
11. In Malawi, the ‘Save the Children Fund’ was formed it. All materialists, whether of the right or the left, do this. All
A by an English woman named Miss Jebb in 1919 over the world vanity, fear, ambition, lust and greed are used to
B. in 1919 under the patronage of His Excellency the control the life of men; and if the control breaks down, man does
Life President Ngawazi Dr. H. Kamuzu Banda not hesitate to use force, or to destroy life. The end, he says,
C. under the patronage of His Excellency the Life President justifies the means and men are only of value in so far as they are
Ngawazi Dr. H. Kamuzu Banda in 1953 a means towards the achievement of his ambition. If they cannot
D. in 1953 by a group of social workers headed by Dr. be bribed or forced to play their part, then they must be liquidated.
Mbagunda
16. The priest meant that
E. none of the above.
A. man is both beast and human
B. man could be sores than a beast if he wants to
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C. he liked beasts more than man A. was the cook of a trader B .
D. he liked both man and beast worked for a priest
E. really, a man cannot be a beast. C. worked for the speaker’s mother D. was a rich man
E. was a handsome man
17. The modern world has lost its way because
A. it no longer believes in God 22. Which of the following was NOT a quality of Zacharia’s
B. ambition has made people greedy character?
C. people are no longer interested in one another A. Vanity B. Lack of respect for others
D. the technique of influencing people is no more C. Humility D. Arrogance E. Insubordination
E. people are just too selfish.
23. The girls were apparently attracted to Zacharia by
A. wealth
18. What most people do in the free world today is to B. the life of the towns
A. leave other people alone C. the appearance of the young men
B. assume that human nature is bad D. the fact that the young men spoke strange dialects
C. accept human nature as it is since it is immutable. E. food.
D. attempt to change the world E. leave the world as it is.
24. From the passage we can conclude that the young girls
19. Faith today is by and large irrelevant because were
A. nobody thinks it can alter human nature A. attractive B. religious C. modern
B. most people do not believe in God D. easily led E. indifferent
C. being in a position of responsibility nullifies the
importance of faith 25. The speaker’s mother considered that
D. responsible people need not bother about faith A. things were not as good as they used to be
E. the faithful are very few in the world anyway. B. women were foolish
C. the world was corrupt
20. Materialists can be found D. the love of money was the root of all evil
A. in capitalist countries E. it was necessary for attitudes to change.
B. in communist countries
C. in less developed countries LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
D. among people who do not have neighbours.
E. all over the world. In Questions 26 to 34 choose the option nearest in meaning to
the underlined.
V
Typical Zacharia! Devil-may care and irrevererant as ever. 26. The story has to be taken with a grain of salt. This means
No doubt he was just the same when he was cook to a Greek that
trader in the town. In fact, I suspect that to him the Reverend A. you need some salt to listen to the story.
Father is just another sort of trader. Conceited ass, thinking B. there is no salt in the story.
himself superior to the Father! And in what is he superior? C. the story is questionable
Success with women, perhaps? Zacharia knows that they all D. the story is true
admire him and is always striving for still more admiration. He E. you have too much salt in the story.
dresses sharply and walks in a haughty manner that suits his
tallness. And then he feeds his pride on the swarms of girls who 27. It is usually hard to change the course of action when
run after him. It’s maddening to think how little you need to one crosses the Rubicon. The underlined expression, as
attract them. I remember my mother coming home from market in used in this sentence, means to
the town, after selling her vegetables and cocoa. How indignant A. pass through a place called Rubicon
she was: ‘It’s so shameful,’ she cried, ‘our best-looking and B. cross a river called Rubicon
most respectable girls go to town and throw themselves at C. cross a bridge called Rubicon
strangers as ugly as sin, speaking the most outlandish tongues. D. pass a special test
Men I can scarely look at without shuddering! And why? Just E. be irrevocably committed.
money! Money! Ah, what a world! And my father replied in a
buried voice, ‘It’s the times!’ ‘The times!’ shouted mother, ‘can 28. The saleman tried to pull the wool over my eyes. This
you imagine my child Ann with creatures like those?’ implies that the salesman tried to
But perhaps the girls who chase Zacharia aren’t drawn A. force me to buy his goods
by his tallness or his leather shoes. Perhaps they’re only after B. offer me cotton wool
childish things, a bit of bread or a pot of jam, knowing that he’s C. make me buy his wool
a cook. My father often says women are like children in their D. dupe me
desires. And after all, I too can boast a little. Plenty of women E. cover my eyes with wool.
turn to look at me, especially when I’m dressed all in white! But
I’m not vain enough to fuss over a little thing like that. Not like 29. Ijeoma counted her chickens before they were hatched.
Zacharia, who doesn’t know women are simply children. This means that Ijeoma
A. regarded each egg as a chicken
21. Zacharia B. hatched the eggs prematurely
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C. assumed that her expectations had already been B. by with one another
realized C. through with one another
D. protected her eggs from breaking D. off from each other E. on with each other.
E. insured the eggs.
39. The school Board has placed an order for…
30. Solo has resigned his job with the Textile Mills. He doesn’t A. all the furnitures and equipments required in the new
seem to worry about getting another job. His plans are schools
still quite in the air. This means that his plans are B. all the furniture and equipment required in the new
A. airmailed B. air tight C. uncertain schools
D. certain E. airborne. C. all of the furniture and equipments required in the new
schools.
31. Ike is head over heels in love with Ngozi. This means that E. many of the furnitures and equipments required in the
A. Ike is friendly with Ngozi. new schools.
B. Ike is trying to fall in love with Ngozi.
C. Ngozi fell on Ike’s heel and both of them fell in love 40. On his way back the boy ran into a long procession of
D. Ike is madly in love with Ngozi. men, women and children in…
E. none of the above. A. white beautiful exceedingly flowing gowns.
B. exceedingly flowing white beautiful gowns.
32. The legislator has decided to play second fiddle after he C. exceedingly beautiful white flowing gowns
had been walked out of the Assembly for violating basic D. white flowing exceedingly beautiful gowns
procedure of the House. This means that the legislator E. flowing exceedingly white beautiful gowns.
has decided to
A. oppose every motion in the House 41. The proprietors should be blamed for such a deplorable
B. support every motion in the House condition in the nursery schools,…
C. condemn every motion A. isn’t it? B. shouldn’t they? C. should they?
D. support the lead given by others D. is it? E. shouldn’t it?
E. become active in the house.
42. I could not believe that our team… the match after being
33. Old customs die hard. This implies that old customs in the lead for most of the match.
A. cause a lot of hardship and death A. to lose B. lost C. will be losing
B. must be stopped D. losing E. loosen.
C. never die out
D. cause hardship for younger people 43. The Head of Department is away to Murtala Mohammed
E. tend to last for a long time. Airport and has asked Dr. Haruna to stand ... for him
A. out B. in C. on D. across E. about.
34. The convict said he was tire of leading a dog’s life. To
lead a dog’s life means to live 44. The Commission was set up to enquire …. the general
A. carelessly B. in disgrace C. in solitude conditions of child abuse in such institutions.
D. in misery E. in poverty. A. at B. from C. after D. before E. into.

In Questions 35 to 70 choose the expression or word which best 45. We hold that the nation, both in its public and private
completes each sentence. sectors… the best consultancy service and advice in all
its endeavours.
35. After the initial confusion, the Manager’s suggestion A. deserve B. is deserving C. deservers
brought.... to the depressed investors. D. are deserving E. richly deserve.
A. a glitter of hope. B. a glimmer of hope.
C. a sparkle of hope D. a raise of hope 46. The situation has deteriorated sharply, and relations
E. a shower of hope. between the two countries may soon be…
A. removed B. broken C. withdrawn D. eliminated
36. The farmer has brought the insecticide because he was E. deferred.
bent on … the insects in his farm.
A. exterminating B. estimating C. extenuating 47. One of the old men… round the lawn three times every
D. extinguishing E. exemplifying. evening.
A. use to run B. are use to run C. is used to running
37. The young lady decided to… D. are used to run E. are used to running.
A. do away with the many advices given by her relatives
B. reject all the advices given by her relatives 48. The problems of Nigeria’s worsening economy seem to
C. reject all the advice given by her relations have… an immediate solution.
D. take to all the advices given by her relations A defined B. defied C. rejected
E. eject all the advices given by her relatives D. rewarded E. retained.
.
38. Two ministers found it very difficult to get…in the Cabinet
A. through with each other
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49. This conference is designed to enable delegates… E. was used to traveling.
their personal interests with specialists in various 62. I wish I … your age.
fields. A. to be B. were C. to have been D. would
A. to discuss about B. discussing C. to be E. could be.
discuss D. for discussing E. by discussing.
63. I am looking forward to… you
50. The car owner does not think about the… of his vehicle and A. seeing B. see C. have seen D. will see E. be see.
the other payments involved in owning it.
A. transportation. B. depreciation C. calculation 64. I can’t offer you another loan. I have… moneyleft in myaccount.
D. appreciation E. association. A. a few B. a little C. little D. few E. some

51. The very moment she … her folly, she will come back to 65. I told you you would miss the bus. You … left home earlier.
apologize. A. can’t have B. must have C. will have
A. realized B. is realizing C. will realize D. should have E. had to have.
D. has realized E. realizes.
66. I always prefer the theatre… the cinema.
52. The lazy candidates suggested that it… A. than B. then C. on top of D. before E. to.
A. is time we do away with JAMB
B. was time we do away with JAMB 67. He acts... he were a manager.
C. is time we did away with JAMB A. like B. such as C. such D. as E. as if.
D. was time we did away with JAMB
E. is time we are done away with JAMB. 68. Don’t … the teacher that he… that!
A. tell, said B. say, tells C. talk, spoke.
53. I do not want the light in my room… when I am asleep. D. speak, talked E. tell, told.
A. turned off B. turn off C. to run out
D. turned out. E. turned in. 69. He is very tired. He really is.. staying up late.
A. getting used to B. not used to C. got used to
54. I have applied for… on the campus and I am almost certain D. used to E. being used to.
I shall get it.
A. acommodation B. accommondation 70. He has only ordered some lettuce and tea. He ... on a diet.
C. accommodation D. accomoddation. He is a bit too fat.
E. accommodation. A. can’t be B. needn’t be C. must be
D. mustn’t be E. shouldn’t be.
55. The dead body of the armed robber has … in the street
for three days.
A. laid B. lain C. layed D. lied E. lay. In Questions 71 to 74 choose the option nearest in meaning to
the underlined.
56. Candidates who are not accustomed to… fast will find it
difficult to finish this paper. 71. Had she known he was a high-way robber she would not
A. write B. have written C. be writing have married him. This means
D. writing E. having written. A. she married him before she knew he was a robber.
B. she knew he was a robber when she married him
57. Do you mind… another minute or two? C. she did not marry him because she was a robber.
A. to wait B. wait C. waiting D. she refused to marry the man when she knew he was
D. having awaited. E. being awaited. a robber.
E. she was a robber marrying a highway robber.
58. We shall offer a good job to a … to register guests in the
Central Hotel. 72. Jide is being forced to go to Lagos tomorrow. This means
A. waiter B. watchman C. cashier that Jide …
D. receptionist E. cleaner. A. will go to Lagos B. must go to Lagos
C. wishes to go to Lagos D. is going to Lagos
59. I’ve lived… this street… ten years. E. goes to Lagos.
A. at, since B. for, during C. on, for D. on, from 73. It is sheer fantasy to believe that there could never be a
E. in, for. miscalculation by any nation that has atomic weapons.
Fantasy here means
60. North Africa is … than Northern Europe. A. dream B. hope C. nonsense D. joke E. stupidity.
A. hotter B. more hot C. more hotter D. the hottest
E. hot. 74. The ingenious scheme of the robber broke down because
of the efficiency of the police officer. Ingenious here means
61. I… a lot when I was a student A. suspicious. B. ambitious. C. deceitful D. clever
A. used traveling B. was used to E. stupid.
travel.
C. used to travel D. used travel In Questions 75 to 77 select the wrongly spelt word.
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88. He used to play tennis, but he doesn’t…
75. A. disappointed B. embarassed C. equipped A. as of now B. any longer C. again
D. rhythm E. restaurant. D. presently E. since.

76. A. occurence B. surprise C. personnel 89. He was… he had no time to eat.

D. possess E. curiosity. A. so busy that B. very busy C. very busy that
D. too busy that E. busy that.
77. A. quiet B. beleive C. proceed D. precede E. opportunity.
90. It had been raining before the match started, …?
In Questions 78 to 81 fill in the right word/phrase A. isn’t it B. hasn’t it. C. hadn’t it D. wasn’t it E. is it.

78. There is not… sense in what that politician has just said. 91. The mechanic said that he… mend my car before Saturday.
A. many B. plenty C. lot of D. much E. big. A. can’t B. couldn’t C. can’t be able to
D. couldn’t be able to E. won’t be able to.
79. He… the book to the library last week.
A has returned B. had returned C. was returning 92. There was a fire in the market last week which resulted…
D. returned E. was to be returning.. a terrible destruction of property.
A. in B. to C. from D. into E. with.
80. The candidate made… at the village square a day before
the elections. 93. At the end of the month we… each other for five years.
A. a sermon B. an address C. a eulogy A. would know B. should have known
D. a lecture E. a speech. C. should be knowing D. would have been knowing
E. used to know.
81. The policeman was sent to.. the allegation made by the man.
A. investigate B. examine C. probe D. enquire E. observe. 94. The body is sensitive to changes in velocity which, if
too sudden, …
In Questions 82 to 86 which of the options expresses the same A. consciousness may be lost
idea as the one in quotes? B. it may lose consciousness
C. one may become unconscious
82. ‘To be in the red’ is to be D. may cause loss of consciousness
A. in debt B. rich C. a socialist D. red E. dressed in red. E. may lose consciousness.

83. ‘To beat down the price’ is to Each of Questions 95 to 100 consists of a sentence with a phrase
A. flog the price B. reduce the price C. beat the salesman or word underlined. Select the option that best expresses the
D. attack the seller E. control the price. meaning of the phrase or word underlined.

84. To ask after a friend’ is to 95. The thought of his admission to the University keyed
A. ask questions about the friend Olu up to a state of great excitement.
B. inquire about the friend’s welfare A stimulated Olu B. ushered Olu C. opened Olu
C. go after the friend D. frightened Olu E. allowed Olu.
D. like the friend
E. take after the friend. 96. After a careful review of Adamu’s last examination result, the
Principal concluded that his performance left much to be desired.
85. ‘An open secret’ means A was very unsatisfactory B. was very satisfactory
A. a fact that is very secret B. an open matter C. was extremely desirable D. was very brilliant
C. a secret known to everybody D. a confidential matter E. was extremely commendable.
E. a secret told in the open air.
97. The President stood his ground because the Committee
86. ‘To put something aside’ is to members would not be persuaded to arrive at a
A. put it by one’s side compromise on the issue being debated.
B. put it in a side pocket for future use A. yielded his position B. shifted his position
C. keep something for some special purpose C. maintained his position D. defended his position
D. keep in safety E. resisted his position.
E. protect it.
98. The take home pay of many workers is such that they
In Questions 87 to 94 choose the phrase or word which best can hardly make both ends meet
completes the meaning of each sentence. A. live an honest life B. finish their schedule of work
C. keep two jobs at a time D. live within their income
87. One of the… during the football match led to fight E. live on both ends.
between the teams.
A. incidence B. incidences
C. incidents D. occasions E. linesmen.
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99. When kerosene was poured on the fire, the effect 100. It was interesting to observe the likeness between
was instantaneous. the pupil and his teacher.
A. momentary B. momentous C. amazing A. similarity B. relationship C. fondness
D. terrifying E. immediate. D. affection E. affinity.

Use of English 1984

COMPREHENSION A. his colleague, Umaru B. the girl he met on the
train C. the railway authorities D. nobody at all
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that E. Joan.
follow it.
5. The source of misunderstanding was
I A. his natural shyness B. the station clock being out of order
It was summer, early afternoon. Jim ran into the station. C. the time given by Jim -- 9 o’clock p.m.?
The 4.30 train was about to leave. As he ran along the platform D. the foggy morning E. Jim’s faulty wrist watch.
he saw a girl just ahead of him. She was young -- about his age.
He followed her into a carriage and sat down opposite her. She II
took out a magazine and was reading it. He took out a book and A British electronics manufacturer has built a factory in
pretended to do the same. After a minute he looked up and which quartz crystals can be grown in 3 weeks. The natural
smiled at her. She didn’t smile back but gave him an encouraging growth of quartz takes 3 million years, and very often the crystals
look. Both returned to their reading but this time she was are not sufficiently pure to satisfy the precise needs of science.
pretending too. However, the manufactured crystal are exceptionally pure, and
He found her attractive and wanted to see her again. But this is important because quartz, in transistor, is used in an
how to arrange it?. He had an idea. He took an old envelope out astonishing number of devices where constant accuracy is
of his pocket and wrote the following words: ‘Hallo! My number required: radio and television transmitters and receivers, space
is 123-4567 and my name is Jim. I would very much like to see satellites and computers are familiar examples. In order to make
you again. Ring me at nine.’ artificial quartz, very small pieces of the natural crystal imported
The train arrived at the terminal. Without looking at the from Brazil are placed in long, narrow, steel cylinders. A high
girl, he handed her the envelope, or rather threw it at her, and pressure and a high temperature are maintained within the
jumped off the train. cylinders for 3 weeks, and at the end of this time the small
When he got home he made himself a cup of coffee and fragments have grown to the required weight of one pound. The
wondered… perhaps she was one of those naturally friendly quartz is then ready to be made into the tiny transistors that
people who smile at everybody. He was listening to the radio have replaced the much larger thermionic valves.
when the telephone rang… it was only Umaru. Nine o’clock,
then 9;30 and no telephone call from the girl. Feeling miserable 6. The manufactured crystals have to be pure
he went to bed early. A. because natural quartz is pure
It was a foggy morning. ‘Hallo, is that Jim? This is Joan. B. to maintain hygiene in factory work
You…’ It was two minutes past nine. C. to satisfy the precise needs of importers.
D. to satisfy the exact requirements of science.
1. On the train Jim was E. otherwise they would take 3 million years to grow.
A. reading a book B. staring at the girl
C. pretending to read D. looking through a magazine 7. According to the passage, quartz is used
E. reading a newspaper. A. only in a few devices B. in a lot of devices
C. in wrist watches D. for jewellery
2. He wanted to see the girl again because E. for steel cylinders.
A. it was summer B. she was attractive
C. he wanted to read her magazine D. she smiled at him 8. Artificial quartz as compared with natural is
E. they had agreed to meet. A. superior. B. inferior C. just the same D. varied
E. limited in use.
3. He hoped to arrange a date with her by
9. Transistors have
A. writing a letter to her B. ringing her up
A. helped to produce quartz
C. waiting at the station D. handing in a short note in a hurry
B. made radio and television inaccessible to the
E. sending a telegram.
working populace
4. That evening he had a telephone call from
C. made transmitters and receivers smaller and lighter.
D. retarded progress in electronics.
E. made transmitters and receivers bigger and heavier.
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B. there is an irreconcilable conflict between an artist’s
10. Artificial quartz is produced creativity and the demands that society makes on him.
A. in Brazil C. the artist subordinates his individual talent to the
B. from tiny transistors demands of the society
C. in an astonishing number of devices D. few works of art are entirely original
D. with the help of thermionic valves E. the individual artist needs to be informed about the
E. from natural crystals within steel cylinders. traditions of the society.

III 15. Which of the following represents the writer’s view about
African art in relation to European Art?
Every artist’s work, unless he be a hermit, creating solely A. The African artist is influenced by his society, but the
for his own satisfaction and with no need of sales, is to some European artist is not
extent ‘socially conditioned’; he depends upon the approval of B. In both African and European art there is a blend of
his patrons. Social conditioning is of course part of the field of tradition and individual creativity
study of the social anthropologist, yet I am not aware that the C. African art is tribal, but European art is not
social conditioning of artists has ever been seriously studied. D. Although traditional influences can be seen in
That such study is needed for the proper appraisal of traditional European art, they are much less strong than they are
African art is evident enough when we note the ingenuous in African art
assumption, current in many writings on the subject, that the E. African artists are more imitative than European artists.
carver’s hand is so closely controlled by the custom of centuries
that the credit for any creative imagination which is apparent in IV
his work is due not to him but to the long succession of his
predecessors. One day, Alan, a friend of mine, who likes country life,
Of course, there is an element of trust in this view of the was fishing in a river, when he caught a trout. He tried to pull the
tribal artist as copyist, but it is hardly more valid for the African fish in but it slipped off the hook, flew over his head and landed
than for the European artist. In both cases the work of art is the in a field behind him.
outcome of a dialectic between the informing tradition and the Alan put down his rod, went through the gate and started
individual genius of the artist, and in both the relative strength searching for his trout. Some people, obviously from the city,
of these two forces may vary almost infinitely. To assess the were having a picnic in the field. One of the men shouted ‘What
personal ingredient in an African carving is no easy matter, on earth are you doing?’ Thinking that it was a stupid question
especially if one is confronted with a rare or unique piece in an because they could see how he was dressed, Alan replied
unfamiliar style; but the considerations involved are much the ‘Fishing’.
same as those employed in European art criticism. ‘Don’t be silly, the fish are down in the river’, answered
the man. ‘Fish don’t live in fields!’ He turned to his friends,
11. Most artists are strongly influenced by the laughing, thinking that he had made a good joke.
A. desire for self-expression. B. need to sell their works ‘Oh, but they do’, said Alan. ‘They jump out of the river
C. tastes and wishes of the society to look for flies and I catch them with my hands. ‘At that moment
D. creative imagination E. opinions of critics. he found his trout in the grass and picked it up and showed it to
the picnickers. He put it in his basket and bent down, as if he
12. A social anthropologist is someone who was hunting for another one. The picnickers, no longer laughing,
A. studies only social conditioning spent the rest of the day searching the field.
B. is interested in art and artists
C. studies social conditions and other things 16. Why did the fish land in the field?
D. is interested in the community E. studies the origins of man. A it had wings B. it was a flying fish
C. it was looking for food D. Alan pulled too hard.
13. It would be useful to study the social conditioning of E. it fell off the hook.
artist because
A. we know that African art is entirely influenced by 17. The picnickers were
tradition. A. farmers B. from the nearby village C. tourists
B. traditional art arises from the customs of the people D. people from the city E. anglers like him.
C. an artist’s predecessors solely determine the nature
of his work 18. Where was Alan looking for his fish? He was looking for
D. we do not know the extent to which an artist is the fish
influenced by his society A. in the grass, B. down in the river
E. we do not know very much about how an artist’s C. in front of the gate D. in his basket
creative imagination works. E. among the picnickers.

14. ‘The work of art is the outcome of a dialectic between 19. Alan made the picnickers believe that fish jump out of
the informing tradition and the individual genius of the the river to look for flies by
artist’ means that A. telling a story.
A. the artist is influenced both by the society and by B. finding his trout and showing it to them
his own creative imagination C. taking them down to the river
D. watching how trout catch flies
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E. picking up a fish and looking for more. A. try to breed cocoons which would produce more silk
B. determine the survival rate of silkworms
20. ‘He laughs best who laughs last’ (proverb). It is true of C. find out the most suitable areas and conditions for
this story because rearing silkworms
A. the picnickers were enjoying themselves D. search for better method of rearing silk worms
B. finally he found his fish E. find out how cocoons become silkworms.
C. Alan played a good trick on the picnickers
D. fishing is a pastime 25. Choose the meaning which best fits the underlined phrase
E. Alan likes country life. from the passage. Closely guarded secret
A. Carefully hidden from the knowledge of others
V B. Secretly processed business with armed guards
In1973 a Japanese sericulturist arrived in Malawi with a C. Carefully hidden from the view of strangers
batch of 40,000 silkworm eggs. They were taken to the Bvumbwe D. Scarcely known
Agricultural Research Station in Thyolo District. In this station, E. Unknown.
work is being done to determine favourable silkworm rearing
conditions and areas where mulberry trees, whose leaves the LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
worms feed on, could grow well. According to researchers, the
silkworms – which eventually develop into cocoons from which In Questions 26 to 38 choose the option nearest in meaning to
raw silk is produced – do well in areas with warm climatic the underlined.
conditions.
Silk is one of the strongest of fibres. In fact, for thousands 26. The meeting was cancelled because of the convocation.
of years, silk fabrics have been regarded as the most beautiful A. brought up B. called off C. broken off
and durable materials woven by man. Many people call silk the D. dropped out E. phased out.
‘cloth of kings and queens’.
The weaving of silk originated in China. An old Chinese 27. Our town is so small that we are always meeting our
book, believed to be written by Confucius, tells us that the wife schoolmates accidentally.
of Emperor Huang-ti was the first person to make fabrics of silk. A coming across B. falling into C. knocking up
Around 2640 B.C., Emperor Huang-ti asked his wife Hsi Ling- D. running up E. running into.
shih to study the worms that were destroying the mulberry trees
in his garden. The Empress took some of the cocoons into the 28. Can you give a good explanation for your behaviour?
palace to see what they were made of. She dropped one of the A. account for B. call for C. clear up
cocoons into a bowl of boiling water and was amazed to see a D. make up E. give up.
cobweb-like tangle separate itself from the cocoon. She picked
up the gauzy mass and found that one of the threads could be 29. Be careful! We are approaching the crossroads.
unwound almost without end from the cocoon. His Ling-shih A. look up B. watch out C. look up
had discovered silk. She was delighted with the discovery and D. hold up E. look in.
even wove a ceremonial robe for the Emperor out of the cocoon
threads. After that, the officials in the Emperor’s court wore 30. Thousands of students are candidates for the examination
brightly dyed silk robes on important occasions. but only very few pass.
People in other countries regarded the new fibres as A. come into B. call for C. go into D. enter for
something rare and beautiful. A few traders went to China to E. turn up for.
learn about making cloth from silk, but the Chinese kept their silk
worms a closely guarded secret. 31. He went through fire before he qualified as a doctor.
A. had a fire accident B. made a lot of fire
21. Sericulture is C. suffered a lot D. underwent some purification
A. carried out only in China E. required a lot of fire.
B. the breeding of silkworms for the production for silk
C. the research done on silkworms 32. Osyaku started playing football because he thought it
D. the making of cloth from the cocoons of silkworms would develop him physically.
E. the breeding of silkworms in Malawi. A. took up football B. picked up football
C. returned to football D. took up with football
22. It is implied in this passage that silk was discovered E. put in for football.
A. after years of hard work and research by the Empress
B. by accident 33. Once I have finished all my homework I am permitted to
C. in the search for a more durable fibre for making cloth. watch television.
D. after some experiments carried out by the Japanese A. I can watch television at anytime.
sericulturist B. I can only watch television after doing my homework.
E. by design. C. Television comes first, then homework second.
D. I can only finish my homework after permission to
23. According to sericulturists, silkworms watch television
A. cannot survive in a warm climate E. after watching television I finished my homework.
B. may be reared on any tree
C. do well in areas with a warm climate 34. For all he cared, the game was as good as lost.
D. produce the longest threads when they are fed leaves A. He did not care if the game was lost
from the top of the mulberry tree B. He could not care less if the game was lost.
E. are destroyed by heat. C. He was almost certain that the game would be lost.
D. He was afraid the game would be lost.
24. The work carried out at the Agricultural Research E. The game was very good, and he cared very much
Station in Malawi on the silkworm eggs was to about losing it.
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35. A basic objective in this respect is the attainment of D. the factory would be shut if the employees did not
self sufficiency in food in about a decade. increase their output
A. Food will soon be sufficient for every body E. the factory was closed because the employees did
B. Mass production of food not work hard enough.
C. We should aim at producing food for sale and
consumption in ten years. In questions 43 to 60 choose the expression or word which best
D. We should be able to feed ourselves in five years. completes each sentence.
E. Our aim is to provide enough food for our needs in
ten years. 43. The student who went home without an exeat has
apologized… his misconduct
36. In their desire to impress their friends and relatives, many A. on B. at C. to D. for E. about.
young workers bite off more than they can chew in terms
of financial obligations. 44. The man has atoned... his sins.
A. have more money than sense A. upon B. on C. for D. at E. against.
B. eat more than they can digest property
C. spend too much money on food 45. The Headmaster was interviewed in connection.. the
D. care too much for their relatives expansion project.
E. take on more responsibility than they can afford. A. to B. with C. for D. about E. at.

37. All the efforts made to settle the quarrel were futile. 46. What do you want me to do now? I’m…. withdrawing
A. successful B. wicked C. reasonable and keeping quiet.
D. remarkable E. fruitless. A. for B. with C. up D. off E. on.

38. The new inspector decided that the culprits should be 47. I am looking …. seeing your family.
brought to book. A. ahead at B. forward to C. forward on
A. should have their names recorded in a book D. for to E. ahead to.
B. should be brought before him to show whether they
could read or not 48. These folktales have been handed… from generation to
C. should be booked generation.
D. should be jailed E. should be made to answer for their A. into B. over C. down D. up E. across.
conduct.
49. John arrived at the airport on time but he could not get…
In questions 39 and 40 select the word oppoisite in meaning to the plane.
that underlined. A. into B. over C. in D. to enter E. to.

39. The long straight trunk of the tree is ideal for round wood 50. The young lovers first met… the University of Ibadan
uses like railway sleepers, rafters and fence posts. Havana Night dance.
A. best B. perfect C. most unsuitable A. in B. at C. in course of D. on E. inside.
D. satisfactory E. poor.
51. I have not seen my housemaster… the beginning of this
40. A book on style without abundant examples seems to me as session.
ineffectual as a book on biology without abundant illustrations. A. from B. in C. for D. at E. since.
A. useless B. difficult C. interesting D. satisfactory
E. attractive. 52. The Chairman of the State School Board has advised
students to desist… blackmailing college authorities.
In questions 41 to 42 choose the expression which best A. from B. in C. on D. against E. by.
completes each sentence.
53. The most stupid boy in the class passed the examination
41. My uncle told me, ‘I have a large house and you are welcome contrary.. the expectation of many people.
to the protection it offers’. My uncle told me that… A. upon B. from C. on D. to E. with.
A. he had a large house, and you are welcome to the
protection it offers 54. The Principal remarked that it was the high standard of
B. he have a large house, and I was welcome to the discipline that was instrumental…. the high percentage
protection it offered. of passes in the school.
C. He had a large house and he was welcomed to the A. upon B. to C. with D. on E. in.
protection it offers
D. he had a large house, and I was welcome to the 55. She wounded the man… the back with her knitting needle.
protection it offered. A. on B. in C. at D. by E. upon.
E. he has a large house, and I am welcome to the
protection it offers. 56. It took the father many days to get… the untimely death
of his son
42. The manager said that unless the employees worked A. off B. over C. by D. through E. across
harder the factory would have to be closed. The
manager said that… 57. While the worshippers closed their eyes in prayer, a
A. the employees were not working hard, and so the thief made… with the collection.
factory would be closed A. out B. away C. up D. by E. through
B. the employees should not close early so that they
could produce more. 58. There is no doubt that every lady takes great pride…
C. the factory was not productive because the her appearance.
employees were lazy A. with B. in C. at D. on E. about.
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74. The government suffered a.. .. when they lost two by –
59. If you keep playing with this door handle, it will get… elections.
A. loose B. lose C. lost D. loosing E. loosed. A. check B. set-back C. hindrance D. disturbance
E. recession.
60. ‘Have you given the patient his medicine?’ The doctor
asked the nurse. 75. Our Literature Master said that he would show us a film
A. if you have given the patient his medicine. on Macbeth. The film will …
B. had you given the patient his medicines? A. worth seeing B. worth seeing it C. be worth to see
C. have you given the patient his medicine? D. be worth seeing E. be worthy seeing.
D. if she had given the patient his medicine.
E. if the patient is given his medicine. 76. The driver of that lorry… lost his life during the collision.
A. barely B. hardly C. nearly D. closely E. narrowly.
From the alternatives provided in questions 61 to 100 select the
one which most appropriately completes the sentence. 77. The principal went to buy some… for the physics laboratory.
61. I was seriously disappointed when the… between the A. equipment B. pieces of equipments C. equipments
two teams ended in a goaless draw. D. items of equipments E. list of equipment.
A. march B. marsh C. match D. mash E. martch.
78. Wherever the leader went people struggled to catch a… of him.
62. Children’s clothes have to be strong to stand … rough use. A. look B. view C. glimpse D. portrait E. picture.
A. with B. in through C. in for D. up to E. up for.
79. The…. in an attempt to please the workers promised to
63. Shall I make the cheque… you or to your firm? provide ... for them as soon as possible.
A. in for B. up with C. in with D. up for E. out to A. committee/accommodation
B. committee/acommodation
64. The hotel... is at Wurno Road. C. committee/accomodation
A. which I am staying. B. in where I am staying D. committee/acommoddation
C that I am staying D. at which I am staying E. committee/accomondation.
E. I stay.
80. I meant… a pencil but there was no one…. them.
65. …the main points of the lecture given by the Director of A. buying/selling B. to buy/to sell C. buying/to sell
the Institute. D. buy/to sell E. to buy/selling.
A. Those were B. That was C. There were
D. This was E. That is. 81. Mrs. Okoro ... in this school since 1975.
A. taught B. is teaching C. was teaching D. teaches
66. I am sure that my mother will not find out. She is so… E. has been teaching
that she will accept anything I tell her.
A. credible B. credulous C. creditable 82. The Governor has... to the people on many occasions.
D. incredible E. incredulous. A. broadcast B. been broadcast C. broadcasted
D. being broadcast E. been broadcasted.
67. The boys are very naughty. They have started fighting
again, ... 83. Paulina arrived late, she… the right route.
A. haven’t they? B. isn’t it? C. not so? A. cannot have taken B. could not have taking
D. have they? E. is it? C. cannot take. D. could not had taken
E. could not have taken.
68. If only I ... insured! But I wasn’t. Now, I have to pay a lot
of money. 84. …the medicine, he asked his daughter to take it according
A. am B. have been C. had been D. would be E. was to be. to the doctor’s prescription.
A. Having to buy B. Having bought
69. Do you mind if I wait for the reply? I’d rather you… again C. Having been bought D. Having being bought
tomorrow. E. Having buy.
A. called B. will call C. can call D. call E. were calling.
85. It was a funny episode, so I ...
70. Olu: How do you want the money in cash or in traveller’s A. can’t help to laugh. B. couldn’t help laugh
cheques? Ali: Beg your pardon? Olu: I was asking you C. couldn’t help laughing D. couldn’t help to laugh
how ... the money? E. can’t help laughing.
A. do you want B. you want C. you wanted
D. you are wanting E. did you want. 86. By the end of this year I… twenty books
A. read B. would have read C. will read
71. The young man looked carefully at the long document, D. have read E. am reading.
but he couldn’t make ... what it meant.
A. up B. out C. off D. through E. do. 87. Leonard: We went to a hotel and had a very good dinner
for N1.00 Geoffrey: You… a very good dinner if you
72. The students haven’t come back from the library, … only paid N1.00.
A. isn’t it? B. have they? C. is it? D. had they? A. must have had B. needn’t have had
E. haven’t they? C. couldn’t have had D. had to have E. have had.

73. Give me a minute to think. I can’t remember the answer… 88. Evelyn: I’ve submitted eight copies. Joseph:
A. out of hand B. ahead C. offhand D. to hand You…eight. Three would have been enough.
E. off head
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A. can’t have submitted B. couldn’t have submited 94. Had he known that it would rain, he... his umbrella with him.
C. didn’t need to submitted D. needn’t have submitted A. would have taking B. was going to take
E. must have submitted. C. would be taking D. would have taken E. would take.

89. The present wanton display of riches… morals in our society. 95. Omeime was taking his dog for a walk when the dog
A. will be affecting B. are affecting C. is affecting suddenly… from its chain and escaped
D. was affecting E. had been affecting. A. broke through B. broke lose C. broke even.
D. broke loose E. broke away.
90. The market women… profit ranges from thirty to fifty
percent are making… difficult for the ordinary people 96. After we have taken our share, we shall give… to them.
A. for who/to live B. for whom/lives A. their B. their’s C. theirs D. there E. there’s.
C. by whose/living D. whose/life
E. whose/leaving. 97. I was still sleeping when the national news … this morning.
A. were broadcast B. were broadcasted C. was broadcast
91. Town authorities have put up a railing in front of the exits… D. was broadcasted E. were being broadcasted.
people… out of the stadium and ... straight across the road.
A. prevent/rush/dashing B. preventing/rushing/to dash 98. Each of the contestants… a chance to win.
C. to prevent/rushing/dashing D. to prevent/rush/dash A. has B. have C. get D. gets E. take
E. to prevent/to rush/dash.
99. I gave the book to the library attendant… I think works
92. Someone… the radio cassette since 6p.m I wish he … in the evenings.
turn it off. A. whom B. whose C. which D. who E. of whom.
A. has been playing/would B. is playing/would
C. played/will D. has played/should E. plays/will. 100. The politicians are responsible for the… events have
taken in this country.
93. If the armed robbers… caught, they would have been lynched. A. course B. curse C. coarse D. cause E. corse.
A. would be B. have been C. are D. were E. had been.

Use of English 1985

COMPREHENSION PASSAGE means getting what you want. If you choose to term it
question of semantics. ‘privileges’, it suits me. It is all a
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that
follow. 1. Which of the following is NOT implied in the expression:
‘One naira per meal is a privilege in this country?
PASSAGE I A. Nowhere in this country is food sold for one naira.
B. The price per meal at the Sports Club Cafeteria is one naira.
Obi: Let’s go to the Sports Club Cafeteria. One naira per meal C. It is rare for anybody to feed satisfactorily with one
is a privilege in this country And God knows that I am naira in any hotel in the country
too broke to afford anything more. D. Obi cannot afford more than one naira for one meal
Olu: Got a membership identity card? Don’t forget the place is E. Ordinarily, one naira cannot buy much in the country.
for bona fide members only.
Obi: Forget it. There are other types of identity cards, 2. The conversation about identity cards suggests that
remember. Just flash something before the eyes of those A. without an identity card, no one can be allowed to
men at the gate, provided it looks like an identity card. eat in the Sports Club Cafeteria
Olu: Ee... eh, I see. That is why the place is always congested. I B. without an identity card, no one can be allowedinto
don’t think it is even worth the trouble. I can’t stand a queue. the Sports Club
Obi: That shouldn’t bother you. You don’t have to join the C. there is thorough checking of identity cards at the
queue. Just walk straight to the serving point without Sports Club gate
fear and be sure you shout your order. D. bona fide members of the Club do not have to carry
Olu: But only V.I.Ps have the right to break queues. identity cards
Obi: Sure, but V.I.Ps don’t wear badges on their faces. Pose E. a club member can afford to forget his membership card
man, pose. After all, this is Nigeria.
Olu: You mean there are many impostors here? 3. The conversation about queues in the passage reveals that
Obi: Certainly, and many people with privileges too. If you A. everybody at the Club Cafeteria queues
want to get along, you must pose, and to get along B. club members can always break a queue at the Cafeteria
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C. people always break queues in the Cafeteria on the
pretext that they are V.IPs 10. Teresa would say she had eaten already no matter how
D. only people who are capable of posing can break hungry she might be so that
queues A. Ntanya would eat to his satisfaction
E. there is nothing wrong in breaking queues. B. Ntanya would say ‘Thank you mother’
C. she could cook again
4. The conversation about privileges shows that D. she could watch his eat
A. an impostor is one who claims privileges E. every bolus would go down her own throat.
B. to get along must always imply making claims to privileges
C. it is always easy to recognize V.I.Ps in Nigeria, PASSAGE III
because they are always laying claim to privileges Mathematics is the language in which the Book of Nature
D. there are many impostors laying claim to privileges in is written: Mathematics is the queen of the sciences. it is
Nigeria universally agreed that Mathematics is the backbone of Science
E. ‘semantics’ means calling to get along’ ‘privileges’. and Technology. For without Mathematics the engineer is but
an artist or a scultptor. He can build his bridge, attest ot its form
5. From the whole conversation, it is clear that Obi and Olu are and beauty, but without Mathematics he cannot guarantee its
A. irresponsible B. selfish C. privileged reliability to serve the purpose for which it is built. Mathematics
D. ‘go-getters’ E. epitomes of the Nigeria society. is indeed the science of sciences. It is also art of all arts. It is
right, legitimate and defensible to consider Mathematics as an
PASSAGE II Art. The poet, the musician, the artist and the mathematician
Days passed fast for Ntanya and Teresa. They could have a lot in common. Fundamental to all their studies and works
hardly notice the land getting brown all over Kachawanga again, is their common interest in the logical study of related concepts
since neither of them hardly noticed any more the sun come up and objects to form patterns which will produce beauty, harmony
and go down. Ntanya would work very hard in the field hauling and logical order. Thus the poet arranges words to produce a
in the last harvest and Teresa would stay at home washing, pattern called poetry: the musician arranges sounds to produce
cooking and waiting, waiting for him to come home. She would a pattern called music: the artist arranges colours to produce a
cook his meal with extra care and when there was little meat she pattern called painting and the mathematician arranges abstract
would only give bits to the children and not even touch it herself ideas into a pattern, using symbols, to produce equations. Each
but use only the smell to get her food down and reserve the of these patterns - the poem, the music, the painting and the
whole chunk for her husband. When Ntanya would come home equation must stand up to the test of some order, harmony and
with sweat on his brows she would put the wooden tray on a beauty. So if Mathematics is not an art what is art?
stool for him and sit down by him watching him eat with great
satisfaction: every bolus that went down ntanya’s throat would 11. The views expressed in this passage belong to
also go down her own throat. When Ntanya would insist on A. JAMB B. artists C. mathematicians D. the poet
sharing the food with her she would always say she had eaten E. the author of the passage.
already no matter how hungry she might be. Ntanya would then
eat and drink to his satisfaction and always rest a while in the 12. The expression ‘Mathematics is the queen of the
sun after saying ‘Thank you mother’. Sciences’ contians
(Taken from Peter K. Palangyo’s novel: Dying in the sun) A. a contradiction B. an analogy C. an irony
D. a lie E. nonsense
6. Bolus in the passage means
A. Adam’s apple B. throat pill C. liquid 13. ‘Mathematics’ is written with a capital M in this passage because
D. piece of meat E. large morsel. A. the writer is a mathematician
B. the writer does not know how to use punctuation correctly
7. Ntanya and Teresa could hardly notice the land getting C. the writer wants to distinguish between a concept
brown because and a subject
A. they were on their honeymoon D. it is the normal way of writing about the sciences
B. they had just got married E. the writer is confused.
C. they hardly notice the sun
D. the sun did not come up 14. The last sentence of the passage , ‘So if Mathematics
E. Ntanya worked very hard in the field. is not an art what is art?’ is a
A. questions posed for the reader to answer
8. Teresa gave only bits of meat to the children because B. statement put in the form of a question
A. they would get more from Ntanya C. question combined with a statement
B. she cooked it with extra care D. mathematical equation stated in words
C. they were young E. pattern which illustrates beauty, harmony and order
D. she kept most of it for her husband in language.
E. she could not afford meat.
15. Mathematics can be considered as a form of art because
9. Ntanya said ‘Thank you mother’ to A. its main principle is made use of by the arts
A. his mother B. his wife C. his aunt B. it involves drawing of figures
D. Teresa’s mother E. his grand-mother C. it is a form of Fine Arts
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D. it is a type of Graphic Arts the last drop of moisture out of the earth. The family sat down in
E. it also involves a study of beauty, harmony and order. despair, waiting and waiting. Their hopes had run so high; the
goats had started producing milk, which they had eagerly poured
PASSAGE IV on their porridge, now they ate plain porridge with no milk. It
My good people: I come before you this evening as a was impossible to plant corn, maize, pumpkin and water-melon
man whose honesty and intergrity have been questioned. Now, seeds in the dry earth. They sat the whole day in the shadow of
the usual political thing to do when charges are levelled against the huts and even stopped thinking, for the rain had fled away.
you is either to ignore them or to deny them without giving Only the children were quite happy in their little girl world. They
details. But before I answer any of your questions, let me state carried on with their game of making house like their mother and
categorically that I have not touched a kobo of the N50,000 we chattered to each other in light, soft tones. They made children
contributed. Every kobo of it has been used in defraying political from sticks around which they tied rags, and scolded them
campaign expenses. severely in an exact imitation of their own mother. Their voices
As a matter of fact, during one of my meet-the-press could be heard scolding all day long: ‘You stupid thing, when I
conferences, Tony Agiwa accosted me and said, ‘Honourable send you to draw water, why do you spill half of it out of the
Senator, what about this fund we hear about?’ I told him there bucket?’ ‘You stupid thing! Can’t you mind the porridge pot
was no secret about the fund and that he should meet Abu O. without letting the porridge burn?’ Then, they would beat the
Abu to get details of the fund. I told him, ‘You will find that the rag-dolls on their bottoms with severe expressions.
purpose of the fund was primarily to defray political expenses.’ The adults paid no attention to this; their nerves were
In answer to another one of his questions, I said that neither stretched to breaking point waiting for the rain to fall out of the
contributors to this fund, nor contributors to any of my sky. Nothing was important, beyond that. All their animals had
campaigns had ever received any special consideration that he been sold during the bad years to purchase food, and of all their
would not have received as an ordinary constituent. And I can herd only two goats were left. It was the women of the family
say that never, since I became a Senator, have I made a telephone who finally broke down under the strain of waiting for rain.
call for them to an agency or have I gone down to an agency on (Taken from Bessie Head’s The collector of Treasures)
their behalf. Records will show that, and these records are in the
hands of the Administrator. 21. The evidence that the family hopes had run high is that the
A. land was ready for planting
16. The author is B. earth was alive with insects singing
A. exonerating himself from allegations of embezzlement C. goats had started producing milk
B. ignoring the allegations of embezzlement D. family ate porridge
C. taking part in a political campaign C. family had corn and maize seeds.
D. demonstrating that he is a Senator
E. trying to implicate Abu O. Abu, a fellow politician. 22. ‘The adults paid no attention to this’ refers to
A. the children scolding the rag-dolls
17. Constituent in the passage means B. the plain porridge C. the burnt porridge
A. a section of his constituency D. their breaking nerves E. the land.
B. his entire constituency
C. his campaigner 23. The family sat down in despair because
D. a person having voting rights where he is living A. the land was ready and ploughed
E. a supporter B. they ate plain porridge with no milk
C. the sun danced dizzily in the sky
18. Accosted in the passage means D. the land was covered in a haze of mist
A. grossly insulted B. greeted C. fought with E. it was impossible to plant seeds.
D. forced E. went and spoke to
24. All their animals had been sold in order to
19. It appears that the N50,000 A. avoid despair B. buy food C. induce rain
A. has been spent C. save animal food E. make the children happy.
B. has been paid into the government treasury
C. will soon be paid into the government treasury 25. ‘Game of making house’ means
D. has been saved by Abu O. Abu A. building a house with sand
E. will be used for future campaigns. B. being happy in the house
C. playing in the house
20. Abu O. Abu is portrayed as D. imitating running a home like adults
A. a corrupt politician B. the administrator of the fund E. playing hide-and-seek in the house
C. an ordinarytaxpayer D. a government official E. a citizen

PASSAGE V LEXIS AND STRUCTURE

The land was ready and ploughed, waiting for the crops.
At night, the earth was alive with insects singing and rustling In Questions 26 to 37 choose the option opposite in meaning to
about in search of food. But suddenly, by mid-November, the the word underlined.
rain fled away: the rain-clouds fled away and left the sky bare.
The sun danced dizzily in the sky, with a strange cruelty. Each 26. To most people last Christmas was an austere period.
day the land was covered in a haze of mist as the sun sucked up
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A. prosperous B. harsh C. severe D. sour E. stern. C. making a fool of yourself D. asking him to be your enemy
E. making him break down at work.
27. The chief was generous in his award of university
scholarships 40. The manager often quarrels with his staff because he
A. noble B. considerate C. liberal D. mean E. honest. goes around with a chip on his shoulder.
A. deformed shoulder B. readiness to be angered
28. Chidi is naturally taciturn. C. look of contempt D. an air of superiority
A. friendly B. cheerful C. dumb D. lively E. garrulous. E. search for gossip.

29. He is loved for his altruism. 41. The new employee is so humble and friendly that he will
A. benevolence B. sincerity C. selfishness soon make himself popular.
D. selflessness E. kindness. A. welcomed and accepted B. hated
C. estranged D. rejected E. a personal friend.
30. The Military Governor upheld the decision of his cabinet.
A. held up B. undercut C. maintained D. abolished 42. He took exception to Ezenwa’s remark.
E. reversed. A. was delighted at B. was excited by
C. got demoralized by D. objected to
31. Many untrustworthy students give evasive answers to E. was perplexed by.
questions which they fully understand.
A. direct B. outspoken C. simple D. truthful E. clever. 43. Kelechi hardly ever falls sick.
A. most often B. very seldom C. sometimes
32. The deafening noise of the two jet planes which flew D. frequently E. occasionally
across our compound yesterday made people fear that
an assault on the country might be imminent. 44. The gallant soldiers met their Waterloo at Philippi
A. impending B. ahead C. remote D. eminent E. threatening A. victory B. trouble C. defeat
D. happiest period E. enemy
33. Disgruntled people are indifferent to any plans to rid the
society of evil. 45. It is futile trying to make bricks without straw.
A. different from B. diffident about C. in agreement with A. fertile B. important C. fragile
D. interested in E. opposed to. D. vain E. bad

34. The severity of the harmattan helped me to complete my 46. The ceiling of my bed-room fell in and knocked me out.
writing assignment in record time because I had no choice A. made me unconscious B. removed me
but to lock myself indoors. C. flattened me D. killed me E. frightened me.
A. warmth B. mildness C. moderation D. leniency
E. gentility. 47. In May 1978 the rain fell incessantly and made life drab.
A. at intervals B. recurrently C. repeatedly
35. The increase in transport fares deterred our club from D. concurrently E. continuously
planning an excursion this year.
A. deferred B. irritated C. impelled D. restricted 48. Little Ugochi has a bicycle which is in marvelous
E. encouraged condition.
A. need of a tune up B. excellent C. questionable
36. This card entitles you to attend the film show. D. unstable E. working
A. disqualifies B. discourages C. disenchants
D. proclaims E. satisfies 49. The lecturer maintained his usual good humour in spite
of the cat-calls and the rude behaviour of his students
37. This is an abridged edition of Oliver Twist A. provoked B. obtained C. kept D. lost
A. reprinted B. enlarged C. outdated D. extinct E. improved.
E. banned
In Questions 38 to 71 choose the option nearest in meaning to 50. The class as a whole will have a lecture on scarce
the underlined word or phrase. commodities tomorrow
38. Victor will not attend the dinner party tonight: he is afraid A. argument B. deliberation C. dispute
of his own shadow. D. conference E. talk
A. not in the mood B. attending another party
C. scared of imaginary things 51. Many states practise the ideals of democracy.
D. unhappy with his assigned role
A. government by elections
E. unable to forget his fears.
B. government by representatives
C. government by civilians
39. Telling Ali to break his habit of coming to work late is like
D. government by all the people
knocking your head against a brick wall.
E. oligarchy
A trying the impossible B. asking him to beat you up
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A. afloat B. on top of a plank C. above suspicion
52. He lost his voice momentarily. D. raised above a board E. the chairman of a board
A. in a moment B. in a split second
C. for a brief period of time D. without delay 65. It is sheer foolhardiness for unarmed policemen to pursue
E. instantly. armed robbers.
A. nonsense B. bravery C. foolishness
53. The corrupt official had to leave the public service willy D. stupidity E. foolish risk taking
nilly.
A. unprepared B. reluctantly C. willingly 66. Bankole was a man given to much wine.
D. compulsorily E. by retirement A. pushed to B. taken over by C. addicted to
D. forced to E. afflicted by
54. I am yet to write the penultimate paragraph of my essay.
A. last but one B. third to the last C. second 67. The officer refused to be taken in by the private.
D. concluding E. introductory A. won over B. drawn in C. overtaken
D. deceive E. Involved
55. One hindrance to an orderly economic development of
the country is large-scale fraud and corruption. 68. The principal advised the boy to come to grips with
A. difficulty B. element C. reason himself if he wanted to do well at the end of his course.
D. obstacle E. ritual A. criticize himself B. master his difficulties
C. learn to be obedient D. behave himself
56. Stephen was blamed for leaving his door ajar during the E. fight with himself
heavy rainfall.
A. unlocked B. unbolted C. open D. keyless E. locked 69. The judge came down heavily on the accused person in
his judgement.
57. If people don’t want to play the game according to the A. crashed heavily B. fell down heading
rule, that is their business. C. descended upon heavily D. imposed a stiff penalty
A. their business will suffer B. it is not their fault E. crash landed on.
C. they should blame others for it
D. other people will take over their business 70. Employees have been urged to desist from witch-hunting
E. they will have themselves to blame. and character assassination.
A. commanded to stop hunting witches
58. Nigeria, like most other African countries is predominantly B. ordered to stop assassinating witches
agricultural. C. entreated not to accuse individuals unjustly and maliciously
A. mainly B. certainly C. entirely D. undoubtedly D. informed to resist witch hunters and character assassins
E. superficially E. urged to desist from barbaric acts.

59. Despite increasingly punitive laws against hemp 71. The government should stop white elephant projects.
smoking, it is still rising at an alarming rate. A. projects in which white men kill elephants
A. devastating B. exemplary C. barbaric B. projects in which white elephants are used
D. severe E. satisfactory C. projects for painting some elephants white
D. high cost projects with low utility values
60. The Senate postponed the meeting indefinitely. E. low cost projects with high utility values.
A. for a short time B. for six months C. definitely
D. without fixing a date E. for several months 72. Mary goes to school.. bus.
A. in B. on C. with D. through E. by
61. You have been asked to change your laissez-faire attitude
to work. 73. The loud noise in the neighbourhood attracted people
A. stupid B. carefree C. careful D. serious who stared… the thief.
E. responsible A. at B. about C. with D. on E. over

62. Since his father’s death, Osita has not been able to cope 74. The students unrest resulted… the expulsion of the
with the tasks of a family head. ringleaders
A. perform adequately B. tolerate C. accept A. to B. in C. from D. with E. by
D. assess properly E. manage
75. The lawyer insisted.. the full payment of his charge.
63. My spell in the university was an unmitigated disaster A. with B. in C. for D. at E. on
A. an unavoidable B. a painful C. a regrettable
D. an unqualified E. an unfortunate 76. Little children are usually afraid ... thunder.
A. about B. for C. of D. with E. at
64. To be above board is to be
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77. On the orders of the steward, the cook rushed… the
market 91. The old politicians were discredited because they tried
A. to B. at C. for D. in E. against to… the people’s ignorance.
A. cash in on B. catch in with C. catch in on
78. The principal advised that we pursue this case cautiously, D. cash in with E. cash in by
otherwise we are bound to be taken… by Ada’s lies.
A. away B. out C. in D. off E. on 92. The plane overshot the… in a minor accident.
A. railway B. hangar C. tarmac D. runway E. road
79. I am very sorry… to attend the meeting yesterday.
A. for failure B. in failing C. to having failed 93. That single… was enough to spoil a whole life time of
D. to fail E. for failing good living.
A. occurence B. ocurence C. occurrence
80. When you are faced with an examination of this nature D. occurrense E. ocurrence.
endeavour to keep your mind... the job and not be
distracted for one moment. 94. The thief ran… luck when the policeman running after
A. at B. in C. for D. on E. to him caught up with him and knocked him down.
A. into B. with C. of D. out of E. off
81. It all depended on what…
A. does he want B. he wants C. he does want 95. Whilst the thief was... the passengers, he kept apologizing
D. he wanted E. did he want for the inconvenience he was causing them
A. robbing B. rubbing C. robing D. rubing E. robbed.
82. Samuel: Would you please come here, John? John: No.
I’m busy… in my farm. 96. Your brigade would be the better for it, if you desisted ...
A. I am working B. I’m working C. I am to work rumor-mongering, observed the Chief of Staff
D. I shall have worked E. I go to work A. from B. away C. into D. away from E. on

83. My colleagues… before I arrived. 97. The court ordered the lorry driver to pay for the ... to my car.
A. started writing B. wrote C. had started writing A. damages B. heavy damages C. destruction
D. have written E. have been writing D. many damages E. damage

84. After the team had conceded two goals, their 98. Journalists always collect and publish ...
enthusiasm… A. informations B. an information C. some informations
A. was beginning to wane B. was waning D. information E. much informations.
C. began to wane D. had begun to wane E. had been waning
99. I have received the answer scripts of Peter and John.
85. The Government… the initial value of the hotel complex What about ...?
at ten million Naira. A. Ngozi B. Ngozi’s own C. Ngozis D. Ngozis’ E. Ngozi’s
A. costed B. had cost C. had valued
D. had constructed E. has costed 100. He received a pat ... the back for his brilliant success in
the examination.
86. James... reminding that not all that glitters is gold. A. by B. at C. in D. on E. for
A. needs B. need C. needing D. needs to E. need to

87. The dull student took a correspondence course as a

means… his standard in the class.
A. to improve B. for improving C. of
improving
D. by improving E. to improving

88. The boy thought that driving a car was not… dangerous
than riding a bicyle.
A. so very B. particularly C. very D. any more E. any
89. I do not want… from such a friend as Jimoh.
A. any more advices B. no more advice C. any advices
D. no advice E. any advice
90. Very few students have satisfactory... these days
becausethe student population has increased
tremendously.
A. acommondation B. accomodation C. accommodation
D. acommoddation E. acommodation.
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Use of English 1986

COMPREHENSION B. do not provide the money for the fashion craze

C. endure a lot of hardship to provide for their children
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that D. gladly provide the money for the fashion craze.
follow
5. A likely cause of high blood pressure among the youth is
PASSAGE 1 A. the clothes they wear to parties
It is customary nowadays among fashionable ladies and B. that different clothes are meant for different occasions
gentlemen to acquire strange and sometimes quaint clothes C. that the youth have stuffed their wardrobes,
which are scarcely ever used. Sometimes it may be an apartments and drawars with new clothes
approaching festival, sometimes a two hour ceremony and D. the thought of the choice of what to wear.
sometimes to honour a dead colleague – something triggers off
the modern craze to sew new materials whose use does not PASSAGE II
outlast the moment of craze. And so, people who just occupy Delinquency describes actions that would not be crimes
small apartments in their parent homes, or have rented one room if performed by adults. If a young person performs one of such
in a densely-people house find that more than two-thirds of actions then he has committed a crime. Delinquency is one of
their rooms are filled with bongo trousers which they cannot several status offences – offences that can be committed only
wear, worn out jeans which stink, or specially made cloth for by people in particular stations of life as determined by age,
occasions that are not recurrent. profession or a person’s role in society. For young people such
Although plagued by the problem of school fees for their offences include drinking, driving and smoking under age.
children, parents have had to swallow their own phlegm and Usually they are offences only to the extent that they help to
humour their children who need special clothes for important preserve some of the good things of life for the exclusive
events. Newly employed youths soon find that their comrades enjoyment of the adult world. Delinquency is therefore a weapon
are getting married, and a new and special attire must be used to forged in adult minds and directed by adult hands against young
grace the occasion. University students see matriculation people. It is born out of envy, adult pride and intolerance. If the
ceremonies or induction ceremonies into club membership as world changed overnight and the responsibility to make and
special reasons to make new attire which – you may be sure – enforce laws fell on juvenile shoulders, the adults should expect
they would not wear on another occasion that parallels the one a raw deal in return. Delinquency would then certainly refer
for which these clothes were made. only to many of the adult actions now freely committed by them.
Medical doctors may soon find another cause for the
incidence of high blood pressure among the youth. ‘The desire 6. The writer of the passage believes that delinquency laws are
to acquire new clothes’ is one strong possible cause, but a more A. not relevant to human society
subtle one which haunts like a ghost is the problem of choice of B. only fit for young people
what to wear. The youths have so suffered their apartments, C. unfair to the juveniles
wardrobes, drawers and trunks with so many clothes that the D. very fair to the adult world.
greatest problem they face is the choice of what to wear.
7. Status offences are those that can be committ
A. all adults B. juveniles only
1. A suitable title for this passage is
C. delinquent juveniles only D. specified classes of
A. Fashion craze
people.
B. Fashion craze among the youth
C. University students and induction ceremonies 8. In the view of the writer, drinking under age is an offence
D. Parents and the money for fashion craze. because
A. adults want to have all he drink to themselves
2. In this passage the expression “parents have had to B. adults do not want juveniles to get drunk
swallow their own phlegm’ means parents, C. drunken juveniles can cause disorder in society
A. had to swallow the sputum in their mouths D. adults have a duty to protect young persons.
B. have been phlegmatic all along
9. If the world changed overnight
C. have had to overcome their own pride or prejudice
A. there would be more delinquency laws
D. no longer had to swallow their own phlegm.
B. delinquency would refer to all adult actions
C. delinquency would no more be a crime
3. The youth acquire clothes for
D. delinquency would also change in meaning.
A. burials, great occasions or for matriculation ceremonies
B. occasions that are not recurrent 10. When young people make and enforce laws
C. boosting their ego A. the responsibility will be too heavy on their
D. the purpose of praising their parents. shoulders
B. they would retaliate against the adults
4. In this passage we learn that parents C. their laws will be very juvenile
A. admire their children’s craze for new clothes D. the world will be turned upside down.
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place to store their crops, most of which are always destroyed
PASSAGE III by insects and pests before harvest time. All these have adverse
Those who are familiar with it will tell you that Ludo, effects on their productivity.
like human life itself, is a game both of chance and skill. You The government can do a lot to help farmers. farmers’
need skill in deciding how to make the most advantageous use co-operative societies can be encouraged and loans can be made
of the figures that turn up on the die when you cast it. Since available to farmers through government institutions, like banks
each player has at least four alternative ways of using his figures, and finance corporation. Farmers can be taught how to build
two players with equal luck may fare differently, depending on good storage structures for their produce. All these and a lot
how cleverly each one uses his figures. The element of luck, more can help to improve the conditions of farming in these
again as in human life, plays a dominant role however. For no countries.
matter how skilful a player may be in using the figures he gets on
the die, he has a slim chance of winning if he continually throws 16. The most important aspect of agriculture mentioned in
low figures. While a combination of ones and twos may be the passage is
useful in checking the advance of one’s opponents, it will not A. poultry B. fishery C. livestock D. farming.
take one home fast enough to win. On the other hand, consistent
throws of sixes and fives, with even the very minimum of skill, 17. Farming in many countries today is
will help a player to home all his four counters before any of the A. an alternative to poultry
three other players, unless, of course, he has no idea of the B. of great assistance to the economy
game at all. C. for those who are out of jobs
D. for the illiterates.
11. According to the passage, Ludo is
A. more a game of skill than of chance 18. Some countries produce more and better crops than
B. more a game of luck that of skill others because the farmers in the former
C. equally a game of chance and skill A. are more educated
D. a game entirely of luck. B. have greater manpower
C. have more modern equipment
12. It is implied in the passage that two players may fare D. have more fertile land.
equally if they
A. have equal luck 19. In order to help improve the state of farming, the
B. apply similar skill to figures government should
C. apply similar skill to similar figures A. give all farmers enough money to work with
D. have equal skill. B. sell enough fertilizers to all farmers
C. find ways of financing and modernizing the
13. It is implied in the passage, that in Ludo threes and fours are farming system
A. very high throws B. medium throws D. help farmers with the storage of their crops.
C. low throws D. very low throws.
20. A lot of crops harvested are wasted because farmers
14. According to the passage, a player with consistently high A. allow insects and pests to destroy their crops
throws will B. do not have enough money to invest in harvesters
A. almost certainly win a game C. do not have good storage facilities
B. certainly win a game D. harvest too much at a time.
C. almost certainly not win a game
D. deliberately not win a game. PASSAGE V
15. In the passage, the possession of skill specifically It may be argued that museums as an institution and an
enables a player to agency for transmitting cultural heritage are an artificial creation,
A. win so far as objects are removed from their natural or proper
B. throw good figures environments and put into museums which are a different
C. use his figures efficiently environment altogether. However, it seems that museums
D. check his opponents efficienctly themselves have come to be accepted and recognized as the
best equipped institutions devised by man for the assemblage
PASSAGE IV
of cultural objects and their presentation and preservation for
Farming is the most important aspect of agriculture that
the present and future generations.
has attracted attention within the last few years. Agriculture
The artificial character of museums is however being
has several other aspects like fishery, livestock and poultry. All
gradually transformed into a cultural reality. Thus, just as one
these are also important in that they have to do with the
goes to the theatre for plays and other performing arts, the
production of food items which human beings consume for
mosque, the church or the shrine for worship, the library for the
survival.
printed words, today, it is to the museum one goes to see evidence
In many parts of the world today, farming has been
of man’s material outfit. For, no other institution or place so
regarded as the mainstay of the economy. Crops such as cocoa,
readily comes to mind as museums do when evidence of material
rubber and cotton have been produced in such commercial
culture is sought. Herein lies the importance of museums as
quantity that they are sold to other countries. Some countries
cultural institutions and an agency for transmitting culture.
have better comparative advantage in producing certain farm
crops than other countries. In these other countries, there is the
21. Museums are at artificial creation because
need to spend a lot of money on agriculture, particularly farming.
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A. they are an agency for transmitting cultural heritage 34. He was locked up for a fortnight
B. natural or proper environments are removed and A. released B. punished C. remanded D. locked out.
put into museums
C. objects are removed from museums to natural or 35. The lady acted courageously when thieves attacked her
proper environments A. shyly B. fearlessly C. indiscreetly D. timidly.
D. objects are removed from their natural or proper
environments and put into museums. In questions 36 to 67 choose the option nearest in meaning to
the word(s) or phrase underlined.
22. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT
part of the main functions of museums? 36. You are free to leave the hall.
A. Preservatic B. Generation A. at an advantage B. opportuned C. at liberty D. right.
C. Presentation D. Assemblage.
37. The culprits will surrender their loot to the Customs officials.
23. The evidence of material culture can best be sought in the A give away B. give out C. given in D. give up.
A. theatre and other performing arts
B. library and the museum 38. The discussion became animated.
C. museum only A. specialized B. lively C. intellectual D. unruly.
D. museum more than any other institution.
39. Rich citizens are often niggardly in their ways.
24. Which of the following phrases in the passage does NOT A. beggarly B. sordid C. miserly D. pompous.
express the artificial character of museums?
A. Removed from B. For transmitting 40. The musician’s popularity is beginning to decline
C. Put into D. Devised by. A. change B. wane C. slide D. disappear.

25. … no other institution or place so readily comes to mind 41. Olu promised to look out for her next time he is in town.
as museums means that museum are A. watch for B. visit C. greet D. take care of.
A. always ready to enter the mind
B. a ready example 42. Thompson was a prosecution witness at the court hearing.
C. recalled with great difficulty A. false B. reliable C. government D. trial
D. remembered with hesitancy.
43. The beggar’s takings snow-balled every hour
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE A. grew B. turned white C. grew into a ball
D. turned into snow.
In questions 26 to 35 choose the option opposite in meaning to
the word(s) underlined 44. His attempts were nipped in the bud.
A. unsuccessful B. cut short C. frustrated D. disqualified.
26. Mr. Jack was most flexible in his instructions. 45. The preacher has made good his promise to visit some of
A. rigid B. correct C. stiff D. upright. his converts today
A. fulfilled B. abided by C. seen to D. accepted.
27. The University has offered temporary accommodation
to its staff. 46. What it! You could be followed said the robber.
A. popular B. permanent C. recognized D. regular. A. Look around B. Be sober C. Be vigilant D. Look out.

28. Mary complained that she slept on the coarse floor. 47. Look at the tell-tale signs of battering on her
A. smooth B. rough C. bad D. harsh. A. confirming looks B. suspicious marks
C. revealing marks. D. signifying marks.
29. Jim was one of the spectators at the concert.
A. ushers B. judges C. guests D. performers. 48. The armed robbers who raided passengers on the
Expressway came to grief when they had a shoot out
30. The Governor declined to give audience to the journalist with the police today.
A. ignored B. accepted C. forgot D. rejected. A. came to a bad end B. became grieved
C. encountered grief D. came to a dead.
31. The debtor’s husband is liable for his wife’s debts
A. unanswerable B. responsible 49. Many of the workers hired for firing the furnace had
C. unquestionable D. accountable. themselves fired as a result of the unfortunate accident.
A. got themselves burned accidentally
32. The lotion recommended by the doctor soothed Okon’s B. jumped into the fire themselves
aching tooth C. got themselves sacked form their jobs.
A. calmed B. extracted C. excited D. worsened. D. were sacked from their jobs.

33. The sun cast its shadow on the wall. 50. The new educational system look off this school year.
A. reflection B. rays C. resemblance D. substance. A. went off B. continued C. began D. resumed.
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51. We will surely buy this idea of introducing an entirely 63. The accounts clerk was jailed because he cooked the
new product books.
A. pay for B. accept C. trade in D. barter. A. set fire to the account books
B. sold the books in his office to get money for food
52. This year’s harvest is surplus. C. falsified the accounts to his advantage
A. enough for our need B. limitless D. destroyed the account books by cooking them.
C. more than enough D. plenty.
64. The task was Herculean.
53. Many candidates new apply to read Law because it is a A. irregular B. related to Hercules
lucrative profession. C. stimulating D. demanding.
A. brings plenty of profit
B. brings high prestige 65. The story is rather hard to believe.
C. brings quick money A. incedulous B. incredible C. superstitious D. untenable
D. brings plenty of knowledge.
66. It is advisable to administer the test in the morning when
54. The pressman said that his interview with the President students are fresh.
was off the record. A. perform B. set C. undertake D. give.
A. not written on government record books
B. not intended for publication 67. He broke his mallet ostensibly trying to maintain order
C. not taped although he was actually enjoying the commotion.
D. written elsewhere other than in government records. A. apparently B. carelessly C. angrily D accidentally.

55. She realised that she was up against stiff competition In question 68 to 100 choose the word(s) or phrase which best
when a new large departmental store was opened next to fills the gap(s)
her small provisions shop.
A. next to B. standing next to 68. Jibril found that thieves had entered his house in his
C. opposed to D. faced with. absence. He went to the police to report the …
A. break out B. break up C. break in D. break into
56. Finally, I assured him that I would not go back on my word
A. return to a place 69. After the accused was found guilty by the court, his
B. return to a certain world which reading counsel…. Before sentence was passed.
C. re-use my word A. begged for mercy B. made a please for mitigation
D. fail to keep my promise. C. made an ovation D. made a plea for Migation.

57. Everybody respects the team leader. 70. Four persons accused of currency… are being held by
A. looks up for B. looks up on the security agents
C. looks up to D. looks up at. A. traficking B. traviking C. trafficking D. traffiking.

58. The driver, on seeing the traffic warden, was hesitant to 71. You had to stand in the corridor all the way? Poor you I
start the engine. don’t suppose you enjoyed the journey…?
A. slow B. unable C. anxious D. reluctant. A. don’t you B. did you C. didn’t you D. don’t I.

59. He likes to call attention to unimportant matters. 72. ‘I m sorry I can’t give you any of the oranges, I have …
A. dubious B. incidental C. trivial D. simple. Left’,
A. few B. little C. only a little D. a few.
60. The speaker took his audience down memory lane
before he went to the topic of his lecture. 73. No wonder those plants are dying. They… any water
A. took his audience a journey through a street for ages!
called Memory Lane. A. didn’t have B. hadn’t C. haven’t had D. haven’t
B. recalled events from the past
C. told a late about a place called Memory Lane 74. Darling, do send the children to bed. I can’t … their
D. gave an outline of his lecture. noise any longer’, he said to his wife.
A. make do with B. make up C. deal with D. put up with.
61. The new religious leader hands out an olive branch.
A. sues for peace 75. My wife and I met… on a shop going to Liberia.
B. gives out branches of the olive tree. A. ourselves B. one another C. each other D. ourself.
C. challenges his opponents to a fight
D. blesses his congregation. 76. … yet about the Principal?
A. Are there any news B. Are there some news
62. Though a brilliant student, Binta lost her tongue when C. Is there any news D. Is their any news.
she was asked to give the vote of thanks at the end of the
Governor’s visit to her school. 77. I am… to another week’s holiday this year after such a
A. became dumb. tedious job.
B. became deaf and dumb A. due B. qualified C. looking D. entitled.
C. said nothing because she was shy
D. forgot her native language. 78. I can quickly recite the National Anthem… Now
A. off head B. off by heart C. at hand D. off hand.
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79. The committee was frustrated because the Chief A. leaped B. leap C. leapt D. leaping.
withheld his …
A. accent B. access C. assent D. ascent. 91. A number of doctors are not so well disposed to … In
government hospitals these days…they?
80. Gone are the days when the … Enjoy patronage. A. working/do B. work/are C. working/are D. work/aren’t.
A. would B. will C. used to D. could.
92. The only set of loud speakers available… To be
81. He did not attend the final burial… connected according to the instruction.
A. rite B. rights C. rites D. right A. is B. are C. were D. have

82. The officer was compelled to… the suspect’s car. 93. We later on discovered that some members… another
A. seize B. cease C. sieze D. sease. meeting before the one advertised.
A. were holding B. have held C. have been holding
83. He missed the point because he took the statement … D. had held.
A. literally B. literarily C. literacy D. uniliterally. 94. He decided to wait for the bus because he had
A. too many luggage B. many luggages
84. Their high … was an advantage C. a lot of luggage D. plenty luggages
A. moral B. morality C. morale D. morals
95. Thank you for the party, we really….
5. The brave officer ….the time bomb A. enjoyed ourselves B. enjoyed
A. diffused B. devused C. defused D. difused. C. enjoyed very much D. enjoyed to much

86. A number of suspects were paraded… the victim of the 96. We were trying to study for the examinations lastnight
robbery. when the lights…
A. in front of B. before C. for D. to A. were taken away B. came off C. quenched D. went off.
87. If you want peace, you … Prepared for war.
A. had better B. have better C. had better got 97. When he had arranged the furniture, he… the picture
D. had better get. on the wall.
A. hanged B. hung C. hang D. hunged.
88. If only we… We could have overcome the difficulty.
A. had persevered B. have persevered 98. I forgot to bring a pen with me. Would you please…me yours?
C. had persevere D. persevered. A. borrow B. loan C. provide D. lend.

89. We are gradually … to the end of the programme this 99. If you are going to the market, may I…please?
afternoon, remarked the chairman of the wedding A. follow you B. come with you C. come by you
reception. D. come as your second
A. arriving B. getting C. approaching D. going.
100. Wada said that two of his chickens … eggs yesterday
90. We saw him… Over a wall as the police approached morning.
A. layed B. lied C. laid D. lai

Use of English 1987

C OMPR EHENSION From the evidences of these obituaries and In memoriam, every
dead Nigerian must have been something of a saint while alive.
This would explain why the death of most Nigerians is attributed
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that to the evil machinations of the wicked. Only very few people in
follow our country die natural death, and even when they do, the
obituaries etc. always give the impression that such deaths
PASSAGE I constitute the saddest loss to befall the deceased’s family. And
that is why writers of these obituaries and their allied
advertisements are experts on ‘mortuary stylistics’. This
There are one or two things this country can teach ‘mortuary stylistics’, the study in the art of eulogizing the dead
others, one of which is the art of writing obituaries. One suspects and making their loss sound so heart breaking, is one of the
that the reason why some of our newspapers still manage to commodities we can export to other countries.
break even is because of the great amount of revenue they derive
from obituaries. It is not unusual for about one quarter of the 1. The tone of this passage is
volume of an average daily to be constituted of obituaries and A. angry B. satirical C. non-commital D. pleasant.
in memoriam alone. One possible explanation for this, it has
been argued, is that Nigerians value their dead greatly. And 2. Mortuary ‘stylistics’ as used in the passage refers to the
there is a saying amongst us that you do not say evil things A. art of writing obituaries B. text of obituaries
against the dead. This is obviously the philosophy behind the C. study of obituaries D. art of eulogizing the dead.
large dose of encomiums with which our dead are bestowed.
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3. ‘One suspects that the reason why some of our PASSAGE III
newspapers still manage to break even …’ Suggests that Manager: Mr. Mbu, I would not describe you as an inefficient worker,
some Nigerian newspapers I therefore find it difficult to understand why the Conference
A. would be running at a loss but for obituaries Room is so untidy, in spite of the fact that I had reminded
B. are patronized only because they specialize in you of the meeting scheduled to take place there this afternoon.
obituaries Secretary: Sir, I did instruct the cleaner to tidy up the
C. derive all their revenue from obituaries place before the meeting.
D. invest huge revenue in obituaries. Manager: Are you trying to hold the cleaner responsible
for the untidy condition of the room?
4. Obituaries are very popular in Nigeria because Secretary: Partly, Sir, I gave him an instruction which he
A. evil things are not said against the dead failed to carry out. It is certainly my intention
B. every dead Nigerian must have lived a saintly life to make a formal complaint against him for
C. only very few Nigerians die natural deaths dereliction of duty.
D. Nigerians value their dead greatly. Manager: And would you wash your hands off any
PASSAGE II blame after that? Do you think that just making
‘You all know how friendly we are with Okperi. Do you a formal complaint against the cleaner absolves
think that any Umuaro man who goes to prison there will come you of all blame? When do you consider an
back alive? But that apart, do you forget that this is the moon of assignment as properly executed: when the
planting? Do you want to grow this year’s crops in the prison execution is properly supervised or not? Was
house in a land where your fathers owe a cow? I speak as your it sufficient for you to give instructions to the
elder brother. I have travelled in Olu and I have travelled in Igbo, cleaner without ensuring that he actually
and I can tell you that there is no escape from the white man. He carried them out?
has come. When suffering knocks at your door and you say Secretary: Sir, I do not see what else I could have done,
there is no seat left for him, he tells you not to worry because he short of doing the job myself. The cleaner is a
has brought his own stool. The white man is like that. Before six-footer and I could not have intimidated
any of you’re here was old enough to tie a cloth between the him physically.
legs I saw with my own eyes what the white man did to Abame. Manager : I see, I await your formal complaint against
Then I knew there was no escape. As day light chases away the cleaner, but I shall not forget that you
darkness so will the white man drive away all our customs. I allowed a board meeting to take place in an
know that as I say it now it passes by your ears, but it will untidy Conference Room.
happen. The white man has power which comes from the true 11. The relationship between the manager and his secretary,
God and it burns like fire. This is the God about whom we preach as revealed in the passage, could be said to be
every eighth day. …. A. strained B. charged C. personal D. cordial.
Unachukwu’s opponents were now shouting that this
was a meeting of an age group, that they had not assembled to 12. ‘I would not describe you as an inefficient worker…’
join with him in chewing the seed of foolishness which they Suggests that the manager
called their new religion. A. is quite pleased with the level of diligence of his
‘We are talking about the white man’s road, ‘said a voice secretary.
above the others. B. has had cause in the past to complain against his
‘Yes, we are talking about the white man’s road. But secretary
when the roof and the walls of a house fall in, the ceiling is not C. is dissatisfied with the level of performance of his
left standing. The white man, the new religion, the soldiers, the secretary
new road – they are all part of the same thing. The white man D. is non-commital over the efficiency of his secretary.
has a gun, a matchet, a bow and carries fire in his mouth. He
does not fight with one weapon alone’. 13. It would appear that the manager feels that the secretary
(Taken form Chinua Achebe’s Arrow of God)
A. should have, if possible, personally cleaned the
Conference Room.
6. The dominant subject of this passage is the B. should have ensured that someone else cleaned
A. white man’s road B. new religion the Conference Room
C. white man’s influence D. white man’s weapons. C. should have ensured that the cleaner did his job
D. is a coward
7. According to the passage, the people of Umuaro and Okperi
A. are friends B. are only acquaintances 14. The secretary’s attitude seems to be
C. are no friends D. can never be enemies. A. Manager Sir, you employed this huge and
recalcitrant cleaner and I am not going to do his job for him.
8. ‘There is no escape from the white man’ in the passage B. ‘It is not the duty o f a secretary to enforce the
means that the instructions he gives to his junior workers’
A. white man will send the people to prison C. ‘I am a secretary by profession, not a cleaner
B. white man can kill all the people with his gun D. ‘It is not terribly important how tidy the
C. people are only trying to run away from the white Conference Room is for the meeting.
man
D. people must accept the white man. 15. The last comment by the manager suggests that he
A. is going to hold the secretary responsible for
9. ‘Passes by your ears’ in the passage means what has happened
A. piercing through your ears. B. is likely to reprimand both the secretary and
B. listening eagerly the cleaner for dereliction of duty
C. making no impression C. will punish the cleaner but warn the secretary
D. accepting as the truth. D. will warn the cleaner and punish he secretary.
10. Unachukwu’s speech in this passage shows that he PASSAGE IV
A. is a coward B. wants his people to suffer Primitive man was probably more concerned with fire as a
C. loves the white man D. is wise with experience. source of warmth and as a means of light. Before he discovered
less laborious ways of making fire, he had to preserve it, and
whenever he went on a journey he carried a firebrand with him.
His discovery that the firebrand, from which the torch may well
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have developed, could be used for illumination was probably D. not to be compared to any other recording system.
incidental to the primary purpose of preserving a flame.
Lamps, too, probably developed by accident. Early LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
man may have had his first conception of a lamp while watching
a twig or fibre burning in the molten fat dropped from roasting In questions 26 to 32 choose the option opposite in meaning to
carcass. All he had to do was to fashion a vessel to contain fat the word(s) in italics
and float a lighted reed in it. Such lamps, which were made of
hollowed stones or sea-shell, have persisted in identical form up 26. The house-wife was hard up before the end of each month.
to quite recent times. A. upset B. penniless C. borrowing D. in no need.

16. Primitive man carried a firebrand during his journeys 27. The retired General became a hard-nosed officer after
mainly for fighting the war.
A. illumination B. cooking of food A. tough B. weak C. indifferent D. bed-ridden.
C. flame preservation D. warmth.
28. The Lions lost the match because their goalkeeper was
17. According to the passage, the torch probably developed in a haze most of the time.
from a A. indisposed B. confused C. alert D. sleeping.
A. firebrand B. twig C. lamp D. fibre.
29. Unless we see the evils clearly, contending against them
18. Primitive man was least concerned with fire as a is like fighting the air.
A. means of cooking B. source of warmth A. avoiding B. struggling with C. combating D. repelling.
C. source of light D. means of travelling
30. The explosive growth of world population has not been
19. One way early man made a lamp was by putting a lighted caused by a sudden increase in human fertility.
reed in a A. fantastic B. gradual C. combustible D. dangerous.
A. hollowed stone B. sea shell C. vessel D. molten fat.
31. It is generally believed that misers are not loved by many.
20. Primitive man preserved fire because A. spendthrifts B. spenders C. hoarders D. savers
A. he used it for illumination during his travels
B. his method of making fire was laborious 32. My brother’s primary school foundation was solid and
C. he wanted to discover how to make a lamp this influenced his secondary education.
D. he wanted to develop the torch. A. sound B. sordid C. shaky D. weak.
PASSAGE V In questions 33 to 55 choose the option nearest in meaning to
Developments in electronic science have transformed the the word(s) or phrase(s) in italics.
art of record keeping in the modern age. Traditionally, records of
events were kept only in people’s minds. It depended very 33. ‘It is very difficult to know who is entitled to essential
much on the retentive power of the human memory. This was commodities these days’, observed the mobbed NNSC
extremely dangerous as people either forgot events wholly or in official.
part, or deliberately falsified details to suit their various interests. A. qualified for B. disqualified from C. eligible D. worthyof
Interminable arguments were thus the order of the day. Even
writing which replaced mental recording was not entirely free 34. ‘This is a miniaturized version of your house’ remarked
from these shortcomings as untruths could be written as true the Architect.
records either willingly or inadvertently. With the advent of the
electronic memory, however, these dangers have been largely A. compressed B. abridged C. decreased D. smaller.
overcome. Recordings on audio and video cassettes now show
not only what happened, but also who did or said what including 35. It is claimed that there is an extinct volcano near Pankshin
how and when. A. extinguished B. inactive C. dead D. disused.

21. The author believes that electronic recording is 36. Bola has sonorous voice.
A. superior only to mental recording A. high-pitched B. beautiful C. strong D. throaty.
B. inferior to both mental recording and writing
C. superior to both mental recording and writing 37. Some workers went on rampage at a trade-fair.
D. inferior to only writing. A. turned violent B. robber C. were angry
D. demonstrated.
22. The writer believes that the art of record keeping has
A. improved over the years 38. We have to identify the protagonists of the new movement.
B. endangered the art of writing A. enemies B. leading figures C. opponents D. Believers
C. changed human memory
D. overcome all the problems facing it. 39. My nephew came in stealthily through the back gate.
A. briskly B. boldly C. wearily D. quietly.
23. How many stages of development did the writer mention
while discussing the art of record keeping? 40. The distance is not more than twenty kilometres as the
A. Two B. Three C. Four D. Five crow flies.
A. by the longest route B. by the shortest route
24. According to the author, human memory is unreliable C. by air D. by the fastest means.
because people.
A. die and we forget what they said. 41. Your extreme patience sometimes infuriates me.
B. forget events or tell lies A. impresses B. annoys C. frustrates D. amuses.
C. do not always know when events happened
D. do not always know who did what and when. 42. I cannot understand how he suddenly became
audacious contrary to his nature.
25. From the passage, we gather that writing is almost A. proud B. bold C. rude D. hostile.
A. as unreliable as human memory
B. as reliable as electronic memory 43. His has been a life of make-belief
C. more reliable than electronic recording A. faith B. fantasy C. grandeur D. religion
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44. Our teacher seldom comes late to school.
A. very often B. always C. frequently D. hardly ever. 62. One would wish …missed that opportunity to be
45. At the age of 80, Musa wished he could put the clock back. present at the graduation hall.
A. stop the clock B. put down the clock A. to have not B. for having not C. to having
C. go back in time D. have more time. D. not to have.
46. The Director left his secret file to the Secretary in good faith 63. The ceremony was rounded…very late.
A. with proof B. in anxiety C. in anticipation D. in trust. A. up B. off C. of D. out.
47. The Chief approached the issue with convincing d 64. My…brother intends to get married in December.
isinterestedness A. senior B. elder C. older D. oldest.
A. lack of interest B. lack of personal interest
C. inability to be interested D. unwillingness. 65. The…Affairs Officer is expecting all of us in the dining
room.
48. Nothing irritates the clerk more, than being assigned A. Student B. Student’s C. Students D. Students’
miscellaneous duties.
A. classified B. confidential C. unscheduled D. assorted 66. Many a candidate… to realise the difference between
written and spoken English.
49. It is of fundamental importance that one sleeps properly. A. fails B. fail C. have failed D. is failing.
A. undisputed B. basic C. special D. least.
67. Chinyere has not really described the Cabinet as
50. I know you’ve been eaves-dropping all along irresponsible; she only… it in her speech
A. dropping gently B. paying attention A. alluded to B. implied C. applied D. suggested.
C. listening secretly D. dropping all the leaves.
68. …at 9.30 for more news, said the announcer
51. She showed an affected interest in the game. A. Switch on B. Tune in C. Hook on D. Channel in .
A. real B. pretended C. concerned D. slight.
69. The way that big boy bullied his sister with relish makes
52. I would not like you to do the work piecemeal me think he could be a …
A. at meal time B. bit by bit C. badly D. as a masterpiece. A. bully B. sadist C. pugilist D. tyrant.
53. I think I’ll like to reiterate the points earlier made. 70. All… well with Peter.
A. withdraw B. change C. challenge D. repeat. A. are not B. have not been C. were not D. is not.
54. The sudden death of the King put paid to the ambition 71. One... so if she had thought it necessary.
of the Minister. A. would have said B. would say C. may have said
A. encouraged B. rewarded C. benefited D. terminated. D. could say.
72. We have done three quarters of the journey already, we
55. The man insisted on having no strings attached to the … as well see the end of it.
agreement A. can B. might C. could D. may
A. financial obligations B. documents C. conditions
D. moral obligations. 73. My little daughter has … sight, hence, she now wears
glasses.
In questions 56 to 100 choose the word(s) or phrase(s) which A. dimunitive B blurred C. painful D. defective.
best fills the gap(s).
74. Bassey’s evidence led… Okon being imprisoned for
56. I was….hearing distance of the speaker. life. A. at B. into C. in D. to
A. on B. at C. within D. in
75. My boss is usually a charming man but… he can be very
57. Peter was such a skilfull boxer that he was not afraid to irritable.
take…anybody A. atimes B. at times C. those times D. with times.
A. to B. upon C. on D. in.
76. We surely ought to have an…arrangement in case
58. Owing to the constant harassment of the populace by somebody discovers the present strategy.
armed robbers, all night guards have been instructed to A. alternate B. alternating C. alternative D. alternant.
shoot…every moving things
A. at sight B. by sight C. in sight D. off sight. 77. The nurse kept apologizing to mothers as she stuck her
needle… every baby at the clinic
59. My wife and I were to celebrate our silver wedding A. in B. onto C. on to D. into .
anniversary last Sunday. Unfortunately on that ….day,
my father-in-law died mysteriously. 78. One of the ladies who … in the premises … been asked
A. fruitless B. faithful C. futile D. fateful to withdraw
A. sells/have B. sell/have C. sells/has D. sell/has
60. The first graduation ceremony of the university was
attended by men from all….of life. 79. A Tale of Two Cities…the…we are studying for the
A. works B. areas C. walks D. parts. examination.
A. are/novels B. was/novel C. were/novels D. is/novel.
61. …guests enjoyed Joy’s birthday party
A. The whole B. All the C. Every D. Those very
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80. We must not take with us the feelings of inadequacy 90. The quarrel has got to a stage where someone has to…
…experienced during our preparations for the debate. A. interrupt B. interfere C. intrude D. intervene.
A. that were B. those were C. that was D. that is.
91. The villages looked…their leader for good examples.
81. Omogbai reported that the examinations…before he A. up to B. on to C. up at D. forward to
arrived in the hall.
A. started B. have started C. had started D. are started. 92. The hunter brought home…antelope
A. alive B. a life C. alive D. a living.
82. In my opinion, neither the players nor the coach … praise
for the result of the match. 93. Do not take my books out of this office unless you… my
A. deserves B. deserve C. are deserving D. is deserving. permission to do so.
A. get B. have C. had got D. are having.
83. No one has said anything yet, but I think I … be getting
a salary increase next month. 94. The man insisted on giving unsolicited…
A. must B. can C. would D. may A. advice B. advices D. advise D. advises.

84. Student: Excuse me sir, must we complete the 95. Cultural patterns are modified as they are … from one
assignment before lunch? generation to the next.
Teacher: No you… A. transported B. transposed C. translated D. transmitted.
A. needn’t B. mustn’t C. can’t D. shouldn’t
96. We discovered at the end of last term that we had to read
85. During the demonstration, the mobile police were … books before we could confidentlysit for our final examination.
instructed to break… the students’ defense line. A. more of many B. very many more
A. off B. open C. through D. down. C. very much more D. more very many.

86. Roli failed because the examination was …difficult for her 97. Chinedu took his umbrella with him in case it…
A. so B. very C. highly D. too. A. rain B. rained C. would rain D. is raining.

87. My brother does not have a flair… Mathematics. 98. The train was too slow so I decided to… at the next stop.
A. for B. in C. at D. of A. get by B. get bye C. get off D. get of.

88. The poor little kid has been down…fever these few days. 99. Dapo has made good use of some useful … on the
A. with B. from C. in D. for chemical composition of chalk.
A. information B. piece of information
89. He did not stop to ask himself why…such thing. C. informations D. pieces of information.
A. should he do B. he should do
C. should he have done D. did he do. 100. Tonye said that he was going to bed because he was…
to do any more work.
A. tired out B. very tired C. too tired D. extremely tired.

Use of English 1988

COMPREHENSION propelled by an unknown benevolent force, I walked a little bit

down the corridor in the direction of a notice board at which
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that some ten young men and women were peering. For want of
follow something to do, I decided to stop and look at the notice board.
PASSAGE I Alas! I had opened on the key to all the riddles that had dribbled
I was to remember my first day at Freedom University me since I set foot on campus that morning. On the board there
for a long time. On arrival on campus, I expected to be met by was a big campus map in which I was able to locate Grant Hall
some stale students (as was the practice in my secondary school) and other places of interest, there were details of the various
but every student around was new like myself. I asked the way activities lined up for the three days of orientation for freshmen
to Grant Hall but no one could tell me. I asked a number of other and a comprehensive list of those offered admission into various
questions about issues that bothered me, such as where and courses. How blissful I felt to see the light of knowledge, having
how to pay the fees, the way to the dinning hall and so on, but been wallowing in the darkness of ignorance. Even then I was
no help was forthcoming. So in the midst of so many people I am not able to escape the thought that though I could not be sure
all alone I mused to myself. The prospect was not in the least how much of the responsibility for the darkness was mine, the
cheerful and all those elation I had felt at gaining entry into a fact that something had not been done to draw attention to that
renowned university at sixteen began to disappear. Then, as if apocalypse of a notice board had contributed clearly to my initial
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predicament. All that notwithstanding, I learnt from that incident After you must have listened creatively to what you
an indelible lesson which was to stand me in very good stead have been told, then you can respond if the need arises. It is
throughout my stay in the university: namely, the importance of quite proper that you respond because the process of response
reading notice boards and handbills if one is to be well informed enhances the art of communication. But your response ought
about places and events in the university. to be only a necessary response, a response that will improve
your understanding. This response should involve your
1. The write of the passage felt isolated because monitoring, some of those things you have been told but which
A. there were too many people you do not understand, or politely questioning the rationality of
B. he was a new student in freedom university some of the speakers argument that your response must be
C. there were too many new students constructive, must enhance the communicative worth. It should
D. none of the many people around could help him. not be an unnecessary argument or an opportunity for you to
express dissatisfaction or disaffection. The ability to listen
2. The write says that the prospect was not cheerful because properly aids communication and understanding.
A. no one could tell him how to get to Grant Hall
B. he had felt too elated when he gained admission 6. The passage says that
into the university A. there are many skills of communication of which
C. there was no hope of getting out of his predicament listening is one
D. the other students were hostile. B. the art of listening is the toughest of all communication
skills
3. In the passage, the darkness of ignorance refers to the C. good listening depends on perfect functioning of
A. state of the writer before he found the notice board the auditory organs
B. ignorance of illiterates D. good listening needs formal training.
C. ignorance of those who have not been to university
D. fact that he was a freshman. 7. Creative listening involves all the following EXCEPT
A. efficient concentration
4. According to the passage the writers predicament was B. making sure that what he speaker is saying is audible
caused by C. that the listening must be able to think fast
A. the writer himself D. that there must be a co-ordination of all the
B. those who displayed the notices and perhaps the writer objectivefacilities.
C. the nature of the notice board and where it was placed
8. Creative listening implies all EXCEPT
D. those who displayed the notices.
A. a critical enterprise
B. an uncompromising rejection of the speaker’s
5. The writer remembered his first day in the university for
argument
a long time because he
C. some argument with the speaker
A. had felt very happy at being admitted into the
D. a greater deal of discipline.
university
B. could not get anybody to help him on his first 9. The tone of the passage is
day in the university A. sermonizing B. pleading C. analytical
C. had learnt the hard way how to keep informed D. argumentative
about happenings in the university
D. eventually discovered the notice board by chance. 10. A most suitable title for the passage is
A. Communication skills
B. How to listen attentively
PASSAGE II C. Listening in Communication
To listen properly is hard job, and probably one of the D. Listening argument and understanding.
toughest skills in the art of communication. Good listening has
nothing to do with proper functioning of one’s auditory organs, PASSAGE III
which is assumed to be inevitable. Good listening in the sense In the past learning English as a separate subject seemed
we are interested in, is not a biological factor, but a psychological relatively easy. The textbook selected and graded items of
one. Your auditory organs maybe in perfect order, when actually, language which were put into context and then practised
you cannot use them creatively. Creative listening implies your intensively. New items were carefully controlled so that he
being efficient, in the art of concentration, in other words, you student could cope quite easily. Now that English is used as a
concentrate on what one is saying so as to make sure that you medium of instruction, however, all this has changed. unknown
hear all that is said. At the same time you are concentrating to items of grammar and vocabulary appear in texts which attempt
hear all that is being said, you are also thinking fast, digesting to explain new and often difficult information. Difficulties with
what is being said, allowing your mental faculties and your the language interact with difficulties as regards the subject
memory to accept that which you understand, and to reject that matter. The student’s reading in his own subject slows down
which you do not understand, sorting out what you do not and his comprehension becomes less secure. He expresses
understand and storing them somewhere in your brain for future himself slowly and often fails to convey his ideas exactly. He is
discussion, and, all at the same time, rationalizing what you her, disappointed to find that under pressure he makes a lot of
accepting that which you find rational and rejecting that which unnecessary mistakes in areas where he knows the correct
you do not find rational. language forms. His social relations are difficult as he cannot
find the right phrase quickly enough to keep a conversation
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going, so his language often betrays him into dullness, coldness, sudden falls at the very time when standing upright on wobbly
or worst of all, rudeness. Instead of the student being in control legs afforded a new and fascinating perspective on existence.
of the language, the language seems now to be in control of the The child who consequently learns to make a tower ‘stands up’
student. enjoys causing the same tower to waver and collapse. In addition
All of this can be very depressing and the student can to the active mastery over a previously passive event, it makes
start to feel very anxious. Working in a foreign language is also one feel stronger to know that there is somebody weaker – and
very tiring, and the concentration and self-discipline required to towers, unlike little sisters, can’t cry and call, ‘Mummy!’.
correct one’s mistakes is very great indeed.
16. In the passage, ‘manic pleasure’ means
11. Select the most appropriate title for this passage A. wicked pleasure B. children pleasure
A. Problems of learning a new language C. unlimited pleasure D. human pleasure.
B. Problems of learning English as a separate subject
C. Problems of working in English as a foreign language 17. The expression ‘must kick it and make it collapse’ in this
D. Difficulties with interacting in English. context means
A. is forced to kick it and demolish it.
12. The student begins to experience difficulties with English B. is obliged to kick it and make it collapse
when C. cannot resist the urge to demolish it
A. learning English with other subjects D. ought to kick it and make it collapse
B. learning English as a separate subject
C. his comprehension becomes less secure 18. According to this passage, it gives the child great pleasure
D. using English as a medium of instruction. A. for Daddy to see the tower he has built
B. to destroy the tower himself
13. The expression ‘his language often betrays him into
C. to se his tower accidentally destroyed
dullness, coldness, or worst of all, rudeness’ means that
D. to be helped to destroy the tower.
A. his English language lets him down and he
becomes dull, cold and rude
19. How does the author try to explain this ‘destructive stage’?
B. the way he uses the language gives one the i
A. It is the last stage in child development.
mpression that he is dull, cold or rude
B. The child wants to displease his parents.
C. he betrays his bad manners by using English badly
C. It grows out of the child’s recent experiences
D. his dullness, coldness or rudeness betrays
of sudden falls.
his bad manners in language use.
D. The child is just going through a destructive stage.
14. The statement ‘instead of the student being in control of
the language, the language seems now to be in control of 20. What other feeling does the child derive from the fall of
the student’ implies that the his tower apart from pleasure?
A. writer is not serious, he is only being A. Strength B. Anxiety C. Pity D. Depression.
humorous
B. language can make the student behave like an PASSAGE V
Englishman The market was old, timeless Africa, loud, crowded and
C. language can make the student behave rather badly free. Here, a man sat making sandals from old discarded motor-
D. student should stop using the language so as car tyres, there another worked at an old sewing machine, making
not to be controlled by it. a nightgown-like affair while the buyer waited, a little further on,
an old goldsmith worked at his dying art, but using, now, copper
15. The most likely source of difficulty for the student working
fillings instead of gold to fashion the lovely trinkets women
with English as a medium of instruction is
wear the world over; elsewhere a woman sold country cloth
A. the newness of the subject matter in the texts
fashioned with such fine art that only Africans think of it as a
being read
garment of utility. Trade was slow and loud everywhere. This
B. unknown items of grammar and vocabulary in
was as much as social as a shopping centre. For an excuse to
the texts
spend the day at the market, a woman would walk all the way
C. the student’s slow reading rate in his own subject
from her village to town with half a dozen eggs. She would
D. the tiring nature of working in a foreign language.
spread them on a little bit of ground for which she paid rent.
PASSAGE IV Through the day she would squat on the ground and talk to
In order to approach the problem of anxiety in play, let others who came for the same reason. She would refuse to sell
us consider the activity of building and destroying a tower. her wares till it was time to leave. They were the excuse for her
Many a mother thinks that her little son is in a ‘destructive being there. There were many like that. But there were many
stage’ or even has a ‘destructive personality’ because after others for whom trade was an earnest business. Whether is
building a big, big tower, the boy cannot follow her advice to earnest or as an excuse, the traders were boisterously free, loud-
leave the tower for Daddy to see, but instead must kick it and mouthed and happy. The laugher of the market was a laughter
make it collapse. The almost manic pleasure with which children found nowhere else in all the world…
watch the collapse in a second of the product of long play-
labour has puzzled many, especially since the child does not 21. According to the passage, the woman with half a dozen
appreciate it at all if his tower falls by accident or by a helpful eggs in the market
uncle’s hand. He, the builder, must destroy it himself. This A. is doing earnest business
game, I should think, arises from the not so distant experience of
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B. comes purposely to enjoy herself 34. The demonstrators have refused to call off their action.
C. is like other traders in the market A. consolidate B. start C. resume D. end.
D. does not like her husband at home.
35. The angry waves swallowed the boat.
22. ‘An old goldsmith worked on his dying art’ means that the A. gentle B. unruffled C. cool D. serene.
A. goldsmith’s trade was no longer popular
B. goldsmith was old and might soon die 36. Ngozi and Ekaete were fast friends when we were in the
C. goldsmith knew well the art of dyeing secondary school.
D. goldsmith now used copper filings. A. friends who run very quickly together
B. friends who go without food for a long time together
23. Which of the following titles BEST reflects the content C. friends who are not easily separated from each other
of the passage? D. friends who spend too much time and energy on
A. A market scene pleasure and excitement together
B. Trading in the market
C. An African market scene 37. My son has just been rusticated from the university.
D. An African shopping centre. A. sent home to get his fees
B. sent home for misconduct
24. Which of the following statements BEST illustrates the C. sent home to rest for sometime
impression the writer has created about the market? D. sent home to become rustic
A. An old, timeless and scantily populated place
B. A place people come to for business or pleasure 39. All we need is a concerted effort to combat the epidemic.
C. An old, crowded and discarded place A. persistent B. dramatic C. joint D. concentrated
D. A place for all types of wares and laughter.
39. Jimoh has cupboard love for Sidikatu
25. Which of the following groups of items may be found A. love that never fails
for sale in the market? B. genuine love
A. Motor-car tyres, eggs and gold trinkets C. love for what he wants from her
B. Eggs, sandals and gold trinkets D. love that can fail in time of trouble
C. Country cloth, gold trinkets and sandals
D. Country cloth, copper trinkets and eggs. 40. Yahaya hardly knows on which side his bread is
buttered in the matter.
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE A. where his interest lies
B. what he must do
In question 26 to 35 choose the option opposite in meaning to C. where he should go
the word(s) in italics D. whom to contact for help.

26. Our government is making determined efforts to eradicate 41. The preacher is under a cloud among the congregation.
illiteracy. A. out of favour B. under observation
A. compulsory B. ineffective C. innocent D. unreliable. C. under weather D. confused

27. Makerere University has a large intake of students 42. The politician played to the gallery to win the election.
each year. A. obeyed the people
A. rejection B. product C. output D. turn-out. B. sang a good song for the people
28. Florence flogged the girl reluctantly. C. went to the gallery
A. eagerly B. calmly C. furiously D. laboriously D. went out of his way to appeal to the taste of the
people.
29. Sola’s car is badly damaged; he has to look for an expert 43. The hefty warder came in and all the prisoners snuffed
mechanic to fix it. out their cigarettes.
A. uneducated B. amateurish C. awkward D. unscientific. A. extinguished B. put out C. squeezed D. put down

30. Coastal plains are often very densely populated. 44. The popularity of the slogan is beginning to wane.
A. weakly B. badly C. rarely D. sparsely A. wear B. slide C. thin out D. decline

31. Wilfred was a mindless criminal. 45. The policeman looked at the face of robber and saw
A. strong B. mindful C. feeling D. memorable. tell-tale sign of a dyed-in-the-wool convict.
A. hardened B. remorseless C. heady D. hardhearted
32. The judge blamed the plaintiff for misleading the court.
46. ‘Marcus bears watching;’ remarked Emperor Nero.
A. defendant B. complainant C. accused D. prosecution.
A. deserves B. needs C. favours D. enjoys
33. The thieves vandalized the vault’s lock. 47. The senior perfect had to carry the can because he refused
A. repaired B. arranged C. serviced D. actuated. to identify the culprit
A. dispose the can of refuse
B. accept responsibility
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C. be made one of the scape-goats C. honest completely
D. bear the brunt D. completely honestly

48. The senator had the habit of setting the cat among the 60. The suspect defrauded his … victims of large sums of
pigeons whenever matters concerning his constituency money.
came up for debate A. unsuspected B. unsuspecting
A. illuminating issues that are not clear C. unexpecting D. unexpected
B. monopolizing the discussion
C. making frequent interruptions in the nature of 61. The … of the participating countries will hold a pre-
points of correction conference on the eve of the conference.
D. introducing elements of controversy and confusion A. Auditor Generals B. Auditor General
C. Auditors General D. Auditors Generals
49. Adah has not been regular at lectures because she has
been off colour. 62. The drummers struck their drums with great efforts, and
A. gloomy B. trying to hider her bleached skin the surging crowds of dancers … the grounds around
C. slightly sick D. upset the palace.
A. strutted/thumped B. kicked/stamped
50. When the man lost his two sons in a motor accident, he C. thumped/licked D. stroke/thumped
cracked up.
A. became broken-hearted 63. The chairman’s laughter was with no … to ridicule the
B. became inconsolable applicant.
C. became slightly daranged A. intention B. intend C. intendment D. intent
D. became temperamental
64. The water is not good for drinking; it’s been …. by the
51. The news of his performance in the sessional dead rabbit.
examination has made Okechukwu crestfallen. A. contaminated B. infested C. spoilt D. diseased
A. highly irritable B. dejected C. elated D. pompous
65. The austerity of the times has made people to be more
52. The man rebuked his son severely, but his words seem … in their spending
to have cut no ice. A. watchful B. circumspect C. miserly D. hesitant
A. been unconvincing
B. had no effect 66. Are you sure he prefers a horse ride … a walk?
C. not cooled the boy’s temper A. than to take B. to taking C. instead of take D. than
D. added insult to injury
67. … to your request, we have decided to provide the
53. The urban environment tends to form the nucleus of a necessary information
common dialect A. As regards B. With regards C. With regard D. Regarding
A. setting B. respository C. cell D. core
68. The price of everything seems to have … up in the last
54. I shall be with you presently few months.
A. now B. in a moment A. climbed B. shot C. risen D. flared
C. at present D. for the time being
69. Just to convince you about my commitment to the project.
55. The builder’s taste reflected superflous grandeur I shall … at the office before I leave for Kano tomorrow.
A. excellent B. superlative C. expensive D. too much A. put up an appearance B. put in an appearance
C. put up appearance D. put an appearance
In question 56-100 choose the word(s) or phras which best fills
the gap(s). 70. There was a ... of steps.
A. stair B. height C. flight D. climb.
56. The child’s recent training has not been very effective,
he is likely to … to his old habits. 71. Many young men of nowadays do not know how to
A. revert B. convert C. reverse D. revise properly …. their clothes.
A. press B. iron C. smoothen D. stretch.
57. The students went on whispering in … of the teacher.
A. dishonour B. disagreement 72. The dancers were all in … before their departure.
C. defiance D. disobedience A. good spirits B. good spirit C. high spirit D. high spirits
73. Ebun … the edge of the cliff after his shoes had failed to
58. You can never find Okwu; he is a very … person.
grip.
A. delusive B. elusive C. illusive D. disceptive
A. fell down B. fell off C. fell away D. fell from.
59. You could see that: Akpan did not give theevidence … 74. That old lady prefers … bread … clothes
A. honestly completely A. to bake/than making B. to bake/to making
B. complete honestly
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C. baking/to making D. baking/than to make A. to worry B. for worrying
C. worrying D. to have worried
75. I wonder how much …
A. cost these earrings 89. If you don’t want to … your car to robber, then don’t
B. do these earrings cost travel in the night.
C. are these earrings costing A. loose B. loss C. lose D. lost
D. these earrings cost.
90. The beautiful plan made for the expansion of the
76. The college authorities have … the students to end the business fell … as soon as the manager died.
strike. A. down B. out C. in D. through
A. called for B. called on C. called D. called at.
91. The events reported in the newspaper did not happen
77. I have been trying to locate you … years ago; they …
A. since five days B. five days now A. are of recent B. had happened recently
C. since five days now D. for five days. C. are recent D. recently happened

78. The host insisted on … what he called ‘a little gift.’ 92. There is no point getting upset by problems; I take them …
A. me to accept B. me accepting A. in my stride
C. my accepting D. my acceptance. B. on the spur of the moment
C. by leaps and bounds
79. The whole class looked forward to … Kainji Dam at D. in a jiffy.
Christmas.
A. visiting B. visit C. be visiting D. a visit 93. There is no need to stand … ceremony in matters of this
nature.
80. A government spokesman announced that efforts … the A. by B. to C. on D. for
release of the hostages are continuing.
A. to obtain B. in obtaining C. for obtaining 94. The driver will … all the students interested in going to
D. of obtaining Lagos tomorrow at 7.am outside the main buildings.
A. lift B. lift up C. pick D. pick up.
81. I know you think I’m talking nonsense, Shehu, but …
you’ll realize that I was right. 95. What bothered me about the lecture was the speaker …
A. at one time B. on time C. in time D. at times too many irrelevant words.
A. slighted B. sighted C. sited D. cited.
82. The Inspector of Education who made several trips on
the bad roads returned yesterday completely … by fever. 96. The students were suspended because they were …
A. brought down B. put down A. indisciplined B. undisciplined
C. worn down D. worn off C. undiscipled D. disciplinary

83. The vice principal asked the students to always … their 97. We heard the … of brakes which was followed by a
answers only from the textbooks recommended for the crashing noise.
course. A. screaming B. screeching
A. look out B. search out C. look up D. bring up. C. scrapping D. streaking

84. I know that your friend will not accept the proposal … 98. I had not given the question a thought before; my answer
A. and you neither B. and neither you came …
C. neither do you D. neither will you. A. momentarily B. in an instant
C. on the spur of the moment
85. Mark is a very handsome fellow who informs me that he D. just like that
has … for pretty girls.
A. a heart B. a lip C. an eye D. a check. 99. The small girl is … than her elder sister.
A. more cleverer B. very cleverer
86. Wale Agun, in creating his characters, draws freely … C. much cleverer D. much more cleverer.
his experience in life.
A. by B. in C. on D. of 100. … are good friends.
A. He and I B. I and him C. I and he D. He and me
87. When I have an appointment with someone, I hate …
waiting
A. to be keeping B. for being
kept
C. being kept D. in being kept.

88. It’s no good … about the result until you have sat for the
examination.
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Use of English 1989

COMPREHENSION B. The stranger came by bus

C. Shola and her father were idle when the stranger came
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that D. Shola’s father measured the stranger from head to foot.
follow.
PASSAGE II
PASSAGE I I am always amazed when I hear people saying that sport
As the stranger approached, Shola noticed that he was creates goodwill among nations, and that if only the common
handsome and her excitement increased. It was of such a man peoples of the world could meet one another at football or squash,
she had dreamt. He had a fine, arrogant carriage, like a soldier or they would have no inclination to meet on the battle field. even
someone in authority. When he reached the end of the pier, he if one didn’t know from concrete examples (the 1936 Olympic
addressed them in a rich, deep voice that disturbed her as the Games, for instance) that international sporting contests lead to
voluptuous rising of the tide had done. orgies of hatred, one could deduce it from general principles.
‘You’re Tunde Onu, I’m told’, he said to her father. Nearly all the sports practiced nowadays are competitive. You
‘That’s right,’ said her father. play to win, and the game has little meaning unless you do your
‘The bus conductor told me you take people to the islands’, utmost to win. On the village green, where you pick up sides
the man continued. ‘I’d like to go there if you can take me,’ and no feeling of local patriotism is involved, it is possible to
Her father examined the man from head to foot, shrewdly play simply for the fun of it and exercise; but as soon as the
measuring his capacity to pay. Then he said: question of prestige arises, as soon as you feel that you and
‘When were you thinking of going?’ some larger unit will be disgraced if you lose, the most savage
‘Right away’ combative instincts are aroused. Anyone who has played even
‘That’s a different story, for my boatman is gone to Badagry in a school football match knows this. At the international level,
and he won’t be back before nightfall. sport is frankly a mimic warfare. But the significant thing is not
‘Oh!’ said the stranger. ‘That’s too bad. You couldn’t the behaviour of the players but the attitude of the spectators;
get someone else instead of him?’ and, behind the spectators, of the nations who work themselves
‘I would have to think hard’, he said gloomily, ‘for it’s into furies over these absurd contests and seriously believe-at
not everyone would do for the job of going with me any rate for short period-that running, jumping and kicking a
beyond the bay to the islands at this time of the year’ ball are tests of national virtue.
Shola understood her father’s manoeuvre and felt ashamed. Even a leisurely game demanding grace rather than
strength can cause much ill-will. Football, a game in which
1. How would you describe Shola’s father? everyone gets hurt and every nation has its own style of play is
A. A greedy boatman far worse. Worst of all is boxing. One of the most horrible sights
B. An energetic but good-for-nothing man in the world is a fight between white and coloured boxers before
C. A loving father who wants to safeguard the a mixed audience.
interest of his daughter
D. A talkative fool. 6. The 1936 Olympic Games was cited in the passage as an
2. Which of the following is NOT true of the passage? example to show that sports can
A. Shola did not approve of her father’s behaviour A. lead to excessive hatred
towards the stranger B. create goodwill among nations
B. Shola’s father could row the stranger to the C. generate feelings of national prestige
islands alone had he so wished D. make people meet on the battle field.
C. Shola’s father exaggerated the difficulties in
order to raise his fee 7. According to the passage,
D. Shola had recently been disturbed by the tide. A. all the sports practiced nowadays are competitive
B. games have meaning only when the participants
3. Which of the following is true of the stranger in the passage? play to win
A. He was a proud and good looking man with a C. it is possible to play a game simply for the fun of it
deep voice that annoyed Shola D. on the local green, you play not to win but for the fun of it.
B. He was familiar with the people of the islands
C. He was a fine gentleman in need of help 8. Boxing is regarded as the worst game in the passage because
D. He was too proud to reciprocate Shola’s love. A. of the behaviour of the boxers themselves
B. of the amount of ill-will that can be generated
4. ‘Manoeuvre’ in the passage means among spectators of different races
A. shrewdness B. cleverness C. stupidity D. strategy C. of the ill-will that can be generated by a game
that demands strength from the competitors
5. Which of the following is true of the passage? D. it is a game in which both players get hurt rather
A. The stranger was in a bad mood badly.
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9. Which of the following statements is TRUE according to
12. As the narrator watched the snake, his feeling changed
the passage?
to those of
A. Running, jumping and kicking a ball are tests of
A. anger and apathy
national virtue
B. antipathy and perplexity
B. At the national level, sport is frankly a mimic
C. perplexity
warfare
D. angry bewilderment.
C. The most savage combative instincts are aroused
by anyone who has played in a school football match
13. The act of the snake was described as ‘fatal’ because the
D. Nations work themselves up because they tend
snake’s attack was going to
to believe that sports are tests of national virtue.
A. be fatal to the plant
10. ‘Mimic’ as used in the passage, means B. make the coiled body not to support itself upon
A. comic B. silent C. imitated D. practiced the narrow ledge
C. result in the crippling of the snake
PASSAGE III
D. result in no possible recovery.
His eyes widened as they fell upon something strange.
Something was moving slowly and cautiously along the gutter.
14. Which of the following statements is NOT true according
The pale yellow and brown of the snake’s body glistened like a
to the passage?
stream of flowing metal. By what mistake had the creature strayed
A. Osun was not an active observer in the combat
into this unlikely place? Impossible to say. Yet there it was; and
between the snake and the little plant.
its slow movements betrayed uneasiness and confusion.
B. The moves of the little plant during the
As he watched it, his instinctive antipathy melted away.
encounter with the snake were not
He could understand so well what the snake was feeling. He
voluntary.
entered into its cold, narrow intelligence and shared its angry
C. The attack of the plant during the combat was
perplexity. Its movements were cramped, its advance difficult,
entirely to blame for the fall of the snake.
and it was in constant danger of slipping over the edge. Now
D. During the combat, the behaviour of the plant
and then it lay still in dull reflection, nursing a cold anger that
could be likened to that of a human being.
could find no vent.
Meanwhile, the little plant bent downwards by every puff
15. The ‘fight’ between the plant and the snake was
of wind, was beating its thin twigs against the gutter like a birch.
prompted by
The snake seemed not to see the plant. It moved forward until a
A. the plant B. Osun C. the wind D. the snake
light touch from the twigs fell upon its head. At this, it stopped
and lifted its neck. The little plant was now doing no more than
lightly sway and dip. The snake, its head still reared, waited,
PASSAGE IV
flickering tongue. One could feel the angry heaving and straining
In the past, famine, various types of diseases, and
in the sluggish brain-the dull red anger waiting to explode. Then
natural disasters checked population growth in many countries.
came a strong gust sweeping along the wall, and at once the
At that time, man had not learnt to till the soil sufficiently to
twigs thrashed down upon the furious head-thrashed down and
improve and increase her yield. Man was unable to do much to
beat it with a movement that seemed to Osun both comic and
conquer these diseases; and natural disasters were regarded as
dreadful: in a flash, the head reared itself higher, the neck drew
a curse of the gods for which man had no answer. Thus, famine,
back, and there was a lunge at the twigs and the empty air. O
diseases, and natural disasters remained a nightmare to mankind.
fatal act! To strike, the snake had been obliged to coil, and its
With the present developments in technology and
coiled body could not support itself upon the narrow ledge. No
modern agriculture, one would have thought that the problem of
recovery was possible; it overbalanced and fell with a thud upon
starvation should have been solved. But starvation still stares
a small flat roof fifty feet below. There, Osun saw the creature
man in the face. The increase in population now accounts for
begin to writhe in agony. It could do not more than twist and
the consequent scarcity of food experienced in many parts of
turn upon the same spot.
the world. However, in some countries, man’s advancement in
Osun was trembling, but beneath his agitation there
technology and medicine has rapidly increased the population
was a deep, troubled wonder. Here was the little plant now
while improved methods of agriculture and food preservation
waving with a kind of jaunty cynicism. And there was the snake
have caused a steady rise in food production. Also, man can
writhing in agony. The world, unquestionably, was a place of
now effectively prevent and cure most diseases in the world.
mystery and horror. This was revealed in the writhing of the Unfortunately, the working population engaged in
crippled snake and in the jaunty waving of the innocent plant n agriculture is so small that it cannot produce enough to satisfy
the wind. the gaping mouths to be fed. In various parts of the world, man
11. The snake was referred to as ‘something strange’ because the has engaged himself in various jobs in order to adjust the food
A. movement of the snake along the gutter was production to match the growing population of his zone, but
slow and cautious population growth continues to outstrip food production
B. movement of the snake betrayed strange measures. Incidentally, the source of food and food preservation
uneasiness and confusion measures can be limited unlike population growth which may
C. colour of the snake’s body was an unusual not be effectively checked. Perhaps the only effective checks to
stream of flowing metal population explosion may be the drastic birth control measures.
D. environment in which the snake was found But many religious sects the world over are opposed to many of
was unusual these birth control measures.
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16. In this passage ‘nightmare’ means

23. The central point being stressed in the passage is that
A. a terrifying or deeply distressing dream
A. nuclear war is inevitable in the Third Worldcountries
B. natural disasters
B. nuclear war is imminent in the Third World countries
C. all those hazards which made life hideous
C. a country does not have to be industrialized before
D. a curse
being concerned with nuclear matters
D. the aggressive forces of the world are ready to carry
17. Natural disasters were regarded as a curse of the goods the nuclear battle into the developing nations.
on mankind because man
A. had no satisfactory solution to natural disasters 24. According to the author, current world developments point
B. had not learnt to till the soil sufficiently to
C. was suffering from the woes pronounced on A. an exclusive destruction of the developing countries
mankind by the gods B. a likely spread of nuclear calamity to the Third World
D. could not send a reply to the gods. C. nuclear exchange taking place in Africa, Asia and
Latin America
18. ‘But starvation still stares man in the face’ means starvation D. a confrontation between the industrialized and the
A. looks at the face of man developing countries.
B. is inevitable to man
C. flies in the face of man 25. From this passage, we learn that nuclear exchange in
D. still afflicts man. the Northern Hemisphere would be
A. inconceivable B. inevitable C. fatal to mankind
19. The working population engaged in agriculture cannot D. partially destrutive.
feed the teeming population sufficiently because
A. there are gaping mouths to be fed LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
B. they do not produce what they like to eat
C. there are not enough people engaged in tilling In questions 26 to 35, choose the option opposite in meaning to
the soil the word(s) in italics.
D. improved methods of agriculture have not brought
about a significant increase in food production. 26. The government is making concerted efforts at
providing essential social facilities in the rural areas.
20. Drastic birth control measures may not be effective A. dissipated B. unconcerned C. unsuccessful
checks to population explosion since many religious sects D. uncontrolled.
A. are disinclined to oppose their use
B. object to the use of many of them 27. The western allies frowned at their enemies’ indiscriminate
C. are disinclined to accept them for use bombing of their territory.
D. want the control measures applied. A. impartial B. selective C. unprovoked D. divided.

PASSAGE V 28. The girl is very intelligent, but her jokes are rather outrageous.
The evidence given so far demonstrates that a nuclear A. offensive B. courageous C. pleasant D. unwholesome.
exchange in the Northern Hemisphere would have an
unavoidable global aftermath making the continued existence of 29. We cannot but talk about his invaluable contributions
mankind impossible anywhere. It is also very improbable that a to the affairs of the society.
nuclear exchange would be confined exclusively to the vicinity A. worthless B. costly C. unrecognized D. incalculable.
of the industrialized states. Current developments indicate that
a nuclear disaster would be carried into the territories of the 30. This average fertility figure, of course, conceals wide
developing countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. These individual variations among the people
developments include the preparations being made by aggressive A. attracts B. covers C. exposes D. concludes
forces for the armed seizure of the Middle East oilfields, the
nuclear missile deployment in the south of Western Europe, the 31. Men living in an extended family know that they have to be
establishment of military bases for the Rapid Development of responsible for the welfare of some other person’s children.
Forces in North Africa and the Indian Ocean, and the tensions A. extensive B. nuclear C. neutral D. contracted.
in the South Atlantic and the Caribbean. 32. The appearance of the pall-bearers was extremely fascinating
A. magnetic B. unorganized C. interesting D. repulsive.
21. A suitable title for the passage is
A. preparation for Nuclear War on the Third 33. Many miners protested against the order to march into
World Countries the coal pits.
B. Possible Effects of Nuclear War on Third A. strut B. amble C. trudge D. ramble
World Countries 34. The hasty action will bring nothing but discredit to them
C. Strategies for a Nuclear Confrontation A. honour B. shame C. reward D. disgrace
D. The Merits and Demerits of Nuclear Exchange
35. The man’s health has deteriorated in the hospital
22. ‘Aggressive’ in the passage means A. collapsed B. improved C. worsened D. revived.
A. militant B. dissident C. reactionary D. revolutionary.
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In question 36 to 65, choose the option nearest in meaning to A. quota B. grain C. evidence D. statement
the word(s) or phrase(s) in italics.
51. The case was thrown out because the court lacked
36. The boss made a clean sweep of all the old hands in the office jurisdiction
A. completely got rid B. cleanly swept the office A. jurors to help the judge B. authority
C. made a quick change D. made an adjustment. C. prosecutors D. appellate powers.

37. Her anxiety was apparent to everyone present at the 52. The chief will launch the fund-raising appeal.
ceremony A. make a speech at B. eat his afternoon meal during
A. real B. visible C. transparent D. unknown C. travel by boat to D. start off.
38. Our experience on board the aircraft is nothing to write
home about. 53. Sade has been employed. But she is unhappy because
A. not remarkable B. not unpleasant it is a run of the mill job.
C. nobody’s business D. not a home affair. A. a boring B. an exciting C. a tiring D. an ordinary

39. The rampage was organized and directed by the 54. I would like to believe that this brilliant performance of
militant ones among the students. yours is not just a flash in the pan.
A. soldiers B. rebellious ones C. belligerent ones A. repeated occurrence B. normal happening
D. commandoes. C. flashy happening D. chance occurrence

40. The governor advised his people to get off the beaten 55. As the wedding day approached, the bride began to
tracks in their approach to community matters. develop cold feet.
A. use the old roads A. fall sick B. feel cold C. be reluctant
B. make the tracks better D. become aggressive
C. find new ways
D. avoid beating about the bush. 56. I told my brother to get the matter off his chest as soon
as possible.
41. It was their custom to keep an open house on Sundays. A. give serious thought to the matter
A. welcome all visitors B. say what he has been anxious to say
B. keep the shutters open C. make a brief comment
C. leave the house open D. state his points clearly.
D. expose the whole house.
57. He has a big heart, but he is inept at following a witty
42. The president made a passionate appeal for calm. conversation.
A. inflamed B. disturbing C. intense D. lively A. large B. huge C. warm D. fragile

43. Mali stole the day’s takings from the bakery 58. The clerk refused to answer for the mistakes made by
A. receipts B. collections C. contributions D. offerings. the manager and his assistants.
A. reply to B. give an answer
44. You do not need to stutter in order to show your excitement C. accept responsibility for D. account for
A. jump about B. shout C. sob D. stammer
59. Most of his observations were wide off the mark
45. What embarrasses me is the stealthy way in which the A. comprehensible B. irrelevant C. pertinent
new servant goes about his duties in this house D. unacceptable.
A. indolent B. furtive C. boisterous D. agile
60. I didn’t think she could be so easily taken in by his pretences.
46. I have never been accustomed to seeing my brother in A. flattered B. deceived C. overcome D. blackmailed.
such a pensive mood
A. merry B. infuriated C. thoughtful D. hostile 61. Do you have the same aversion as I do for war films?
A. bitterness B. dislike C. criticism D. preference
47. The administrator’s apathy was soon noticed by all his
subordinates 62. His summary of the meeting was brief and to the point.
A. indifference B. kindness C. concern D. inefficiency A. precise B. accurate C. exact D. crucial

48. The way he handled the whole issue was rather despicable 63. The minister hit on a plan to retain his post after many
A. disturbing B. likeable C. contemptible D. frustrating months of lobbying.
A. drew up a plan B. discovered a plan
49. The authenticity of the reporter’s claims should be C. selected a plan D. designed a plan
established before taking further actions on the matter
A. facts B. source C. evidence D. genuineness 64. My friend will hate his uncle forever because he left
him in the lurch in his hour of need.
50. After careful investigation, the police found no iota of A abandoned him B. punished him
truth in Ibrahim’s allegations. C. disinherited him D. despised him
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A. make up B. make do C. make out D. make good.
65. Our school prefect is too officious and we all hate him
because of his behaviour. 81. ‘Leave me alone’ blurted the angry customer. ‘I cant …
A. efficient B. efficacious C. over-zealous D. active with your price hikes’.
A. make do B. put up C. deal D. make up.
In question 66 to 100, choose the word(s) or phrase(s) which
best fill(s) the gap(s). 82. The committee was disgusted … the way the office was
being run.
66. When I met Amadi yesterday it was the first time I … him A. at B. by C. with D. over.
for six months.
A. had seen B. saw C. have seen D. have been seeing. 83. Many a man … done without milk in … tea these days.
A. had/their B. has/his C. have/their D. had/his.
67. A student’s natural ability should be a … factor in his
choosing a course of study at the university 84. The … car is the center of attraction.
A. determined B. determining C. determinant A. small racing light-green
D. determinate B. racing small light-green
C. small light-green racing
68. Many unrelated issues were touched upon in the … of D. light-green small racing.
the discussion
A. cause B. course C. coarse D. curse. 85. If I had not finished my assignment, I would not … the
opportunity to go with the group
69. The traveller had to run … in order to … the train. A. have been given B. be given C. be giving
A. first/catch B. fast/cash C. fast/catch D. first/cash. D. have been giving.

70. When the driver lost control of his vehicle, the 86. You had better … what the doctor recommended this
pedestrians began to run for … morning
A. their dear lives B. their dear life C. dear lives D. dear life. A. done B. do C. did D. be doing.

71. My uncle is one of the … of the society. 87. … with him for two years, I cannot guarantee his good
A. elitists B. elites C. elite D. elitist behaviour.
A. To work B. Having worked C. To have worked
72. The new singlet factory is built on the … of Aba township D. By working.
A. outstretch B. outskates C. outskirts D. outskirt
88. This is the kind of stew …
73. If Kaka hadn’t tried to stand up in the boat, he … into A. which its taste I do not like
the lake. B. which I do not like the taste of it
A. wouldn’t have fallen B. will not have fell C. of which taste I do not like
C. will not have fallen D. wouldn’t have fell. D. the taste of which I do not like.

74. The soldiers were sufficiently equipped with … 89. … is always superior to any other in town.
A. arms and ammunition B. arms and ammunitions A. There’s B. Theirs C. Their’s D. There.
C. arm and ammunitions D. arm and ammunitions.
90. I looked for you all over the campus but I could not … you
75. My younger brother is going to the stream with … boys. A. find B. see C. meet D. catch.
A. two other little B. other little two C. two little other
D. other two little. 91. The manager was angry with Dauda for … seeds of
discord among the workers.
76. Okoro intends to wear his … dress to the zoo this afternoon. A. planting B. sewing C. cultivating D. sowing
A. white cotton new B. white new cotton 92. The government has provided new … for the local
C. new white cotton D. cotton white new government polls.
A. guard lines B. guide lines C. guardlines D. guidelines.
77. Sociologists are concerned with the problem of man in …
A. a society B. the society C. society D. some society. 93. Tsado and his wife are always fighting. The … to be
drawn from this is that they are not happy together.
78. The contractors were short … cash even before the A. reference B. inference C. difference D. deference
project was completed.
A. in B. for C. with D. of 94. The teacher invited Akpan and … to his office
A. myself B. me C. I D. himself.
79. The judge acquitted the accused … all the eight counts.
A. of B. on C. from D. upon 95. One of the rioters who … arrested yesterday … released.
A. was/had been B. were/have been C. was/have been
80. If we go hunting this week-end, we’ll have to … with D. were/has been.
scratch meals and sleep in a hut in the forest.
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96. Although I am watching television, I … what you are A. mature/mature B. matured/mature
saying C. mature/matured D. matured/matured.
A. am hearing B. can hear C. have heard D. was hearing
99. Our manager has instructed that … of customers must
97. Because of the …he did to my car, I am going to sue him be barred from our bank.
for … A. those type B. that type C. that types D. this types.
A. damage/damages B. damages/damage
C. damages/damages D. damage/damage 100. He regarded the betrayal of his friend as a stab…the back
A. on B. at C. in D. from
98. He was not a very … student when I first met him but
the years … his character ultimate.

Use of English 1990

COMPREHENSION B. elephants are dangerous animals

C. no young Emopa attracts a girl’s admiration
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that until he has killed a dangerous animal
follow. D. when elephants are sighted, there is great excitement
and fierce competition among the young men.
PASSAGE I
As a rule the Emopa are very brave indeed, and are 2. The legend that the lions were invulnerable was
among the few Africans who still hunt lion with the spear. They confirmed by the fact that
also kill elephants, not for food but for spear blooding, or to A. the local Emopa petitioned a ‘holy man’ to
prove their manhood. When elephants are located, there is come and exorcize the spirits
great excitement and fierce competition among the young men. B. many famous hunters had tried without
Each tries to be the first to blood his spear: the one who does so, success in the past to kill the lions
claims the trophy. No young man is looked upon with favour by C. the ‘holy man’ failed in his bid to exorcise the spirits
the girls until he has won his spurs by killing a dangerous animal. D. brave as the Emopa are, the lions completely
But brave as the Emopa are, two fierce man-eaters overawed them.
completely overawed them. This was partly due to the cunning
and boldness of the lions, partly to the fact that, when hunted, 3. The lions played the game of ‘baw’ because
they would always retreat into dense riverine undergrowth, where A. they wanted to raid a village
it was impossible for a man to poise and throw a spear. Super- B. it was a popular game of unknown antiquity
stitution had also added its quota to the fear with which they played all over Africa
were regarded. It was said that before starting off on a raid the C. they want to decide whether to go on a raid or not
lions would retire to an open sandy place and there make two D. if the omens were good they would raid a
rows of depressions in the sand with their paws. Then, using village and claim a victim.
twigs as counters, they would play the ancient game of ‘baw’ (a
game of unknown antiquity, which resembles draughts and is 4. The famous hunters failed to kill the lions because the
played all over Africa). If the omens were good they would raid A. lions were regarded as supernatural beings
a village and claim a victim; if not, they would wait. Another B. lions were cunning and bold
story had it that the lions were the spirits of two ‘holy men’ who C. Emopa used the spear to hunt for the lions
had now come back in this shape to seek their revenge. So D. hunters did not have enough time.
strongly was this view held that the local Emopa had petitioned
a practicing ‘holy man’ to come from a great distance to exorcise 5. According to the passage, which of the following is
the spirits. He came with book, bell and candle and charged a NOT a superstitious reason for fearing the lions?
fee of a hundred goats, but the lions continued their A. Many famous hunters had tried and failed to kill
depredations. To add to the legend of the lions’ invulnerability the lions
many famous hunters had tried on previous occasions to kill B. The lions were bold and when hunted, they would
them and had failed owing to lack of time. This confirmed the retreat to where a spear could not be thrown at them.
Emopa’s opinion that the lions were supernatural beings and C. The lions were the spirits of two ‘holy men’ who
that it was useless to hunt them. came back to seek their revenge.
1. The young men of Emopa would hunt for elephants because D. The lions played the ancient game of ‘baw’ before
A. they are among the few Africans that hunt lions starting on a raid to determine whether to proceed
with a spear or wait.
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PASSAGE II aware that there is any alternative. In a study made in Thailand,
By the time a child has reached the age of two years, it was noted that the literate woman marries later and ceases
the psychologist says that he is ‘self-conscious’. This is not childbearing earlier than her non-literate counterpart. But the
the same as the lay use of the term, although there is a latter is so chained to her household by the necessities of
connection. The psychologist means that the child is aware gathering fuel, preparing food and tending children that she is
that he is a self and not an extension of his mother. This awareness very difficult to reach, even if health services, nutrition,
is shown in such behavioural acts as disobedience and the use education, maternal and child health centers are available in her
of the word ‘no’ with emphasis, because the child is aware that community. She does not understand what they are intended to
he does not have to obey parental commands. Parental do.
(Adapted from Margot Higgins: War on Hunger).
commands (moral imperatives) are given throughout these two
years first for the child’s own safety e.g. ‘Don’t touch the fire
and secondly, so that he begins to develop some sense of right 11. The phrase ‘a dismal picture’ means
and wrong. An adult is able to weigh the consequences of his A. a dull show B. an interesting show
actions, partly because he has developed a concept of idea of C. a sad situation D. a dreadful appearance.
time. The young child lacks this concept and is governed by
immediate desires which must be fulfilled. Thus in some 12. According to the writer, most girls in less developed
situations, he can be excused for not behaving morally, i.e., countries are not in school because
making the choice which is ‘good’ for himself and others. In A. they refuse to be educated
other situations, he knows what is right and chooses not to do B. they prefer getting married and having children
it. Immature adults can also behave in this self-centred way. C. the education of boys is rated higher
D. the girls have no employment opportunities
6. The immature adult is like the child because after leaving school.
A. he has just become self-conscious
B. he has learnt to use the word ‘no’ 13. The non-literate woman is very difficult to reach because she
C. he has no concept of time A. does not understand the value of education
D. some of his actions are deliberately irrational. and health services
B. is too far from the city and from school
7. What main difference is mentioned between the child C. is not permitted to go out to attend clinics for
and the adult? health services
A. Age difference B. Weight difference D. can only gather fuel and prepare food.
C. Time difference D. Developmental difference.
14. The phrase ‘too late’ as used in the passage implies
8. What right has the mother to give orders to the child? that the woman
A. She is the ‘owner’ of the child. A. ought to have started producing children earlier
B. She is stronger than the child. B. goes on producing children when she ought
C. She understands the environment better than the child.
to have stopped
D. She is more self-conscious than the child. C. fails to marry early enough for her to produce children
D. had all her children at an advanced age.
9. The two-year old child begins to refuse orders
A. in order to annoy his parents 15. The writer emphasizes that in less developed countries,
B. because he does not understand them A. the education of girls is not important
C. to assert his independence B. the non-literate woman has some advantage
D. because he has just learnt the new word ‘no’. because she has more children
10. What kind of awareness does the child demonstrate at two?
C. the literate female is a threat to the male in employment
A. That he does not love his mother D. there is a need to give boys and girls equal
B. Consciousness of all things around him opportunities in education.
C. That he should think of himself alone
D. That he is different and separate from others. PASSAGE IV
The importance of the code theory in education lies in
PASSAGE III the fact that the school system requires the use of an elaborated
If we examine the opportunities for education of girls code but not all students have access to it. the importance of
or women in less developed countries, we usually find a dismal this theory to sociology lies in the fact that the differential access
picture. In some countries, the ratio of boys to girls in secondary to the elaborated code does not occur randomly but rather is
schools is more than seven to one. what happens to the girls? controlled by the class system. Lower working-class urban
Often they are kept at home to look after younger siblings and to children tend to have a restricted code. Middle-class children
perform a variety of domestic chores. Their education is not possess both a restricted and an elaborated code. The two
perceived as in any way equal in importance to that of boys. groups enter into different types of relationships and learn to
When a non-literate or barely literate girl reaches adolescence, express themselves in different ways through language. They
she has little or no qualification for employment, even if her do not use language for the same functions, some of which, it
community provides any opportunity for the employment of seems, are necessary for the school situation. When the lower
women. The solution is to get her married as soon as possible, working-class child is expected implicitly to exploit language for
with the inevitable result that she produces children too soon, functions he normally does not express verbally, a discontinuity
too often and too late. With no formal education, she is hardly is created between his home and his school environment. He
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has learned to verbalize certain range of meanings in his home soldier looked at the volume and remarked, ‘A book? What’s the
and when he enters school, another range of meanings is point? I’ve already got one!’
required. There is, then a very subtle, but nonetheless very real,
sense in which what is taught is personally irrelevant for this 21. Books are different from other goods because
child. The school system does not talk to him. Middle class A. customers for the book trade are much restricted
children, possessing both codes, experience no such B. books are not manufactured but printed
discontinuity. They can use language for those functions C. one cannot tell so easily which books will
required by the school. prove saleable
D. books can be kept in stock much longer than
other goods.
16. An appropriate title for this passage is
A. Language and Education B. Education and Sociology 22. The problem of selection in the book trade involves
C. Codes and Sociology D. Codes and Education A. holding a stock large enough for the public to
choose from
B. determining which books will sell fast
17. The groups of children mentioned as examples in the C. being a sales representative of large publishing houses
passage are D. being able to review the latest publications.
A. rural and urban working-class and middle-class
B. urban working-class and rural middle-class 23. How many solutions to the bookseller’s problems are
C. urban working-class and rural and urban middle-class offered in this passage?
A. Two B. Three C. Four D. Five
D. urban middle class and rural and urban working-
class. 24. Of the solutions proposed for the bookseller’s
problems, how many are actually positive?
18. ‘Restricted code’ and ‘elaborated code’ are A. Two B. Three C. Four D. None.
A. synonyms B. homonyms C. contradictions D. antonyms
25. The story of the old soldier and a book in the passage
is an illustration of the point that
19. It can be assumed reasonably that language has A. the general had already got a book
A. only one code B. a book is of interest only to those to whom
B. two codes that book means something
C. three codes, two used for education C. soldiers do not like the book trade because a
book is enough for a general
D. more than three codes, but only two used for education.
D. booksellers face a real dilemma because of a
constantly changing clientele.
20. ‘The school system does not talk to him’ means that the
A. teachers do not talk to him LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
B. teachers talk to him differently from the way
In each of questions 26 to 36, choose the option opposite in
other pupils do meaning to the word in italics.
C. headmaster and teachers do not talk to him
D. teachers talk to him differently from the way 26. The policeman was asked to investigate the matter.
he is talked to at home. A. ask about B. forget about C. examine D. inquire about
27. Lola was agitated when the sad news of her mother’s
accident was broken to her.
PASSAGE V A. excited B. clam C. uncontrollable D. unreasonable
This passage sums up the two problems peculiar to the 28. Through his parents’ poverty placed many obstacles
book trade which make it different from any other trade – the in his path as a young man, Olu succeeded at last.
problem of selection and the problem of stocking. How is the A. hurdles B. advantages C. temptations D. diversions.
bookseller to tell what, in an enormous output, will prove saleable, 29. Binta sobbed by the door because she had lost her mother’s
before the full weight of unsold items affects the balance of his precious necklace.
business, and how is he, at the same time, to hold a stock large A. cried B. smiled C. wept D. laughed.
enough to enable the public to choose freely? He may seek to
escape from this dilemma by becoming the passive sales 30. The president took exception to the ignoble role the
young man played in the matter.
representative of large publishing houses or distribution A. honourable B. embarrassing C. dishonourable
networks, but he is then no longer a book seller. He may take D. extraordinary.
refuge in the sale of safe items to a restricted circle of customers,
but he thereby cuts himself off from all that is vital in his trade 31. The man who had been seriously ill was convalescing
and dooms himself to mediocrity and stagnation. On the other at a sea-side resort
A. regaining health B. deteriorating in health
hand, he may protect his business from the danger of idle stock C. recuperating D. relaxing.
by speculating on the latest publications, but this is a dangerous
game in that it implies a constantly changing clientele: readers 32. For millions of years, the world’s resources have
remain faithful to their own discoveries and failure to follow up remained boundless.
a book, an author or a type of literature means dismissing the A. unlimited B. scarce C. indomitable D. limited.
public responsible for their success. 33. It seems fashionable, in some quarters today, to decry
This brings us back to the fact that books are examinations and the ability to pass them.
undefinable. The story is told of a certain country with a great A. extol B. abuse C. entreat D. discourage
many generals where it was decided to present a rare and valuable
edition of an old book to a general about to retire. The old
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34. Ogedegbe was an intrepid fighter for human freedom 51. Ngozi spoke to her father quite candidly on her
and dignity proposed marriage
A. timid B. half-hearted C. fearless D. undaunted. A. rudely B. faithfully C. frankly D. respectfully.

35. The difference between the experimental procedures was 52. The secretary was advised to put on a cheerful disposition
imperceptible to me. whenever the manager arrives.
A. negligible B. significant C. obvious D. obscure A. a good dress B. a smiling face C. a happy look
D. good make-up.
36. His antipathy to religious ideas makes him unpopular
A. remedy B. consciousness C. hostility D. receptiveness. 53. The cereal is fortified with multi-vitamins.
A. enriched B. prepared C. endowed D. mixed.
In each of questions 37 to 55, choose the option nearest in
meaning to the word or phrase in italics. 54. The lawyer told the court some unsavoury details about
the case.
37. The boss told the man to let sleeping dogs lie. A. unworthy B. unintelligible C. unpleasant
A. not to look for trouble D. uninteresting.
B. not to disturb other people
C. let the dogs sleep well 55. The professor’s thesis was the precursor of nuclear
D. let the trouble begin. studies.
A. preliminary B. climax C. developer D. forerunner.
38. The fact that Ruth has inherited her late husband’s house
is cold comfort to her In each of questions 56 to 100, choose the word(s) or phrase(s)
A. appropriate comfort B. inadequate comfort which best fill(s) the gap(s).
C. no comfort at all D. wet comfort
56. Why do you worry about such … Matters?
39. The headmaster decided to make good his promise to A. insignificant B. significant C. non-significant
the students. D. unsignificant.
A. fulfill B. improve C. complete D. realize
57. It was difficult to … a man walking on the moon two centuries
40. The advertisement served as a smoke-screen for the A. contrive B. perceive C. conceive D. imagine
activities of the company 58. This section of the test will … questions on set passages
A. a camouflage B. a protection C. an enhancement A. consist B. comprise of C. contain D. carry
D. an exchange.
59. Animals in …. behave differently from animals living in
41. My plans are still up in the air. the natural habitat.
A. being publicized B. uncertain C. uncovered A. prison B. bondage C. captivity D. slavery.
D. unprotected.
60. After months of tedious climbing, the team reached the
42. The judge always takes a hardline on such issues … of the mountain
A. complex stand B. simple stand A. end B. summit C. height D. terminal.
C. uncompromising stand D. difficult stand.
61. After Jerry had made the bed, he … on it.
43. The case was dismissed for want of evidence. A. layed B. laid C. lied D. lay
A. for want of facts B. for want of opinions
C. for insufficient discussions D. for lack of proof. 62. Knowledge of figures of speech as well as of idioms and
lexical items………. In this section.
44. That team has become indomitable quite recently. A. is tested B. have been tested C. are tested
A. incorrigible B. disobedient C. unconquerable D. unruly. D. were tested.
63. The buildings damaged by the rainstorm ……….. schools,
45. The flock suddenly became restive after midday. hospitals and private houses.
A. quiet B. submissive C. disorderly D. fidgety A. included B. include C. were included D. was including.
64. I would have been off to see Biola at Festac Town by
46. Your reaction underscores the point I was making. the time you … tomorrow.
A. reveals B. proves wrong C. emphasizes D. justifies. A. returned B. return C. are returning D. would return

47. What he received from the visitor was invaluable 65. The lecturer said that we … be able to finish the next
A. priceless B. worthless C. valueless D. costly. chapter this evening.
A. must B. can C. shall D. should.
48. The potential resources of the university should be
fully exploited. 66. If you want a successful marriage, you … pray for it.
A. important B. latent C. effective D. abundant. A. have better B. better C. had better D. would
better.
49. Tom’s aberrant behaviour attracted attention.
A. rascally B. selfish C. heady D. abnormal 67. I could have agreed with your action if I … not … you
promise to increase he worker’s salaries.
50. A number of people impersonating tax-officials were A. have/heard B. had/heard C. were/haring D. was/hearing.
arraigned before the Chief Magistrate this morning.
A. arranged B. paraded C. moved D. brought. 68. The chemistry teacher seized the girl’s comic … during
the laboratory work.
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A. which she had been reading 86. The answers to the questions were discussed … the
B. which she has been reading students.
C. which she had read A. between B. by C. for D. to
D. which she is reading. 87. I can always depend … my father for my survival.
A. on B. in C. upon D. by
69. He … during the whole of last month.
A. was sick B. has been sick C. had been sick D. had sicken. 88. The point … the story is that he is the man’s son.
A. in B. of C. off D. around
70. Ladies and gentlemen, our guest speaker, Dr. Oni …
also a resident doctor at the teaching hospital. 89. The Director is … pains to ensure the success of the
A. who is B. which is C. who was D. is programme.
A. in B. at C. on D. having
71. We are not surprised he was not elected; every one of
his constituents … that he is unreliable. 90. Bola broke … when he heard the news of the arrest of his
A. know B. knows C. will know D. do know twin brother.
A. up B. off C. away D. down
72. I have the … of meeting him.
A. previlege B. privilege C. previledge D. priviledge 91. Yemi said ‘I’m coming’ to her friend Biola who … Was
waiting for her instead of saying …
73. The pastor said ‘lay … your hearts to God’. A. wait for me in a moment B. I will come
A. bier B. bear C. bare D. bar C. I’ll be with you in a moment D. I’ll come now.

74. Now, I am used … Bread without butter. 92. ‘Be that as…we are determined to get to the root of the
A. to eat B. in eating C. of eating D. to eating. matter!’ shouted the officer.
A. you like B. it may C. it would D. it might
75. Dan and Tina met on the ship and greeted …
A. one another B. themselves C. each other D. 93. When the farmers were found guilty of unlawful
theirselves. assembly and procession, their lawyer… before the
sentence was passed.
76. One can no longer take for granted today what … A. begged for mercy B. made a plea for mitigation
enjoyed in the University some years ago, can …? C. made an overture D. made a plea for litigation
A. you/you B. one/one C. he/he D. one/you
94. My price for the pair of shoes is fifty naira. I cannot …
77. Attention has shifted to the teaching of Science anything less than that.
nowadays … the usefulness of the Arts. A. bear with B. settle for C. agree with D. tolerate.
A. in spite of B. not minding C. oblivious to D. forgetting.
95. Aishatu: Could you please give this book to Aminu?
78. … to help him, being the only person in the vicinity. Chidi: Certainly, I … him on something, so it wont be …
A. It was not possible B. There was no one A. I’ll see/anything B. I’ll be seeing/any worry
C. He had nobody D. No person was around. C. I’ll be seeing/any bother D. I can see/any serious.

79. I heard that Kayode’s car was stolen last night. It … be 96. The company representative in Nigeria is a …
true because I saw him… it, this morning. A. smart little Japanese B. little smart Japanese
A. should not/driving B. should not/drive C. smart Japanese little D. little Japanese smart.
C. cannot/drive D. cannot/driving.
97. The shipping company advertised for … accountants.
80. The competitor who … earlier on has started … again A. two young, but highly competent, Nigerian
A. fainted/to run B. had fainted/to run B. young, but highly competent two Nigerian
C. fainted/running D. fainted/on running. C. two Nigerian, young, but highly competent
D. highly competent, but young, two Nigerian.
81. A number of teachers in secondary schools are not so
well disposed to … these days, … they? A. teach/aren’t 98. Let’s have a cup of coffee, …
B. teaching/are C. teach/do D. teach/are A. shall we? B. will we? C. should we? D. could we?

82. If it had rained, we would have had to postpone the 99. No matter to whom I ... nobody in the crowd had a clue
concert. It didn’t rain, so … to what was going out.
A. we won’t have to B. we would have had to A. discussed B. asked C. turned D. contacted
C. we wouldn’t have to D. we didn’t have to.
100. Olu, Akpan and Ovbiagele’s ... make people to believe
83. … all probability, the train will arrive today. that they belong to the same school of thought.
A. In B. Under C. For D. By A. philosophy B. philosophys C. philosophies
D. philososphy’s.
84. We cannot explain his objection … the new law.
A. for B. with C. at D. to.

85. Silk materials ought to be prohibited … being brought

into the country.
A. about B. in C. from D. by
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Use of English 1991

COMPREHENSION D. Hearing loss which can be corrected by

medical treatment.
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that
follow. 4. ‘The same thing happened to aviators’ This excerpt
according to the passage means
PASSAGE I A. that riveters were particularly susceptible
The young are not listening to their elders, and perhaps B. industrial and military deafness
they never have. But now it happens that, with many of them, C. that continued loud noise resulted in deafness
the reason may be medical. The young aren’t listening because D. that working in a boiler factory affected one’s
they can’t hear. Just as nagging parents have long suspected, hearing.
otologists (hearing specialists) now report that youngsters are
going deaf as a result of blasting their eardrums with 5. What is the difference between an old-fashioned military
electronically amplified rock ‘n’ roll. band on the one hand and discotheques and rock ‘n’
The hearing specialists used to worry about loud noise roll joints on the other?
as a cause of deafness only in industrial and military situations. A. One is old-fashioned while the other is modern.
They knew that eight hours of daily exposure, year in and year B. One produces sounds for marching, the other
out, to the din of the proverbial boiler factory, would eventually for disco.
result in permanent hearing loss. Riveters were particularly C. One has drums, the other has guitars.
susceptible. Then they learned that the same thing happened to D. One produces amplified sounds, the other
aviators. After the advent of jets, the hazard applied to ground does not.
crews at airports and flight-deck personnel aboard aircraft carriers
– hence the introduction of insulated, noise-absorbing plastic PASSAGE II
earmuffs. The preparation which a study of the humanities can
In discotheques and rock ‘n’ roll joints, the trouble is provide, stems from three observations about education in our
not much in the instruments themselves, or the close quarters. world of accelerating social and technological change. First,
The blame goes to the electronic amplifiers. An old-fashioned with the rate of change, we cannot hope to train our students
military band, playing a march in Ramat Park, generated as much for specific technologies. That kind of vocational education is
sound. But the sound was not amplified and was dissipated in obsolescent. By the time the specific training will have been
the open air. A trombonist sitting in front of a tuba player might completed the world will have moved on.
be a bit deaf for an hour or so after a concert; then his hearing If our education of narrow training, we will not be prepared
returned to normal. A microphone hooked up to a public address to change. Second, and paradoxically, what our students desire
system did not appreciably increase the hearing hazard. What from their education is preparation for specific careers, – business,
he did was multiple microphones and speakers, and the engineering, medicine, computer programming and the like, but
installation of internal microphones in such instruments as we will not be able to train them for a life-long career. Their
guitars and bouzoukis. confronting the depressed job market gives our students a certain
anxiety, but the solution they seek in vocation training is not
1. The young are not listening to their elders because sufficient. Third, we sense in our students a narrowing
A. they never have materialism, with the good life defined in terms of material
B. their parents nag constantly comforts. Education, then means learning to do a job which will
C. they are permanently deaf make money. I see in this definition a limiting sense of what
D. they appear to be going deaf. education and thus life offer, a definition which excludes joy
and meaning. Our approach to the study of the humanities
2. ‘Just as nagging parents have long suspected implies responds to these three related problems. In our changing, yet
that the parents suspected’ that narrowing world, the teaching of the humanities finds one
A. their children did not listen to them powerful justification – it teaches students how to think.
B. children could not hear properly after listening
to amplified music 6. ‘Our world of accelerating social and technological change’
C. otologists were always right means that
D. children were disobedient because they did A. our world is moving too fast socially and technologically
not listen to their parents. B. our world is going through more rapid, social and
technological change
3. What is the result of being subjected to the din of the C. the social and technological change is more exhilarating
proverbial boiler factory for a prolonged length of time? than before
A. loss of hearing which will never improve. D. the social and technological change is accelerating
B. Total deafness eight hours a day. our world.
C. Temporary deafness.
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7. What is the major weakness of training students for A. both are out of our control
specific technologies? B. both can accommodate contradictions
A. It trains students for only one type of career. C. neither functions in a continuous manner
B. It helps students to acquire money later when they D. both deal with non-real issues.
are employed.
C. It makes them anxious for a job in the market 13. The child would feel responsible for his mother’s death
D. It cannot help students to cope with the rapid even if it is unconnected with his wishes because
changes in the world. A. he regards his wish as a curse
B. he hates her and wants her deaf
8. ‘We sense in our students a narrowing materialism’ C. his needs are not gratified
means that our students’ concept of education is one that D. he cannot distinguish between wish and reality.
A. prepares them for money, joy and meaning
B. makes them ready to confront the depressed 14. ‘Traumatized’ as used in the passage means
job market A. angered
C. only prepare them to acquire material comforts B. made happy and satisfied
D. trains them for a life-long career. C. made sad and dejected
D. made to feel guilty.
9. According to the writer, a study of the humanities
A. is accepted by present day students as essential 15. From the child’s point of view, in what way is death to a
B. prepares students for specific careers divorce?
C. provides a missing link in the technological A. Both are losses
education of our students B. Both are temporary
D. is the best solution to the problem of C. Both would involve his mother
unemployment. D. He feels responsible in each case.

10. What type of education does the writer advocate for

our students? PASSAGE IV
A. Vocational as well as technological education Undergraduate students in psychology and education
B. Business, engineering, medicine and computer come to their first course in statistics with diverse expectations
programming. of and backgrounds in mathematics. Some have considerable
C. Technological education plus the humanities. formal training and quantitative aptitude and look forward to
D. Technological education only. learning statistics. Other – perhaps the majority, including some
of those who aspire to postgraduate studies – are less confident
PASSAGE III in their quantitative skills. They regard a course in statistics as a
One fact that we have to comprehend is that, in our necessary evil for the understanding or carrying out of research
unconscious mind, we cannot distinguish between a wish and a in their fields, but an evil nonetheless.
deed. We are all aware of some of our illogically dreams in which This third edition, like this predecessor, is directed
two completely opposite statements can exist side by side – primary at the latter audience. It was written with the conviction
very acceptable in our dreams but unthinkable and illogical in that statistical concepts can be described simply without loss of
our walking state. Just as our unconscious mind cannot accuracy and that understanding of statically techniques
differentiate between the wish to kill somebody in anger and the research tools can be effectively promoted by discussing them
act of having done so, the young child is unable to make this within the context of their application to concrete data rather
distinction. The child who angrily wishes his mother to drop than as pure abstractions. Further, its contents are limited to
dead for not having gratified his needs will be traumatized greatly those statically techniques that are widely used in the literature
by the actual death of his mother – even if this event is not of psychology and to the principles underlying them.
linked closely in time with his destructive wishes. He will always The changes that have been made in this edition reflect
take part of or the whole of the blame for the loss of his mother. both the results of our teaching experience and the increasing
He will always say to himself – rarely to others – ‘I did it. I am prominence being given by statisticians to certain topics. Thus
responsible. I was bad, therefore mummy left me.’ It is well to our discussions of some procedures, particularly those in the
remember that the child will react in the same manner if he loses realms of descriptive statistics, which students grasp easily,
a parent by divorce, separation or desertion. have been shortened or rearranged. The treatment of other topics
Death is often seen by a child as an impermanent thing has been expanded. Greater emphasis has been placed on
and has therefore little distinction from a divorce in which he sampling theory, hypothesis testing, and the notion of statistical
may have an opportunity to see a parent again. power.
11. This passage emphasizes
16. The book discussed in this passage is about
A. a child growing up in ignorance
A. psychology and education
B. our unconscious mind
B. mathematics for undergraduate students.
C. a child’s inability to distinguish between
C. quantitative skills for postgraduate studies
dream and reality
D. statistical procedure relating to research.
D. illogical dreams.
17. The expression, ‘necessary evil’ means that
12. Our unconscious minds and dreams are alike in that
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A. evil is essential in studying the subject discussed 21. Which of the following titles best sums up the passage?
B. studying the subject is an unpleasant experience A. The need for effective communication
which must be endured B. Breakdown in communication
C. only those who are evil can understand the subject C. Communication in technological societies
D. those lacking in quantitative skills see the D. Bad communication practices.
subject as an evil.
22. According to the passage, which of the following are
18. From the passage, we learn that the book discussed has been NOT likely to contribute to a break-down in
A. reprinted twice B. published three times communication?
C. rewritten three times D. revised twice. A. People’s attitudes and feelings
B. Ambiguously phrased instruction
19. The changes that were made in the book were motivated by C. managements and trade unions
A. a professional experience and popularity of topics D. Management specialists and behavioural scientists.
B. teaching experience and statisticians’ views
of some topics 23. From the text, it can be inferred that a good communicator
C. the examination results of previous needs to
generations of students A. create favourable communication conditions
D. the need to avoid areas which students grasp B. get the technological systems to work efficiently
easily. C. call a spade a spade
D. be able to address 10,000 workers.
20. It can be inferred from the passage that the book was
written by 24. Chasm’ as used in the passage means
A. an educational psychologist A. serious eruption B. disaster C. wide difference
B. more than one author D. disagreement.
C. a prominent statistician
D. a professor of statistics. 25. The most essential tool of communication specifically
mentioned in this passage is
A. specialization B. environment C. writing D. language.
PASSAGE V
All too often, there is a difference between what we say LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
and what we think we have said, and between how we feel we
have handled people and how they think the have been treated. In each of questions 26 to 30, choose the option opposite in
When such ‘gaps’ occur between the intent and the action, it is meaning to the word in the italics.
often stated that there has been ‘a breakdown in communication’.
Sometimes, the break-down is allowed to become so serious 26. I am happy to inform you that your boys are conscientious.
that the gap becomes a chasm, relatives in a family ceasing to A. industrious B. carefree C. dareful D. corrupt.
speak to one another, management and trade unions refusing to
meet, or governments recalling ambassadors when relations 27. My father is a very prosperous businessman.
between states reach a low ebb. A. ungrateful B. unscrupulous C. unskillful D. unsuccessful.
In fact, sometimes when people communicate, either as
individual or within groups, problems inevitably occur; 28. The hostess greeted her guests in a very relaxed manner.
instructions may be impossible to carry out, offence is taken at A. energetic B. athletic C. stiff D. perplexed.
a particular remark, a directive is ambiguously phrased or people’s
attitudes are coloured by jealousy, resentment or frustration. 29. Ayo takes his studies rather lightly
During the past fifty years, industrial, commercial and A. humorously B. tediously C. carefully D. seriously.
public service organizations have grown prodigiously to meet
30. The doctor was very gentle with his patients in the
the needs of advanced technological societies. Sometimes as
examining room.
many as 10,000 people work on the site, or one company employs
A. harsh B. rude C. tough D. unkind.
more than 50,000 people. Clearly, good communications are
essential to the efficient operations of any organization, and In each of questions 31 to 41, choose the option nearest in
vital to the fulfillment of all those who commit their working lives meaning to the word or phase in italics.
to it.
31. There is no love lost between Hassan and Hassana.
For this reason, management specialists and
A. dislike each other
behavioural scientists have devoted much thought and energy
B. are head over heels in love
over recent years to analyzing the problems caused by bad
communication practices, and to creating good communication
C. will love each other
climate and systems.
D. are still good friends.
As a result of the current structure of societies and economies,
most of us will spend our working lives in an organization – for 32. Whether the village head should identify himself with
many of us it will be a large one. If we are to understand our the activities of religious denomination has remained a
working environment, it is essential that we become good burning question.
communicators with social skills. A. a subject of discord
B. a perennial issue
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C. a matter of serious controversy 44. Note that only senior members of staff have the … of
D. a sensitive matter. using the toilet upstairs.
A. permission B. occasion C. privilege D. habit
33. I would rather not attend the party.
A. detest attending 45. The chief priest will … the men into the cult today.
B. do not have the enthusiasm to attend A. indoctrinate B. usher C. convert D. initiate.
C. must not attend 46. Jimoh is noted for his … attitude to his seniors at school.
D. have a choice to attend or not to. A. receptive B. respective C. respectful D. respectable.

34. If Garba had listened to advice, he would not have had 47. The girl that my brother introduced to us last week is
to be rushed to the hospital. pretty… ill-mannered.
A. deliberately desired to be rushed A. and B. but also C. as well as D. respectable.
B. was in position to have prevented the need
to be rushed 48. The police report was … to that of the eye witness.
C. was rushed against his wish A. contrary B. inconsistent C. different D. congruent
D. was given a cheque, but preferred to go.
49. The African extended family system gives security to
35. Aduke: Ngozi, let’s visit the market. Ngozi: if you insist, Aduke ... members.
A. is very willing to accompany Aduke A. his B. her C. its D. their.
B. must accompany Aduke
C. is not keen on going with Aduke 50. I know I … read more, but I am tired.
D. is pretending not to be interested in going with Aduke. A. may B. ought to C. would D. could

36. The new leader hands out an olive branch. 51. Insects can become … to insecticides.
A. sues for peace A. immunized B. resistant C. reticent D. immobilized.
B. gives out branches of the olive tree
C. challenges his opponents to a fight 52. The council chairman … the tension between the villagers
D. blesses his supporters. and the tax collectors.
A. dispersed B. defused C. diffused D. disputed.
37. When you go to a foreign country to study, you will
discover that life there is not a bed of roses. 53. If I had been told of the matter earlier, I … there so late.
A. as pleasant as one thought A. would not go B. should not go
B. a bed with roses C. will not have gone. D. would not have gone.
C. an unmitigated disappointment
D. as expected. 54. Each of the candidates that came late … to complete …
A. have/this form B. are having/these forms
38. Because our representative is immature and biased, he C. have/these forms D. has/this form.
takes a jaundiced view of our problems.
A. hazy B. unclear C. prejudiced D. bleak. 55. I wanted to avail myself … the opportunity of listening
to the lecture, but the lecturer failed to turn up
39. The president has sent his regrets. He is unable to attend A. with B. for C. of D. at.
the meeting.
A. explanation B. anxieties C. unhappiness D. apologies. 56. I would have been surprised if … you the orange.
A. plucked B. have plucked C. had plucked D. did pluck.
40. The woman acted courageously when she was attacked
by thieves 57. On getting to the seashore, …
A. shyly B. fearlessly C. timidly D. carelessly. A. it was empty
B. nobody was there
41. We all have both good and bad characteristics. Either C. people had deserted the place
is, however, easily manifested in times of crisis. D. he found nobody there.
A. demanded B. highlighted C. submerged. D. determined.
58. Little did Tunde realize that his frequent unwarranted
In each questions 42 to 100, chose the word(s) or phrase(s) reports about me were working …my advantage.
which best fills(s) the gaps. A. in B. to C. for D. against.

42. The sea waves continue to … the cliff on the west 59. The Board has been having … series of meeting lately.
coast constantly. A. some B. a C. a lot of D. many.
A. impair B. rub C. knock D. erode.
60. … I know, nobody has leopards in this area.
A. So far as B. In as much as C. Provided D. Even as.
43. The college bus was travelling at a high … when the
accident occurred. 61. … him in the crowd, I would have told you at once.
A. velocity B. acceleration C. rapidity D. speed. A. If I will see B. If I saw C. Had I seen D. Should I see.
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62. Inyang has always been shy to speak … A. aquired B. acquired C. acquared D. aqcuired
A. in public B. publicly C. in the public D. with the public.
79. The story on the lost jewel was quite …
63. … his uncle helped him or not, he would still not be able A. unbelievable B. unbeliveable C. unbelieveable
to do it. D. unbelivable
A. Although B. If C. Whether D. Since.
80. The patient is suffering from …
64. I have only three tubers of yam … in the store, I cannot A. reumatism B. rheumantism C. rhuematism D. rheumatism.
afford to give you any more.
A. still B. outstanding C. left D. remainder 81. The attitude of my students to … baffles me
A. pronunciation B. pronouncation C. pronunceation
65. Before the bill could be settled, Chuwang … all the money. D. pronounceation
A. has spent B. will have spent C. had spent D. will spent.
82. When we got to the president’s house, we were told
66. Either the chief of the leader of the farmers … to be held that he … two days earlier.
responsible for the revolt. A. may have left B. left C. had left D. has left.
A. were B. are C. is D. have.
83. Atuk, without giving any hint as to what he intended
67. We must observe that most of the support by other states to do, went and … himself.
… only marginal returns. A . hung B. hang C. hanged D. hunged
A. have yielded B. yield C. has yielded D. have yield.
84. Provided you … to the market very soon, we shall be
68. She asked me whether I … the letter for her. able to eat early enough.
A. minded to post B. mind to post C. minded posing A. shall go B. would go C. went D. go
D. minded to posting.
85. He … by now; I can hear all the people shouting:
69. The effort made by the principal to get the students to A. would have arrived B. must have arrived
be serious in their studies … C. had arrived D. should have arrived
A. are appreciated B. will appreciate C. is to appreciate
D. is appreciated. 86. By the time the plane reaches Harare, it … in the air for
twelve hours.
70. How I wish I … my mother’s advice. A. has been B. would be C. would have been D. should
A. had heeded B. have heeded C. heed D. will heed. be

71. Only observers from the Ministry of Works … allowed 87. If only Adoyi … what was good for him he could easily
into the conference room. have avoided the tragedy.
A. is B. are C. have D. been. A. has known B. have known C. knew D. had known.
88. We saw Ifueko … an egg on the wall.
72. A panel set up to probe the organization’s activities … A. smashed B. smash C. smashing D. smashes.
yet to sit
A. are B. is C. will D. would. 89. Many streets in the town … in need of lights at night.
A. stand B. stood C. have stood D. are standing.
73. The school will … for Easter in another six weeks.
A. break off B. break away C. break out D. break 90. I did not enjoy the party. If you had invited Tariere, it …
up. better organized.
A. had been B. would have been C. would be D. could be
74. His power supply was … from the main because he did
not pay his electricity bill. 91. Sibi … novels since she came home
A. blown out B. cut off C. put off D. put out. A. is reading B. had been reading C. has read
D. has been reading.
75. When you’ve finished using the telephone, please hang
… A. down B. up C. off D. on. 92. Asabe is overdue for retirement as she … in this college
since 1954.
76. I do not intend to stay for long at the function. I only want A. is teaching B. has been teaching C. taught D. was teaching.
to …
A. put in an appearance B. put up appearance 93. The boy who stole mango was given … by an eye witness.
C. show up appearance D. keep up appearance. A. out B. in C. away D. up.
94. After listening to the statements form the two students,
77. The man rose to an important position as a result of …
the headmaster realized that it was a trivial argument
hard work.
that ... a serious quarrel between them.
A. sheer B. cheer C. share D. shear.
A. touched in B. drew in C. touched off D. brought up.
78. Ebun Ojo … international fame as an actress
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95. Mr. and Mrs. Akoka were sad and disappointed … the 98. The spokesman confirmed that the government would
performance of their son. not give … to the demands of the trade union leaders.
A. about B. for C. at D. over. A. up B. into C. onto D. in.

96. When the transformer blew up, Saka threw himself down 99. Many students have joined the … movement.
… his stomach. A. revivalists’ B. revival C. revivalist D. revivalist’s.
A. at B. over C. to D. on.
100. If they had not all jumped out of the car just in time,
97. I ran … an old friend of mine on Broad Street and they …
brought him home. A. might have been perished
A. into B. to C. over D. across. B. will have perished
C. were all going to perish
D. would have perished.

Use of English 1992

COMPREHENSION 1. The risk referred to in the passage is

A. environmentally induced
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that B. industrially produced
follow. C. man-made
D. sociologically produced.
PASSAGE I
Our planet is at risk. Our environment is under threat. 2. From the passage, it can be deduced that the inhabitants
The air we breathe, the water we drink, the seas we fish in, the of developing countries
soil we farm, the forest, animals and plants which surround us A. take more care of their environment than those
are in danger. New terms and words describe these problems – in developed countries
acid rain, the greenhouse effect, global warming, holes in the B. generate more harmful industrial by-products
ozone layer, desertification and industrial pollution. We are C. degrade the environment to eke out a
changing our environment. More and more gases and wastes livelihood D. cut down trees only for
escape from our factories. Rubbish, oil spillages and detergents farmlands and fuel.
damage our rivers and seas. Forests give us timber and paper,
but there loss results in soil erosion and also endangers wildlife. 3. According to the passage, the size of forest depleted
The richer countires of the world are mainly responsible annually is
for industrial pollution. This is where most of all the commercial A. minimal B. colossal C. infinitesimal D. infinite.
energy is produced. In developing countries, poverty causes
people to change their environment – to overgraze grasslands, 4. The writer holds the richer countries responsible for
to cut down trees for new land and firewood, to farm poor soil industrial pollution because of their
for food. A. technological innovations
The United Nations Environmental Protection Agency B. energy requirements
says that an area of forest the size of Sierra Leone disappears C. industrial revolution
every year. Trees are cut down for timber which is used for D. lack of interest in environmental protection.
building, furniture, paper and fuel. They are also destroyed to
5. The message of the writer is the
provide land on which to graze animals and build new villages
A. need for the developed countries to assist the
and towns. But trees have many other important uses. Trees
poorer ones
protect the land from heavy downpour of rain and their roots
B. grave dangers of global warming
help to hold the soil together. Forests are also the home of many
C. urgent need to protect the natural environment
living things. The amazon forest contains one fifth of all the
D. need to research into other uses of the trees
species of birds in the world. In our forest, there may be plants
in our forests.
and animals which could help in the discovery of new medicines
or crops. PASSAGE II
To rescue and converse our beautiful world, we must act If economists were a bit more modest, they would admit
cooperatively. Individuals, communities, nations and that no one knows exactly how many Nigerians there are. The
international associations, all have a responsibility. By learning National Population Bureau estimated that there would be 116
to protect the natural environment, we can manage the earth’s million in 1986, but this figure was derived from projections based
resources for generations to come. on the much disputed figures of the 1963 census, using an annual
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population growth rate that was at best guess work. PASSAGE III
Notwithstanding that the margin of error could be as large as Let’s begin with a picture. He must not have been more
plus or minus 20 million, economists have still felt confident to than thirty years old. The oval face devoid of those wrinkles of
speak of Nigeria’s per capita income, birth and mortality rates, age, the well turfed and black hair and his complete though
literacy rates and so on, as if they were quoting precise figures. brown set of teeth supported this assessment. All he had for
So much in Nigeria is determined on the basis of clothing was a piece of cloth with some words written on it. It
population that the lack of accurate figures has a significantly must have been one of those cloth-posters used by now
adverse effect on policies. One obviously affected area is abandoned by ‘show-biz promoters. Across his neck was yet
development planning, which, for the lack of reliable data, another cloth which bore our national colours of green and white.
frequently looks like an exercise in futility. An example of what His feet were naked just they came from their creator. In one
happens is the country’s Universal Primary Education (UPE) hand he had an empty tin. He talked ceaselessly and in a
scheme launched in 1976. Policy makers had expected, on the disordered fashion. The other free hand emphasized his spoken
basis of the 1975/76 primary school enrolment of just under 5 words and gestures. As he talked, he gazed at you as if you were
million, that they would not have to cope with much more than 6 responsible for his pathetic condition. He looked redeemable,
million school children in the first year. But the enrolment in though. There are many of his type in various Urban centers.
1976/77 turned out to be 8.4 million rising to 10.1 million the Beggars! They are in every conceivable place. At the
following year. The unanticipated cost of catering for the larger bank, the supermarket, the church, the mosque, the post office
number was the main cause of the collapse of that worthy scheme there you will meet them. Before you know it, the more healthy
after only four years. ones besiege you for alms almost to the point assault. Surely,
Population also plays an important role in revenue there is no rationale in giving alms to someone who is physically
allocation, specifically in the sharing of the states portion of the stronger than you are and who, from all indications, can and
Federation Account, some percentage of which is based on should work and fend for himself. Some others are feeble
population or population related factors. Because of the unfortunately handicapped. Women and young girls constitute
contentious nature of the subject, the compromise has been to a sizeable number of these healthy beggars. Some are nursing
use estimates based on the 1963 census figures, even when mothers and one wonders that their husbands are. Conception
such a move produces ridiculous situations. It is for all these by Mr. Nobody, perhaps. The young girls in this category are
reason that the Babangida Administration’s effort to ascertain the mother beggars of tomorrow. But tell me, can’t the society be
the nations’ population is such a worthwhile venture. spared this human waste?

11. The writer is describing a

6. It would be more realistic of economists to A. picture B. man C. picture of a man D. man and a picture.
A. accept the unreliability of Nigeria’s census figures
B. ascertain how many Nigerians there are 12. … this assessment’ refers to the man’s
C. discard the disputed 1963 census figures A. face B. hair C. age D. naked feet.
D. accept marginal errors in the census figures.
13. ‘Beggars’ in the context of the first line of the third
7. Precise national population figures are required in order paragraph is a
to know the A. phrase B. sentence C. noun D. modifier.
A. know the number of people to cater for in the
Universal Primary Education Programme 14. The human waste referred to by the writer is brought
B. be able to undertake proper implementation about by
of governmental policies A. over-feeding
C. avert unanticipated expenditures B. the irresponsible men who female beggars in
D. be able to speak of population statistics with the family way
confidence. C. the mother-beggars of tomorrow
D. the society.
8. ‘The contentious nature of the subject refers to
A. the population 15. An appropriate title for the passage is
B. the disputed 1963 census figures A. A picture, the young man and female beggars
C. development planning B. Mad men and mendicants
D. revenue allocation. C. The problem of mad people in the society
D. Young men and female beggars.
9. The reference to ‘Universal Primary Education’ in this
passage is significant because it shows
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
A. why the census figures were disputed
B. the failure and collapse of the programme
Use the passage below to answer questions 16 to 25. The
C. the misleading effect of unreliable information
passage has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately following
D. how a worthy scheme could be made
each gap, four options are provided. Choose the appropriate
worthless by poor planning strategies.
option for each gap.
10. As far as the solution to the population problem of
Nigeria is concerned, the writer of this passage is In addition to further reading as a vital arm of
A. optimistic B. pessimistic C. indifferent D. disturbed. referencing, the use of the dictionary in language learning should
be emphasized. It cannot be denied that dictionaries do supply
 Uploaded on www.myschoolgist.com.ng
facts about a language, which may be difficult to find anywhere A. relieve B. worsen C. kill D. cure
else…16…[A. Information B.Words C. Details D. Knowledge]
about grammar, usage, status, derivation and so on necessary 35. The instructions on the examination paper are explicit
for comprehension. A. simple B. ambiguous C. detailed D. definite
Certain in the dictionary while context, word analysis
and synonyms search contribute immensely in the [A. forming 36. Okoro is an amateur wrestler
B. getting C. knowing D. creation] of meaning, an efficient use A. skilful B. good C. professional D. strong
of the denied. The ...18… [A. possession B. fact C. use D.
employment] of both the specialist and general dictationaries In each of question 37 to54 choose the option nearest in meaning
should be encouraged as the case may be. Not that students to the word(s) or phrase(s) in italics
jeopardize reading fluency by …19… [A. considering B.
pondering C. meditating D. looking up] every word that they 37. If your life is in turmoil always take courage
A. devastation B. crisis C. trial D. tragedy
do not understand, rather in their bid to read chunks or groups
of words in a text, lexitical items that…20… [A. may B. will C.
38. Do you know one of the most astounding events of my
can D. shall] obstruct meaning may be quickly checked up in
life;
the dictionary Glossing over a word or lexical guessing through
A. special B. amazing C. serious D. outstanding
context may not be sufficient …21… [A. Practice B. Exercises
C. Notes D. Passages] to encourage the use of the dictionary 39. Adeniji is suffering from the consequences of alienation
as an aid to reading and a tool for checking words used in writing A.confinement B. isolation C. enclosure D. imprisonment
must be built …22… [A. on to B. in C. into D. unto] the reading
text. This skill can be easily transferred to the student’s content 40. The terms of the contract stuck in my throat.
areas as well. A. were beyond me B. were not clear
A barrage of criticism, like; students’ excessive reliance C. were ambiguoused D. became obsolete
on the dictionary instead of contextual ...23… [A. reading B.
meaning C. decoding D. guessing], reduction in the speed of 41. He was asked to give copious examples to appear convincing
reading, time argued that …24… [A. asking B. teaching C. A. concrete B. rigid C. cogent D. many
making D. allowing] students to guess the meaning of words
from context and then compare this with the dictionary entry for 42. Some children mimic their teachers
such words is a discovery ...25… [A. procedure B. method A. imitate B. mime C. ridicule D. tease.
C. Means D. strategy] for enlarging the conceptual
environmental and vision of students on the various 43. He works long hours collecting trash to eke out a
interpretations that may be given to a word. livelihood A. try a living B. struggle for a
living C. make a living D. carve out a living.

In each of questions 26 to 36, choose the option opposite in 44. Everybody complained of a lean harvest last year
meaning to the word in italics. A. surplus B. abundant C. poor D. thin.

26. Ojo’s response infuriated his wife 45. He is very modest in his demands
A. annoyed B. pleased C. surprised D. confused. A. honest B. bogus C. extravagant D. humble.

27. He accepted a mundane task without hesitation. 46. The patient disregarded the advice of the doctor
A. great B. lowly C. menial D. moderate A. ignored B. disobeyed C. questioned D. respected.

28. It is a unique opportunity for her to demonstrate the 47. The newly elected leader has pledged to ensure better
reality of her faith life for the citizens
A. strange B. usual C. golden D. unusual A. vowed B. agreed C. undertaken D. undertaking.

29. Her identification with the king is publicly known 48. Statesmen are revered for their objectivity
A. hatred B. disassociation C. relationship D. intimacy A. referred B. respected C. remembered D. rejected.
49. He has been advised to keep his head, the confusion
30. The economic situation in the country is obviously gloomy
notwithstanding
A. encouraging B. moody C. unknown D. regrettable A. avoid being beaten or insulted
B. keep calm
31. One wonders if the situation will improve C. save his head
A. brighten B diminish C disintegrate D worsen D. prevent being beheaded.
32. Language teachers believe that grammar exercises 50. The police ran the criminal to earth
stretch the mind A. jailed him B. knocked him down
A. expand B. ruin C. enrich D. restrict C. discovered him D. buried him

33. These two books are identical 51. Garba always puts his shoulder to the wheel.
A. alike B. similar C. different D. equal A. sits with his shoulders straight when he is driving
B. works energetically at the task in hand
34. The doctor tried to alleviate his patients pain
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C. performs tasks assigned him grudgingly
D. holds the steering wheel firmly when he is driving. 70. On his … [A. assumption B. ascension C. acceptance
D. appointment] of office, the new president announced
52. He reneged on the agreement between him and his employees. some drastic measures.
A. kept B. failed to keep C. failed to approve
D. failed to sign. 71. The … was filed … [A. suit/in B. case/in C. suit/at
D. case/at] in Ilorin Magistrate Court.
53. He is credulous
A. credible B. creditable C. gullible D. fallible 72. The plaintiff … [A. asked B. begged C. demanded of
D. prayed] the court to restrain the defendants from
54. The company has gone under further action.
A. suffered some loss B. broken up
C. become broke D. become bankrupt. 73. My experience in Lagos last week was … [A. something
to excite B. nothing to explain at home C. nothing
In each questions 55 to 95, fill each gap with the appropriate to write home D. something to celebrate] about.
option from list following the gap.
74. … [A. Had I seen B. Have I seen C. Should I see
55. Many people believe that nuclear power will solve our D. If I saw] him around, I would have informed you.
energy problems … [A. Indeed B. But C. However
D. On the contrary].This has not been proved to be true. 75. Ahmed is one of the boys who always … [A. does B.
would do C. do D. done] good work.
56. … [A. Conclusively B. To conclude C. In conclusion
D. The conclusion], sign post words are useful to readers. 76. I sent … [A. a parcel of B. a flash of C. an item of
D. number of) news to the press yesterday.
57. Every programming language and software package …
[A. have its B. have their C. has its D. has their] 77. The University has a large collection of sporting … [A.
limitations. equipment B. equipments C. costumes D. aids].

58. A programme of good exercise may help a person 78. He keeps his … [ A. surroundings B. surrounding
fight … [A. out B. at C. with D. off] cold. C. premise D. environments] clean always.

59. Baba and … [A. him B. his C. he D. he’s] participated 79. She has a set of gold … [A. earing B. earings C. earrings
in the tournament. D. ear-ring].

60. It was … [A. they B. them C. those D. theirs] who 80. I have stopped writing letters of application because I …
fought the civil war. [A. have heard B. had heard C. heard D. hear] that
all the vacancies are filled.
61. The physicians have more people in … waiting rooms
than … [A. his/he B. there/they C. their/they D. them/ 81. A survey of opinions on how pupils feel about their
they] have ever had. teachers … [A. has been B. have been C. are being D. is
been] carried out.
62. Before mechanization, workers … [A. wring B. wrung
C. wrang D. wringed] water out of fabrics with their hands. 82. The police are looking for … [ A. two big cars black
B. two cars big black C. two big black cars D. two
63. Four engineers … [A. worked B. are working C. had black big cars].
worked D. have been working] on this system since March.
83. Adaobi is contemptuous … [A. to B. at C. for D.
64. Having worked all night, the security man … [A. had felt of] dishonest people.
B. felt C. is feeling D. has felt] a sense of accomplishment.
84. My goats are grazing … [A. on B. in C. at D. into] the field.
65. Three quarters of the Physics class … [A. improve B.
improves C. are improving D. is improving] dramatically. 85. It … [A. would be B. would have been C. would had
been D. will be] easier if he told us himself.
66. A number of students … [A. is B. has C. have D. do]
missed the opportunity to re-register. 86. Our principal and chairman of the occasion … [A. has
B. having C. have D. had] just arrived.
67. It seems to be a well thought … [A. over B. out C. off
87. From 7 a.m to 9 a.m, he … [A. is kept busy serving B.
D. into] scheme.
keeps busy to serve C. is busied serving D. kept
68. Adekunle is prepared for a…[A. show-off B. show-
down C. show-out D. show up] with his opponent busy to serve] hot chocolate, often not having time for
following his defeat last season. his own breakfast.
88. One of the … [A. school of thought suggest s B.
69. Tosin refused to be … [A. sad B. placated C. schools of thought suggest C. school of thoughts
frustrated D. indifferent] though he has written the same suggested D. schools of thought suggests] selective
examination three times. marking of errors
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89. You avoid facing … [A. at B. up C. up to D. on to] the 96. People may not pick flowers in this park.
reality of life. A. People can pick flowers in this park.
B. People may not wish to pick flowers in this park.
90. In … [A. a more deeper sense B. a much deeper C. People are prohibited from picking flowers in this park.
sense C. a most deeper sense D. much more deeper D. People cannot pick flowers from this park.
sense] we, as politicians, are identified with the masses.
97. Tom ought not to have told me.
91. In addition, their comments are vague and abstract, … A. Tom did not tell me but he should.
[A. which students find it B. and students find it C. B. Perhaps Tom was wrong to have told me.
so students find them D. but students find them] C. Tom told me but it was wrong of him.
difficult to interpret. D. It was necessary for Tom not to tell me.

92. We are … to receive your letter and to know that you 98. He can’t be swimming all day.
are … [A. happy/in good health B. grateful/sound C. A. It’s possible he is not swimming now.
pleased /all well D. appreciative/swimming in good B. It’s very likely he is swimming now.
health]. C. He does not have the ability to swim all day.
D. He would not like to swim all day
93. People who live by … [A. each other know B. one
another know C. oneself knows D. themselves know] 99. Bolade would make a mess of cooking the rice.
what loneliness is like. A. It was typical of Bolade to make a mess of things.
B. Bolade cannot cook.
94. It has been confirmed that the election … [A. will be B. C. Bolade will not cook the rice well.
is being C. has been D. have being] held in July. D. Bolade does not like cooking rice.

95. The choice to go to the university or not is … [A. yours’ 100. If I were the captain, I would have led the team to victory.
B. your C. yours D. your’s]. A. I was not the captain but I led the team to victory.
B. I was not the captain but I did not lead the team
In each of questions 96 to 100, select the option (A to D) that to victory.
best explains the information conveyed in the sentence. C. I was not the captain and I did not lead the
team to victory.
D. I was the captain and I led the team to victory.

Use of English 1993

and treat such conditions as pernicious anaemia and

COMPREHENSION hypertension, or to correct congenital malformations by surgical
interventions, increase our understanding of disease but do nor
reduce its incidence. The fact that there are more doctors where
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that
follow certain diseases have become rare has little to do with ability to
PASSAGE I control or eliminate them. It simply means that doctor, more than
other professionals, determine where they work. Consequently,
The diseases afflicting Western societies have
they tend to gather where the climate is healthy, where the water
undergone dramatic changes. In the course of a century, so
many mass killers have vanished that two-thirds of all deaths is clean and where people work and can pay for their services.
are now associated with the diseases of old age. Those who die
1. The statement, ‘The diseases afflicting Western societies
young are more often than not, the victims of accidents, violence
have undergone dramatic changes’ implies that
and suicide.
These changes in public health are generally equated A. changes have taken place in the mode of
with progress and are attributed to more or better medical care. disease affliction
B. medical services have been important in
In fact, there is no evidence of any direct relationship between
changing life expectancy
changing disease patterns and the so-called progress of
medicine. C. a lot of significant progress has taken place in
The impotence of medical services to change life public health
D. deaths from diseases in Western societies are
expectancy and the insignificance of much contemporary clinical
minimal.
care in the curing of diseases are all obvious, well documented
but well suppressed.
2. The writer is of the view that the diseases which prevail
Neither the proportion of doctors in a population nor
in contemporary Western societies
the quality of the clinical tools at their disposal nor the number
A. result from modern life styles
of hospital beds is a causal factor in the striking changes in
 Uploaded on www.myschoolgist.com.ng
B. are concentrated among the elderly C. the suffering of every widow represents the
C. kill many people at once burden of all women
D. are resistant to drugs D. widowhood implies the isolation of the woman
in society.
3. The author thinks that the presence of a large number of
doctors in a community 9. The speech of Hassana implies that
A. does not have much effect on the control of A. it is the practice to throw rotten eggs at women
diseases B. it is the practice to cast decayed tomatoes at
B. disguises the true facts about diseases women
C. controls the spread of diseases C. to throw rotten eggs and decayed tomatoes
D. improves the overall quality of life in the community. at women is to reduce their fecundity
D. to throw rotten eggs and decayed tomatoes
4. Many doctors, according to the passage, choose to live at women is dehumanizing.
where A. research facilities are available B. they are most
needed C. they can be near colleagues D. conditions are 10. From the speech by Ime, it is clear that the women
more in their favour. A. intend to do a real battle with the menfolk in
defence of their rights
5. The author’s attitude to developments in medicine is A. B. will no longer perform their traditional duties
matter-of-fact B. cautious C. indifferent D. cynical C. are henceforth prepared to adopt a policy of
confrontation with the men
PASSAGE II D. can do anything that a man can do sometimes
ADUKE: Listen, my fellow women. The issue has little to do even better
with being literate or not. It is true that most members
of NAM (New Awareness Movement) are literate, but PASSAGE III
this does not make all of us enlightened. We must be When I set out for London, little did I suspect that I
able to draw a line between the two. You may be literate was not on journey to God’s own city where harmony reigned
and yet possess a consciousness that is decadent and supreme. So used to the frenzied life of Lagos was I that I had
servile. On the other hand, you may not have received come to associate that city with everything that was chaotic,
any formal education and yet may be the greatest and there was no doubt in my mind that Lagos was one giant
exponent of progressive ideas. symbol of our backwardness. As the plane taxied its way out of
HASANA: I agree with what our sister has said. Let us not allow the tarmac of our national airport, I heaved a sigh of relief, not so
ourselves to be divided by a greedy and an inflated much because I was leaving my own country as that I was being
notion of the of the certificates we possess. In this relieved of the tension that had possessed me during those
century, as we march towards the year 2000, our primary tense hours in the untidy lounge. I had felt so uneasy, my
concern should be how best to improve the lot of thoughts racing from one uncertainty to another. But I was at
womanhood in our society. Let us not forget that for last air-borne, moving away from the whole uncertainty, from
each woman who is beaten up by her man for flimsy the whole load of fear, towards a place which I supposed would
reasons, the status of all of us here is downgraded. For be an El Dorado.
each woman who is insulted for no other reason than Everything that happened in the plane passed through
that of her sex, every one of us here is spat on in the my eyes like pictures on the screen. The white air hostess who
face. For each woman who is denied instructed me on how to use the safety belt was an angel, what
opportunities in the society simply because she is a with her beauty, her pretty blue dress, and her ever-smiling face.
woman, the whole lot of us here are dehumanized. Each The same lady of the air served me snacks and supper. Another
widow in this society is an Everywoman, and the lot of angel, whose queenly voice through an invisible public address
us should be viewed as collective. Each decayed tomato system, dished out occasional information on the progress of
that is cast at her is a collective curse on our fecundity: our journey. I had never felt so relaxed, and my jolted heartbeats
each pebble thrown at her, a missile against our very each time the plane took what appeared like a sudden brief
womanhood. This is an age of awareness, and it is the descent, did not matter. When eventually we were set for landing,
duty of NAM to collectively rise in defence of the rights the anxiety that came over me was almost thrilling. What was the
of women. wonderland going to be like? So overwhelmed was I that I almost
IME: We can no longer allow ourselves to be fried alive. We lost consciousness of what happened thereafter.
are going to squeeze ourselves into tight-fitting But I would never forget the shock that greeted me
trousers,register into judo classes, and then file out when we arrived in the tube station and boarded a train to behold
into the street and punch the face of every man we the sea of white faces and the furtive glances from apparently
behold. indifferent co-passengers. I believe that the nolstagic feeling for
Lagos which later became part of my life all my days in London
6. In distinguishing between literacy and enlightenment, began at this point.
Aduke implies that 11. Before the writer left Lagos, he believed London was
A. it is useless to be literate A. a very neat place B. a very peaceful place
B. enlightenment is inborn C. situated in paradise D. noiseless.
C. progress can take place without literacy
D. both literacy and enlightenment are symbiotic. 12. Before the plane left Lagos, the writer must have
7. Hassana believes that NAM should not be divided by A. had a second thought about leaving his country
A. the worthless certificates which the women possess B. been very hungry in the lounge
B. inflation and greed C. been frightened of all the people in the lounge
C. a misunderstanding of the worth of their certificates D. detested the filth surrounding the lounge.
D. a selfish and over-raced belief in their certificates.
13. When the plane finally took off the writer felt happy because
8. ‘Each widow in this society is an Everywoman’ means that A. he was thrilled to be in a plane
A. every woman in the society is potentially a widow B. he believed that he was travelling to a problem-
B. every widow in the society is a woman free country
C. he no longer felt uneasy
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D. for the first time, he would be in El Dorado D. Emeka could have started school early if he
had wished.
14. The writer’s attitude to the air hostesses can be described as
A. lustful B. worshipful C. timid D. gregarious
28. He was between the devil and the deep blue sea.
15. The writer, on getting into the train, was shocked because A. He was in danger.
A. there were no attendants B. He was scared
B. of the large number of white faces C. He stood between the devil and the sea.
C. the people appeared unfriendly D. He was in a dilemma.
D. the train was neater than those in Nigeria.
29. The boys, who rioted, were suspended by the principal.
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE A. Only some of the boys rioted and they were
suspended.
Use the passage below to answer questions 16 to 25. The B. All the boys rioted and were suspended
passage has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately following
each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most C. Many boys rioted and were suspended.
appropriate option for each gap. D. A few boys rioted and were suspended.

Did you ever pause to think that eating and mating may 30. Whoever would have thought that he would lose the
be…16...[A. interlinked B. intertwined C. interposed D. presidential election?
intermingled] to the extent of becoming targets for a planned A. Everyone believed that he would lose the
international political strategy? If by an accident of geography, election
you happen to live in a region of Africa, Asia or Latin America
that is one of the …17…[A. receivers B. receptors C. recipients B. It was commonly believed that he would win
D. obtainers] of foreign ‘aid’, then pay…18… [A. hid B. heed the election.
C. attention D. cognizance] to an insight provided by Josne de C. He was supposed to lose the election.
Castro, a Brazilian sociologist and a former president of the United D. No one believed that he would win th
Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (F.A.O). election.
The United States imposes birth control, not to help
the poor countries ---- no one believes any more in its 31. It’s wonderful that Musa is already out of hospital.
‘disinterested’ aid programme ---- but because that is its strategic, A. The fact that Musa is out of hospital causes
defence…19…[A. aim B. problem C. method D. policy]. We great wonder
must…20…[A. realize B. recognize C. reckon D. discern] that
the pill is North America’s best guarantee of continuing the B. The fact that Musa is out of hospital is a miracle.
domination of the Third world. If ever the Third world achieves C. It is surprising that Musa is out of hospital
normal development, Washington’s ‘Roman Empire’ will...21…[A. D. It is very pleasing that Musa is out of hospital.
be dissolved B. be dismembered C. disintegrate D. disappear].
These views were …22… [A. confirmed B. affirmed 32. You could have heard the sound if you weren’t asleep.
C. established D. reaffirmed] about a decade later, when R.T. A. You were not asleep so you heard the sound.
Ravenholt of the United States Office of Population stated that B. You were asleep so you did not hear the sound.
the United States was seeking to provide the means by which C. You heard the sound though you were asleep.
one quarter of the world’s fertile women can be…23…[A. D. You did not hear the sound though you were
fertilized B. impregnated C. sterilized D. childless] not asleep.
These two statements are indicative of the…24…[A.
conflict B. convergence C. collision D. collusion] of interests 33. Had Aminu been a dull student, his failure wouldn’t
of multinational pharmaceutical corporations, defence strategist have surprised anybody.
and food politicians. Whether or not population planning is
a…25...[A. ploy B. style C. desire D. scheme]of the ruling elite for A. Aminu failed and it surprised everybody since
finding a scapegoat for its ineptitude is debatable. However, it is he was dull.
evident that there exists an inextricable link between food aid B. Aminu was not a dull student and so
and population planning policies. everybody was surprised that he failed
C. Because Aminu was a dull student, everybody
In each of questions 26 to 35 select the option that best explains was surprised that he failed.
the information conveyed in the sentence.
D. Aminu had been a dull student, and so nobody
26. Between you and me, I would say that the equipment was surprised that he failed
has outlived its usefulness. 34. The president of the club said that he would cross the
A. I believe that the equipment is no longer useful bridge on getting there.
to either of us. A. He was waiting for an opportunity to take a
B. I believe that the equipment continues to be decision.
useful to either you or me. B. When he got to the river he would build a
C. My idea of the usefulness of the equipment bridge across it
should remain known only to the two of us. C. He would take a decision at the appropriate time.
D. My idea of the usefulness of the equipment is D. When he got to the river he would cross at the bridge.
shared by both of us. 35. His refusal to helps us, dealt a deathblow to our plans.
A. Because he did not help, our plans did not
27. Emeka wished he had started school early materialize.
A. Emeka started school early as he wished. B. He helped and our plans materialized
B. Emeka regretted starting school early C. He blew our plans to pieces
C. Emeka regretted not starting school early D. He supported our plans so it worked
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In each of questions 51 to 64, choose the most appropriate option
In each of questions 36 to 50, choose the most appropriate option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase(s) in italics.
opposite in meaning to the word(s) in italics.
51. Ator led a dog’s life for the twenty years he stayed in theUnited
36. It is entirely up to you to make a profession of your faith. Kingdom.
A. confess your belief A. lived a dirty life B. was promiscuous
B. turn your faith into a business C. was domesticated D. led an unhappy and troubled life
C. deny your faith
D. loudly proclaim your religion. 52. The chief’s brother was a complete nonentity.
A. upstart B. vagabond C. riff-raff
37. He won the election because he was able to carry his
D. person of inexperience
people with him.
A. alienate his people 53. The principal warned us against burning the candle at
B. go out with the people both ends.
C. have the support of the people A. being careless with candles
D. fail to provide the people with transport. B. wearing ourselves out
C. being too generous
38. They often quarreled before leaving the house but made
D. disloyalty
it up by the time they returned home
A. added it up B. reconciled 54. Biola decided to give the task everything he had.
C. fell out D.compounded the problem A. all his money B. all his time C. complete attention
D. complete attendance
39. The effect of rising prices has snowballed considerably.
A. risen B. decreased C. frozen D. grown. 55. The result of the election would have been different if
some people had not been disfranchised.
40 The economic situation is responsible for the recent
A. disfavoured B. banned from contesting
discord in many families.
C. allowed to rig D. prevented from voting.
A. division B. resourcefulness C. harmony D. suffering
56. We enjoy the story but it sounds larger than life.
41. The college was worried about Tunji’s garrulous tendencies
A. too long and unsubstantiated
A. reticent B. loquacious C. quarrelsome D.
B. a little watery and lifeless
outspoken
C. completely untrue
D. somewhat unusual
42. We have found that cassava is a sine qua non item in
our industry.
57. Olu might visit London next summer.
A. useful B. indispensable C. useless D. dispensable
A. could B. will C. should D. can
43. Science may be a complicated area of learning, but its
58. General Murtala Muhammed excelled in deeds of prowess.
teaching needs to be demystified.
A. simplified B. twisted C. made difficult D. distorted
A. warfare B. politics C. courage D. eloquence.
44. Surveying the sky in the quiet of the night gives me an
59. The teacher’s face broke into an incredulous smile when
ethereal feeling.
he heard Adamu’s reason for coming late.
A. human B. earthly C. mundane D. commonplace
A. irritating B. artificial C. unbelieving D. irresponsible
45. The awareness of mortality has always imposed some 60. Recreation is important in contemporary civilization.
restraint on man’s excesses. A. Leisure B. Treasure C. Freedom D. Pleasure
A. celestiality B. eternity C. continuity D. inestitence
61. He won most of his fights because of his unorthodox style.
A. crude B. dishonest C. aggressive D. unconventional
46. The decision we have taken is irrevocable.
A. responsible B. irresponsible C. reversible D. irreversible 62. Jide says he read in the papers that our uncle has been
47. The lawyer pointed out a discrepancy in the two stories. declared a persona non grata by the French government.
A. similarity B. gap C. falsehood D. difference A. unwelcome guest B. impersonator
C. ungrateful person D. unofficial guest
48. Their high level of dishonesty has made that department
infamous in the entire secretariat.
63. The Vice Chancellor, who is stickler for rules, refused the
A. reputable B. notorious C. unpopular D. acceptable
request by the students for the semester to be rescheduled.
49. When Uche wouldn’t come to quickly enough, the A. a puritan B. a pedantist C. a disciplinarian D. an idealist
principal rushed him to the hospital
A. revive B. pass out C. arrive D. come up 64. The town looked deserted but we moved in with some
trepidation.
50. The governor’s action is out of tune with the
A. confidence B. surprise C. hesitation D. fear
declarations of his party.
A. in disagreement B. in line C. out of touch D. in touch.
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In each of question 65 to 100 fill each gap with the most
appropriate option from the list following the gap. 84. The vermin on his body … [A. makes the lunatic look
B. make the lunatic look C. makes the lunatic to
65. I have no respect for individuals who are too...[A. compliance look D. make the lunatic to look] hideous.
B. compliant C. compliable D. complicated].
85. Do you think all … [A. these informations are B. this
66 The policemen who were to keep watch connived… information are C. this information is D. these
[A. with B. at C.to D.for] the robber’s escape. information are] not enough to help the investigator?

67. Kaka is … [A. not only anxious B. anxious not only 86. Do you prefer… [A. going on foot to taking B. to go
C. not only that she is anxious D. anxious] to acquire on foot to taking C. going on foot than taking
knowledge but also eager to display it. D. to go on foot than to take] my rickety car?

68. Wodu will not come… [A. after B. provided C. unless 87. No sooner… [A. did we set out when the rain had started
D. because] she is asked. B. had we set out than the rain started C. were we setting
out than the rain started D. we had set out when the
69. You must forbid… [A. he’s B. that he is C. him for rain started] to fall.
D. his] coming.
88. The company was charged with a … [A. negligence
70. Oche should leave for New York on Friday…[A. all the B. violation C. disregard D. breach] of contract.
things B. all other things C. other things D. other
things all] being equal. 89. The army ran short of … [A. arm and ammunitions
B. arms and ammunitions C. arms and ammunition
71. The woman warned her daughter not to … [A. move D. arm and ammunition].
B. be moving C. be keeping company D. keep
company] with bad boys. 90. The helpless … [A. require B. requires C. does require
D. do requires] our sympathy.
72. Ali is crying because his mother was killed in a…[A. motor
B. traffic C. motor vehicle D. road] accident. 91. My brother got married to a woman with…[A. gorgeous
B. exquisite C. decent D. attractive] manners.
73. Otopkpa is not very bold. He’s not … [A. cut up for
B. cut for C. cut off for D. cut out for] a rough life. 92. The thief we caught yesterday was … [A. disguised
B. concealed C. masked D. veiled] as an official of the
74. Some of the food … [A. is B. are C. were D. have] spoilt. company.
93. The carpenter asked for ten packets of… [A. fifteen-
75. They spent the last holiday with their… [A. sister-in-laws centimetre B. fifteen centimetres’ C. fifteen-
B. sisters-in-law C. sisters-in-laws D. sisters-inlaws] centimetres D. fifteen-centimetres’] nails.

76. You should not need … [A. to tell B. telling C. tell 94. The President refused to shake… [A. hand B. hands
D. to have been told] twice. C. a hand D. his hand] with the visiting Prime Minister.

77. The … [A. story’s length B. length of the story 95. The trader complained that he… [A. had been B. has
C. story length D. stories length] discouraged me from been C. was being D. is being] robbed.
reading it.
96. How can we believe this witness when no one will …
78. When the teacher asked him to join the queue outside, [A. collate B. correlate C. collaborate D.
he considered it … [A. an attack B. an insolence corroborate] his story?
C. an affront D. a disrespect] to his dignity.
97. The journalist’s unpopular views made him the subject
79. When he joined the staff of the school, he had various of much… [A. admiration B. derision C. a
duties … [A. detailed B. assigned C. prescribed dmonition D. suspicion].
D. enlisted] to him.
98. Idubor has gone to see his mechanic because his car
80. The secretary was blamed … [A. for B. about C. over engine needs to be tuned … [A. in B. off C. up D. on].
D. on] the untidy state of the office.
99. I was so anxious to arrive early for the lecture that I …
81. After a long talk with the police, Baba confessed his guilt [A. forgot B. left C. dropped D. abandoned] my
and so the other boys with whom he was accused were … notes in the car.
[A. vindicated B. consoled C. convinced D. exonerated.]
100. Good schools don’t just teach their students, they …
82. You think she hasn’t got any friends? Of course she’s got [A. inform B. instruct C. educate D. coach] them.
… [A. many more B. quite much C. quite a few D. few]

83. He moved out of the house because the landlord and

his wife were always fighting…[A. themselves B.
theirselves C. each other D. one another]
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Use of English 1994

COMPREHENSION C. it provide avenues for idle talk

D. it is not destructive in the type of information
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that passed.
follow.
PASSAGE I 2. ‘Grow gossipy’ as used in the passage, means the area
Gossip! Yes, gossip is universal. In some languages, it A. cultivates and controls gossip
may have an outright negative connotation but in English, it B. is a rumour mill
basically means ‘idle talk’, chat about trivial things or matters. C. is ruined by gossip
When moderate and kind, ‘casual talk’ may serve to exchange D. engages in fruitful talk.
useful information as a means of updating one’s knowledge.
The whole neighborhood may grow gossipy with who got 3. When gossip ‘degenerates beyond the bounds of
married, pregnant, died, or it may just be a humorous chitchat propriety and good taste’, it becomes
devoid of malicious intent. A. harmful B. ruthless C. irritating D. astonishing
However, idle talk more often than not, degenerates
beyond the bounds of propriety and good taste. Facts get 4. In the passage, ‘such efforts notwithstanding ’refers to
embellished, exaggerated or deliberately distorted. Humiliation A. attempts at curbing gossip
is made the source of humour, privacy is violated, confidences B. the establishment of the ducking stool
betrayed and reputations injured or ruined. Condemnation takes C. rumour-control centres
the place of commendation, murmuring and fault finding are D. laws enacted against gossip.
extolled. The end result is like the mud thrown on a clean piece
of white cloth. It does not stick but it leaves a dirty and sometimes 5. Which title best sums up this passage?
permanent stain behind. A. gossip: a thing of the past
Gossip has been blamed for sleepless nights, heartache B. gossip: a societal evil
and indigestion. Certainly, it must have caused you some C. gossip and be damned
personal anguish at one time or the other, that is someone must D. gossip: the good and the bad.
at some time have tried getting a knife between your shoulder
blades. Negative gossip is almost universally frowned upon. PASSAGE II
Among the Indians in the United States, gossiping about In many places in the world today, the poor are getting
someone is classified with lying and stealing. Among the Yoruba poorer while the rich are getting richer, and the programmes of
of Nigeria, the tale bearer is detested and often avoided. Indeed, development planning and foreign aid appear to be unable to
throughout history, measures have been taken to curb this reverse this trend. Nearly all the developing countries. But they
‘deadly’ disease. Between the 15th and 18th centuries, the ducking also have a non-modern sector, where the patterns of living and
stool was popularly used in England and Germany and later in working are not only unsatisfactory, but in many cases are even
the United States. getting worse. What is typical condition of the poor in developing
The gossip was tied to a chair and repeatedly ducked countries? Their work opportunities are so limited that they
in water. In modern times, the war against gossiping has also cannot work their way out of their situation. They are under-
been fought. Rumour control centres have been established to employed, or totally unemployed. When they do find occasional
respond to rumours that were potentially harmful to government work, their productivity is extremely low. Some of them have
activities. Laws have even passed to curb gossip. Nicknames land, but often too little land. Many have no land, and no prospect
have been given to those who peddle the trade. Ever heard of of ever getting any. There is no big cities either- and of course
‘Amebo’! no housing. All the same, they flock into cities because their
Such efforts notwithstanding, gossip survives. It is chances of finding some work appear to be greater there than in
alive and flourishing. Gossip is everywhere. There is the villages-where such chances are nil. Rural employment then
neighbourhood gossip, office gossip. Shop gossip, party gossip, produces mass migration into the cities. Rural unemployment
family gossip and funnily enough religious gossip. Gossip becomes urban unemployment.
transcends all cultures, races and civilizations, and it has The problem can be stated quite simply: what can be
flourished and is still flourishing at every level of society. Gossip done to promote economic growth in the small towns and villages,
is deeply a part of human nature. Yet gossip is not inherently which still contain about eighty to ninety percent of the
evil. There is a positive side to casual talk. Knowing where to population? The primary need is workplaces, literally millions of
draw the line between harmless and harmful gossip is the key to workplaces. No one, of course, would suggest that output per
avoiding victimizing others and being a victim yourself. worker is unimportant. But the primary aim cannot be to maximize
output per worker; it must be to maximize work opportunities for
1. Gossip appeals to people because the unemployed and the under-employed. The poor man’s
A. it is entertaining but could be deadly greatest need is the chance to work. Even poorly paid and
B. human being take delight in passing and relatively unproductive work is better than no work at all. It is
acquiring information therefore more important that everybody should produce
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something, than that few people should each produce a great given focus either through the guild of wives, the guild of
deal. And in most developing countries, this can only be achieved daughters, or the market women’s guild. Women, through these
by using an appropriate intermediate technology. organs, could make their feelings known on any issue affecting
their community as a whole or females in particular. Thus,
6. According to the passage, the difference between the unpopular edicts or ‘decrees’ could be revoked or revised as a
developing countries and the developed ones is that result of mounted pressure from any of these female associations.
while the former have: No decision was usually taken by the men without prior
A. a modern sector, the latter do not consultation with the leaders of the women’s groups. It must
B. two conflicting sectors, the latter have one however be emphasized that the degree of women participation
C. higher rural unemployment, the latter have in politics was yet much limited when compared to that of men.
higher urban employment
D. appropriate intermediate technology, the latter 11. According to the author, electioneering campaign is
adopt inappropriate one. the approach
A. best used in politics
7. Which of the following statements best explains the B. used in pre-colonial politics
meaning of the phrase ‘reverse this trend’ as used in the text? C. for choosing kings or emirs
A. Return to the former state of affairs D. currently in use
B. reappraise the programmes
C. improve the situation. 12. From the passage, it is obvious that women participated
D. make the rich become poor in politics.
8. From the way the writer describes the typical condition of A. on equal basis with men
the poor in developing countries, one could conclude B. as leaders of men
that: C. to a limited extent
A. rural poverty is a disease D. as chiefs and regents
B. the poor have no hope
C. rural poverty is caused by the rich 13. ‘Political engineering’ in the passage means
D. the problems of the poor are temporary. A. playing of politics
B. maneuvering in politics
9. When the writer says ‘… literally millions of C. studying of politics
workplaces’, he wants the reader to D. steering political events.
A. take the million figure literally
B. appreciate the need for numerous workplaces 14. Which of the following is implied in the passage?
C. realize that the million figure is a mere A. women are not politicians
exaggeration B. women should be confined to the home
C. women are capable of political leadership
10. What is the point made by the writer about solving the D. post-colonial politics should not involve
problem of unemployment in developing countries? women
A. Use appropriate intermediate technology.
B. A few people should produce a great deal. 15. A suitable title for the passage is
C. Stop migration to cities. A. women in politics
D. Create more workplace. B. champions of women liberation
C. great women of yesteryears
PASSAGE III D. electioneering campaigns
Politics in pre-colonial times did not involve the partisan
type of electioneering campaign that we now have. The society PASSAGE IV
was ruled by a king or an emir and his traditional chiefs or by the
council of elders or clan heads. Where there existed the Use the passage below to answer questions 16 to 26. The
hierarchical system as in the Yoruba and Hausa kingdoms, passage has gaps numbered 16 to 26 immediately following
succession to the throne was mainly patriarchal. A recorded each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
exception was the case of Queen Amina of the Zazzau Empire appropriate option for each gap.
who ruled in the 15th century A.D a host of unsung and
unrecorded women regents and at times women village rulers Two thirds of children in…16…[A. industrialized B.
abound, especially in the present Ondo State where some socialized C. technological D. modernized] societies no longer
influential traditional female chiefs and regents still exist. In have family life. They are virtually abandoned to child-minders
Ibadan, the famous Efunsetan Aniwura held political as well as from a very tender age. The …17...[A. disregard B. indifference
economic sway and it took a lot of drive, brain work and political C. alienation D. inattention] from their mothers brings suffering
engineering for the then king and his council of chiefs to subdue and makes it impossible for them to achieve a healthy social life.
her. The history of the various towns and villages of the period The…18…[A. development B. increase C. appreciation D.
could boast of such women who were actively engaged in the inflation] in the number of suicides, the rates of drug addiction
running of government. and…19…[A. delinquency B. irresponsibility C. satanism D.
In the Igbo soceity, a rise to leadership position was truancy] among young people may be to a large extent, due to
through demonstrated ability in fostering societal survival rather these premature separations which take place before sufficient
than heritage. Women’s voice in the politics of each clan is time has…20…[A. materialized B. occurred C. surfaced D.
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elapsed] for attachment to develop. ‘This is one of the causes of In each of questions 31 to 40, choose the most appropriate
psychosis in children today’ says a psychiatrist who believes option opposite in meaning to the word(s) in italics.
that breast-feeding is one of the basic cares which many children
of this age are…21…[A. tantalized with B. denied of C. left with 31. The paper carries many humourous cartoons on
D. spared of]. This psychiatrist argues that breast-feeding Saturdays.
extends into the world outside the womb, a liquid bond with the A. amorous B. grievous C. hilarious D. grave
inside of the mother’s body; a bond…22…[A. close to B. the
same as C. unrelated to D. irrelevant to] that which the baby 32. All through his years in public office, he found his
had with the placenta inside the uterus. Rhythmic rocking to father’s advice invaluable.
and fro is…23…[A. an elongation B. a demonstration C. a A. priceless B. hopeless C. worthless
continuation D. a stretching] of the movement that the child D. helpful.
experienced before it was born. As for the baby’s…24…[A.
squeezing against B. separation from C. likeness for D. 33. The lecturer was merely obfuscating the issue with his
pressure against] its mother’s body, it reminds the child of endless examples.
the…25…[A. reassuring B. uncomfortable C. amusing D. A. complicating B. clarifying C. confusing D. summarizing
unpleasant] pressure of the uterus, and enables it to…26…[A.
unearth B. rediscover C. learn D. explore] the rhythms of its 34. Such measures end up exacerbating the pain.
mother’s breathing and heartbeat. A. aggravating B. increasing C. eliminating D. alleviating

LEXIS AND STRUCTURE 35. In a sentence, there must always be concord between a
subject and its verb.
In each of questions 27 to 30, select the option that best explains A. breach B. departure C. disagreement D. dispute
the information conveyed in the sentence.
36. As soon as the headmaster appeared, the chanting resumed.
27. Had he come that day, the problem would still not have A. Immediately B. Much later C. Soon after D. Almost
been solved. as.
A. He came that day, but the problem was not
solved. 37. In the course of the debate, the speakers were advised
B. He did not come that day, but the problem was to summarize their points.
solved. A. argue B. develop C. round off D. round up
C. He did not come that day, and the problem
was not solved. 38 The elderly often fulminate against the apparent indolence
D. He did not come that day, but his presence of the young generation.
would not have solved the problem. A. protest bitterly about
B. complain seriously about
28. He is now the megaphone of the people’s oppressors. C. promote vigorously
A. He now speaks on behalf of the oppressors. D. commend warmly
B. He now carries the megaphone when the
oppressors speak. 39. We should discourage further investment in existing
C. He is now the oppressor with the loudest factories.
voice. A. productive B.prosperous C. prospective
D. He is the oppressor who now speaks with D. precious
megaphone.
40. Nigeria is gradually experiencing economic recession
29. Here is Mr. Pam the tailor. A. birth B. discovery C. recovery D. destruction.
A. He is the only person known as Mr. Pam, and
he is a tailor. In each of questions 41 to 55, choose the most appropriate
B. He is one of those known as Mr. Pam, and he option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
is a tailor.
C. He is the only tailor, and he is Mr. Pam. 41. We could not put up with his terrible disposition
D. He is one of many tailors, and he is Mr. Pam. A. exterminate B. tolerate C. control D. deal with

30. One of the guarantors shall sign here. 42. She was taken aback by his attitude.
A. It is desirable that one of the guarantors sign A. delayed B. dragged aback C. surprised
here. D. overwhelmed
B. It is reasonable that one of the guarantors
signs here. 43. Many would argue that the achievement commensurate
C. It is obligatory that one of the guarantors with the effort.
signs here. A. unexpected in the light of
D. It is advisable that one of the guarantors signs B. funny compared with
here. C. proportional to
D. the wrong excuse for.
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44. They show no finesse in dealing with strangers. In each of questions 56 to 100 fill the gap(s) with the most
A. boldness B. kindness C. tact D. love appropriate option from the list following the gap(s).

45. As a matter of fact, we have been trying to step up 56. When I was in the secondary school, my parents were
production. active members of the … [A. Parents-Teachers
A. maximize B. decrease C. suspend D. increase Association B. Parents’-Teachers’ Association
C. Parent- Teacher Association
D. Parent’s Teacher’s Association.]
46. Ojo used to play tennis everyday.
A. is familiar with playing 57. The pen which you have just picked up is…[A. Charle’s
B. has to play B. Charles’ C. Charless’ D. Charles’s].
C. was in the habit of playing
D. was made to play. 58. It is clear to me that you won’t visit Okoro this holiday,
will you?…[A. Yes, I won’t B. Yes, I will visit C. No,I
47. In his own story, he confirmed that they had been on his won’t D. No,I will not visit]
tail for quite sometime.
A. closely following and watching him 59. Sa’adatu as well as the maids…[A. like plantain chips
B. searching for him B. are liking plantain chips C. is liking plantain
C. giving him a tail chips sD. likes plantain chips].
D. tagging him a talebearer
60. Measles…[A. is B. are C. were D. was] no longer
48. I am surprised to learn that Badmus is an agnostic. impossible to manage these days.
A. someone that believes in God
B. someone who antagonizes God 61. People dislike Jobe because he is a… [A. trickery B.
C. someone who is nonchalant about the tricking C. trickful D. tricky] young man.
existence of God
D. someone who does not believe in the existence 62. If the boys arrived early enough, the match…[A. would
of God. have been played B. will be played C. will have to be
played D. would be played]
49. Although the manager is busy right now, he will soon
be with you presently. 63. There are…[A. appendexes B. appendix C. appendices
A. Immediately B. soon C. without delay D. appendixes] on spelling and pronunciation at the
D. right away end of the book.

50. The governor’s wife, in characteristically simple attire, 64. She usually works hard; but…[A. at times B. atimes C.
walked into the hall unnoticed. attimes D. at time] she could be very lazy.
A. eccentrically B. typically C. consistently
D. intrinsically 65. The police… [A. says they are B. say it is C. say they
are D. says it is] happy about the dwindling crime rate
51. After my husband’s popular election, we had to keep
open house throughout the weekend. 66. The keepers themselves are sometimes… [A. stinged
A. entertain every caller B. stang C. stung D. sting] by the bees.
B. keep all doors open
C. relax security 67. I now realize I…[A. had met B. have met C. met
D. give a party D. meet] you before.
68. The patient was… [A. operated on B. Operated C.
52. Our new Vice-Chancellor has stepped off on the wrong operated for D. operated with] by a group of surgeons
foot. last week.
A. injured his foot while entering his office
B. started off badly 69. The old man couldn’t help…[A. to laugh B. that he
C. made a costly mistake laughed C. laughing D. in laughing] at his grandson’s
D. stepped on the wrong toes. babbling.

53. The corporate existence of any nation is in jeopardy if 70. A range of options…[A. were made B. is made C. are
her leaders pay lip service to her unity. made D. was made] available to the political parties
A. do not promptly pay their taxes. during the recently concluded elections.
B. want to break up the country
C. do not dialogue-regularly over her unity 71. He claimed that Mr. Okoli’s utterance was tantamount
D. are insincere about the problems of her unity to defamation of character, so he sued for…[A. damage
B. some damage C. a damage D. damages].
54. Much to her chagrin, the bridegroom did not turn up
for the wedding 72. I don’t think he can… [A. can’t be B. isn’t it C. can
A. wonder B. surprise C. disappointment D. depression he D. don’t I ]?

55. Ngozi’s countenance is less gloomy: it would appear as 73. The handset was faulty and so it was impossible to…[A
if she is relatively out of the woods. get at B. get over to C. get through to D. get on to]
A. free from difficulties B. just from the forest them by phone.
C. in good condition of health D. out of wants
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74. To be extravagant is to be… [A. rich B. luxurious C. 88. My friend…[A. never saw B. did not see C. had not
careless D. wasteful]. seen D. had never seen] me for many years when I met
him last week.
75. The president of the union…[A. would have left B. is
about leaving C. was leaving D. has left] for the airport 89. School buildings that… in 1950…[A. were build/are
by the time the riot started. B. were built/are C. were built/is D. are built/are] now
unihabitable.
76. Until his recent experience. Onimisi used to pride himself 90. Sixty percent of the unskilled workers…[A. are retain
…[A. on B. by C. about D. for] his fearlessness. B. is retained C. were retained D. are retained] yearly
by the company.
77. The trader…[A. exhibited B. displayed C. spread D.
demonstrated] his wares at the trade fair. 91. Defects like…in government’s development plans…
[A. this/calls B. these/calls C. this/call D. these/call]
78. Based on the facts before me. I have no alternative…[A. for extra vigilance.
but b. than C. as D. only] to terminate your appointment.
92. Most of his personal….[A. affects was B. affects were
79. Despite the pressure of work during the week, I shall C. effect was D. effects were] stolen.
endeavour to…[A. put up an appearance B. put up
appearance C. put in an appearance D. put on an 93. Tokyo is one of the most developed… [A. electronics
appearance] at your wedding. centre B. electronic centre C. electronics centres
D. electronic centres] of the world.
80. The expected guest eventually arrived…[A. in
company with B. in company of C. by company of D. 94. The director is to liaise… The management… [A. with/
accompanied with] his wife. in B. in/on C. with/on D. on/with] corporate matters.
81. When we visited him, he offered us a variety of…[A. 95. Some motorists …[A. shuttle along B. shuttle from
hot B. local C. hard D. soft] drinks such as whisky and C. shuttle to D. shuttle between] Sokoto and Kano.
brandy.
96. …[A. Since the cold war is over B. with the cold war
82. The exercise will be easily accomplished by the team if over C. the cold war over D. That the cold war is over],
members had their…[A. pull/resources together B. we can now start meaningful development.
pool/resources together C. pull/resources D. pool/
resources]. 97. My…is for you to refuse the…[A. advise/advice
B. advice/advice C. advice/advise D. advise/advise]
83. I have decided to…[A. abandon B. give up C. discard of the wicked.
D. jettison] drinking alcohol for health reasons.
98. Go straight down the hill and take the third… [A. bend
84. I would like to … [A. accompany B. follow C. e scort B. branch C. junction D. turning] on the left. You can’t
D. join] my father to Kaduna. miss it
85. One…[A. can’t B. shouldn’t C. need not D. dares not] 99. I hereby declare and…[A. inform B. confirm C.
be too careful these days; times are uncertain and walls affirm D. conform] that, to the best of my knowledge,
have ears. this statement is true in all respects
86. I shall never be so tired…[A. as not to be able B. that I
shan’t be able C. and so be unable D. such that I will 100. A citizen in a democracy can…[A. turn up B. bring out
be unable] to write to you. C. bring up D. turn to] the law if he or she wants to correct
an injustice.
87. As you have been here before,…[A. it were better you
B. it is you who will C. you’d better D. you would
better] lead the way.

COMPREHENSION
Use of English 1995
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that
follow. would arrange for my family to join me. Other financial problems
at home would be taken care of by my regular remittances. Would
PASSAGE I I then never think of going back home in future? Not until the
Whenever I have had to ask myself the question why I situation in the country improved considerably, I would answer.
have not left this country for good, many answers rush to my And who did I expect to carry on with the task of national
mind, each striving to be recognized as being the most cogent. I rehabilitation when the likes f me are all out of the country?
am reminded of the popular slogan that this country belongs to Those who messed up the country in the first place, I would
us all’, for which reason every Nigerian must join hands in trying argue. And so on. This dialogue of self has been going on for
to salvage it. I try to dismiss the argument by reasoning that it is the last ten years or so; meanwhile, I am yet to leave the country.
foolhardy attempting to lend a helping hand where one’s services When I wonder how many people share my kind of
are apparently not required. Then I am reminded that if I left the mental experience, realize that we must be very few. For not
country in a hurry just because of our political instability and many have the slightest opportunity of absconding from the
economic hardships, my commitments to my family at home would country; they do not have the place to run to, nor do they have
suffer. I reply by saying that as soon as I got settled abroad, I the means of escape. Even among the elite who consider this
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possibility, the uncertainty of a future outside their fatherland reduce mortality rate and improve living conditions. In the field
intimidates. And so we all end up staying and mumbling. of electronics, the invention of the computer is a remarkable
1. To leave the country ‘for good’ means leaving the achievement. The use of computers in economic activities,
country education, administration and business has helped to reduce
A. unexpectedly the exertion of human energy as more activities can be carried
B. for better opportunities out faster and more effectively.
C. permanently However, in spite of the laudable contributions and
D. now that things are not very good lofty accomplishments of technology, it has, nevertheless,
succeeded in introducing several anomalies and, in some cases,
2. The expression ‘each striving to be recognized as being reduced the value attached to human life. In our age, social life
the most cogent’ means each has been greatly altered by technological changes such as the
A. trying to prove its superiority invention of nuclear energy. Those who support the invention
B. determined to prove that it is the most of nuclear energy claim that the only way to maintain peace is to
acceptable be battle-ready. Humanity is greatly threatened and terrorized
C. resolved not to be dislodged by the invention of the nuclear warhead. People now live in
D. attempting to show that it is the brightest. dread of the hour, as no one knows when a conflict may arise
between nations, which may lead to the use of the nuclear bomb
3. The writer’s argument that it is foolhardy to offer one’s assumed to possess the capacity of wiping out humanity within
services where such are apparently not required implies the twinkling of an eye.
that in Nigeria
A. the authorities do not solicit for the services 6. The phrase ‘For nearly a century’ implies that the events
of the citizens described happened
B. mediocrity is the order of the day A. after the present century
C. the authorities are indifferent to offers of help B. before the present century
from the citizens C. at a time that includes the present century
D. to offer to serve the country is dangerous. D. before the development of science and
technology.
4. The writer’s posture as to who caused the problems in
his country can be described as 7. The words ‘conjectures’ and ‘hypotheses’ mean
A. indifferent B. unpatriotic A. guess-work B. prediction
C. self-righteousness D. logical. D. understanding D. conclusion

5. The last paragraph of the passage reveals that 8. The inventors of nuclear energy justify the need for it
A. the writer is a member of the elite which alone by saying that it will
indulges in this king of thinking A. make people fear war and thus create peace
B. people in the country only end up arguing B. enable wars to be fought more effectively
among themselves, while nobody does C. provide a balance of power between war and
anything about the situation peace
C. the majority of citizens in the country do not D. balanced society in the world.
possess the ability to argue the way the writer
does 9. The conclusion one can draw from the passage is that the
D. deciding to leave the country is as bad as direction of the development of science and technology
deciding to stay. A. has continued to be of benefit to humanity
B. leaves nothing more to be invented or
PASSAGE II discovered
The development of science and technology in this C. may lead man back to the early periods
century had led men into many inventions and discoveries. For D. has assumed some negative dimensions.
nearly a century, men were content with the use of railways,
carriages and cars. Another chapter opened when steamships 10. The title that best reflects the contents of the passage is
and airplanes were invented. Thus, through technology, man A. Man, Science and the Environment
conquered the land, the water and the airspace. But there was B. Technology in the Service of Man
one area left unconquered by man: outer space. In fact, outer C. Science and Technology through the
space --- planets, stars and the galaxies --- was known only Centuries
through magnifying lenses. Thus, man operated on mere D. Science, Technology and Human Existence.
conjectures as far as knowledge of these things was concerned.
Consequently, there was no scientific certainty, only hypotheses. PASSAGE III
But today, man has penetrated outer space.
Standard English refers to the authoritative and correct
It is true that science and technology have developed
tremendously in this century. In the field of engineering, for usage of the language, the medium of expression for government
example, the automobile has been invented as a means of easier, and education. Its opposite is a dialectal variant of the language,
more comfortable and faster movement from one place to another. that is, accepted and recognized words, expressions and
Apart from that, methods and instruments for diagnosing structures peculiar to a smaller group of language users who are
diseases and promoting hygiene and sanitation have helped to generally set apart from standard usage by cultural group or
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geographical region. For example, Nigerian, American, Irish and [A. produces B. records C. determines D. decides] the type of
British English differ from one another in many respects and person one is. But it is important to realize that good food …24…
each is identifiable, yet in every case the standard variety [A. lends B. gives C. makes D. rewards] one …25…[A.
approaches a single and hypothetical classification known as immunization B. immunity C. release D. retreat] from diseases.
international English. As one moves towards informality and
away from the observance of strict rules, emphasis falls on the LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
differences between dialects. In addition to American English
being distinguishable from British English, it is also true that In each of questions 26 to 30, select the option that best explains
British English is not uniform within the United Kingdom. The the information conveyed in the sentence.
level of formality is determined by education and aspiration,
while dialects vary from region to region. 26. Most of the time, their presence is a menace.
[The Department of English, Obafemi Awolowo A. Their presence is always meaningful
University, IIe-Ife: Theuse of English Text (1980)] B. Their presence is seldom a bother
C. Their presence is usually of great concern
11. The author refers to standard English as D. Their presence is frequently a threat.
A. a dialectal variant of language
B. an authoritative style of usage 27. My son, who is in the U.S.A., is studying Engineering.
C. the orthodox and accurate usage of the A. My only son is in the U.S.A. studying
language Engineering.
D. the accepted and recognized words, B. One of my sons is in the U.S.A. studying
expressions and structures, peculiar to a Engineering.
smaller group of language users. C. My sons are in the U.S.A. but only one is
studying Engineering.
12. One characteristic of a dialect as mentioned in the passage is D. Only my son is in the U.S.A. studying
A. informality Engineering.
B. possession of various forms
C. distinction from British English 28. I was one of those who actively believed in his
D. restricted area of usage. development programmes.
A. I was part of those who renounced the
13. According to the author, Nigerian, American, Irish and programmes.
British English can be regarded as B. I was the originator of the programmes.
A. registers B. standards C. I was one of the people who embraced the
C. styles D. languages. programmes.
D. I was one of the great number who developed
14. According to the passage, international English is his programmes actively.
A. a kind of arbitrary classification
B. an imaginary classification 29. The mills of God grind slowly, but they grind
C. an informal standard exceedingly small.
D. a recognized formal standard. A. God has a mill where every material in life is
thoroughly ground.
15. The observance of strict rules is a feature of B. God may seem slow in action, but He
A. formality B. dialects adequately rewards every bit of injustice.
C. languages D. unconventionality C. The world is like a food factory where God
takes His time in grinding all raw materials
Use the passage below to answer question 16 to 25. The passage properly.
has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately following each gap, D. Even though God is never in a hurry, He
four options are provided. Choose the most appropriate option achievesall things.
for each gap.
30. People are not interested in who rules
Many Nigerians are yet to appreciate the importance of A. People who rule are not interested in the ruled
…16…[A. consuming B. eating C. swallowing D. taking] good B. The rulers are not indifferent about the people
food. The major reason for this lack of …17… [A. awareness B. C. People are indifferent about the rulers
seriousness C. sense of responsibility D. determination] is to D. People are not ruled by the people they are
be …18…[A. seen B. acknowledged C. discovered D. interested in.
found] in the pattern of spending ...19... [A. recurring B. usual
C. frequent D. common] among the people of this country. This In each of questions 31 to 50, choose the most appropriate
pattern is characterized by lack of …20…[A. thinking B. saving option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
C. planning D. controlling], which is evident in the wasteful
spending habit of Nigerians, a good number of whom are quite 31. Good students can easily identify spurious arguments.
…21… [A. arrogant B. stingy C. crazy D. extravagant] when A. genuine B. interesting C. false D. illogical.
it comes to buying clothes. This …22… [ A. desire B.
anticipation C. aversion D. regret] for expensive clothes has
been brought about by the belief that it is appearance that …23…
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32. Eze’s skin now looks flabby as a result of his changed 47. The video tape recorder was made obsolete by the
circumstances. introduction of the satellite dish.
A. neat B. firm C. weak D. oily. A. antiquated B. useless C. fashionable D. functional.

33. He and his lieutenants have been accused of remaining 48. Segun is somebody who always follows his own inclinations.
intransigent. A. impulses B. aversions C. dispositions
A. rigid B. stubborn C. compromising D. popular. D. deviations

34. In the opinion of most observers, it was a disinterested 49. The poor man is compelled to languish in his poverty-
decision. stricken situation.
A. neutral B. impartial C. biased D. candid. A. luxuriate in B. deteriorate in C. suffer in D. laugh at

35. We watched in wonder as she rattled away in the esoteric 50. The engineers have been urged to make a prototype of
language. the long-awaited Nigeria car.
A. inscrutable B. familiar C. secret D. obscure. A. specimen B. original C. copy D. drawing.

36. She was asked to swallow her pride and get busy. In each of the questions 51 to 67, choose the most appropriate
A. be more realistic B. eat up her own pride option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
C. be more insistent C. be less proud.
51. The young man’s behaviour showed that he was at the
37. Many species in creation have mutated over the years top of the tree.
into new forms of life. A. at the highest position in his profession
A. stabilized B. manifested B. confused
C. transformed D. standardized. C. at a point of preparedness to show good example
D. arrogant.
38. His textile business deals are in gross.
A. wholesale B. imported C. retailed D. exported. 52. The chairman’s reaction was a storm in a tea cup.
A. suitable for the occasion
39. The government is initiating new effective programmes B. less serious than it appeared to be
to boost production. C. more serious than necessary
A. ending/enhance B. reviewing/renew D. greatly diminished in scope.
C. rearranging/increase D. terminating/reduce.
53. Do this job while I am away, but take your time.
40. The culprit unwittingly subjected himself to great A. be careful B. be thorough C. be fast
humiliation. D. don’t be in a hurry.
A. cunningly B. curiously C. foolishly D. subtly
54. The judge took issue with the counsel who complained
41. The masses are controlled by the whims and caprices of double standards.
of their rulers. A. agreed with B. argued with C. criticized
A. wish B. parochialism D. supported.
C. will power D. level-headedness
55. I shuddered in revulsion as I watched the snake slowly
42. In his quest for solidarity, the party leader undertook a swallow the struggling rat.
nation-wide tour. A. was fascinated B. was repelled C. was interested
A. unity B. resistance C. mobilization D. re-organization D. was distressed.

43. Our party is wielding potent political power. 56. At that point, the speaker went off at a tangent.
A. assuming B. renouncing C. restoring A. started to run away like a mad person
D. reappraising. B. took a lashing out at the audience
C. began to discuss unrelated matters
44. The ruler expects full allegiance from his subjects at D. chose to recall previous decision.
all times.
A. obedience B. homage C. disloyalty D. disapproval. 57. The enemy interestingly proved a real bulwark on that
memorable day.
45. In spite of many days of fasting, Musa is still fastidious A. protecting force B. source of trouble
about his food. C. troubleshooter D. tribulation.
A. particular B. undecided C. indifferent D. unmindful.
58. It was evident to whoever listened to his speech that
46. The leader called for concerted efforts in order to get he also had an axe to grind.
over the problems. A. an account to settle with someone
A. combined B. definite C. disparate D. isolated. B. a tool or something to sharpen
C. a bone to pick with someone
D. a personal objective to achieve.
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59. He might be compelled to make a momentous decision. 73. The teacher with his wife … [A. were B. were to be
A. a voluntary B. a spontaneous C. an important C. are D. was] here.
D. an involuntary.
74. … [A. if he did this B. if he could do this C. if he were
60. The Principal advised the students to bear with him in doing this D. if he had done this] he would have been
their present situation since every cloud has a silver lining. convicted.
A. every school has its problem
B. every bad situation has something good 75. What saved her was that she … [A. had clinged B.
C. good things always bring problems clung C. clinged D. clang] to the side of the boas.
D. difficulties often bring good things.
76. She has been here … [A. since B. for C. from D. in] the
61. Uche’s mother advised him to talk very little because past three years.
still waters run deep.
A. his enemies may be listening 77. He was … weak [A. so/that B. too/that C. very/that
B. there is no pride in talking too much D. so/when] he could not climb the stairs.
C. there is wisdom in silence
D. talking too much could lead him into trouble. 78. The hospital can now boast of more … [A. women
doctor B. woman doctors C. women doctors
62. Akin made such a dog’s breakfast of his home work. D. woman’s doctors].
A. an excellent job B. a brilliant attempt C. a mess
D. a poor performance. 79. He is one of those who … [A. teachers B. is teaching.
C. are teaching D. teach] in my school.
63. The confuses student found himself in a spot
A. in a particular place 80. The director, no less than his workers … [A. is B. are
B. in a normal situation C. were D. ought] to blame.
C. in a pleasant situation
D. in a difficult situation. 81. The principal asked me … [ A. what is my name
B. what was my name C. what my name was D. what
64. The man who gave the closing remarks at the party my name should be].
spoke tongue in cheek.
A. ironically B. wisely C. profusely D. eloquently. 82. He did not explain what happened … [A. either B. never
C. neither D. rather] did she.
65. New companies in the country always put up classified
advertisements in the dailies 83. Did the boy enjoy …[A. each other B. one another
A. secret B. small C. outrageous D. expensive C. themselves D. theirselves] when they went on
vacation?
66. The Doctor insisted on giving all of us prophylactic drugs. 84. It’s time the room … [A. is redecorated B. was been
A. curative B. preventive C. routine D. special. redecorated C. is being redecorated D. has been
redecorated] it looks awful.
67. The delegates to the Constitutional Conference have
mooted that funding of universities be transferred to 85. Her mother said to her ‘I …[A. would rather you
states where they are located. cooked B. would rather you cook. C. would rather
A. said B. agreed C. proposed D. legislated. you not cook D. would rather you have cooked] the
dinner now.
In each of question 68 to 100, fill the gap (s) with the most
appropriate option from the list following the gaps (s) 86. The driver of the car admitted … [A. to not have B. not
having C. to not having D. not to have] a licence.
68. The workers suffered a lot, toiling … [A. in B. under
C. underneath D. inside] the sun. 87. The panel’s … [A. credit B. credence C. credibility
D. credulity] was stretched to the limit by what they
69. Either Ekaete or you … [A. was B. are C. has D. is] to go. heard.

70. She has the … [A. elision B. illusion C. delusion 88. The poor man was pleased to find…[A. a rubber old
D. allusion] of being intelligent when in fact she is not. discarded B. an old discarded rubber C. a discarded
rubber old D. an old rubber discarded] type
71. … [A. A 90-year-old B. A 90-year-old C. A 90-
year-old D. 90-year-old] women was attacked by a 89. The minister can’t come today because he has … [A. a
group of bandits. former B. a preceding C. a prior D. an advance]
engagement.
72. He was angry with me … [A. on B. for C. of D. at]
being treated nonchalantly. 90. The policemen pointed out a …[A. discrepancy B.
discord C. distinction D. disagreement] between Mr.
Ogene’s two account of the incident.
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91. The …[A. cite B. sight C. site D. side] engineer was 96. The fact that Olu was able to guess correctly some of
unhappy with the shoddy work done by the contractors. the questions that were asked, made him … [A. have
the edge on B. obtain a edge over C. have an edge
92. During the examination, a student … [A. requested B. over D. obtain the edge with] the other candidates.
requested for C. requests for D. request] more answer
sheets. 97. This is to congratulate you on your success in the last
examination and to wish you … [A. more grease to
93. It was an … moment for us to be [A. opportune/ your elbow B. more power to your elbow C. some
privileged B. opportune/privileged C. opportune/ grease on your elbow D. some power to your elbow].
privileged D. opportuned/opportune] to welcome the 98. One ot the vice …[A. president acts B. president acts
new Vice-Chancellor. C. president’s acts D. presidents acts] in an interim
capacity.
94. You must study hard this semester in order to avoid
being made … [A. an object of B. an object for C. a 99. The development is to be carried to the ... [A. grass
subject for D. an subject with] ridicule. root B. grassroots C. grassroots D. grass-root] level.

95. One of the three candidates contesting the union 100. A very popular rules is at the … [A. helms of affair B.
election was obliged to …[A. step down B. stand down helm of affair C. reaim of affair D. helm of affairs].
C. step out D. stand out] in favour of his friend.

Use of English 1997

COMPREHENSION A. confused him B. erased his memory
C. damaged his brain D. distorted his thoughts.
Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that
follow. 2. Chike left the girl alone because he
A. discovered that she was a thief
Chike must have passed the house five times. And yet B. was afraid of the fat woman
he was still not sure. Was this the house he had visited so often C. did not known her
in the past? The house he used to visit was a bungalow. This D. did not like her.
house, too, was a bungalow. The old house was situated between
two-storeyed building: this one too was so situated. But in spite 3. Many people in the crowd groaned, sighed and hissed
of this feeling of certainty, chike had a vague suspicion that the because they were
house he had passed so often that day might be the wrong A. angry with the girl
house after all. Could an absence of two years have blurred his B. sorry for the girl
memory so badly? C. sorry for the fat woman
After a few moments’ hesitation, Chike began to move D. angry that the woman had lied against the
towards the house and then stopped, as if held back by an girl.
invisible hand. His attention had been attracted by a girl of
about twenty-four, who was tripping along the pavement to his 4. The expression, ‘justice-impelled’ in the passage refers
right. He turned and advanced towards her, and was about to to the desire of the crowd to
call her by what he felt was her name when he discovered that he A. see that the case was taken before a judge
had made a mistake in respect of her identity. B. take the thief to the police station
Just as Chike turned from the girl to continue his quest, C. try the thief immediately
he heard voices shouting, ‘thief! thief!’ and saw a crowd D. see that there was fair play.
materialize in seconds. At the head of this justice-impelled rabble,
was a ludicrously fat woman who, in spite of her size, bounced 5. The impression one has of the fat woman described in
along with the agility of a prize athlete. This barrel bellowed the passage is that she is
loudest and clapped her hands vigorously to punctuate her A. the thief B. a good person C. overzealous
outburst. And as she did so the surplus flesh on her pudgy arms D. domineering.
quivered. ‘They are all the same’, this woman screamed,
addressing nobody in particular. ‘they dress gorgeously, but PASSAGE II
underneath they are rogues.’ Theatre in the recent past used to be a very popular art
Again, she clapped her hands and again, there was a in traditional African society. It used to be a point of intersection
quivering of loose flesh. Chike was so busily occupied with where members of the community not only come to entertain
watching the antics of this woman that he did not notice at first themselves, but ‘join heads together’. In the traditional context
that the object of her venom was the girl he had seen earlier. It African drama therefore, Theatre was a popular and respectable
was this girl that was now surrounded by the crowd, with many institution, which preserved the people’s culture and tradition.
people groaning. Sighing and hissing in unison. Theatre was popular with the people because it emphasized
Chike relaxed, and prepared to watch the drama unfolding community participation, peace and progress. The presentations
before him. focused on the people’s lives, their aspirations, fears and hopes.
1. The expression, ‘blurred his memory’ means
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But today, the situation is different. Theatre is becoming very PASSAGE III
unpopular. The financing of the university will always be a
Africa of the present age is pre-occupied with many vexatious problem not only because of the need for it to maintain
problems yearning for immediate solutions. The continent is a level of independence that allows for the thriving of intellectual
facing hydra-headed challenges --- challenges on the political, pursuit but also for the size of funding that is required to maintain
social and economic scenes. In a world where science and an acceptable level of infrastructure in a modern university. The
technology are seen as the solutions to these problems, little experience of the Nigerian university in recent years has in this
attention is paid to the arts. Literature generally, and drama in regard, been almost alarming. The funding level required
particular, is often rated very low on the utility scale. Many in constitute sufficient reasons for diversifying the sources. Even
Africa today look at drama and theatre as a mere thing of fun, a if government was in a position on its own to meet all of the
joke so to say. university’s financial requirements. I consider it desirable that
Elitism is another barrier that militates against the every effort be made to reduce such contribution in the interest
appreciation of theatre as a communal art. Folk theatre is of university autonomy. I also hold the view that the university
appreciated by a negligible number of people. Contemporary should seek to become dependent, in a substantial way, on funds
focus is on literary theatre. Unfortunately. Literary theatre only generated from within. In other words the sources of funding
pretends to serve the interest of its society while in reality it has the university should be diversified as much as possible. Based
a foreign audience in mind. The use of Europeans and American on this principle, we can identify four sources— government,
theatrical conventions by our academic playwrights can bear industry, students and individual philanthropists. I must add
witness to this anomaly. quickly that each source has its own set of problems in its
The popularity of the literary African theatre is further continuing interaction with the university, which ought to be
marred by the medium of communication as most literary dramas addressed here.
in Africa are written in foreign languages, which are not Of all the four major sources of financing university
understood by many Africans. The question often asked is education mentioned above, contribution through fees from the
whether the artist should climb down to the level of his students involves instricate issues of special concern, if
community or stay at his exalted height and wait for the government gives as an expression of its obligation to promote
community to gradually move up to him. general welfare of society, if industry gives in order to enhance
its chances of procurement of needed human, information and
6. Theatre was popular in Africa because it material resources, as well as enhance its social responsibility. If
A. was traditional and simple in nature the general public gives as an indication of voluntary support
B. dealt with the political, social and economic for a worthy social cause, students (and by inference their
problem of the society parents) should give in order to purchase an economic good for
C. was a source of fun meeting their own felt need in the expectation that they will be
D. was communal and reflected the common satisfied with the product purchased.
[Adapted from Onosode, G. O. :‘The Politics of Managing People Prospects
concerns of the people. and Poverty The Role of the University’, 1009 OAU Convocation]

7. One of the reasons why theatre is unpopular in modern 11. It is important for Universities to be independent so
Africa is that it that they can
A. is regarded as not being of much use A. attract funds from industries
B. only deals with cultural and tradition B. determine their goals
C. lacks scientific and academic bases C. be left to expand without any hindrance
D. is always funny and looked down upon. D. carry out effective research.

8. In the passage the terms ‘theatre’ and ‘drama’ are used 12. The writer advocates for multiple sources of university
A. differently B. concurrently C. interchangeable funding in order to
D. sparingly. A. enhance university autonomy
B. reduce dependence on government
9. One of the arguments in the passage is that academic C. ensure that the numerous needs of the
playwrights universities are met
A. express themselves only in foreign languages D. maintain acceptable levels of infrastructural
B. serve as a catalyst in the society’s appreciation development.
of theatre
C. work against the common man’s appreciation 13. The expression ‘intricate issues of special concern’
of theatre means
D. make theatre popular in traditional societies. A. important policy statements
B. interwoven topics of significance
10. By the expression ‘climb down’, the author implies that C. complex matters requiring careful thought
modern playwrights should D. knotty problems that concern everybody.
A. be simplistic in the use if language
B. not move on 14. The word ‘diversified’ as used in the passage means A.
C. use language that is most appreciated by the people differentiated B. varied C. diffused D. widened.
D. wait for the community to catch up with them
15. The source of university funding emphasized in the
passage is
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A. government B. industry A. Bassey is very strong
C. the general public D. student B. Bassey is very brave
C. Bassey is determined
D. Bassey is unsympathetic
PASSAGE IV
In each of questions 31 to 50 choose the most appropriate option
The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
following each gap, for option are provided. Choose the most
appropriate option for each gap. 31. He gave a painstaking account of his account of his
encounter with the ghost of his father
In today’s society, few people at home need feel…16…[A. A. sordid B. fearful C. half- hearted D. tender-hearted.
estranged B. discouraged C. bad D. intrigued] from other people
and … 17…[A. cut out B. off C. cut away D. cut down] from the 32. Bala was put off by Lanre’s conquettish behaviour
world about them. Telephone, television, car, common, social towards him.
and educational …18…[A. interest B. associations C. interests A. unfriendly advantage
C. activity D. escapapades] with other parents, all keep married B. inviting and friendly advances
couples in living …19…[A. contact B. contract C. activity D. C. quarrel some attitude
together] with the rest of the community. If a person D. interesting attitude.
feels…20…[A. deprived B. isolated C. neglected D. cheated], it
may be that he of she has allowed himself of herself to become 33. Since mortality is the lot of man argued the preacher,
so. we must all accept death with equanimity.
The person who…21…[A. administers B. runs C. orders A. concern B. uncertainty C. serenity D. anxiety.
D. arranges] the home is the master of the immediate environment
and is free to plan the daily…22…[A. chores B. timetable C. 34. We admire the minister’s passionate and dynamic
organization D. routing] to allow for time off, or for reading, or characteristics.
cultural or social activities, much more so than the worker in a A. cruel and passive
factory of office. In fact, in the case of a full-time housewife and B. kind and forceful
mother, if she uses her time to good effect, she could C. passive and charmless
develop…23…[A. mentally B. physically C. economically D. D. charmless and cruel.
intelligently] by reading or home study as well as enrich herself
with the ameliorating experience denied to a working woman, 35. I was advised to stay away from cities that are ravaged
namely loving daily contact with her children …24…[A. Bearing by crime.
B. Dressing up C. Washing up D. Bringing up] children is A. spoilt by B. free from C. suffering from D. haven of.
regarded by many people as a rewarding…25…[A. activity B.
experience C. promotion D. engagement] and a labour of love. 36. You can use lethal means if necessary to stop
dangerous characters from molesting innocent citizens
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE A. fatal B. cruel C. harmless D. soft
In each of questions 26 to 30, select the option that best explains 37. His intention was not actually to punish the villagers,
the information conveyed in the sentence. and in any case he is now making moves to pacify them
A. placate B. ridicule C. appease D. annoy.
26. The stadium had a capacity crowd in spite of the
weather. 38. If you are really keen on immediate results, you just
A. The weather favoured the crowd at the have to adopt this pragmatic approach
stadium. B. The crowd defied the weather to fill A. practical B. unrealistic C. opportunistic D. sensible.
the stadium. C. The stadium was not filled because
of the weather. D. The crowd loved the weather at the 39. My friend was reduced to beggary by various ill-
stadium. advised business deals.
A. affluence B. penury C. influence D. poverty.
27. Imona couldn’t have attended lectures yesterday.
A. It was possible that Imona attended lectures 40. Measures were taken to authenticate the number of
yesterday. the booklets received.
B. It was possible that Imona didn’t attend lecturer A. reaffirm B. discredit C. discountenance D. count
yesterday.
C. It was impossible that Imona attended lectures 41. He urged other progressives in the country to join forces
yesterday. with his association
D. It was impossible that Imona didn’t attend A. radicals B. conservatives C. pessimists D. activists
lectures yesterday.
42. Adama’s father simply condoned her bad habits instead
28. The conference is biennial. of punishing her appropriately
A. The conference is held twice every year. A. opposed B. blamed C. accepted D. forbade.
B. The conference is held twice every two years
C. The conference is held once every other year. 43. The undesirable elements who perpetuate these vices
D. The conference lasts for two years. are never detected.
A. aggravate B. overlook C. discontinue D. encourage.
29. Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle.
A. In the recent changes in government, 44. Some travellers unwittingly render themselves open
only twoministers were sacked. prey to questionable character.
B. In the recent changes in government, all but A. genuinely B. wholesomely C. knowingly
two ministers remained alive. D. inadvertently.
C. In the recent changes in government, all but
two ministers retained their posts. 45. His father is a shrewd businessman
D. In the recent changes in government, all but A. gullible B. orderly C. reliable D. resourceful.
two ministers were sacked.
30. Bassey is as hard as nail
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46. Many people have raised the issued about the need for
an equitable distribution of our wealth 62. You don’t have to agree with our producers.
A. a fair B. an even C. an unjust D. an undue. A. shouldn’t disagree B. must not agree
C. may disagree if you don’t wish
47. The pastor decided to exorcise the evil spirit as the D. may not disagree if you don’t wish.
afflicted member of his congregation cried for help.
A. expel B. dive C. invite D. charm. 63. The new Vice-Chancellor’s immediate concern was to
tide over the major difficulties of the moment
48. He mumbled a few words at the trial and then cried A. temporarily accommodate
A. shouted B. murmured C. charm D. invite. B. permanently handle
C. decisively solve
49. There are many areas of convergence between male D. pretend to solve.
and female behaviour.
A. concomitance B. concordance C. incompatibility 64. The minister’s anger was aggravated by the news of
D. incomparability. the disaster.
A. abated B. magnified C. intensifies D. impeded.
50. The greenhouse effect is beginning to abate in Europe
A. intensify B. extenuate C. surface D. ameliorate 65. The lawyer gave evasive answers to all the questions.
A. Unintelligent B. ineffective
In each of questions 51 to 70 choose the option nearest in C. unreliable D.
meaning to the word(s) or phase in italics. equivocal.
51. Adebayo’s plans for the future are in the air. 66. Their strength is their staggering capacity to
A. suspended B. uncertain C. empty D. floating reproduce.
A. unstable mutiplying power
52. The group of performers thrilled the audience with its B. unreliable attacking power
peculiar choreography. C. qualitative multiplying power
A. form of dancing B. art of theatrics D. overwhelming multiplying power.
C. type of costuming D. mode of singing
67. The sales were lively; the upset price in each case was
53. Our local paper is noted for its incisive editorials on fair.
local politics. A. price that was the highest in the sales
A. sarcastic B. penetrating C. decisive D. destructive. B. price that upset every other buyer
C. highest amount for a bidder to offer
54. The criminal didn’t bat an eyelid when the judge D. lowest selling price of each item.
pronounced the sentence.
A. displayed no understanding whatsoever 68. The cleaner resigned from his job which he said had
B. didn’t shed a single tear become a trivial round.
C. moved none of his eyelids A. unrewarding B. too routine
D. showed no emotion or surprise. C. rather degrading D. unattractive
55. The rally was attended only by people who were 69. The island becomes more enchanting at night
apolitical. A. attractive B. delightful C. accommodating D. livery
A. full of political fervour
B. antagonistic to politicians 70. For a long time, the robber defied police warnings as if
C. new-breed politicians he was inculnerable.
D. not interested in politics. A. perfectly justifiable B. difficult to catch
C. impossible to harm D. indifferent to danger.
56. Smilling broadly, she explained why she always took
exception to being referred to as his wife In each of questions 71 to 100 fill each gap with the most
A. objected to appropriate option from the list following the gap.
B. preferred very much
C. felt specially honoured by 71. He was…[A. assisted B. duped C. cajoled D.
D. liked nothing excepts. encouraged] by the trickster.
57. In those days an ordinary school drop-out would come 72. When the soldiers saw that resistance was…[A.
around putting on airs. inadequate B. inefficient C. futile D. successful] they
A. trying to impress people stopped fighting.
B. trying to oppress people
C. wearing flashy clother 73. you should read all the…[A. brochures B. prospectuses
D. dresses in light materials. C. tickets D. handouts] carefully before you decide
where to go on holiday.
58. Many Nigerian have inured themselves to hardship
A. subjected B. submitted C. accustomed D. endeared. 74. The Emir and conqueror of the enemy territories…[A.
arrives B. are to arrive C. arrive D, are arriving] next
59. There are many venal judges in our law courts today week.
A. Qualified B. professional C. corrupt D. honest.
75. We ought to have visited the Governor…[A. isn’t it B.
60. He is bound to exposes himself by his nefarious oughtn’t we C. shouldn’t we D. haven’t we]?
activities
A. kind B. disreputable C. despicable D. nocturnal. 76. He didn’t sense Obi’s presence in the room did he? …
[A. yes, he did B. No, he did C. yes, he didn’t D. No, he
61. In this house, children are supposed to be in bed by ten didn’t].
o’clock.
A. just before B. not before C. about D. not later than.
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77. You can stay here…[A. as long B. so long C. in as 89. The protesters unable to pull down the status …[A. wrenched
much D. for as long ] as you are quiet. B. pushed C. towed D. burnt] it from its fixtures.
78. Where … buses … [A. does these/go B. do this/goes 90. …[A. there’s B. theres’ C. theirs’ D. their’s] been no
C. do these/go D. does these/ goes]? officail reaction to your request yet.
79. Ours…[A. are a resource B. is a resource C. are 91. His looks portend that … [A. some news B. a new C. news
resources D. is a resourced] based venture. D. the news] would be unpleasant.
80. Wale: do you know where my chemistry book is? Tom: 92. By January 1999 I … [A. should have been B. would be
[A. Toyin is with it B. it is with Toyin C. Toyin has it C. can be D. must be] ten years in the service of this
D. Toyin lent it]. institution.
81. The accident occurred when the driver of the car…[A. 93. The accused is optimistic of regaining his freedom
reversed towards B. reversed into C. reversed to D. because there is no witness to [A. correct B. challenge
reversed back into] the lorry. C. corroborate D. contradicts] his story.
82. …[A. Has it been that you asked me B. Had it been 94. Don’t … [A. prevaricate B. predicate C. precipitate
that you asked me C. if you have asked me. D. if you D. be pejorative] said the leader I want a decision now.
had asked me] I would have helped you.
95. Most of the missing jewelry were…[A. found B. taken
83. Those men helped Dupe and … [A. myself B. I C. me C. kept D. recovered] by the police.
D. we].
96. All the cattle on Lamidi’s farm… [A. is tick free B. are
84. The principal warned the students not to take the … tick-free C. is ticks-free D. are ticks-free].
[A. law into their B. laws into their C. law into
their own D. laws into their own] hands. 97. He saw the play and so … [A. was she B. had she
C. should she D. did she].
85. I had hardly… [A. lay B. lied C. lain D. laid] down
to sleep when I heard the gunshot.
98. The … [A. fragrance B. scent C. aroma D. smell]
86. My shoes are worn out; I must see my… [ A. grocer of what she was cooking filled the whole company.
B. tanner C. cobbler D. hosier].
99. I hope I have not … [A. invaded B. encroached
87. Kunle was annoyed for arriving late… [A. also Kemi’s C. intruded D. trespassed] too much on your time.
rather insolent manner B. also that Kemi’s insolent
manner C. and Kemi’s rather insolent manner 100. The exercise presented us with a lot of problems but
also D. and Kemi is also insolent which] put him later it was all … [A. plain B. smooth C. rough
out of temper. D. tough] sailing.
88. A sterile range of mountains, broken at intervals by
deep ravines…[A. enclose B. encloses C. cover
D. covers] almost the whole of this small state.

Use of English 1998

COMPREHENSION

Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that layer of blanket intercedes between the heat of the sun and the
follow inhabitants of the city.
Compared to what obtains in most other Nigerian cities,
PASSAGE I the inhabitants of Jos are openly warm. They are relaxed, and
Those who have visited the city of Jos in Nigeria attest there is the absence of that suffocating feeling, with which a
to its uniqueness. The first striking thing to notice, perhaps, is place likes Lagos is associated, of a people madly rushing to
the benevolence of the climate. It will be no exaggeration to say their graves. The groceries operating at all nooks and crannies
that in no other Nigerian city does one feel so much at peace, so of the city give the impression of a great abundance of a variety
relaxed, with the climate as in Jos. When people say that Jos is of food items. It is almost as if some unseen hands are responsible
cool, the remark is always a compliment, referring to the cool, for the presence of these varieties of edible items. The truth of
serene feeling of being at peace with nature, which one course is that, in Jos, people - civil servants, farmers and traders
experiences in the city. This feeling is topographically symbolized – are socially well-disposed to the influx of the new settlers and
by the surrounding rocky hills, which adorn the horizon from novel ideas and this ensures an apparent high degree of self-
every angle of the city. These hills remind you of castles, excepts sufficiency. You may be hungry in Jos, but you need not be
that whereas castles are man-made, the hills of Jos are natural angry.
edifices in which the master mason who had delicately laid those If other parts of Nigeria had been like Jos, surely the
stones one upon another is no other than God Himself. The sun colonialists would never have left the country without a good
of Jos shines without malice, and even in February and March, fight. Many monuments abound in the city, which tell tales of
when it is scorching hot in most parts of Nigeria, the heat of Jos the Whiteman’s love for this city of solid minerals.
dances charmingly on the surface of the skin, as if afraid of
hurting the organs beneath. It is as if from above a soft protective
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1. The presence of a wide variety of edible items in Jos of life and of living in general. Fulfillment is probably the
suggests that embracing word; more ‘fulfillment’ more satisfaction and less
A. the inhabitants are great farmers and frustration for more Homo sapiens. Man wants more varied and
innovators
B. the soil is extremely fertile and receptive fuller achievement in the society as opposed to drabness and
C. there is a high influx of traders and farmers shrinkages. We want more knowledge and more interest as
from other places against ignorance and apathy. Then would we know that the
D. it rains all the year round in the city and its spatial environment is not as small as we think.
environs

2. The benevolence of Jos climate is reflected in the 6. The theme of the passage is
A. feeling of peace and harmony with nature A. population explosion and development in medicine
which the city evokes B. man in a deprived world
B. cold climate of the city which makes people C. development in medicine and hygiene
always dress warmly D. population and the need for qualitative development.
C. fact that the inhabitants of Jos do not need to
work hard
D. average life-span of the inhabitants of Jos, 7. Population explosion is as a result of
which is high. A. cut down in death rates and birth rates
B. lack of birth control and child welfare
3. One distinctive ecological feature symbolizing the close C. development in environmental sanitation
intimacy between Jos and nature, is the D. imbalance between death control and birth
A. bright horizon adorning the city from every angle control.
B. rocky hills standing at various points of the city
like castles
C. sun which shines over Jos with benevolence 8. According to the passage, population explosion has
D. clouds which spread a blanket of protection brought man up against the ecological facts of
between the sun and the earth. A. man’s inhumanity to man, hunger and deprivation
B. pressing hard on the little available space
4. The last paragragh of the passage suggests that
A. the colonialists left Jos only after a fight C. little leeway of man’s colonization of people
B. the colonialists left Jos reluctantly D. squalid African villages.
C. Jos could not contain the many colonialists
D. Nigeria’s independence forced many 9. According to the passage, the main purpose of human
colonialists out of Jos. existences is
A. for procreation
5. ‘The heat of Jos dances caressingly on the surface of
the skin as if afraid to hurt the organs beneath’ this B. to provide cannon-fodder
means in Jos it is C. to live perpetually in penury
A. never hot B. always cold C. never uncomfortable D. to live a life of fulfillment.
D. always warm.
10. ‘Little leeway’ can be replaced with
PASSAGE II A. not much extra space B. no extra space
Population has at last made the grade and emerged as a
world problem. Unfortunately, most of those who speak or write C. plenty of space D. scarcely any space.
about it persist in thinking of it in terms of a race between human
numbers and world resources especially of food - a kind of PASSAGE III
competition between production and reproduction. There is another interesting fact about eye movement.
Certainly, the statistics churned out are important If you record the eye movements of someone who is reading
revealing that indeed, there is a population explosion. But the
you will notice that from time to time the reader goes back and
real explosion is a twentieth century phenomenon, due primarily
looks again at something he has read before; in other words, he
to the spectacular development in medicine and hygiene. This
regresses to an earlier part of the text probably because he
has drastically cut down death rates without any corresponding
realises he does not understand the passage properly. Then he
reduction in birth rates; death control without birth control.
comes back to where he left off and continues reading. At one
World population we are told has more than doubled since 1900
time, it was thought that regression was a fault, but it is a fact a
and will certainly reach well over 5½ billion and possibly 7 billion
very necessary activity in efficient reading.
by the magical year 2000.
There are several different kinds of fault in reading,
The population has brought us up against a number of
which are usually more exaggerated with foreign learners. The
tough ecological facts. Man is at last pressing hard on his spatial
most common one is that most people read more slowly than
environment - there is little leeway left for his colonization of
they should. There is no rate at which people ought to read of
new areas of the world’s surface…
course; it depends on your purpose in reading, how difficult the
What are people for? Surely people do not exist just to
language is, how unfamiliar the material is and so on. But most
provided ‘ bomb-fodder’ for an atomic bonfire or ‘religious fodder’
people read everything at the same slow speed and do not seem
for rival religion sects or ‘cannon-fodder’ for rival national armies
to realise that they can read faster or slower as required. Other
or rival political parties or even consumer-fodder’ for profit
people say the words to themselves or move their lips - these
making systems. It cannot be their aim just to eat, drink and be
habits slow the reader down to something near speaking speed,
merry and to hell with posterity nor to live out their
which is of course much slower than reading speed. Another
undernourished lives in some squalid Asian or African village.
habit which can slow you down is following the line with your
Man’s dominant aim must be to increase in quality-quality
finger, or with a pen.
of human personality, of achievement, of inner experience, quality
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If you want to be able to read faster the secret is simply On the day of the mention and the motion, the court
to practise under timed conditions. This means that you should became alive as early as 8.30 a.m as the …22…[A. presiding
give yourself a certain amount of time to read with understanding judge B. court clerk C. justice D. prosecutor] was known for
then check your time when you have finished. Students who his punctuality. He would sit at exactly 9 a.m . The plaintiffs and
have practised fast reading even for only an hour a week, have their counsel were the first to come into the court room, then
shown average improvements of over 50% over a term of ten came the defence counsel. At the dot of the hour, three bangs
weeks’ duration. Reading fast does not necessarily mean reading were heard, immediately after which the court clerk announced
with less comprehension - in fact students usually show small the presence of the judge.
increase in comprehension as well as a dramatic increase in In no time the court clerk read out the case and both
speed. counsels announced their …23…[A. presence B. appearances
[Wallace, M.C: Study Skills in English, C.U.P. 1980]
C. arrivals D.interests] . The counsel to the plaintiffs moved his
motion relying on a six- paragraph …24…[A. oath B. affidavit C.
11. The expression ‘There is no rate at which people ought presentation D. arguments ] which contained the facts of the
to read of course... is used to case. In response, the defence counsel argued on the premise of
A. justify regression in reading an eigth- paragraph …25…[A. counter affidavit B. declaration
B. condemn slow reading habits C. submission D. summons]. The motion was granted according
C. justify a variety of reading speeds to the merit of the argument of the first lawyer.
D. recommend regression in reading.
LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
12. According to the passage, the reader regresses so that In each of questions 26 to 35, select the option that best explains
he can the information conveyed in the sentence .
A. look again at what he has read before
B. appreciate what he is reading 26. If I left the country, I would arrange for my family to join me.
C. make sense of what he is reading A. He left the country and his family joined him
D. remember what he is reading. B. In the event of his leaving the country, his
family would join him.
C. He did not leave the country and his family
13. For effective reading, the writer implies that speaking did not join him.
speed is D. He may not leave the country.
A. normal B. inadequate C. necessary D. significant
27. A state of mutual hatred existed for years between the
14. The word ‘exaggerated’ as used in the passage, means two villages of Umuna and Ogboma .
A. pronounced B. problematic C. falsified A. Umuna hated Ogboma.
D. compounded B. Ogboma hated Umuna.
C. Ogboma and Umuna hated themselves
D. Umuna and Ogboma hated each other.
15. The writer implies that when you read unfamiliar material,
your reading speed will be 28. The painting in the museum was beautifully faked.
A. faster B. regular C. irregular D. slower. A. The painting was a good deceptive replica.
B. The painting was well-framed and displayed.
PASSAGE IV C. The painting was deceptively decorated in
The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately the museum.
following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most D. The painting was carefully hung in museum.
appropriate option for each gap.
29. Ade: Do you mind if I sit down here? Bola: well, yes I
do actually.
On the 21st of June 1994, the Director – General received A. Bola is reluctantly granting the request.
in his office a visitor, the first of its kind in his life. Even though B. Bola is willingly accepting the request.
he really could not make any meaning out of his name, the C. Bola is certainly rejecting the request.
visitor’s second statement that he was a court …16… [A. bailiff D. Bola is objecting to the request.
B. messenger C. litigant D. clerk] readily gave the Director -
General a clear picture of the man’s purpose. He immediately 30. The President held forth for several minutes on the need
gave to the Director- General two sets of papers. The first was a for patriotism.
…17… [A. writ of summons B. subpoena C. call notice D. letter] A. The President was silent for some minutes
which was to notify the Director- General that he and the agency when patriotism was being discussed.
he represented were being sued for …18…[A. battery B. slander B. The President whispered a few things about
C. libel D. contempt] and that he should seek the services of a patriotism.
C. The President spent time saying a few
lawyer who would appear for him on the 6th of July when the things about patriots.
case was for mention. D. The President gave a rather long speech on
The second paper was on a motion of …19…[ A. the importance of patriotism.
summons B. order C. decision D. interlocutory injunction]
which, if granted by the court would restrain the Director – 31. The slide in the price of gold in the world market has left
General or the …20…[A.defender B. defedant C. litigant D. the industry reeling.
prosecution] from publishing further anything on the staff of A. The gradual fall in gold price is making the
the ministry or the …21…[A. witness B. exhibits C. plaintiffs industry unstable.
D. perjurer]. The motion was also slated for 6 th July. B. The stability in gold price is making the
industry stagnant.
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41. ‘The Lions of Cameroun’ is really an indomitable
C. The decline in gold price is making the team A. a powerful B. a prominent C. a weak
industry redundant. D. a cowardly
D. The increase in gold price is making the
industry to boom.
42. To almost everyone in the little village, Ada’s behaviour
32. Fabricated statements published as truths amount to an was most odious
abuse of press freedom. A. repulsive B. difficult C. attractive D. charming.
A. To make known what is not true is
aggressive to press freedom. 43. Aduma was so vociferous during the meeting of the
B. Publishing formulated untruths is misused congregation that he succeeded in incurring the wrath
press freedom. of the chairman.
C. Unplanned publicized untruths are a misuse
of the freedom of the press. A. anger B. admiration C. displeasure D. sympathy.
D. Press freedom is based on published 44. It was an inopportune moment for you to make that
untruths. suggestion.
A. an ideal B. a wrong C. an exact D. a sad .
33. The expected guests arrived at the eleventh hour.
A. The guests arrived at the last minute. 45. He devoted too much time to the peripheral aspects
B. The guests arrived a 11 o’ clock. A. unimportant B. superficial C. minor D. main.
C. The guests arrived at the expected time.
D. The guests arrived eleven hours behind
schedule. 46. The climate of Nigeria is an enervating one
A. a weakening B. an energy sapping
34. After addressing the court for two hours, the defence C. an invigorating D. a sluggish.
counsel rested her case.
A. The defence counsel was tired after speaking 47. The girl’s idiosyncrasy was a passion for bread and butter.
for two hours, so she took a break. A. stupid outburst B. general tendency
B. The judge adjourned the defence counsel’s C. singular characteristic D. occupational calling.
case
after listening for two hours.
C. The defence counsel concluded her defence 48. Once he has decided that something needs doing, my
after speaking for two hours. brother is very unswerving of purpose.
D. The judge advised the defence counsel to A. erratic B. tenacious C. stubborn D. simple.
rest after two hours of address.
49. Those were the days of the fallacy that some languages
35. Benjamin exclaimed, ‘If it is Napoleon who said it, it must are primitive while others are not
be right.’ A. argument B. excuse C. misconception D. truth
A. Benjamin never believes what Napoleon says.
B. Benjamin does not know what is right unless 50. She is immune to the flattery of young men.
Napoleon says it. A. resistant B. susceptible C. insensible
C. Napoleon always says what Benjamin believes D. unresponsive
to be right.
D. Benjamin thinks that Napoleon always says 51. Events in South Africa indicate a kind of political
the right thing. renascence. A. rejuvenation B. decline C. turbulence
D. upheaval.
In each of questions 36 to 53, choose the most appropriate
option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics. 52. If we must live together as one people, we must learn to
tolerate disparate dispositions.
36. The chairman’s verdict redressed the injustice meted out A. converging B. accommodating C. conflicting
by the secretary. D. opposing.
A. corrected B. restored C . aggravated D. addressed
53. The presidential aspirant warned of the political
37. Uche could not travel last December because of the catastrophe that would follow if the election were
severity of the harmattan. rigged.
A. cold B. mildness C. warmth D. moderation A. problem B. turmoil C. success
D.conflagration.
38. Traveling in the night can be an ordeal.
A. a great exercise B. a great fear In each of questions 54 to 73, choose the option nearest in
C. a great endurance meaning to the word (s) or phrases in italics
D. moderation
39. Mrs. Kofi is very provocative in her style of dressing. 54. The material in the book is presented within an
A. modest B. happy C. angry D. beautiful. eclectic framework.
40. Akoso thought that her father was very callous. A. simple B. a broad C. a restricted D. clumsy.
A. indifferent B. compassionate C. wicked 55. Ohiokhen had a brainwave as to how she could deal
D. careless. with the problem.
A. an imagination B. a desire C. a headache
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D. anidea.
67. In my view, the play didn’t come off.
56. Surely, Ahmed is a ball of fire. A. succeed B. fail C. attract applause
D. take place
A. quarrelsome person B. a hot-headed activist
C. a fiery speaker or writer D. a very energetic person. 68. When the chips are down, we will know those who
have the courage to stand.
57. This time, she will be competing with a dark horse. A. When we get to a crisis point
A. a weak and low- spirited person B. In the final analysis
B. a person about whom little is known C. When the blocks are lowered
C. an unpopular candidate D. When we get to the end of the road.
D. a person as strong as a horse.
69. She said boxing is in fact her pet aversion.
A. something she likes very much
58. In answer to the question as to how life is treating him, B. something she dislikes very much
the stranger said ‘it never rains but it pours’. C. a hobby she loves to pursue
A. the blessings of life shower on him like heavy rain D. one thing she can’t miss
B. he is contented with his improved fortunes
C. things are getting decidedly worse 70. The gateman does his work perfunctorily.
D. his financial status is deteriorating. A. without commitment
B. with speed
59. After many years of struggle as a trader he struck C. grudgingly
gold A. became quite rich B. won a D. ethusiastically
big contract C. became a gold miner
D. became a goldsmith. 71. Members of the panel were working at cross purposes.
A. in harmony
60. One significant characteristics of the jet age is that it B. in disunity
encourages people to cut corners. C. for selfish purpose
A. not to face all problems D. for selfless purposes
B. to want to become rich quickly
C. to want to avoid necessary hardships 72. The young man who distributed political pamphlets on
D. not to do the proper thing at the right time. campus was promptly repudiated.
A. disowned B. arrested C. warned D. killed
61. Any student found guilty of examination malpractice
should be allowed to stew in his own juice. 73. Adayi is a die-hard criminal.
A. taste a repeat of the examination A. hard to kill B. hard to arrest
B. suffer the consequences of his action C. remorseless D. resentless
C. bear the burnt of the disgrace
D. forfeit the opportunity of further education. In each of questions 74 to 100, fill each gap with the most
appropriate option from the list following the gap.
62. The lady who won the beauty contest had a good
gait 74. In moments of serious economic hardship, many people
A. stature B. figure C. elegance D. carriage. are…[A. concerned B. inclined C. disposed D. propensed]
to turn to God.
63. It would need a high flyer to make a first class
degree in the university. 75. We cannot all wear expensive shoes in situation of …
A. a smart performer [A. divergent demand and supply B. uneven wear
B. an outright genius and tear C.differing purchasing power D.
C. an outstanding scholar unpredictable national income].
D. an unmitigated swot.
76. That center-forward was … [A. in an off-side position
64. What you will find in the book is a bird’s eye view of B. very well positioned C. a brilliant player D. the
the subject. captain of the team]; consequently the goal was not
A. a detailed account disallowed.
B. a balanced discussion
C. a biased treatment 77. AIDS is … [A. too much a deadly B. very deadly C.
D. a general survey. so deadly a D. such deadly a] disease that it kills
slowly but surely.
65. Hers was a chequered career
A. an interesting and successful career 78. We had a dull evening because … [A. hardly the talk
B. a career full of sorrow and tears had begun when the lights went off B. hardly had
C. a bright and memorable career the talk begun when the lights went off C. the talk
D. a career full of ups and downs. had hardly begun when the lights had gone out D.
the lights had hardly gone out when the talk began].
66. If experience is anything to go by, this action will prove
a political minefield. 79. Soyinka’s masterful … [A. evocation B. invocation
A. a sources of political benefits C. convocation D. revocation] of the atmosphere of
B. a way out of political trouble his childhood helped to make his book, Ake, an outright
C. a causes for political joy success.
D. an invitation to political problems
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80. Students will always blame their teachers when
examination results are unfavourable … [A. won’t they 90. The judge with his son… [A. were B. shall C. is D. are]
B. wouldn’t they C. isn’t it D. can’t they] traveling to Lagos now.
81. Okonkwo is a stubborn man; he will never … [ A. chew 91. A university teacher is an… [A. academic B.
B. spit C. eat D. bite] his words. academics C. academician D. academia].
82. Kindly … me your book because my friend has … 92. The adventurers ran into many … [A. dear B. dears
[A. borrow/borrowed B. borrow/lent C. lend/lent C. deers D. deer].
D. lend/borrowed] mine.
83. Three-quarters of the church … [A. were B. was C. 93. The argument between the two neighbours degenerated
is D. are] painted by members the previous day. into …[A. a free to all B. a free fight C. a flee
for all D. a free for all fight].
84. Two young boys have been caught with parts of the 94. The class … [A. comprised of B. comprises of
stolen machine but …[A. neither of them has B. C. comprise D. comprises] more girls than boys this
neither of them have C. none of them has D. none session.
of them have] admitted stealing it.
95. The tourist bought … [A. a brown small Nigerian
85. Watching carefully, I could see the fish … [A. doting earthen pot B. a small brown Nigerian earthen pot
B. crawling C. diving D. darting] along the C. an earthen brown small Nigerian pot D. a
bottom. Nigerian small brown earthen pot].
86. Emeka is now a … student but it took him years to … 96. I have already… [A. hanged B. hunged C. hang
[A. matured/mature B. mature/mature C. mature/ D. hung] the picture on the sitting room wall.
matured D. matured/ matured].
87. The rebels will soon fight back. We have been informed 97. Most of us will attend the conference … [A. holding
… their… [A. of/predicament B. about/indulgence B. held C. being held D. to hold] at Ibadan later this
C. on/rearmament D. as for/advancement]. years.
88. Ali was honest and quiet as a schoolboy, but too much 98. I shall work hard so that I can … [A. secure B. make
drinking has now changed his … and … [A. C. receive D. grab] a distinction in English.
temperature/injured B. character/tightened
C. temperament/loosened D. innocence/worsened] 99. The baby was rather … [A. much more troublesome
his tongue. B. much too troublesome C. so much troublesome
D. very much troublesome] than I could bear.
89. The hospital was closed … because there were no beds
to put patients ... [A. again/upon B. off/on C. 100. Students were forbidden …[A. from joining B. in
down/ at D. up/in]. joining C. to join D. on joining] any secret society.

Use of English 1999

COMPREHENSION before fossil fuels are exhausted, demand will greatly exceed
Read passages, I, II & III carefully and answer the questions supply.
that follow. Each question carries 3 marks. For too many years, the world has consumed fossil
fuels with little thought for the future. In fact, world energy
PASSAGE I consumption increased almost 600% between 1900 and 1965
If present trends continue, the world would face a major and it is projected to increase by another 450% between 1965
crisis by the end of this century: insufficient cheap, convenient and the year 2000. Crude oil has been pumped out of the ground
energy. For without such energy, industrial production will fall, for about 100 years, but over half of it has been consumed in the
agricultural output will drop, transport will be restricted and past 18 years. Coal has been mined for over 800 years, but over
standard of living in developed countries will plummet. At a half of it has been extracted in the past 37 years. In sum, most
present, almost all our energy comes from fossil fuels. The earth’s of the world’s consumption of energy from fossil fuels
reserves of fossil fuels have been formed from organic matter throughout history, has taken place within living memory.
subjected to enormous heat and pressure for millions of years.
1. From the writer’s description of the world energy situation,
But such reserves are finite. Because power demand is increasing
we may conclude that
very rapidly, fossil fuels will be exhausted within a relatively
A. developing nations will soon experience poverty
short time. We can estimate the amount of recoverable fuel under
B. demand for recoverable fuel will plummet
the surface of the earth and we know the rate at which it is being
C. consumption has not affected production
extracted. Fairly simple calculations can therefore determine its
D. decline has not affected demand.
remaining life. If present trends continue, gas and oil reserves
will be exhausted by the middle of the 21st century – about 70 2. The writer seems to suggest that developed nations should
years from now. Similar estimates for coal and wood reserves A. always calculate a fossil fuel’s remaining life
suggest a projected supply of 250-300 years. Of course, long B. reduce industrial and agricultural production
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C. reduce dependence on fossil fuels A. arranges welfare packages for every citizen
D. review industrial dependence on energy. B. absorbs the negro into its political structure
C. grants equality to all citizens
3. The writer warns that the world could D. ensures socio-political and legal equality for every citizen.
A. lose all its oil reserves in a mater of years
B. face energy crisis soon if production is not stepped 8. One of the social services provided by democratic nations is
up A. catering for beggars and outcasts
C. experience scarcity and low energy price soon B. social welfare schemes
D. face low energy supply and poor agricultural C. protection from human rights abuses
output. D. security against national disasters.

4. The expression, standard of living in developed 9. From the passage, it is obvious that
countries will plummet, means A. there is a hierarchy of rights
A. the economy of rich nations will stagnate B. all men possess the right to equal political affiliations
B. economic life will improve in rich nations C. there is deprivation in the society
C. purchasing power will decline sharply in rich D. the negro in America are champions of equality.
nations
D. people in developed nations will experience boom. 10. A suitable title for the passage is
A. Democracy
5. Fossil fuels are used in the passage include B. Discrimination
A. wood, kerosene and natural gas C. Equality
B. oil, coal and natural gas D. Freedom
C. lignite, butane and charcoal
PASSAGE III
D. wood, coal and oil.
In many places in the world today, the poor are getting
PASSAGE II poorer while the rich are getting richer, and the programmes of
When Thomas Jefferson wrote in the America Declaration development planning and foreign aid appear to be unable to
of Independence that ‘all men are created equal’, he was not reverse this trend. Nearly all the developing countries have a
seeking to describe men’s endowments, but their political and modern sector, where the patterns of living and working are
legal rights. He was not saying that men do not differ from one similar to those in developed countries. But they also have a
another in the powers and dimensions of their bodies, minds non-modern sector, where the patterns of living and working are
and characters. He was asserting that, despite variations and not only unsatisfactory, but in many cases are even getting
differences, they all possessed the right to equal political and worse.
legal treatment. We must, however, ask of what real value are What is the typical condition of the poor in developing
political and legal equality to a man who has no bread to eat, no countries? Their work opportunities are so limited that they
clothes to wear, no roof to shelter him, no chance to earn a cannot work their way out of their situation. They are
livelihood? What we understand as democratic society must underemployed, or totally unemployed; when they do find
provide for its citizen’s minimum status as a member of that occasional work, their productivity is extremely low. Some of
society, that keeps him from becoming a beggar, outcast or outlaw them have land, but often too little land. Many have no land,
and that offers him some protection in his deprivation, losses and no prospect of ever getting any. There is no hope for them
and fears. in the rural areas and so, they drift into the big cities. But there is
In our time, the nations of the democratic world have no work for them in the big cities either -- and of course no
installed elaborate systems of social security and welfare, ranging housing. All the same, they flock into the cities because their
from compensation for industrial accidents to subsidized chances of finding some work appear to be greater there than in
housing, unemployment insurance, old age pensions, to provide the villages – where they are nil. Rural unemployment, then,
against the characteristic losses and disasters of human life. produces mass-migration into the cities; rural unemployment
The evolving status of the Negro in America is becomes urban unemployment.
attracting the attention of the champions of equality. Much has The problem can be stated quite simply: what can be
been written on the wrongs, injustices and inequalities of the done to promote economic growth outside the big cities, in the
coloured citizen of the USA and much remains to be said, because small towns and villages, which still contain 80 to 90% of the
the history of this struggle for human rights is still unfolding. total population? The primary need is work places, literally
[John Coghlan] millions of workplaces.

6. It could be deduced from the passage that 11. The expression ‘work their way out of their situation’
A. citizens have equal political and legal treatment in America means.
B. the nations of the democratic world have no political A. walk from one village to another
and legal hierarchy B. migrate from village to city
C. democratic nations are expanding the provision of C. work their way out of their village
social welfare. D. change their circumstances.
D. equality obliterates differences and variations among
races and nations. 12. Where are the rich getting richer and the poor poorer?
A. In nearly all developing countries.
7. According to the passage, a democratic nation is one which B. In a majority of countries in the world.
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C. In developing countries with modern sectors. D. Horizon, clarity of the troubled spots and certainty
D. In countries with non-modern sectors. are remarkably noted.

13. Underemployment among the villagers refers to 27. The crowd in the hall is intimidating.
A. lack of sufficient land for everyone A. The crowd is frightening. B. The crowd is angry
B. low productivity when working C. The crowd is overwhelming. D. The crowd is
C. fewer people for many jobs riotous.
D. more people for fewer jobs.
28. The manager said that the new loaf was the last word in
14. The gap between the rich and the poor widens because there bakery.
A. are no jobs in the rural areas A. The loaf was the best ever baked.
B. are no employment opportunities in the city B. The loaf was the last to be baked.
C. is no work in the village and the city C. The loaf was the worst to have been baked.
D. is low growth rate in productivity. D. The loaf was the last in the baker’s directory.

15. Migration to the city among villagers is caused by 29. Hundreds of used items will go under the hammer during
A. attractions of the city the weekend.
B. low productivity in the village A. Unserviceable goods will be publicly destroyed at
C. inadequate job opportunities in the village the weekend.
D. shortage of land for cultivation. B. Impounded household items will be sold to the public
before the weekend.
PASSAGE IV C. Damaged items will be sold next weekend.
The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately D. Many old items will be auctioned this weekend.
following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks. 30. The reformists say elections cannot be free and fair unless
a number of constitutional changes are effected.
Publishing is a fast growing business in Nigeria and there are A. Reformation depends on constitutional changes.
therefore, many publishing houses all over the country. When B. Free and fair elections depend on law reforms.
…16… (A. an article B. an essay C. a book D. a manuscript) is C. Free and fair elections are the primary concern of
submitted by an author, the publisher sends it …17… (A. an the reformists.
assessor B. an evaluator C. a checker d. an examiner) to know D. Effecting constitutional changes is dependent on
if it is actually publishable. This step is important because the electoral reforms.
publisher wants to make sure that the book catches the…18…
(A. market B. audience C. students D. shops) when it is In each of questions 31 to 49, choose the option opposite in
eventually published. In a good publishing house, there is meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
…19… (A. an error-proof B. an editorial C. lithographic
D. an evaluation) section which is concerned with …20… 31. After the surgical operation, the doctor gave the
(A. proof-reading B. reading over C.scanning over D. skimming indication that Mr. Idogo will pull through.
over) the manuscript and correcting both the spelling and typing A. be maimed B. survive C. die D. be revived.
errors. After this, the manuscript is …21… (A. typewritten B.
typeset C. double-spaced D. single-spaced) in readiness for 32. His cruelty to his mother defies logical explanation.
…22… (A. photocopying B. xeroxing C. filming D. printing). A. demands B. offers C. projects D. precludes.
The printed…23… (A. items B. bulletin C. copies D. specimen)
are then stored in the warehouse and a few of them may be sent 33. The tennis player surreptitiously swapped rackets after
to the author as …24… (A. complementary B. complimentary the first set.
C. acknowledgement D. sample) copies. Since it is not just the A. openly retained B. overtly exchanged.
aim of the publisher to offset the cost of production but also to C. quietly surrendered D. violently swung
make some gains, there is a strong marketing division which
promotes sales. A certain percentage of the cover price of the 34. They attacked all regulations designed to emasculate
book is paid to the author as …25.. (A. royalty B. honorarium student militancy.
C. dividend D. interest) A. condone B. isolate C. punish D. strengthen

LEXIS AND STRUCTURE 35. There is no point dissipating energy on a useless argument.
In each of questions 26 – 30, select the option that best explains A. destroying B. conserving C. marshalling D. storing
the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries
2 marks. 36. The secretary runs down anybody that does not sing his praises.
A. hates B. pleases C. honours D. discredits
26. The horizon may not be clear now, but the troubled spots
have certainly been noted. 37. Everyone, including the Principal, believed that he was a
A. The horizon is dependent on the troubled spots. very assiduous student.
B. Clarity of the horizon is dependent on the perception A. assertive B. industrious C. aggressive D. casual
of the troubled spots.
38. The dancing troupe put up a flawless performance.
C. The troubled spots are more perceptible than the horizon.
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A. an interesting B. an imperfect C. a satisfactory atmosphere is restive.
D. a careless A. quiet B. chaotic C. restless D. tense
39. My brother married a loquacious woman. 55. When he found himself in a difficult situation, he tried to
A. quiet B. noisy C. talkative D. beautiful double-talk his way through.
A. talk to two people to help him.
40. My eldest brother is now faced with the vicissitudes of B. mix up issues to sound nervous
married life. C. mix up facts to confuse people
A. amazement B. sweetness C. amiability D. D. talk twice to gain sympathy
stability 56. Mr. Dzokoto plays the piano with great dexterity.
41. My father’s advice to me was quite invaluable. A. wisdom B. power C. force D. skill
A. useless B. useful C. helpful D. unsolicited 57. Amina said she married a doting husband.
42. The Minister has finally been dropped from the present A. a loving B. a fun-loving C. an uncaring D. a nagging
cabinet because of his ignoble act. 58. Adamu woke up with a start and took to his heels, claiming
A. criminal B. ignorant C. honourable D. selfish that something was on his trail.
43. There is much indifference in his behaviour A. in his food B. giving him the chase
A. concern B. nonchalance C. willingness D. inconsistency C. hiding near the bed D. staring at him
59. The man preaches egalitarianism without matching it
44. Most warring countries end up in a state of satiation. up with action.
A. hunger B. thirst C. danger D. famine A. salvation B. dedication C. kindness D. equality

45. The officer asked for a more temperate assessment of 60. The prosecutor was accused of obstructing justice.
the matter. A. hindering B. retarding C. impending D. interrupting
A. extreme B. moderate C. radical D. human 61. The Federal Government approved a new salary
46. The lecturers were advised to carry out a cursory survey structure
of Nigerian languages. as an incentive for the Nigerian workers.
A. detailed study B. careful teaching A. a reward B. an encouragement C. a package
C. careful description D. partial consideration D. an advance

47. Musa hates Hadiza for her constant bellicose behaviour. 62. Before embarking on his current research, the professor
A. violent B. gentle C. meek D. troublesome carried out a feasibility study of the area.
48. Abdul is fond of his teacher though he sometimes A. thorough B. perfectibility C. complete D.
makes practicability
derogatory remarks about him. 63. It was a spending spree for all of us when daddy hit the
A. unpleasant B. complimentary C. expressive jackpot.
D. inconsiderate A. cashed his cheque B. received his salary
49. Orinya balances the pail on her head with accustomed C. found money in a pot D. won a lot of money
ease. 64. All the accident victims are bleeding profusely.
A. convincing B. surprising C. unwary D. A. slowly B. excessively C. diffusely D. clearly
unusual
In questions 65 to 89, fill each gap with the most appropriate
In each of questions 50 to 64, choose the option nearest in option from the list provided.
meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
65. It was late when we decided to get…. the train
50. They have tried to circumvent the restriction on the A. off B. down C. out of D. out from
importation of the commodities.
A. bypass B. confront C. oppose D. challenge 66. The accident was due to … driving by the defendant.
A. negligence B. negligible C. negligent D. neglectable
51. It was surprising how we took to the stranger at once.
A. talked so long with B. introduced ourselves to 67. My friend and I have been quarrelling since yesterday
C. formed a liking for D. started fighting and we haven’t… yet.
52. The government is not opening up to the unions in the A. made it out B. made out C. made it D. made it
negotiations; it must have something up its sleeve. up
A. be nursing a hidden agenda 68. He is so credulous… my story about the ghost.
B. be hoping to trap them A. to believe B. that he believes
C. be hiding a last minute package C. in order to believe D. since he believes
D. be intending to dissolve the unions
69. The group never felt strong enough to act in the open;
53. The College Officer insisted that I show him my hostility was the hallmark of their resistance.
credentials A. covert B. overt C. vicious D. erratic
before I could be registered.
A. papers B. qualifications C. testimonials D. identities 70. The freed robber expressed his gratitude in a… prayer
of thanksgiving.
54. Even though there is no obvious riot on the campus, the
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A. spurious B. spasmodic C. spontaneous D. sporadic 88. Aggrieved persons are free to seek… in the court of law.
A. reparation B. redress C. consolation D. acquittal
71. He boasts so much about his high scores and he... at
the efforts of others. 89. After two years of courtship, Jide is finally… Ngozi next
A. scorns B. sneers C. grins D. smiles Sunday.
A. being married to B. marrying C. married to
72. The visitor was very uncomfortable because of his… nose.
D. being married by
A. runny B. running C. watery D. flowing
In questions 90 and 91, identify the word that has a different
73. Although the Officer wanted a… report on the matter, he
stress pattern from the others.
got… account.
A. truthful/an uninteresting B. factual/an unpleasant 90. A. Interlocutor B. Opportunity
C. genuine/a ridiculous D. painstaking/a half-hearted C. Ambiguity D. Actualization
74. Immediately I entered the house, I could …. the smell of
91. A. Interrupt B. Contribute
gas from the kitchen.
C. Harmattan D. Entertain
A. feel B. hear C. detect D. smell
In each of questions 92 to 94, the word in capital letters has an
75. I am… admission to the university this year.
emphatic stress. Choose the option that best fits the expression
A. seeking on B. seeking for C. seeking at D. seeking
in the sentence.
76. Some robbers are on the prowl, we must be …
92. The fire destroyed MANY lives.
A. alert B. at alert C. on the alert D. for alert
A. Did the fire destroy the village?
77. Mrs. Ojo was one of … in my village. B. Did the fire destroy some houses?
A. the first two enlightened young ladies C. Did the fire destroy any lives?
B. the two first enlightened young ladies D. Did the fire spare any lives?
C. the two first young enlightened ladies
93. The accused hasn’t even been TRIED yet.
D. the first two young enlightened ladies.
A. Was the accused sentenced to life imprisonment?
78. My friend’s car has… to a halt. B. Has the suspect been apprehended?
A. grinded B. grounded C. ground D. grind C. Why hasn’t the accused been tried yet?
D. Was the accused handed over to the police?
79. By twelve midnight, we will be… en route for Britain.
94. The electricity in OUR premises comes from a generator.
A. airbourned B. airborne C. air borned D.
A. Is the electricity in your compound supplied by a
airbourne
generator?
80. The old man’s speech has become completely… B. Is the electricity in your neighbour’s premises
A. uncomprehensible B. uncomprehensive supplied by a generator?
C. incomprehensive D. incomprehensible C. Does the electricity in your premises come from NEPA?
D. Does everybody in your street receive electricity
81. His chances in the games… seriously jeopardized. from generators?
A. have been B. has been C. have being D. has being
In each of questions 95 to 97, choose from the options the word
82. We found it difficult to identify him as the crowd was… that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the
around him. letter(s) underlined.
A. head to head B. head above head
C. shoulder from shoulder D. shoulder to shoulder 95. Rust
A. loud B. touch C. bought D. march
83. The Principal expressed his… when the students broke
the rules… and he didn’t know how to stop them.
96. Research
A. anger/everyday B. frustration/time and again
A. disturb B. comfort C. affair D. carry
C. disappointment/understandably
D. powerlessness/occasionally
97. Plateau
84. They were all behaving like a bunch of… children. A. wanted B. below C. holiday D. haunted.
A. querulous B. querulous C. querrullous D.
quarrelous In each of questions 98 to 100, choose the word that does not
have the same vowel sound as the others.
85. Our economic programme is… commitment to Nigeria’s
economic growth.
98. A. deep B. lease C. meet D. lace
A. deeply root in B. root in deep C. rooted in a
deep
99. A. loot B. boot C. rout D. route
D. deeply rooted in deep
86. You would be well… to listen to what the teachers says. 100. A. sun B. shun C. son D. short
A. informed B. advised C. reminded D. warned

87. Ndem was suspended from work because he showed COMPREHENSION

no…in dealing with the customers.
A. love B. interest C. character D. finesse Read passages I, II & II carefully and answer the questions
that follow. Each question carries 3 marks.
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Use of English 2000

PASSAGE I than by motor vehicle accidents
Time was when boys used to point toy guns and say B. firearms now have figures that are terribly high
‘Bang!’ Now, they aim real guns and shoot one another. Nearly C. more teenagers now carry fire arms than used to be
4,200 teenagers were killed by firearms in 1990. Only motor vehicle the case
accidents kill more teenagers than firearms and the firearms D. more teenagers are now getting killed by firearms
figures are rising. The chance that a black male between the than used to be the case.
ages of 15 and 19 will be killed by a gun has almost tripled since
1985 and almost doubled for white males, according to the 5. In Secretary Donna Shalala’s view, the situation depicted
National Centre for Health Statistics. by the statistics is
Who could disagree with Health and Human Services A. tense and reassuring B. topical and intimidating
Secretary, Donna Shalala, when she pronounced these statistics C. alarming and unbearable D. disturbing and conducive.
‘frightening and intolerable?’ In the shameful light of this ‘waste
of young lives’ in Ms. Shalala’s words, an often-asked question PASSAGE II
seems urgently due to be raised again: Would less violence on You would think that the common cold should be easy
television – the surrounding environment for most children and enough to study, but it is not so easy as it looks. Colds often
young adults – make violence in actual life less normal, less seem to spread from one person to another, so it is often assumed
accepted, less horrifying? that the cold must be infectious, but there are some puzzling
It may be difficult to prove an exact correlation between observations which do not fit in with this theory. An investigator
the viewer of fantasized violence and the criminal who acts out in Holland examined some eight thousand volunteers from
violence after turning off the set. But if the premise of education different areas and came to the conclusion that in each group
is granted – that good models can influence the young – then it the colds all appeared at the same time – transfer of infection
follows that bad models can have an equivalent harmful effect. from case to case could not account for that. Yet at the Common
This is the reasonable hypothesis held by 80 percent of the Cold Research Unit in Salisbury the infection theory has been
respondents to a recent Times Mirror poll who think that violent tested out; two series of about two hundred people each were
entertainment is ‘harmful’ to society. inoculated, one with salt water and the other with secretions
Witness enough mimed shootouts, see enough from known cold victims. Only one of the salt-water group got a
‘corpses’ fall across the screen, and the taking of a human life cold, compared with seventy-three in the other group.
seems no big deal. Even if a simple causal relationship cannot be In the British Medical Journal the other day, there was
established between watching violence and acting it out, is not a report of a meeting, ‘The Common Cold -- Fact and Fancy’, at
this numbed sensitivity reason enough for cutting back on the which one of the speakers reported a study of colds made in
overkill in films and TV? Cirencester over the last five years. Three hundred and fifty
From: The Christian Science Monitor, April 16
– 22, 1993, p. 20, CSPS, Boston, MA, USA.
volunteers had kept diary records of their colds and on an average
each had seven every year, with an annual morbidity of seventy
1. The writer uses ‘numbed sensitivity’ to refer to days. So nearly one-fifth of our lives is spent in more or less
A. deadening of the capacity to feel misery, coughing and sneezing. Some widely held beliefs about
B. objectionable behaviour the common cold have turned out not to be true. It seems that
C. heartlessness on the part of actors. old people are just as liable to colds as the young. Sailors in
D. unreasonable violence. isolated weather ships have just as many colds while on board
and not in contact with the outside world as when on shore. It is
2. What will actually be proved ‘if the premise of education a truism that common illnesses pose more problems than the
is granted’? rare. The rare disease is by comparison much easier to handle.
A. Entertainment on television is harmful to society. There are not so many cases and all of them have been
B. Violence on television encourages violence in real life. intensively studied. Someone has read up all the literature about
C. Good models can influence the young. the disease and published a digest of it. There will be more facts
D. The viewer of fantasized violence is the criminal and fewer fancies.
who acts out violence. Miles Howard: ‘The Spectator’

3. From the passage, it can be inferred that since 1985 6. Which of the following statements can be implied from
A. more black males between the ages of 15 and 19 the passage?
havebeen killing one another with guns. A. People catch more colds in winter.
B. more black males between the ages of 15 and 19 B. The origin of colds is inconclusive.
have been getting killed by guns. C. People catch more colds in warm weather.
C. more white than black males have been getting D. People catch cols equally in warm and cold weather.
killed
by guns. 7. A rare disease can be more easily dealt with than the
D. more black than white males have been killing one common cold because
another with guns. A. medical experts are fed up with the rampant cases of
4. The writer says ‘the firearms figures are rising’ because common colds
A. more teenagers are now getting killed by firearms B. people easily develop resistance to the common colds
C. a dequate research exists to uncover facts bout such
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rare diseases C. behave shamelessly like a drunkard
D. common colds are easily not he province of the D. move with care and self-control.
orthodox medical experts.
13. The analogy between young men and sick people is that
8. According to the writer, some widely held beliefs about A. they are easily swayed by emotions
the common colds are: B. they are easily controlled by hunger and thirst
A. inevitable B. irreconcilable C. fallacious D. C. their emotions are active but short-lived
societal D. they are apt to give way to anger.

9. From the information in the passage, there is evidence. 14. According to the passage, young men are
A. against the theory that the common cold is infectious A. violent when they have sexual desires
B. for the theory that the common cold is indeed B. active and restive until they satisfy their desires
infectious C. indignant and fickle in satisfying their sexual desires
C. that old people are immune against the common D. hot-tempered when they are hungry or thirsty.
cold
D. that medical reports are silent on facts about common 15. The writer says that young people are optimistic in
colds. their
dealings with people because they are.
10. The Cirencester volunteers kept a record of their colds A. steadfast B. courageous C. discreet
through D. reckless.
A. the British Medical Journal B. morbidity rates
C. temperature recordings. D. personal diaries. PASSAGE IV

PASSAGE III The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately
Young men have strong passions, and tend to gratify following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
them indiscriminately. Of the bodily desires, it is the sexual by appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks.
which they are most swayed and in which they show absence of
self-control. They are changeable and fickle in their desires, With the most profound respect to the members of the
which are violent while they last, but quickly over: their impulses Senate, I do not think that it is within the competence of that
are keen but not deep-rooted, and are like sick people’s attacks …16…(A. executive B. judicial C. administrative D. legislative)
of hunger and thirst. They are hot-tempered and quick-tempered, body to pass a motion to …17… (A. enforce B. nullify C. modify
and apt to give way to their anger; bad temper often gets the D. order) the executive action of the President. The Senate is
better of them, for owing to their love of honour they cannot …18…(A. a wing B. a portion C. an anchor D. an arm) of the
bear being slighted, and are indignant if they imagine themselves National Assembly. But it is not by itself alone the National
unfairly treated. While they love honour, they love victory still Assembly. One can imagine the confusion, which would be
more, for youth is eager for superiority over others, and victory created if the …19…(A. House of Representatives B. Judiciary
is one form of this. They love both more than they love money, C. National Assembly D. Executive Council) were to take a
which indeed they love very little, not having yet learnt what it view diametrically opposed to that reflected in the Senate
means to be without it. They look at the good side rather than resolution. The strongest objection to the action of the Senate
the bad, not having yet witnessed many instances of in passing the resolution is the fact that it constituted itself
wickedness. They trust others readily, because they have not the…20… (A. litigant B. defendant C. plaintiff D. attorney) as
yet been cheated. They are sanguine; nature warms their blood well as the judge of the constitutionality of the action of the
as though with excess of wine; and besides that, they have as President. The function of the Senate is to …21… (A. enact
yet met with few disappointments. Their lives are mainly spent B. create C. compose D. annul) laws. But the Senate has no
not in memory but in expectation, for youth has a long future authority or …22… (A. might B. power C. dynamism D.
before it and a short past behind it: on the first day of one’s life strength) to control the President in the exercise of his …23…
one has nothing at all to remember, and can only look forward. (A. official B. authoritative C. judicial D. executive) powers. It
They are easily cheated owing to the sanguine disposition just cannot by a mere resolution or motion give any directive to the
mentioned. Their hot tempers and hopeful dispositions make President regarding the exercise of his powers nor can it undo
them more courageous than older men are; the hot temper what the President has done in the exercise of those powers.
prevents fear, and the hopeful disposition creates confidence; The only way in which the exercise of the powers of the President
we cannot feel fear so long as we are feeling angry, and any can be…24… (A. modified B. standardized C. regulated D.
expectation of good makes us confident. ordered) is by …25…(A. an Act B. a Decree C. a motion D. a
Aristole’s Youth and Old-Age, p. 197
bill) of the National Assembly.
11. The expression, ‘not in memory but in expectation’, as Adapted from The Guardian of July 8, 1999, p. 8
used in the passage, implies LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL FORMS
A. innocence, not experience B. future, not present
C. past, not present D. hopelessness, not hopefulness. (Questions 26 to 62 carry 1 mark each.)
12. The statement, ‘nature warms their blood as though with In each of the questions 26 to 30, choose the option that has the
excess of wine’, as used in the text, means same vowel sound as the one represented by the letters
A. act with considerable confidence and trust. underlined.
B. respond with suspicion and alertness
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26. boat 39. A. integral B. intimate
A. board B. bought C. discourse D. accelerate
C. go D. glory
40. A. navigate B. envelop
27. air C. legislate D. liberate
A. heir B. her
C. hear D. fire In each of questions 41 to 62, fill each gap with the most
appropriate option from the list provided.
28. pleasure
A. pliable B. pleat 41. Without our relentless campaigns, we might … sure of
C. plenary D. jeopardy victory in the race for the National Assembly.
A. never have been B. have never be
29. thunder C. never had been D. be never
A. prefer B. differ
C. confer D. defer
42. We are all hungry; we … anything to eat since morning.
30. tear (noun) A. didn’t have B. hadn’t had C. haven’t had
A. dare B. care D. never had
C. here D. wear
43. To check desertification in the arid zones, … trees
In questions 31 and 32, choose from the options the word that should
has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the be planted.
letters underlined. A. drought-proof B. drought-resisting
C. drought-effective D. drought-resistant
31. thought
A. theatre B. taught 44. The loquacious young lad reeled off all the names of
C. weather D. fate the
players…
32. caliph A. off head B. offhand C. at heart D. at hand
A. presently B. perhaps
C. powerful D. opponent 45. I like the character that played the role of a political…at
the last convention of our party.
In each of questions 33 to 36, select the word that has the same A. thorncoat B. torncoat C. turncoat D. turnedcoat
pattern of stress as the given word.
46. All the traders in the market saw the woman buy... the
33. ENORMOUS imported suits.
A. interest B. solution A. up B. off C. over D. out
C. stupidly D. character
47. The man declared his intention from the …
34. HONOUR A. outset B. inset C. onset D. offset
A. hotel B. hyena
C. human D. humane 48. The Team Manager told us that the race could only be
won by the…
35. QUALITY A. flat-footed B. bare-footed C. swift-footed
A. guarantee B. accepted D. fore-footed
C. bachelor D. relation
49. The Governor rejected the bill and withheld his…
36. EDUCATION A. accent B. assent C. access D. ascent
A. duplicity B. economics
C. elaborate D. conjectural 50. The new school is not provided with … for science
practical.
In questions 37 and 38, identify the word that has the stress on A. enough equipment B. equipments
the second syllable. C. an equipment D. enough equipments
37. A. reproduce B. always
C. result D. understand 51. Much as I would love to visit him, I’m afraid ...
A. I won’t B. I can’t C. I can’t be able D. of visiting him
38. A. tomato B. photograph
C. yesterday D. tranquil 52. Ilesa witnessed the largest ... of writers at any convention
in recent times.
In questions 39 and 40, identify the word that has a different A. turn-around B. turnover C. turn-out D. turn-on
stress pattern from the others. 53. The warring factions need words of…
A. advise B. adverse C. advises D. advice
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54. The politicians were… by the press. A. The politician’s rude remarks were heavily criticized.
A. marooned B. ridiculed C. eclipsed D. ostracized B. The politician’s provocative remarks were heavily
criticized.
55. There are many … to her personality. C. The politician’s bombastic remarks were heavily
A. moods B. styles C. facets D. faces criticized.
D. The politician’s tribalistic remarks were heavily
criticized.
56. There are several… in the farmyard.
A. sheep B. ewe C. lamb D. goat (Questions 68 to 100 carry 1 mark each)

57. Audu fought with his… brother. In each of questions 68 to 84, choose the option nearest in
A. senior B. older C. bigger D. elder meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.

58. The Dark Continent was an… for Africa. 68. The Governor told the chief that he was only on a routine tour.
A. normal and regular visit B. unplanned encounter
A. abuse B. enigma C. eclectic D. epithet C. surprise and impromptu check D. working visit and homage.
59. He arrived… to see his family leave for the countryside. 69. The boy was told that he would need several more
A. in time B. timely C. late D. with time. pints
of blood if he was to survive.
60. You can travel on your own, A. many B. much C. some D. plenty
A. isn’t it B. wouldn’t you. C. can’t you D. shouldn’t
70. The Principal told the teacher to stop browbeating the
you. children.
A. pampering B. bullying C. deceiving D.
61. Our culture does not allow one to … when an elderly caning
person is speaking.
A. cut of B. cut off C. cut in D. cut on 71. Some actions of the Nigerian youth have alienated them
from those who were sympathetic to their cause.
62. Raffle draws like gambling often end in a… for me. A. endeared/kindly B. confronted/ill disposed
C. separated/opposed D. estranged/well disposed.
A. lost B. loss C. loose D. lose
72. The essay topic is nebulous.
In each of questions 63 to 67, select the option that best explains A. vague B. incorrect C. distinct D. clear
the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries
2 marks. 73. The man was able to persuade his willful and obstinate
daughter to follow the career he chose for her.
63. If he were here it could be more fun. A. intelligent but arrogant B. unyielding and obdurate
A. He did not show up and so the occasion lacked much fun. C. obscure and odious D. hardworking and intelligent
B. He was being expected to supply more fun.
C. There was no fun because he was not present. 74. Mr. Okon has been described as an eagle-eyed editor.
A. a short-sighted B. a clear-sighted
D. He was expected but did not show up to liven up the C. a long-sighted D. a quick-sighted.
occasion.
75. Inspite of her grim situation, the young widow smiled
64. Though he is our elected representative, he often takes dutifully at the visitor’s pleasantries.
a rather jaundiced view of our problems. A. unkind comments B. sad stories
A. He takes a rather hazy view of our problems. C. condolence messages D. jocular remarks
B. He takes an unfavourable position concerning our
problems. 76. I have always believed that my mother is a very
C. He takes a rather forceful view of our problems. impassioned woman.
D. He takes a sickly view of our problems. A. emotive B. impartial C. impassive D. emotional

65. When I visited James I only gave him a congratulatory 77. The party gathering was thrown into a state of euphoria
card on account of his promotion. after the election result was announced.
A. The only person I visited was James and nobody A. pleasure B. sadness C. excitement D. confusion
else.
B. It was only James that I gave a congratulatory card to. 78. The family discussed the crime committed and resolved
C. All I gave James when I visited him was a to nail the lie to the counter.
congratulatory card. A. expose it publicly. B. bury it in a coffin.
C. defer action on it D. seek more advice.
D. All I did when I visited James was given a
79. My father was at the apogee of his career when he was
congratulatory card. retired.
A. terminal point B. highest point
66. The events of last Friday show that there is no love lost C. least productive stage D. redundant stage
between the Principal and the Vice-Principal. 80. Though David’s condition is serious, his life is not in
A. They like each other B. They work independently. immediate danger.
C. They cannot part company D. They dislike each A. nasty B. hypertensive C. dangerous D. grave
other. 81. That punch by the young boxer proved to be fatal.
A. effective B. hard C. deadly D. belated.
67. The politician’s inflammatoryremarks were heavilycriticized.
82. The presence of the security men in the area will provide
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a moment of respite for the residents. unfathomable lightness.
A. soothing relaxation B. enduring reprieve A invigorating B. irresistible C. predictable
C. lasting security D. temporary relief D. impressive
83. It is time for all concerned to first pick to pieces the strike 94. I’m not interested in buying that shirt. I think it is
action before proffering solutions. overpriced.
A. embrace joyfully B. critically analyse A. too expensive B. overrated C. priceless D. cheap
C. stop abruptly D. commend highly 95. Despite his laxity in other matters, Ojo’s father drew the
84. The new ruler is big-hearted in his dealings with the line at truancy.
people A. favoured B. rejected. C. Emphasized D. Ignored.
A. generous B. cruel C. soft D. proud 96. The string was taut.
A. loose B. firm C. stretched D. tight
In each of questions 85 to 100, choose the option opposite in 97. Hypertension is a debilitating disease that everyone
meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics. should prevent.
A. a mortal B. an enervating C. an energizing
85. The teacher announced that the class would be making D. a horrible
a fleeting visit to the zoo. 98. The Permanent Secretary left his job under a cloud.
A. routine B. brief C. long D. guided A. on a cloudy day B. with a clear record
86. The project is designed to alleviate poverty in the C. in disgrace D. on a sunny day
country. 99. We intend to make the reception a diurnal event.
A. tackle B. exacerbate C. eradicate D. assuage A. a nightly B. a weekly C. a short D. an annual
87. Civil engineering is predominantly a male profession. 100. It is surprising that this politician has now turned
A. absolutely B. essentially C. generally renegade.
D. seldom A. militant B. corrupt C. loyal D. quiet
88. The officer said that he knew nothing to the detriment
of COMPREHENSION
the applicant.
A. damage B. disfavour C. advantage D. Read passages I & II carefully and answer the questions that
background follow. Each question carries 3 marks.

89. When the driver applied the brakes, they acted up PASSAGE I
A. failed B. responded well C. were sluggish The emergence of a standard dialect produces
D. jammed thephenomenon known as “accent” which is quite different from
90. The striking workers have vowed not to return to work dialect. In the process of learning a foreign language, it is normal
until the decision is rescinded. to transfer the patterns of an indigenous language to those of
A. changed B. dismissed C. implemented the foreign language. With time, however, those of form and
D. incorporated most of those of orthography and phonology gradually get
91. It is rare for a leader and his deputy to see eye to eye. eliminated. This is because these can easily be identified and
A. disagree B. respect each other corrected. They are easy to correct because they do not involve
C. be of one mind D. reproach each other patterns of muscular movement. It is also necessary to correct
92. Common sense requires that one should be decorous at them because otherwise they could seriously impair intelligibility.
formal gatherings. With phonetic patterns, on the other hand, there is a
A. courteous B. impolite C. incurious D. careful
93. The diminutive figure bounces over the track with

Use of English 2001

great deal of intelligibility tolerance because muscular patterns Members of a language community control at least two
are involved, thus making corrections difficult when observed. dialects and use both dialects in different situations. In the rural
Besides, phonetic patterns do not impair intelligibility much. areas, the native dialect is used in most situations since there is
Hence the transference of phonetic habits from one language to less movement. Therefore, rural dwellers tend to be parochial
another is both easier to tolerate and more difficult to avoid and maintain the homogeneity of their dialect. In the urban
than transference at the lexico-grammatical level. It follows that community, on the other hand, there is more demand on the
a speaker who is learning a second dialect does so with an standard dialect than on the rural one. This is because people
accent since the muscles of his speech organs would have from different regions converge here. In order to ensure mutual
crystallized in response to the phonetics of his native language intelligibility resulting from the pressure of communication, a
which he learnt first. The speaker therefore speaks the second great deal of demand is made on the standard dialect which now
dialect with the phonetic features of his native dialect. The becomes the lingua franca amongst them.
learning of a standard language is simply the learning of a second
dialect – that which has been standardized. 1. Members of a language community control at least two
dialects because
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A. the convergence of people from disparate overwhelmed by intense feelings of joy, love and peace. Despite
regions his attitude, though, he somehow reunites with his physical
results in the pressure of communication. body and lives.
B. there is little demand for the indigenous Adapted from Moody, R. A. (1975) Life after Life
dialects.
C. they want a lingua franca which is produced 6. The NDE man appears to be a spectator in the flurry of
by mutual intelligibility. activities around him because
D. they are made up of both rural and urban A. his new ‘body’ would not allow him to
dwellers. participate.
B. he is moving rapidly through a long dark
2. According to the passage, tunnel.
A. a foreign language produces the transference C. he can only watch as the events unfold
of the correct patterns of dialect features. D. he is now a dead man.
B. speech organs are shaped by indigenous languages.
C. a lingua franca is the consequence of a standard 7. According to the passage, scientific evidence has made
dialect. it possible
D. mutual intelligibility is the consequence of the A. to make conjectures about what happens after
pressure of communication. death
B. to know a little about what happens in the
3. An appropriate title for this passage is world of the dead
A. The Emergence of a Standard Language C. for one to experience the sensation of dying
B. The Phenomenon of Accent and living again
C. The Quest for a Lingua Franca D. for the dead to return and tell their experiences.
D. Members of a Language Community
8. The expression as he reaches the point of greatest
4. The word those, as used in the passage, refers to physical distress, as used in the passage, means when
A. indigenous languages A. the man’s system finally collapses
B. forms of orthography and phonology B. the sick man finally stops breathing
C. foreign languages C. his doctor is ready to pronounce him dead
D. patterns of an indigenous language. D. his condition seems to get worse.

5. Phonetic patterns allow for intelligibility tolerance because 9. A suitable title for the passage is
A. transference is both difficult to avoid and easy to A. A Glimpse into the World of the Dead
tolerate B. Visions of an Afterlife
B. they are involved and difficult to avoid C. Research into the Lives of the Dead
C. they give rise to the phenomenon of accent D. The Sensation of Death and the Afterlife.
which is easy to tolerate
D. they involve muscular patterns which later 10. That the man was shown a panoramic instantaneous
crystallize. playback of the major events of his life suggests that
A. he needs to be entertained to take his mind
PASSAGE II away from the noise around him
It is possible to have a glimpse of life after death. Man B. he needs to see the difference between his
has always believed in an afterlife, but only today do we have past life and his new life
scientific reports of people who seem to have experienced the C. there are video machines in the world beyond
sensation of dying but lived to tell about it. Ongoing research is D. he has to assess his deeds in life.
documenting hundreds of cases each year of the near –death
experience (NDE), and scientists think they are finding a clearly PASSAGE III
identifiable pattern: usually a man is dying and, as he reaches
the point of greatest physical distress, he hears himself The passage below has gaps numbered 11 to 20. Immediately
pronounced dead by his doctor. He begins to hear an following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
uncomfortable noise, a loud ringing or buzzing, and at the same appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks.
time feels himself moving very rapidly through a long dark tunnel.
After this he suddenly finds himself outside of his own physical Before any detailed analysis begins, the first thing to do
body, but still in the immediate physical environment, and he with the raw data is to check through the field record books and
sees his own body from a distance, as though he is a spectator. questionnaires for any …11.. (A. mistakes B. events C. records
He watches the resuscitation attempt from this unusual vantage D. odds), inconsistencies and incompleteness. In some cases, it
point and is in a state of emotional upheaval. may be possible to correct any discovered shortcomings. When
After a while, he collects himself and becomes it is not possible to carry out these …12… (A. plans B.
accustomed to his odd condition. He notices that he still had a corrections C. expectations D. possibilities), a visit to the field
‘body’, but one of a very different nature and with very different may even be necessary. It should however be realized that it is
powers from the physical body he has left behind. Soon after, not very often that a revisit is possible.
things begin to happen. Others come to meet and to help him.
In most scientific…13… (A. questionnaires B. data C.
He glimpses the spirits of relatives and friends who have already
died, and a loving, warm spirit of a kind he has never encountered experiments D. conclusions) such revisits are clearly impossible.
before- a being of light – appears before him. This being asks This is true of many surveys too. A road traffic survey…14.. (A.
him a question, nonverbally – to make him evaluate his life – and classified B. precoded C. conducted D. experimented) to find
helps him along by showing him a panoramic instantaneous out the amount and frequency of daily traffic between two towns
playback of the major events of his life. Then he finds that he cannot be expected to be ...15... (A. observed B. produced C.
must go back to the earth that the time for his death has not yet undertaken D. reproducible). There is no way of going back
come. At this point he resists, for by now he is taken up with his to check whether the number of vehicles reported for any
experiences in the afterlife and does not want to return. He is
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particular hour is correct or not. With open-ended questions the 22. The writer uses the expression unless mechanically
…16…(A. method B. responses C. errors D. conclusions) have minded to refer to
to be classified into relatively small number of groups. The A. town authorities laying down tramlines
process of classifying answers and of sometimes identifying B. coachmen and grooms who chose to become
them by number and letter is called…17.. (A. encoding B. mechanics
recording C. coding D. recoding). When closed-ended C. coachmen and grooms adaptable to the new
questions are used, it is possible to code all the possible answers technology
D. those amenable to change and development.
before they are actually received. This is called…18.. (A. recoding
B. coding C. precoding D. encoding). What is done, a check 23. The statement By 1910, the motor car was plainly
through the answers for proper classification, numbering and conquering the highway means that
lettering is still called for at this stage. This whole process of A. highway codes for motor cars came into effect by
checking through questionnaires and notebooks is called …19.. 1910
(A. listing B. posting C. editing D. auditing). Collected data will B. by 1910 motor cars became a common sight
eventually have to be used in drawing …20.. (A. analogies B. on the highways
examples C. references D. conclusions) and writing a report C. the motor car was invented in 1910
about the population from which it came. D. by 1910 many people knew how to drive
motorcars.
Read the passage below carefully and answer the questions that 24. From the passage, it is obvious that
follow. Each question carries 3 marks. A. the motorcar and the lorry came to displace
the train traffic
PASSAGE IV B. motorcars were mere luxuries which many
By 1910, the motorcar was plainly conquering the people
highway. The private car was now part of every rich man’s tried desperately to acquire
establishment, although its prices made it as yet an impossible C. the motorcar was invented before the express
luxury for most of the middle class. But for the adventuresome trains
youth, there was the motorcycle, a fearsome invention producing D. the train was the fastest means of transport
accidents and ear –splitting noises. Already, the dignified beforethe motorcar and the lorry.
carriages and smart pony-traps were beginning to disappear 25. One of the following statements can be deducted from
from the roads, and coachmen and grooms, unless mechanically the passage.
minded, were finding it more difficult to make a living. A. Significant improvement occurred in road transport since
The roads, which had gone to sleep since the coming of the advent of motorcars, lorries and motorcycles.
the railway, now awoke to feverish activity. Cars and motorcycles B. People no longer used trains with the advent of
dashed along them at speeds which rivaled those of the express cars and lorries.
trains, and the lorry began to appear. Therefore, the road system C. Society would be better off without the chaotic volume
was compelled to adapt itself to a volume and speed of traffic for and speed of motor cars, lorries and motorcycles.
which it had never been intended. Its complete adaptation was D. Human society was static without the express
impossible; but the road surface was easily transformed and, speed of cars and motorcycles.
during the early years of the century, the dustiness and
greasiness of the highways were lessened by tar-spraying. To LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL FORMS
widen and straighten the roads and get rid of blind corners and
every steep gradient were tasks which had scarcely been tackled (Questions 26 to 80 carry 1 mark each.)
before 1914. The situation was worst of all in towns where not
only was any large scheme of road widening usually out of the In questions 26 and 27, identify the word that has a different
question, but also where crowding and danger were all too stress pattern from the others.
frequently increased by the short-sighted eagerness of town
authorities in laying down tramlines. 26. A. administrative B. circulation
Yet it was not only the road system that was in need of C. temperamental D. consideration
readjustment; the nervous system of those who used and dwelt
by the roads suffered. The noises caused by the conversion of 27. A. classroom B. programme
the roads into speedways called for a corresponding tightening C. brother D. July
up of the nerves; and, especially in the towns, the pedestrians
who wished to preserve life and limb was compelled to keep his In each of questions 28 to 31, choose the word that does not
attention continually on the stretch, to practise himself in have the same vowel sound as the others.
estimates of the speed of approaching vehicles and to run or
jump for his life if he ventured off the pavement. 28. A. bale B. plait
Adapted from Rachel Carson: The Advent of the Motor Car C. saint D. gate

21. The writer seems to suggest that 29. A. rice B. fight

C. granite D. die
A. the volume and speed of traffic on the roads
increased with the advent of cars, motor cycles 30. A. wind B. people
and lorries C. even D. key
B. there were no roads before the advent of cars
and motorcycles and so people had to be 31. A. enjoy B. log
mechanically minded C. toil D. rejoice
C. coachmen and grooms were not mechanically
minded In each of questions 31 to 56, fill each gap with the most
D. the roads that existed were dormant. appropriate option from the list provided.
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32. … (A. Have being B. Having been C. Having being D. 51. Of course, we all saw the culprit … (A. approaching
Have I been) told of his impending arrival, I worked B. approaches C. approached D. approach) and hit
hard to make his short stay very comfortable. the man

33. The weather is probably… appealing for people who 52. The Company Director showed the contractor a …
live in Jos… (A. no less/than B. more/as C. as much/as (A. photocopy B. photograph C. prototype D. microfilm)
D. at least as/but) for foreigners. of the proposed office complex.

34. Ado tried to … (A. recall B. obliterate C. eulogize 53. Had he considered his public image carefully, he …
D. obstruct) all memory of his dead father. (A. would have stood down B. might have stood
aside C. should have stepped down D. would have
35. This imposing edifice … (A. had costed B. costed stepped aside) for his opponent in the election.
C. cost D. have cost) a fortune to build.

36. Three quarters of the hostel… been painted and three 54. The editor was not happy that the Nigerian press was
quarters of the students … (A. has/has B. have/has hemmed … (A. up B. across C. in D. over)
C. have/have D. has/have) moved in.
55. More… (A. energy B. power C. effort D. grease) to
37. They let him go in … (A. respect B. regard C. disregard your elbow as you campaign for press freedom!
D. consideration) of his age.
56. A child that shows mature characteristics at an early
38. …(A. While B. By chance C. Should D. Should in age may be described as … (A. precocious B.
case) you come early to the new house, clean up my ingenuous C. premature D. preconceived).
flat.
In questions 57 and 58, identify the word that has the stress on
39. These villagers… (A. used B. are used C. were used the first syllable.
D. use) to grow rice.
57. A. misread B. resign
40. When Ajike met her… (A. strange B. loving C. caring C. competent D. compel
D. estranged) husband at the party, she felt like
reconciling with him. 58. A. resist B. intact
C. confirm D. salon
41. He does not seem to know how to solve the problem, …
(A. does not he B. does he C. does he not D. doesn’t he)? In each of questions 59 to 62, choose from the options the word
that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by
42. Some scientists are trying to… (A. imitate B. implicate the letter(s) underlined.
C. replicate D. fabricate) human beings in their
laboratories. 59. Past
A. pasture B. castle
43. A wide range of options…. (A. is B. was C. were D. are) C. wrestle D. preached.
made available to the political parties during the recently
concluded elections. 60. Church
A. feature B. chauffeur
44. The meeting was called to…(A. re-present B. reconstitute
C. ocean D. machine
C. reconcile D. recommend) divergent views on the
subject of a national conference.
61. Sure
45. The police came early enough to…(A. detonate B. insulate A. charlatan B. church
C. diffuse D. defuse) the bomb planted by the rioters. C. cheer D. cheap

46. The government which … recruiting … (A. is/their 62. Thank

B. were/ their C. was/its D. are/its) workers suddenly A. Thomas B. though
stopped doing so. C. Thames D. thought
47. They had to … (A. resort to B. switch on C. light up In each of questions 63 to 77, choose the option opposite in
D. fall back on) the generator when the electricity
meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
failed.

48. I do not think any sane person would have acted in such 63. Amina’s performance in the examination surpassed my
a … (A. rational B. cruel C. secret D. composed) manner. expectations.
A. amazed everyone B. lacked merit
49. Neither Agbo nor his parents… (A. has attended B. attend C. was extraordinary good D. was disappointing
C. attends D. attended) the meetings now.
64. As these boys never act in public, the police are now
50. Modern dancing has become rather scientific and so worried about their covert activities.
requires … (A. a rapping voice. B. bizarre costuming A. evil B. open C. cryptic D. ignoble
C. immense instrumentation D. some choreographic
skill).
65. The town was all agog at his unexpected return.
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A. unexcited B. excited C. on fire D. surprised C. How will they get to Abuja?
D. Did they fly to Jos?
66. Some equatorial areas have a sultry climate.
A. a hot B. an inclement C. a temperate D. a stable 80. My neighbour BRUISED his thigh while playing
football.
67. The journalist’s write-up contained a plethora of detail. A. Did your neighbour fracture his thigh while
A. simplicity B. shortage C. complexity playing football?
D. spectrum B. Did your neighbour break his leg while playing
tennis?
68. In the latter part of his life, the famous soldier showed C. Did your neighbour play football yesterday?
signs of youthfulness. D. Was your neighbour involved in an accident?
A. bravery B. vitality C. energy D. senility
In each of questions 81 to 85, select the option that best explains
69. It is inconceivable that the rat devoured the cat. the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries
A. contestable B. credible C. incomprehensible 2 marks.
D. unimaginable
81. Adawo is an imp.
70. Ali wondered why the principal was ambivalent about A. Adawo behaves badly.
the students’ future. B. Adawo behaves decently.
A. inconsiderate B. decisive C. anxious C. Adawo behaves differently.
D. ambitious D. Adawo behaves queerly.

71. The teacher taught the rudiments of Chemistry to the 82. The solution lies in choosing between various negative
first grade. alternatives.
A. elements B. fundamentals C. basics A. The solution lies in choosing between the
D. stupidity positive and the negative.
B. The solutions are many.
72. In his naivety, he believed all the stories his friend told C. The solution can be found in one of the
him. negative options.
A. artlessness B. friendliness C. incredulity D. The solution is a negative one.
D. stupidity
83. You must not attend the end-of-year party.
73. Updating the Board’s brochure is an arduous task. A. You do not have to decide whether to attend
A. a regular B. an annual C. a difficult D. an easy the party or not.
B. You have to decide whether to attend the party or
74. The lecture seemed interminable. not.
A. brief B. interesting C. boring D. unending C. It is necessary that you do not attend the party.
D. It is necessary that you attend the party.
75. Had I known about their plan much earlier, I would have
nipped it in the bud. 84. The man reasoned that there ought to be a limit to sycophancy.
A. promoted it B. squashed it C. initiated it D. stopped it A. Sycophants need not talk all the time.
B. There can be no favour beyond a reasonable
76. What a harmless thought he has! point.
A. pleasant B. perfect C. pernicious D. pertinent C. Sycophants should know when to grant
people’s request.
77. There is much apathy towards reading among students D. People should know when not to use flattery.
nowadays. 85. Oche’s chief idiosyncrasy is a passion for pounded
A. indecision B. enthusiasm C. indifference yam.
D. disinclination A. Oche hates pounded yam.
B. Oche’s chief hates pounded yam.
In each of questions 78 to 80, the word in capital letters has an C. Oche’s chief likes pounded yam.
emphatic stress. Choose the option that best fits the expression D. Oche has a penchant for pounded yam.
in the sentence. (Questions 86 to 100 carry 1 mark each.)

78. YOUR sister should come with us tomorrow. In each of questions 86 to 100, choose the option nearest in
A. Should your brother come with us tomorrow? meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
B. Should our brother come with us tomorrow? 86. The professor discussed a number of abstruse topics.
C. Should Ado’s sister come with us tomorrow? A. irrelevant B. useful C. esoteric D. relevant.
D. Should my sister come with us tomorrow? 87. Tade became timorous when she was asked to give the
valedictory speech.
79. They FLEW to Abuja. A. excited B. aggressive C. nervous D. happy
A. Where did they fly to? 88. The men were tardy in offering help.
B. Did they go to Abuja by road?
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A. generous B. quick C. brave D. slow 98. Art lies in cherishing the initiative and creative power
89. Ugo has often been described as belligerent. of each person.
A. attractive B. combative C. innocent D. patient A. gift B. strength C. potential D. mind
90. The coalescence of the groups created additional
problems. 99. As the triumphant rebels were returning to their base,
A. union B. fighting C. proscription they met with a serious reverse.
D. disbandment A. an enemy B. an army C. a victory D. a defeat
91. Funmi is just being facetious about her marrying a soldier.
A. unfaithful B. serious C. crazy D. unserious 100. The Conference Centre caters for transients only.
92. The village girl wore sumptuous clothes. A. permanent guests B. professionals C. novices
A. loose-fitting B. cheap C. faded-looking D. expensive D. temporary guests
93. Any chief executive of an organization would find
radical changes blocked at every turn. COMPREHENSION
A. ideas B. innovations C. developments
D. suggestions Read passages I, II & III carefully and answer the questions
94. I cannot understand why Ali should serve in that that follow. Each question carries 3 marks.
moribund administration.
A. crumbling B. purposeless C. prodigal PASSAGE I
D. oppressive If our thought is to be clear and we are to succeed in
95. Bose was angry because her friend called her a pilferer. communicating it to other people, we must have some method of
A. liar B. hypocrite C. criminal D. thief fixing the meaning of the words we use. When we use a word
96. While the hooligans exchanged blows, we looked on whose meaning is not certain, we may well be asked to define it.
complacently. There is a useful traditional device for doing this by indicating
A. questioningly B. sorrowfully C. dejectedly the class to which whatever is indicated by the term belongs,
D. contentedly. and also the particular property which distinguishes it from all
97. The player kept on gamely to the end of the match. other members of the same class. Thus we may define a whale as
A. courageously B. skillfully. C. amateurishly a marine animal that spouts’. ‘Marine animal’ in this definition
D. stubbornly indicates the general class to which the whale belongs, and
‘spouts’ indicates the particular property that distinguishes

Use of English 2002

whales from other such marine animals as fishes, seals, jellyfish
and lobsters. In the same way, we can define an even number as
a finite integer divisible by two, or a democracy as a system of 2. From the passage, which of these is a disadvantage of
government in which the people themselves rule. defining by enumeration.
There are other ways, of course, of indicating the A. The words or objects listed may not all share
meanings of words. We may, for example, find it hard to make a similar characteristics.
suitable definition of the word ‘animal’, so we say that an animal B. Enumeration always leaves doubts in the mind
is such a thing as a rabbit, dog, fish or goat. Similarly, we may of the speaker.
say that religion is such a system as Christianity, Islam, Judaism C. The property and examples enumerated may
not be all-inclusive.
and Buddhism. This way of indicating the meaning of a term by
D. Many important members of the group may
enumerating examples of what it includes is obviously of limited be left out of the enumeration.
usefulness. If we indicated our use of the word ‘animal’ as above,
our hearers might, for example, be doubtful whether a sea- 3. One of these summarizes the approaches to definition
anemone or a slug was to be included in the class of animals. It discussed in the passage.
is, however, a useful way of supplementing a definition if the A. Specifying clearly what distinguishes a
definition itself is definite without being easily understandable. particular word or object from its traditional
Failure of an attempt at definition to serve its purpose may result groups.
from giving as distinguishing mark one which either does not B. Indicating the class of a word and mentioning
belong to all the things the definition is intended to include, or its general property with examples.
does belong to some members of the same general class which C. Giving general and specific features followed
by
the definition is intended to exclude.
Adapted from Straight and Crooked Thinking, by R. H.
examples of what the object or word includes.
Thouless D. Mentioning the class of a word or object with
its specific property.
1. The expression we may well be asked as used in the
passage means 4. The writer uses the expression fixing the meaning of
A. it is quite likely that we will be asked the words we use to mean
B. we cannot escape being asked A. getting even with the people who always ask
C. the listener is always justified to ask questions for definitions
D. it is inconceivable that we will be asked.
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B. using definitions to help build up their availability of the products at reasonable prices. This appears to
vocabulary be the sense in deregulation.
C. repairing the damage done by inadequate
definition during communication 6. An appropriate title for this passage is
D. using definitions to help people communicate A. The Advantages of a Deregulated Economy
their thoughts and argue logically.
B. Highlighting the Dangers of Deregulation
5. Which of the following statements can be deduced from C. Making a Case for Deregulation
the passage? D. The problems of the NNPC
A. There are both traditional and modern methods of
defining words. 7. Which of the following statements is true according to
B. Definitions aid communication when enumeration the passage?
is accurately handled. A. The opposition to the deregulation of the oil
C. Every speaker or writer has a method of defining industry is not unanimous.
words. B. The Nigeria Labour Congress has been able
D. Accurate definition is invaluable to to prevent the Government from deregulating
communication but difficult to achieve. the economy.
C. The introduction of entrepreneurs to the oil
industry will make life easy only for a few
PASSAGE II
Nigerians.
Those who have been following the arguments for and
D. A better life for all Nigerians is conditional
against the deregulation of the oil industry in Nigeria may have
upon the deregulation of the economy.
got the impression that deregulation connotes lack of control or
indifference on the part of the Government. But there is nothing
8. The writer seems to suggest that
so far from official quarters to suggest that deregulation will
A. Nigerians do not understand the sense in
cause the Government to relinquish its control of the oil industry
deregulation.
because the absence of direct control does not mean that it will
B. a deregulated economy will cause the
surrender all its rights to the entrepreneurs who may want to
Government to be indifferent to the plight of
participate in the industry. Yet the opposition expressed so far
ordinary Nigerians.
against deregulation stems from the fear that the Government
C. only a heartless cartel will benefit by the
would leave Nigerians at the mercy of a heartless cartel who
deregulation of the oil industry.
would command the heights of the oil industry and cause the
D. the anxiety caused by the deregulation
pump price of fuel to rise above the means of most Nigerians.
question is groundless.
As a result of such fears, many Nigerians have become
resentful of deregulation and, in fact, the Nigeria Labour
9. Which of the following conclusions can be reached
Congress (NLC) has threatened to ‘deregulate’ the Government
from
if it should go ahead with the deregulation plan. But Nigerians
the passage?
have not fared any better with the economy totally in Government
A. Nigerians cannot buy fuel at exorbitant prices.
control. Until recently, the most important sectors of the economy
B. The deregulation of the oil industry does not
were in the hands of the Government. Today, the deregulation of
preclude the Government from exerting its influence.
some of these sectors has broken its monopoly and introduced
C. The deregulation of the economy will solve
healthy competition to make things a little easier for Nigerians.
all the problems of petroleum products
A good example is the breaking of the stifling monopoly of
distribution.
Nigeria Airways. Today, the traveler is king at the domestic
D. The Government is hell-bent on leaving
airports as opposed to the struggle that air travels used to be
Nigerians at the mercy of a heartless cartel.
under Nigeria Airways monopoly. Before, it was almost easier
for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for travellers
10. Which of these correctly summarizes the arguments
to board a plane.
adduced by the advocates of deregulation?
Following from this, the apostles of deregulation rightly
A. Deregulating the economy will make the NNPC
heap all the blame for the problems associated with petroleum
more efficient and less wasteful.
products distribution in this country squarely on the
B. Competition in the oil industry will be beneficia
Government, which owns all the refineries and which sells fuel
to several Nigerians.
to local consumers through its agency, the Nigerian National
C. Competition should be allowed in the
Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). In the same way, the Government
production
argues that if the current NNPC monopoly were broken with the
and distribution of petroleum products.
introduction of entrepreneurs to the refining and sale of
D. The Government should deregulate every
petroleum products in the country, the Nigerian people would
aspect of the Nigerian economy.
be all the better for it. It stands to reason that once the Government
continues to fix maximum prices for petroleum products in this
PASSAGE III
country, the deregulation of the oil sector should bring some
Recognizing the need for objectivity in their work, the
relief to the people by ensuring that wastage, corruption and
early report writers worked to develop a writing style which
inefficiency are reduced to the minimum. Consumers will also
would convey this attitude. They reasoned that the source of
have the last laugh because competition will result in the
the subjective quality in a report is the human being. And they
reasoned that objectivity is best attained by emphasizing the
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factual material of a report rather than the personalities involved. A. personal and uninteresting
So they worked to remove the human being from their writing. B. personal and interesting
Impersonal writing style was the result. By impersonal writing is C. impersonal and interesting
meant writing in the third person – without I’s, we’s or you’s. D. impersonal and uninteresting.
In recent years, impersonal writing has been
strenuously questioned by many writers. These writers point 14. From the passage, what determines the appropriateness
out that personal writing is more forceful and direct than is of a style is the
impersonal writing. They contend that writing which brings both A. theme B. reader C. writer D. situation
reader and writer into the picture is more like conversation and
therefore more interesting. And they answer to the point on 15. Which of the following best describes the writer of the
objectivity with a reply that objectivity is an attitude of mind passage?
and not a matter of person. A report, they say, can be just as A. He recognizes the need to be critical of report
objective when written in personal style as when in impersonal writing.
style. Frequently, they counter with the argument that impersonal B. He cannot be said to be objective.
writing leads to an overuse of passive voice and a generally dull C. He is being unnecessarily analytic.
writing style. This last argument, however, lacks substance. D. He is completely non-committal.
Impersonal writing can and should be interesting. Any dullness
it may have is wholly the fault of the writer. As proof, one has PASSAGE IV
only to look at the lively styles used by the writers for
newspapers, news magazines and journals. Most of this writing The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately
is impersonal – and usually it is not dull. following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
As in most cases of controversy, there is some merit to appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks.
the arguments on both sides. There are situations in which
personal writing is best. There are situations in which impersonal It is the business of the scientist to accumulate
writing is best. And there are situations in which either style is knowledge about the universe and all that is in it, and to find, if
appropriate. The writer must decide at the outset of his work he is able, common …16… (A. approaches B. instruments
which style is best for his own situation. C. factors D. experiments) which underlie and account for the
His decision should be based on the circumstances of facts that he knows. He chooses, when he can, the method of
each report situation. First, he should consider the expectations the controlled …17… (A. experiment B. respondent C. data
or desires of those for whom he is preparing the report. More D. system). If he wants to find out the effect of light on growing
than likely he will find a preference for impersonal style, for, like plants, he takes many plants, as alike as possible. Some he stands
most human beings, businessmen have been slow to break in the sun, some in the shade, some in the dark; all the time
tradition. Next, the writer should consider the formality of the keeping all other …18… (A. procedures B. conditions C. studies
report situation. If the situation Is informal, as when the report is D. objects) (temperature, moisture, nourishment) the same. In
really a personal communication of information between business this way, by keeping other variables…19… (A. dark B. constant
associates, personal writing is appropriate. But if the situation is C. good D. natural), and by varying the light only, the effect of
formal, as is the case with most reports, the conventional light on plants can be clearly seen. This …20… (A. method
impersonal style is best. B. research C. tool D. rationale) of using ‘controls’ can be
Lesikar, R. V.: Report Writing for Business applied to a variety of situations, and can be used to find the
answers to questions as widely different as ‘must moisture be
11. One argument given in support of personal writing is present …21… (A. bar B. gold C. iron D. an alloy) is to rust?’
that it and ‘which variety of beans gives the greatest yield in one…22..
A. has informal features which make it more (A. period B. season c. climate D. weather)?’
diverting than impersonal writing In the course of his…23… (A. inquiries B. findings
B. makes writers more focused and less boring C. queries D. experiment), the scientist may find what he thinks
C. can be more objective than impersonal writing is one common explanation for an increasing number of facts.
D. is the style to use in all situations involving The explanation, if it seems consistently to fit the various facts,
businessmen. is called ..24… (A. a principle B. a thesis C. a hypothesis D. an
antithesis). If this continues to stand the test of numerous
12. Which of the following statements is true according to experiments and remains unshaken, it becomes a …25… (A. notion
the passage? B. deduction C. law D. thesis).
A. The impersonal style helps to achieve a
measure of objectivity in report writing. LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL FORMS
B. The impersonal style has been widely
acclaimed. (Questions 26 to 75 carry 1 mark each)
C. Most report writing is characterized by the
sparing use of the impersonal style. In each of questions 26 to 50, fill each gap with the most
appropriate option from the list provided.
D. Most writers use the impersonal style to
achieve objectivity in their reports. 26. …(A. In spite of B. Given C. Barring D. In case of) any
problems, I shall travel to London tomorrow on a business
13. According to the passage, most of the writing in trip.
newspapers, news magazines and journals
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27. Musa has lived here for five years but he does not 45. We did not understand what the magistrate said
seem able to get over the enormously… (A. bizarre B. about…. (A. assault B. touching C. acid D. insult) and
intricate C. absurd D. fantastic) and elaborate rules battery.
that govern the society.
46. Whenever we have ….(A together a good long talk B.
28. The match gave the team a chance to show their … (A. a long good talk together C. together a long good
mettle B. worth C. position D. prowess) talk D. a good long talk together), we feel better.

29. These… must have … 47. The members of the other team agree… (A. on B. by C. to
A. analysis/attracted B. analyses/attract D. with) all the terms of the contract.
C. analyses/attracted D. analysis/attract) the World
Bank officials. 48. One advantage of the English language in Nigeria is that
it puts everyone… a common…(A. in/advantage B. in/
30. The highly appreciative audience clapped… hands and standing C. on/footing D. at/equality).
showered … (A. its/encomiums B. its/invectives C. their/
encomiums D. their/invectives) on the lecturer. 49. If one perseveres, … (A. she B. they C. one D. he) will
surely succeed.
31. The members elected Baba … (A. to be a chairman B.
chairman C. their chairman D. to become chairman) of 50. … a motor can be harmful … (A. To ride/with B. To ride/
the committee. for C. Riding/to D. Riding/for) your health.

32. The officer described the comment as … (A. dangerous In each of questions 51 to 53, choose the option that has a
B. sad C. ludicious D. libellous) because it was very different vowel sound from the others.
amusing.
51. A. mere B. weird C. hear D. tear (verb).
33. The new manager was responsible for the … (A. uplifting
B. lifting C. uplift D. upliftment) of the organization. 52. A. does B. son C. flood D. world

34. He is… Kaduna… (A. at/in B. at/for C. in/on D. for/in) 53. A. cough B. rough C. rot D. dog
an official assignment.
In each of questions 54 to 56, choose the option that has the
35. The future of the company is… though many seem … same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter(s)
(A. promising/nostalgic B. dicy/unsatisfied underlined.
C. okay/optimistic D. rosy/pessimistic) about it.
54. preached
36. The army officer said that more… (A. geurrilas A. lotion B. castle C. question D. past
B. guerrilas C. geurrillas D. guerrillas) would be
needed to prosecute the war. 55. business
A. eyes B. grace C. rice D. sink
37. The quality of your questions which… always attracted
attention… (A. has/have B. have/have C. has/has 56. cough
D. have/ has) never been in doubt. A. thoroughly B. of C. trophy D. though

38. Despite all preparations, the wedding did not… In each of questions 57 and 58, choose the word that has a
(A. come on B. come up C. come along D. come off). different stress pattern from the others.

39. Didn’t … (A. somebody B. someone C. anyone D. everyone) 57. A. convenient B. contribute C. embarrass D.
draw your attention to the entry requirements? madam
58. A. suffer B. blackboard C. success D. calendar
40. You are free to solicit… (A. financial B. by financial C. f
or financial D. a financial) support from the Board. In each of questions 59 to 73, choose
41. As election day draws near, the party looks… because the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
many of its members have… (A. cheerless/cross-
carpeted from B. cheerful/moved to C. vulnerable/ 59. I wonder what will be left of his essay when the extraneous
defected to D. successful/declared for) other parties. material is deleted.
A. main B. relevant C. erroneous D. superfluous
42. Ali has been cured of his amnesia; he no longer suffers
from… (A. rounds of anxiety B. bouts of malaria C. 60. Tortoises need cool climates and must have places
pains in his arms D. loss of memory). where they can hibernate.
A. sleep deeply B. relax C. reproduce D. hide at night
43. By this time next year, I… (A. will have been B. would
have been C. could have been D. will be) twenty years 61. They are considered to be legal luminaries.
old. A. experts B. practitioners C. directors D. powers

44. The operations of the bank… not… (A. do/cover B. 62. Practising medicine is not as lucrative as many people
did/covered C. does/cover D. does/covered) cottage think.
and small-scale industries. A. know B. assume C. consider D. understand
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63. The manager made disparaging remarks about the retiring C His rise to fame was only temporary.
officer. D. He became successful very suddenly.
A. parochial B. cynical C. derogatory D. rude 78. The politician was pilloried by the press for his
inflammatory remarks.
64. The teacher’s apparent nonchalant attitude was misconstrued A. The politician was closely questioned by the
by his students. press for his remarks.
A. condoned B. misquoted C. misinterpreted B. The politician was criticized by the press for
D. misrepresented. his remarks.
C. The politician was ridiculed by the press for
65. Let us not indulge in recrimination. his remarks.
A. unfounded allegation B. counter-accusation D. The politician was snubbed by the press for
C. accusation D. indictment. his remarks.

66. Teachers of music believe in its therapeutic effect. 79. Audu was taken bad in the middle of the night.
A. lyrical B. healing C. sound D. rhythmic A. He was ill B. He was caught. C. He was drunk
D. He was robbed.
67. The man outran his wife when they heard the eerie sound.
A. hissing B. harsh C. scary D. loud 80. After the successful operation, he recovered by leaps
and bounds.
68. His success may be described as a pyrrhic victory. A. His well-bound wounds aided his recovery.
A. a deserving victory B. costly C. indecisive B. He did a lot of keep-fit exercises.
D. an easy victory C. He used to jog regularly.
D. He got well very rapidly.
69. The Executive Secretary has just assumed office.
A. resumed work B. been sworn in C. started work (Questions 81 to 100 carry 1 mark each.)
D. returned
In each of questions 81 to 85, the word in capital letters has the
70. The warring tribes have been told to parley with each emphatic stress. Choose the option that best fits the expression
other. in the sentence.
A. hold talks B. observe a truce C. suspend hostilities
D. sign a treaty. 81. The university has been TEMPORARILY closed.
A. Has the university been permanently open?
71. He is a stringer for a newspaper. B. Has the campus been permanently closed?
A. a financier of B. a reporter for C. an editor of C. Has the college been temporarily closed?
D. a freelancer for D. Has the university been permanently closed?

72. Adigun’s jokes are always puerile. 82. The king RAN to the palace.
A. entertaining B. empty C. childish D. amusing A. Where did the king run to?
B. Did the queen run to the palace?
73. I wish the commander were less adamant about his C. Did the king walk to the palace?
proposed reprisal attack on the enemy. D. Who ran to the palace?
A. unyielding about/retaliatory
B. tolerant of /surprise 83. He travelled ONLY 20 kilometres before his car stopped.
C. sentimental about/rehearsed A. Did he travel only 20 kilometres after his car
D. supportive of /retributive stopped?
B. Did he travel exactly 20 kilometres before his car
In each of questions 74 and 75, identify the word that has the stopped?
stress on the first syllable. C. Did he travel more than 20 kilometres before
his car stopped?
74. A. comment B. dismiss D. Did you walk only 20 kilometres before the
C. intact D. confuse vehicle stopped?
75. A. commute B. import (verb)
C. intend D. export (noun) 84. The man BOUGHT the newspaper.
A. What did the man buy?
In each of questions 76 to 80, select the option that best explains B. Is this the newspaper which the man bought?
the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries C. Who bought the newspaper?
2 marks. D. Did the man read the newspaper?

76. The organization is constantly in a state of flux. 85. My UNCLE retired from the police.
A. The organization is moribund. A. Did your brother retire from the police?
B. The organization is experiencing good times. B. Did your brother resign from the police?
C. The organization is facing a difficult period. C. Did your uncle retire from the army?
D. There are periodic changes in the D. Did your sister resign from the police?
organization.
In each of questions 86 to 100, choose the option opposite in
77. His meteoric rise to fame surprised everyone. meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics.
A. People were amazed at his rapid success.
B. He rose to the top quite unexpectedly. 86. The Governor’s visit is an unprecedented event in the
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history of he social club.
A. an unnecessary B. a momentous C. a perfect 96. The President gave another extemporaneous speech
D. an insignificant last
Friday.
87. He gave an unsatisfactory excuse but the boss swallowed A. fascinating B. unfavourable C. unprepared D. planned.
it hook, line and sinker.
A. completely B. with a pinch of salt. C. entirely 97. The witness averred that she had seen Dosun at the
D. without mincing words. scene of the crime.
A. confirmed B. argued C. affirmed D. denied
88. The principal took exception to the ignoble role the
teacher played in the matter. 98. The workers suddenly became restive.
A. dishonourable B. extraordinary C. honourable A. fidgety B. calm C. disorderly D. submissive
D. embarrassing
99. The athlete has unexpectedly become indomitable.
89. The hardline posture of the labour leader has not helped A. unruly B. unconquerable C. weak D. disoriented.
matters.
A. imposing B. difficult C. compromising 100. He is notorious for his drunkenness.
D. uncompromising A. known B. renowned C. popular D. well known
COMPREHENSION
90. The high cost of living these days calls for a lot of
frugality. Read passages, I, II and III carefully and answer the questions
A. economy B. recklessness C. prudence D. that follow. Each question carries 3 marks.
extravagance
91. The evidence the leader gave was incontrovertible.
A. logical B. indubitable C. practicable D. contestable PASSAGE I
When man evolved a conscience, his basic relationship
92. Tunde’s reaction underscores the point I was making. with the other animals began to change. Until then, they were
A. contradicts B. justifies C. summarizes D. emphasizes broadly divided into those which ate him when they got the
chance, those which he ate when he got the chance, and a third
93. Everyone admired the manager’s adroit handling of group which competed with him for food, or was otherwise a
the nuisance to him in the business of keeping alive.
crises in he company. In the primitive situation, man was, therefore, basically
A. clever B. clumsy C. skilful D. tactless against Nature but, as the battle was progressively won,
conscience crept in; the awareness of responsibility, and a failure
94. The chairman’s conduct redounds to the image of the
to meet it, produced feelings of guilt. Those who live in cities
company.
A. contributes to B. detracts from C. assists in D. reflects on. and need no longer do battle against Nature are nowadays most
95. Her phlegmatic temperament endears her to her friends. actively for Nature.
A. cold B. stoic C. lively D. irritable.

Use of English 2003

At this time, something like a thousand kinds of animals mean no room for wild animals? Of course not. With ingenuity
(vertebrate animals) can be said to be in danger of extinction. A and forethought, a place can be kept for them. To destroy their
few of them have been reduced to this precarious position by habitat is as unnecessary as it would be to pull down a great
extensive killing but the majority are disappearing only as fast cathedral in order to grow potatoes on the site. A campaign to
as the particular kind of country they need for existence is itself save what remains is the concern of a new kind of Noah’s Ark –
disappearing: and all this at the hands of man, as often as not by the World Wildlife Fund. It does not believe that all is lost.
mistake. Adapted from Peter Scott’s article in Sunday Times
There are three species of turtles whose future survival
is menaced by the demand for turtle soup, which would hardly 1. The basic causes of the elimination of certain animals
justify the extermination of a giant reptile whose family has existed from the earth include
for 200 million years. Leopards are in jeopardy because of the A. man’s decision to live in cities and the
fashion for their skins. As they get rarer, the prices rise and, as development of large farmlands
leopard skin coats become more expensive, the demand increases. B. extensive killing of animals and the fast
No species can long survive the price of N60,000 which a half- disappearance of their favourable habitats
grown baby leopard now carries on its skin. And crocodiles, the C. man’s penchant for meat and the sale of
longest surviving reptiles, are now dwindling alarmingly as a animals for meat and hides
result of the fashion in crocodile skin for ladies’ handbags and D. a deliberate battle against Nature and the quest
men’s shoes. for leopard skin.
The human population explosion spreads mankind
across the land surfaces of the earth at an alarming rate. There 2. From the passage, the attitude of the writer can be
will be twice as many of us before most of us are dead. Does this described as.
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A. partial Eagles should soar instead of being intimidated by big names,
B. optimistic for no team is invincible.
C. indifferent
D. pessimistic 6. Which of the following captures the writer’s suggestion
on how the Eagles could improve their performance in
3. The expression when man evolved a conscience means subsequent matches?
when A. Better goalkeeping, a better attack
A. man developed an awareness of right and wrong and a stronger midfield.
B. man’s intellect improved tremendously B. Replacement of injured players, stronger
C. man acquired new habits attackers and a rugged defence.
D. man became a critical creature. C. Good coaching, more strikers and more
defenders.
4. Which of the following statements is true according to D. Fair officiating, good goalkeeping and fast
the passage? players.
A. Man kills animals only when he can afford to do so.
B. Man cannot spare those animals that eat his 7. A suitable title for this passage is
kind. A. African Teams in the 2002 World Cup
C. Man eats all categories of animals. B. The FIFA Korea/Japan 2002
D. Man poses the greatest threat to Nature. C. The Nigerian and the Senegalese Teams
D. The Eagles in World Cup 2002.
5. The sentence There will be twice as many of us before
most of us are dead means 8. From the argument in the last paragraph, it can be
A. some increase in human and animal population concluded that the Eagles were
growth rates A. more experienced than the Senegalese team
B. mankind is fast spreading across the earth B. not as strong as the Senegalese team.
C. many of us will die as a result of population C. more timid and goal-shy than their opponents
explosion D. not sure of getting to the next round of the
D. the population growth rate will double before tournament.
our death.
9. The word debutants, as used in the passage, means
A. hard-fighters B. under-dogs C. first-timers D. giant killers.
PASSAGE II
The 2002 World Cup Competition, also called Korea/ 10. From the passage, it can be concluded that the writer
Japan 2002, kicked off with a match between the defending A. was optimistic about the chances of the Eagles
champions, France, and the Senegalese national team from Africa. B. did not fancy the Eagles’ chances
Nobody had given the Senegalese any chance against the star- C. was non-committal about the chances of the
studded defending champions but the 1-0 scoreline in favour of Eagles
Senegal showed that African football can no longer be taken for D. was certain about the Eagles’ chances.
granted.
This shocking defeat of France had raised Africa’s PASSAGE III
hopes of going beyond the first round of the tournament. So Attitudes towards the smoking of cigarettes and the
when the Super Eagles of Nigeria filed out against Argentina on consumption of alcohol may be used to illustrate typical African
the morning of Sunday, June the second, 2002, many Nigerian ethics. Apart from the fact that smoking has now been linked
football enthusiasts delayed attending church service to watch with lung cancer disease, the African moralist has always
the match live on television. As expected, the Super Eagles put regarded smoking as an indication of moral degradation. A
up strong resistance to the Argentinian challenge and the day number of people have accepted the moralist idea on smoking.
would not have ended on a somber note for Nigerians if the Some have refrained from smoking, and those who could
momentum had been sustained throughout the match. influence others, such as parents and religious leaders, have
The hope of going beyond the first round, though also exerted their influence to prevent others from smoking. On
precarious, was very much alive as the Eagles were expected to the other hand, a good many people have remained indifferent
defeat their next opponents, Sweden and England. But some to the moralist view and have continued to smoke. The same
shortcomings in the Nigerian national team needed to be rectified argument has been applied to the consumption of alcohol. The
to brighten their chances against their next opponents. African moralist, basing his judgement on the behaviour of a
First, the defence needed to be strengthened to prevent few alcoholics, tends to regard the habit of taking alcohol as a
the opponents from incessantly terrorizing the goalkeeper. Then sign of wretchedness. The moralist holds the view that anybody
who forms the habit of consuming alcohol will never do well in
the strikers also needed to improve on their lackluster performance
live. While this may be true in respect of a few people in the
against Argentina, since every Nigerian expected them to society, the fear of the moralist has not been justified. However,
overwhelm their next opponents in the opening rounds. Lastly, the economics is primarily interested in the habit of smoking and
rather than gamble with unfit players, a more creative use of the the consumption of alcohol in so far as they give satisfaction to
reserves would be necessary to smooth the way to the next smokers and drinkers and so generate supply of and demand for
round. tobacco and alcohol. The economist is interested in knowing
If World Cup debutants, Senegal ,could nurse the hope how many packets of cigarettes are consumed and to what extent
of playing in the knock-out stages of the tournament, then the an increase or fall in consumption could affect production, that
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is, supply. Similarly, he is interested in how much beer is This kind of delivery is usually reserved for very …18… (A.
consumed and how the supply of beer will adjust to the demand formal B. genuine C. impromptu D. guaranteed) occasions
for it. He examines the habits and the pressures which can lead when exact wording is …19… (A. conclusive B. critical C.
to the readjustment of wants and the reallocation of resources reportive D. speculative), such as the State of the Union Address
to cover the wants. or speeches before the United Nations General …20… (A.
Some moral principles associated with religion tend to Negotiation B. Organization C. Assembly D. Audience). The
lead on to economic problems. Followers of certain religions are primary advantage is that the speech may be highly …21… (A.
expected not to consume pork, take alcohol or smoke tobacco. polished B. advanced C. analogous D. discreet) in terms of
Devotees of some religious groups, on the other hand, can eat word choice, turns of phrase, and development of ideas. The
pork while others are expected to abstain from alcohol and main disadvantage is that this type of delivery is difficult to do
smoking. Strict observance of these moral rules could cripple well. Reading aloud with meaningful …22… (A. anticipatory B.
the breweries, the cigarette factories and some businesses. profuse C. bifocal D. vocal) inflection requires the speaker to
However, there seems to be a growing number of alcohol be very familiar with the text. If not, the words will come out in a
consumers and cigarette smokers – a development which should choppy, expressionless way. Such poor delivery could destroy
be of interest to the economist. any …23… (A. interactive B. restrictive C. positive D. decisive)
effects created by the carefully chosen …24… (A. language B.
11. The positions maintained by the moralist and the slang C. dialect D. rhetoric) Lack of familiarity with the …25…
economist can be described as being (A. exchange B. text C. note D. context) could also prevent the
A. at variance B. very agreeable C. quite indifferent speaker from maintaining eye contact with people being
D. very passionate addressed.
Adapted from Phillips, G. M. et al (1985), Speaking in
12. Which of the following statements is true according to Public and Private, Indianapolis: Bobbs-Merrill
the passage?
A. People who drink or smoke surely die of
cancer. LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL FORMS
B. Everyone ignores the moralist view on
drinking and smoking. In each of questions 26 to 30, select the option that best explains
C. Smoking and drinking may have positive the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries
effects on the economy. 2 marks.
D. Total abstinence from drinking and smoking
is a religious obligation. 26. In spite of his humble beginning, Audu now throws his
weight around.
13. It can be concluded from the passage that morality, A. Audu is arrogant despite his simple
religion and economy are upbringing.
A. clearly interconnected B. certainly different B. Despite his obvious poverty, Audu is a proud
C. somewhat interconnected D. certainly unrelated. man.
C. His noble birth notwithstanding, Audu is a corrupt
14. The view expressed by the writer in the last paragraph man.
is that D. From his poor background, Audu is now a rich
A. the number of alcoholics and smokers is man.
certainly increasing
B. more people now abstain from drinking and 27. Ngozi has always considered her father to be an
smoking impassioned man.
C. more people appear to take to drinking and A. Her father is a very lively man.
smoking B. Her father is an emotional man.
D. sales of alcohol and tobacco products have C. Her father is a disciplined man.
improved tremendously. D. Her father is a very strict man.
15. According to the passage, the moralist idea is that
A. it is typically African not to smoke cigarettes 28. The elders rebuked Olu for taking issue with his
B. people should accept a point of view only principal.
when they are convinced A. Olu was cautioned for shouting at his principal.
C. smoking is not good but a little alcohol may B. Olu was scolded for acting in collusion with
be permitted his principal.
D. the smoking of cigarettes is bad and C. Olu was reprimanded for arguing with his
unacceptable. principal.
D. Olu was blamed for issuing a statement
PASSAGE IV denying his principal.

The passage below has gaps numbered 16 to 25. Immediately 29. The manager paid us in hard currency.
following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most A. We were paid in new notes.
appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks. B. We were paid in foreign currency.
C. We were paid in dollars and pound sterling.
A prepared speech is not easy to deliver, especially if it D. We were paid in a strong and stable currency.
is not written by the presenter. A …16… (A. document B. free
C. manuscript D. quantum) delivery is one in which the speech 30. If he went to London, he would see the Queen.
has been written out word for word and is read to ...17... (A. a A. When he goes to London, he will see the
gathering B. a conference C. a congregation D. an audience). Queen.
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B. He did not go to London and did not see the
Queen. 47. The party supporters vilified the Chairman for the role
C. He did not see the Queen when he went to he played in the crisis that rocked the party.
London. A. elected. B. challenged C. condemned D. impeached
D. He would like to see the Queen when he goes
to London. 48. The company is to shed three thousand staff this year.
A. demote B. lay off C. throw up D. placate
(Questions 31 to 100 carry 1 mark each.)
49. There was a glut of oil on the market.
In each of questions 31 to 45, choose the option opposite in A. a variety of B. an accumulation of
meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics. C. an abundance of D. an increase in

31. Only those who are gullible fall victim to his trickery. 50. A few years ago, nobody would have believed that the
A. saucy B. devastated C. courteous D. astute economy would turn around.
A. deteriorate B. improve C. stagnate D. change
32. He is well known for his inordinate ambition.
A. excessive B. passionate C. moderate D. sound 51. Before announcing his retirement, Ochima resolved to
settle on account with the bank.
33. Students could be timid. A. pay back all he owes B. close his account with
A. friendly B. bold C. covetous D. pugnacious C. retire his loans from D. get back at

34. The witness decided to conceal the evidence. 52. The boys knew that a storm was imminent.
A. divulge B. hide C. destroy D. pugnacious A. possible B. impending C. threatening
D. encroaching
35. The members of the congregation were inspired by the
sermon. 53. The nurse was in favour of voluntary euthanasia.
A. bewitched B. enthralled C. disenchanted D. disorientated A. a painless death B. a simple operation C. a
sleeping pill D. a major operation
36. Agbenu was ecstatic about her result.
A. dispassionate B. sad C. pessimistic D. mad 54. The cynics feared that the nation’s nascent democracy
would fail.
37. The labour leader’s recalcitrant stance was applauded. A. pessimists B. delinquents C. critics D.
A. stubborn B. flexible C. uncompromising D. well- illusionists
informed
55. The essence of governance is to seek the good and
38. A cool bath in a hot weather can be truly invigorating. well-being of the majority of the people.
A. devastating B. unpalatable C. debilitating D. disgusting A. importance B. goal C. characteristic D. secret

39. I am loath to do the assignment. 56. From what she said, one may infer that she does not like
A. willing B. unwilling C. waiting D. dying the course.
A. suppose B. realize C. deduce D. agree
40. Toyin is married to an impatient, self-centered man.
A. a fretful B. a tolerant C. an edgy D. a tolerable 57. He shared his room with a person whose behaviour
was quite nauseating.
41. Gregarious animals can be found in the zoo. A. disrespectful B. disgraceful C. discouraging
A. Various B. Wild C. Lonely D. Tame D. disgusting

42. The doctor examined the patient painstakingly. 58. The carpenter built a commodious wardrobe.
A. perfunctorily B. professionally C. painfully D. carefully A. gigantic B. small C. spacious D. wide
59. Publishing as a business venture has become a hot
43. The company has continued to monopolize the potato in Nigeria.
distribution of the products. A. unpleasant B. profitable C. unacceptable
A. centralize B. specialize C. liberalize D. regularize D. expensive

44. A conservative estimate put the number of missing 60. The man’s story sounded plausible to his audience.
persons at forty. A. fantastic B. credulous C. credible D. entertaining
A. A rough B. An accurate C. A primitive D. An incorrect
In each of questions 61 to 85, fill each gap with the most
45. The agency has sworn to deal with all the apostles of appropriate option from the list provided.
confederation.
A. proponents B. protagonists C. apostates D. opponents. 61. ‘I can’t stand people prying into my private life’, Ladi
said. ‘...,’ (A. Me neither B. Me too C. I also D. Likewise
In each of questions 46 to 60, choose the option nearest in myself) agreed Agbenu .
meaning to word(s) or phrase in italics.
62. The sergeant spoke to me in a … (A. coerce B. coarse
46. The leader has the unstinting support of his party. C. course D. causal) manner.
A. unsparing B. laudable C. uninspiring D. cautious.
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63. The reason why he was not offered admission was … 83. It was a free-for-all and the students were blamed for
(A. because B. that C. when D. owning to) his results taking the law… (A. into their hands B. in their hands
could not be found. C. into their own hands D. in their own hands).

64. Adika… (A. receive B. receives C. has received D. had 84. Ali plays… (A. their B. some C. a D. the)violin with
received) a message from the club regularly. remarkable skill.

65. Three quarters of the people in the village … killed but 85. The candidate’s charisma should be a…
only half of their huts … ( A. were/was B. were/were C. (A. determinable B. determining C. determinant
was/was) affected. D. determinate) factor in winning the election.

66. If you saw the photograph of the man, … (A. can In each of questions 86 to 88, choose the option that has the
B. will C. would D. could) you be able to identify him? same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s)
underlined.
67. It is bad to take… (A. someone else’s B. someone’s else
C. someone’s else’s D. someone elses’) property without 86. colonel
permission. A. gaol B. colony
C. golden D. girl
68. As Obande does not know anyone in this city, he hopes
that some kind… (A. men B. individuals C. man D. 87. tend
inhabitants) will put him up for the night. A. jeopardy B. turned
C. earned D. caned
69. Be careful not to… (A lose B. loose C. loss D. lost) this
money. 88. market
A. get B. mortgage
70. How is the new editor… (A. pushing B. going C. getting C. enter D. bachelor
D. moving) on with his work?
In each of questions 89 to 91, choose the option that has a
71. Nowadays, many graduates are not well disposed to different vowel sound from the others.
teaching,… (A. do they? B. they are? C. aren’t they?
D. are they?) 89. A dear B. fair
C. bear D. there
72. The armed robbers went into the house and robbed the
three… (A. women’s occupants B. women occupants 90. A. hope B. cost
C. woman occupants D. woman’s occupants). C. coast D. won’t

73. It is often… that inflation… (A. say/resulted B. said/ 91. A. naught B. north
result C. said/results D. say/result) from too much C. spot D. law
money chasing very few goods.
In each of questions 92 to 94, choose the option that has the
74. If you would do me this favour, I … (A. will B. shall same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter(s)
C. would D. should) be very grateful. underlined.
92. concrete
75. I have the … (A. privilege B. priviledge C. privelege A. attend B. anxious
D. previlege) of meeting the President. C. concern D. consider
76. My classmate,… (A. that B. whose C. whom D. which)
I haven’t seen for years, wrote to me last week. 93. chalet
A. college B. chemical
77. Four weeks… (A. has been B. are C. were D. is) enough C. chairman D. champagne
for the police to conclude their investigation.
94. teeth
78. The woman is one of the … (A. elitists B. elites C. elite A. though B. taught
D. elitist) of the society. C. thought D. tank

79. The doctor asked the patient what … (A. is the problem In each of questions 95 and 96, choose the option that has a
B. the problem was C. the problem is D. is your different consonant sound from the others.
problem).
95. A. shoe B. ocean
80. He put… (A. a white dozen eggs B. dozen white eggs C. chef D. chief
C. a dozen white eggs D. white dozen eggs) in a basket.

81. Idakwo ran… (A. lest he almost B. lest he will C. lest he 96. A. laugh B. off
should. D. lest he may) miss the train. C. wife D. of
In each of questions 97 and 98, choose the option that has the
82. Course … (A. material B. materials C. material’s same stress pattern as the given word.
D. materials’) writers are to reflect local colour.
97. cement.
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B. Are these the pressmen that the President spoke
A. employ (noun) B. interest to?
C. perfect (adjective) D. include C. Did the President speak to the press?
D. Did the President write to the press?
98. typist
A. rebel (verb) B. superb
C. refuse (noun) D. propose

In each of questions 99 and 100, the word in capital letters has COMPREHENSION
the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the sentence
relates. Read the passage below carefully and answer the questions that
follow. Each Question carries 3 marks.
99. My MOTHER served rice and fresh fish stew for dinner.
A. What of kind of meal did your mother serve for PASSAGE I
dinner?
B. Did your mother serve rice and fresh fish stew for If, once in a lifetime, you see a blue moon, don’t think
lunch? your eyes are playing tricks on you. It’s caused by dust in our
C. What kind of stew did your mother serve for dinner? upper atmosphere; ice crystals are what make you see rings
D. Who served rice and fresh fish stew for dinner? round the moon.
Over the centuries, magical powers have been attributed
100. The President SPOKE to the press. to the moon. It has been said to bring on lunacy, affect the
A. Who spoke to the press? growth of plants, eyes of cats, spots of panthers, functions of
women and activities of ghosts. France once had a law against
cutting timber except during a waning moon. The moon, and to

Use of English 2004

a lesser degree the sun, does cause the ocean tides because of
their gravitational pull. But a common mistake of primitive people
is to think that everything timed in the same rhythm as the moon A. rare phenomenon
is caused by it. B. regular event
All the moon gazing, probing and measuring has never C. trick of the moon
solved the big problem: its origin. One theory is that it began as D. life-long opportunity
a planet, got too near the more massive earth, was ‘captured’
and turned into a satellite. Another is that the latter theory is 3. The sentence over the centuries, magical powers have
true, scientists say, there would be two clues: the moon would been attributed to the moon suggests that
consist of lighter material than the earth, and the earth would be A. people perform magic with the moon
left with a scar. As a matter of fact, the moon does weigh less. B. it is a common belief that the moon has magical
And the Pacific Ocean does have a scarlike bottom of basaltic powers
rocks instead of the granite rocks usually found near the earth’s C. the moon actually possesses magical powers.
surface. D. The moon reflects magical powers from the sun’s
But the assumption that, if man can get to the moon, he’ll rays.
find the answer is unfounded. Man has been on the earth
hundreds of thousands of years without determining the earth’s 4. The expression either quest refers to the origin of
origin. Scientists, of course, will never give up either quest. A. the moon or the earth
Indeed, for thousands of years the moon has worked a B. neither the moon nor the earth
spell of fascination over all the people on its near neighbour, C. the moon
the earth. The ancient worshipped this lamp in the sky and D. the earth.
speculated about it endlessly. Modern astronomers continue to
explore its mysteries almost every night of the year, and with 5. A suitable title for the passage is
reason. A. The Magical Powers of the Moon
Ages ago, before artificial light was known, it was B. Facts about the Moon
important as illumination at night. As everyone knows, the moon C. The Lunar Cycle
has no light of its own; it shines with the cold reflection of the D. Moon-Gazing.
distant sun, but actually the moon is a poor satellite with ‘earth
light’ sixty times as bright as the best moonlight. That’s why we PASSAGE II
sometimes see the whole moon faintly when the sun is lighting
up only a narrow crescent. The passage below has gaps numbered 6 to 15. Immediately
following each gap, four options are provided. Choose the most
1. The phrase near neighbour, as used in the passage, shows appropriate option for each gap. Each question carries 2 marks.
that
A. moonlight generally shares many characteristics Capitalism is an economic system which is founded on
with ‘earth light’ the principle of free enterprise and the private ownership of the
B. the earth is nearer to the moon than to the sun means of production and distribution. The …6… (A. attorneys
C. the earth actually shares boundaries with the moon. B. determiners C. antagonists D. protagonists) of capitalism
D. Moonlight shines brighter on the earth’s claim that its essential characteristic is economic …7… ( A.
surface than perhaps elsewhere. freedom B. manoeuvring C. manipulation D. exploitation).
The producer is free to produce whatever goods he ..8… (A.
2. The passage suggests that a blue moon is a
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manufactures B. buys C. sells D. fancies); but the …9… (A.
consumer B. customer C. marketer D. controller) is equally laughter. We did our jobs doggedly, that notwithstanding,
free to buy what he wants. There is a market mechanism under because our father and mother expected it of us. Out of choice
this system which brings the producer and consumer together our father did everything we did, including fetching water on
and tends to equate the supplies of the one to the demands of the occasion, and commanded us by sheer force of his example.
the other, and …10… (A. neutralize B. decide C. harmonize D.
settle) the whims and caprice of both. It is this same …11… (A. 16. By describing his father as an uncommon man, the
controlling B. production C. operational D. market) mechanism writer
which determines what prices the consumers pay to the means that he is
producers, as well as what share the total …12… (A. profit B. A. amenable B. remarkable C. strict D. kind
output C. dividends D. interest), in cash or kind, goes to each of
the four recognized… 13… (A. factors B. methods C. managers 17. Which of the following describes the father’s role in
D. agents) of production-land, labour, capital and organization. the family?
It is further claimed for this system that every person is capable A. Being too hard on the children.
of watching his or her own interest, and that whatever injustice B. Usurping his wife’s role in the family.
is done by the …14… (A. pricing B. buyers and sellers C. C. Serving the children.
managers D. operations) of the market mechanism, this D. Leading by example.
mechanism tends to bring about a state of …15… (A. equilibrium
B. equidistance C.. opprobrium D. conflict) between the 18. The word atmosphere, as used in the first paragraph of
producers and the consumers. the passage, means
Adapted from The Guardian, October 5, 2003, p. 10 A. pattern B. disposition C. preference D. unity

Read passages III and IV carefully and answer the questions 19. Which of the following statements captures the family’s
that follow. Each question carries 3 marks. approach to housework?
A. No job was reserved for anyone on the basis
PASSAGE III of gender.
We knew early in our life that the atmosphere in our B. Their mother did the cooking and cleaning
home was different from that in many other homes, where willingly.
husbands and wives quarrel and where there was drunkenness, C. The boys were not allowed to do girls work.
laziness or indifference – things we never saw in our family. We D. The water needed was provided by everyone.
chafed and grumbled at the strictness of my father’s regime. We
went to hide whenever we broke the rules too visibly. We knew, 20. A suitable title for the passage is
nevertheless, that our parents wanted good things for us. Some A. A Village Life B. The Unusual Parent
of these, such as the insistence on our going to school and C. The Problem of Water D. An Experience in Early life.
never missing a day, we accepted readily enough, although, like
most other children, we occasionally yielded to the temptation
to play truant. However, in other cases such as their effort to PASSAGE IV
keep us out of contact with the difficult life – the drinking and A Wolf, seeing a Lamb drinking from a river, wanted to find a
fighting and beer-brewing and gambling – their failure was pretext for devouring him. He stood higher up the stream and
inevitable. They could not keep us insulated. By the time we accused the lamb of muddying the water so that he could not
moved about, we were already seeing things with their eyes and drink. The lamb said that he drank only with tip of his tongue,
judging things by the standards we had absorbed from them. and that in any case he was standing lower down the river, and
It was borne in on me and my brother at a very early could not possibly disturb the water higher up. When this excuse
age that our father was an uncommon man. For one thing, in failed him, the wolf said: ‘Well, last year you insulted my father.’
most African families, work around the home was women’s work. ‘I wasn’t even born then,’ replied the lamb.
So we were vastly impressed by the fact that whenever my mother ‘You are good at finding answers, ‘said the wolf, ‘but
was away, my father could and did do all her jobs – cooking, what do you mean by taking up so much of the path where I am
cleaning and looking after us. We lived in this way in a community walking? The lamb, frightened at the wolf’s angry tone and
in which housework was regarded as being beneath male dignity. terrible aspect, told him, with all due submission, that he could
Even in families which, like ours, produced boy after boy – our not conceive how his walking on such a wide path could
sister came fifth – it simply meant that the mother carried a greater occasion him inconvenience. ‘What!’ exclaimed the wolf,
and greater burden of work. In our family, nevertheless, the boys seemingly in great anger and indignation. ‘You are as impudent
did girl’s work and my father did it with us. as your father who seized me by the throat last year, and caused
One of the prime chores of life in the family was fetching me to be kept in a cage for three months.’
water from the pump down the street, some two hundred metres ‘If you will believe me,’ said the lamb, ‘my parents are
from our door. Since the pump was not unlocked until six in the poor simple creatures who live entirely by green stuff; we are
morning and there was always crowding, a system had developed none of us hunters of your species.’ ‘Ah! I see it’s no use talking
whereby you got out before dawn, placed your twenty-litre tin to you, ‘said the wolf, drawing up close to him. ‘It runs in the
in line, and then went home, returning later to take your place. blood of your family to hate us wolves, and therefore, as we
Often, of course, tins would be moved back in line and others have come so conveniently together, I’ll just pay off a few of
moved ahead. This could be corrected if none of those in front your forefathers’ scores before we part. ‘So saying, he leapt at
were too big a challenge. the lamb from behind and garroted him.
When taps were substituted for the pumps, the first one
installed was nearly a kilometre away from our house and we 21. The charges levelled against the lamb are
had to make the treck with the water tins balanced on our heads A. pollution, insolence, obstruction and
-- and indignity because this was the way girls, not proud males, aggression.
carried their burdens. All the children in the neibghbourhood B. exuberance, pollution, wickedness and
knew we did women’s work and I can still hear their derisive stubbornness
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C. garrulity, loquacity, pride and arrogance
D. greed, wandering, insolence and disrespect. 31. The poor widow who could not buy the clothes was
seen
22. From the way the story ended, it can be concluded that the … her wool into… (A. making/tailoring B. to spin/
A. wolf and the lamb parted amicably yards
B. lamb did not survive the encounter C. spinning/yarn D. to spill/clothes) yesterday.
C. wolf had encountered the lamb’s parents
D. lamb offended the wolf quite seriously. 32. … (A. Referring to B. With reference to
C. Due to D. Owning to) his illness,
23. Which of the following aptly describes the moral of the story? Muhammad could not come to school.
A. No matter how highly placed he is in society,
the unmindful lawbreaker will always meet his 33. You may not have heard the last word on the matter, …
nemesis. (A. have you B. may you have C. haven’t you D. mayn’t
B. The law is weak in defence of the poor against have you)?
the rich and mighty.
C. The sins of the forefathers are visited upon 34. Agbo says he is not afraid of … (A. no one B. nothing
the children no matter how long it takes. C. nobody D. anybody)
D. If you have made up your mind to hang your
dog, any rope will do for the purpose. 35. The city… as a federal capital only … (A. existed/over
B. has existed/for C. was existing/from D. is existing
24. The expression when this excuse failed him suggests in) the last twenty years.
that the
A. lamb was prepared for the charges levelled against 36. He not only looked after the children when their parents
him died, … (A. also he B. also C. but also D. but he)
B. wolf was uncertain of the charges levelled sponsored their education to university.
againstthe lamb
C. wolf only made up the charges levelled against 37. After so many trials, the experiment… (A. paid up
the lamb B. paid off C. paid out D. paid for).
D. lamb was more intelligent than the wolf.
38. His supporters rallied round him in moments of…
25. The expression angry tone and terrible aspect refers (A. criticism B. disillusionment C. acrimony D. crisis)
to the wolf’s
A. towering size and thunderous voice 39. One needs to exemplify or … (A. declare B. demonstrate
B. harsh voice and menacing posture C. satisfy D. supply) the aspect of the subject being
C. sonorous voice and overbearing attitude discussed.
D. loud voice and fretting movement.
40. Actually, he forgot the one to…(A. whomever B. who
LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL FORMS C. whoever D. whom) the job was given.

(Questions 26 to 59 carry I mark each.) 41. The police claim that a number of stolen cars… (A. is
In each of questions 26 and 27, choose the option that has the being B. has being C. have been D. has been)
same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) recovered.
underlined.
42. The storm… (A. did B. wrecked C. made D. wreaked)
26. bear havoc on several buildings in the village.
A. rare B. fear
C. beer D. steer 43. People dislike Mariam because she is… (A trickful B.
27. nine tricky C. a tricker D. trickish)
A. click B. gill
C. pint D. pin 44. The chairman refused to shake … (A. hands. B. his
hand C. hand D. his hands) with the secretary.
In each of the questions 28 and 29, choose the appropriate
stress pattern from the options. The syllables are written in 45. Ali goes to the stadium regularly, but he.. (A. didn’t go
capital letters. B. hasn’t been C. haven’t been D. hadn’t been) to the
28. expostulate church for months.
A. exPOStulate B. exposTUlate
C. expostuLATE D. EXpostulate 46. No teacher of honour would subject his student to any
form of … (A. harrassment B. harrasment C.
29. sufficiency harassement D. harassment).
A. sufficienCY B. suffiCIENcy
C. sufFIciency D. SUFficiency 47. The interpreter was wrong because he gave the
congregation a… (A. unilateral B. literary C. literal
In each of questions 30 to 54, choose the option that best D. lateral) translation of the pastor’s statement.
completes the gap(s)
48. Each of the houses… (A. have got B. has C. have D.
30. He isn’t coming home, is he? …(A. No B. Why C. Yes D. were given) a new look.
Now), he isn’t.
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49. The reporter said that the Honourable Speaker… (A. is to
be B. will have been C. might have been D. may have 61. In many countries, democracy is ostensibly being
being) impeached. practiced.
A. Many countries have effective democracy.
50. It is … (A. their’s B. theirs’ C. theirs D. their) B. Democracy is indeed being practiced in many
responsibility to look after their parents in old age. countries.
C. Democracy is apparently practiced in many
51. I shall find time for my…when I get.. (A. pastime/ countries.
through B. pass-time/over C. passtime/through D. D. Many countries have democracy in practise.
past-time/over) with this difficult assignment.
62. Adamu’s father is a key figure in that ministry.
52. All God’s prophets were given the great… (A A. Adamu’s father’s position is essential in the
commition B. comission C. commission D. ministry.
commision) to preach salvation to people. B. The ministry trusts Adamu’s father as a central
figure.
53. Each producer is able to place a price on his product by C. Adamu’s father is a figurehead in the ministry.
considering its… (A assessment B. choice C. D. Adamu’s father keeps the key to the ministry.
judgement D. worth)
63. Everyone was ready to play the devil’s advocate in the
54. The minister addressed the workers to boost their… (A. impeachment controversy.
mural B. morale C. morality D. moral). A. Everyone was willing to fight for the
defenceless citizens no matter the
In each of questions 55 to 57, choose the option that has the consequences.
same consonant sound as the one presented by the letter(s) B. Everyone was willing to defend an unpopular
underlined. point of view concerning the impeachment.
C. Everyone was willing to speak against the
55. caused impeachment to encourage discussion on it.
A. realized, B. frost D. Everyone was willing to be an evil genius in
C. released D. chanced the controversy.

56. mischief 64. The government warns that drink-driving is punishable

A. champagne B. Christmas under the law.
C. brochure D. ritual A. A drunkard driving can be punished.
B. Drinking and driving is an offence.
57. judge C. Driving while drinking is an offence.
A. pleasure B. camouflage D. Driving while drunk is an offence.
C. spinach D. gear
(Questions 65 to 100 carry 1 mark each.)
In each of questions 58 and 59, the word in capital letters has
the emphatic stress. Choose the option to which the given
In each of questions 65 and 66, choose the option that has a
sentence relates. different stress pattern from the others.
58. The student BOUGHT the book.
A. Who bought the book? 65. A. result B. ratify C. taxi D. famous
B. What did the student buy?
C. How will the student get the book? 66. A. orthopaedic B. secondment C. photographic D. oriental
D. Did the student steal the book? In each of questions 67 and 68, choose the option that has a
59. The teacher wants MY pen. different vowel sound from the others.
A. Does the teacher want your ruler?
B. Who wants my pen? 67. A. pot B. hall C. water D. altar
C. Does the teacher want his pen?
D. What does the teacher want? 68. A. tout B. foe C. foul D. owl

In each of questions 60 to 64, select the option that best explains In each of questions 69 to 83, choose the option nearest in
the information conveyed in the sentence. Each question carries meaning to the word or phrase in italics.
2 marks.
69. The presence of the captain makes the sailors ill at
60. The investigators stated clearly that they had reached a ease.
dead end in their scrutiny of suspects in the murder A. impatient B. easily ill
case. C. uncomfortable D. sickly
A. The end had come for the suspects in the murder
case. 70. Ibro shows enough liberality with his meager income.
B. There was no further progress in the A. insensitivity B. prodigality
investigation of the murder suspects. C. frugality D. generosity
C. The investigators did not know what to do
with suspects’ murder. 71. It is a misnomer to call three thousand naira a living
D. The investigators had evidence to sentence wage.
the suspects to death in the end. A. a wrong description
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B. an incontrovertible assertion
C. an appropriate term A. calmed B. confused C. refreshed D. helped
D. a mishmash
87. We found a shady place for the display.
72. The press described the efforts of the government in A. an enclosed B. a stuffy C. an open D. an unsafe
pejorative terms.
A. superlative B. palpable 88. The player writhed in pain after the fall
C. critical D. contemptible. A. cried out B. remained still C. walked out
D. shook violently
73. The town was in such a turmoil that the dance was
called 89. The ship was imperilled by high winds.
off. A. saved B. deceived C. destroyed D. piloted
A. state of darkness B. state of confusion
C. rainy state D. mourning state 90. The team got an ecstatic welcome from the crowd.
A. a joyous B. an unexpected C. an expected D. a cold
74. The festivals create in the people a feeling of pride in
their cultural heritage. 91. Sailors are unusually dauntless in their exploits.
A. legacy B. possession A. excited B. ruthless C. frightened D. selfless
C. history D. heirloom
92. Beauty queens sometimes wear outlandish dresses.
75. Okonkwo manages his household with a heavy hand. A. familiar B. flashy C. beautiful D. attractive
A. using the cane on every occasion
B. without tolerating weaknesses 93. My father’s presentation was rather casual.
C. like a powerful dictator. A. divisive B. vital C. informal D. formal
D. like a heavyweight champion. 94. The Flying Eagles put up a plucky defence against their
76. In spite of constant financial support from his father, opponents
Udenyi treats his studies with considerable levity. A. weak B. Strong C. careless D. tactful
A. lassitude B. wastefulness
C. enthusiasm D. seriousness 95. The journalist said he was working freelance.
A. satisfactorily B. without a pay C. dependently
77. The school’s badge is the insignia of office for all the D. tirelessly
prefects in the school.
A. seal B. recognition C. power D. symbol 96. The injured man is determined to get back at his assailant.
A. visit B. forgive C. identify D. attack
78. Funnily enough, the priest prayed for the robber who 97. The dictator wanted tractable men in his cabinet.
shot him. A. tough B. intelligent C. unruly D. reliable
A. timidly B. fearlessly
C. unexpectedly D. disappointingly 98. After the war, the victors became increasingly
vindictive
79. The mottled skin of a person with HIV indicates an A. treacherous B. arrogant C. vociferous
advanced stage of its development. D. friendly
A. pimply B. scaly C. brown D. spotted
99. The potency of the drug has been acknowledged.
80. The prosecutor was fully able to substantiate the A. action B. inefficacy C. power D. loss
charge.
A. expatiate on B. weaken C. prove D. dismiss 100. The man who scared the girl was a bit deranged.
81. The manager’s knowledge of the strike is of the utmost A. crazy B. amorous C. dangerous D. sane
importance
A. basic B. genuine C. standard D. paramount

82. There has been a downturn in the affairs of the company.

A. a turn-around B. a massive increase
C. a decline D. little progress.

83. His plans boomeranged on him.

A. catapulted B. backfired C. fell D. bounced.
In each of questions 84 and 85, choose the option that has the
stress on the first syllable.
84. A. condemn B. intact
C. afternoon D. bachelor

85. A. impossible B. criticism

C. eleven D. circulation
In each of questions 86 to 100, choose the option opposite in
meaning to the word or phrase in italics.

86. The noise of the fans unnerved the star player.

 Joint Admission and Matriculation Board

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 2010 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

COMPREHENSION: Read each Now there is one outstanding

passage carefully and answer the important fact regarding
questions that follow it Spaceship Earth, and this is that
no instruction book came with it.
PASSAGE I I think it is very significant that
there is no instruction book, for
One of the interesting things to successfully operating of our ship,
me about spaceship is that it is a in view of the infinite attention to
mechanical vehicle, just as an all other details displayed by our
automobile. If you own a car, you ship.
realize that you must put oil and
gas into it, and you must put It must be taken as deliberate
water in the radiator and take and purposeful that an instruction
care of the care as a whole. book was omitted. Lack of
instruction has forces us to find
You begin to develop quite a little out that there are two kinds of
thermodynamic sense. You know mangoes – unripe mangoes that
that you are either going to have will kill us and ripped mangoes
to keep the machine in a good which will nourish us.
order or it is going to be in
trouble and fail to function. And we had to find out ways of
telling which-was-which mangoes
We have not been seeing our before we ate it or otherwise we
Spaceship Earth as an integrally would die. So we were forced,
designed machine which to be because of this to devise scientific
persistently successful, must be experimental procedures and to
comprehended and serviced in interpret effectively the
total. significance of the experimental

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findings. Thus, because the progressively the system of
instruction manual was missing, generalized principles governing
we are learning how we can safely increase of energy. The design
survive on the planet. omission of the instruction book
forced man to discover
Quite clearly, all living being are retrospectively just what his most
utterly helpless at the moment of important capabilities are.
birth. The human child stays He learned to generalize
helpless longer that the young of fundamental principles of
any species. universe.

Apparently, it is part of ‘invention’ Adapted from Oluikpe, B.O. et

that man is meant to be utterly al (2005) Intensive English for
helpless through certain Senior Secondary School 2,
anthropological phases. When he Onitsha: AFP
begins to be able to get on a little
better, he is meant to discover 1. Which Use of English Paper
some of the physical principles Type is given to you?
inherent in the universe as well as
the many recourses around him A. Type A
which will further multiply his B. Type B
knowledge. C. Type C
D. Type D
Designed into this Spaceship
Earth’s total wealth was a big 2. According to the writer, the
safety factor. This allowed man to exciting thing about Spaceship
be very ignorant for a long time Earth is that
until he had amassed enough
experiences from which to extract A. has no instruction manual

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B. it is not difficult to maintain A. non-committal
C. is peculiar to other automobiles B. pessimism
D. is relatively easy to operate C. optimism
D. frustration
3. The absence of instruction
manual in Spaceship Earth has PASSAGE II

A. made the operation of the Stress is by far the most common

Spaceship Earth difficult cause of ill health in our society,
B. forced man to devise other and may be the underlying cause
means of travelling in spacecraft of as many as 70-80% of all visits
C. challenged man’s to family doctors. It is also the
inquisitiveness problem that every doctor shares
D. made man helpless with patients.

4. From the passage, it can be Experts note that stress is an

deduced that man issue everyone can relate to
experimentally. In studying and
A. learns by experiment and better understanding about
education stress, we can derive personal as
B. learns by chance and well as professional benefits.
accidentally
C. is incapable of solving all his Stress can be overcome without
problems undergoing duress. They often
D. by his nature is in constant say anyone who wants to help
search of knowledge someone deal with his/her stress
should learn to handle his/hers
5. The writer’s mood in the first. The manifestations of stress
passage is that of are legion. It can contribute or

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mimic just about any symptom To master stress-change, you
you can think of. However, the have to figure out what you are
main symptoms are physical, doing that is contributing to your
mental, emotional and problem and change it. These
behavioural. changes fall into behaviour,
thinking, lifestyle choices and / or
The causes of stress are multiple situations you are in. By getting
and varied but they can be to the root cause of your stress,
classified into external and you can prevent recurrences.
internal. External stressors can
include relatively getting sick or As a way of draining off stress
dying, jobs being lost or people energy, nothing beats aerobic
criticising or one becoming angry. exercise. To understand why, we
However, most of the stress need to review what stress is.
people experience is self- People often think of stress as
generated. pressure at work, a demanding
boss, a sick child or rush-hour
Experts tell us that we create the traffic.
majority of our upset indicating
that because we cause most of These may be triggers but stress
our own stress, we can do is actually the body reaction to
something about it. This gives us factors such as these. Stress is
a measure of choice and control the fight-or-flight response in the
that we do not always have when body, mediated be adrenaline and
outside forces acts on us. This other stress hormones, and
also leads to a basic premise comprised such physiologic
about stress reduction. changes as increased in heart rate
and blood pressure, faster
breathing, muscle tension, dilated

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pupils, dry mouth and increased Adopted from VANGUARD,
blood sugar. In order word, stress 19TH March, 2008
is the state of increased arousal
necessary for an organism to 6. The expression, … stress is an
defend itself at a time of danger. issue everybody can relate to
experimentally, means that
Exercise is the most logical way to
dissipate the excess energy. It is A. it is better understood when
what our bodies are trying to do experienced
when we pace around or tap our B. its problem can be solved by
legs and fingers. It is much better everybody
to channel it into a more complete C. everybody avoids it
form of exercise like a brisk walk, D. everybody encounters it.
a run, a bike ride, or a game of
squash. 7. Which of the following is true
according to the passage?
Just as we are all capable of
mounting up and sustaining a A. Stress is mostly caused by
stress reaction, we have also internal factors
inherited the ability to put our B. Stress can only be avoided
bodies into a state of deep during relaxation
relaxation called the ‘relaxation C. Stress is better handled by the
response’. individual
D. The issues of stress can be
In this state, all the physiologic solved with no effort
events in the stress reaction are 8. According to the passage, the
reversed. Pulse slows, blood major step in controlling stress is
pressure falls, breathing slows
and muscle relax.

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A. changing one’s attitude to PASSAGE III
stressors
B. understanding the history of There are many indicators with
disease which to assess or measure
C. visiting family doctors for corruption. One of them is the
check-up and treatment affluent living habit of the public
D. constant exercise to dissipate official compared to his / her
every energy income.

9. The experts feel one can Corruption occurs when a public

control one’s stress because official expects to be induced to
perform an act which that public
A. its causes are understandable officials is ordinarily required to
B. it is not difficult to control do by law.
C. external factors contribute less
stress Corruption can slow down
D. it is individually initiated development. One of the most
widely discussed consequences of
10. From the passage, it can be corruption is the distortion of
deduced that stress is governmental expenditure. This
often results in public money
A. hormonal disorder in the body being wasted on white elephant
system projects, rather than people
B. individually induced problems oriented services, such as health
C. bodily reaction to internal and education.
factors
D. bodily reaction to external As a result, more opportunities
factors are presented for corrupt use or
diversion of funds. Raising the

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ethical standard of governance people is reduced. Bribery, for
can lead to many benefits example, is universally regarded
especially for the economic, as a crime, but it also reflects
political and social development of socio-economic problems that
a country. require broad-based preventive
measures, and the involvement of
Fighting corruption and promoting the society at large.
governance is therefore crucial to
developing an environment that Another implication of global
facilitates the social, political and measures against corruption in
economic development of the making government work better
people. by improving the economy.

However, while there are often Finally, redesigning political and

general statement made about regulatory structures will reduce
the effect of corruption on poverty corruption and other anti-system
and development. There is not an players that encourage corrupt
explicit recognition that corruption practice.
is more than just wealth
misappropriation or abuse of 11. According to the writer,
power. corruption is triggered off by

Corruption impoverishes countries A. unnecessary affluence

and deprives their citizens of good B. selfish interest
governance. It destabilizes C. private officials
economic systems. When crime D. public officers
and other illegal activities flourish, 12. From the passage, one of the
basic public functions are eroded consequences of corruption is that
and the quality of life of the

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A. large projects are executed A. send the corrupt to yell
B. it is beneficial to wealth people B. promote good governance
whole stole public wealth C. punish corrupt politicians
C. it impedes the progress of a D. make people richer
nation
D. people get what they want with PASSAGE IV
so much money to spend
The passage below has gaps
13. Who, according to the writer numbered 16 to 25.
should prevent corruption? Immediately following each
gap, four options are
A. Lawyers and Police provided. Choose the most
B. Corrupt public officers appropriate option for each
C. The government gap.
D. The people
Each question carries 2 marks
14. Which of the following is an
indication of ethical standard of Drought is a word that invokes
governance? strong emotions. This is not
surprising as the … 16 … [A.
A. Fundamental human right ideology B. phenomenon C. idea
B. Socio-economic instability D. component] is usually
C. Democratic governance accompanied by a number of
D. Bloated expenditure unpleasant developments. These
developments have … 17 … [A.
15. The essence of fighting feedback B. Results C.
corruption, according to the Implications D. outcomes] for all
passage, is to citizens, starting from the peasant
farmers to the state and federal

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governments which may be One has to do with emergency
plunged into emergency and measures and the other with
crises situations which, if not …22… [A. routine B. organized C.
successfully …18… [A. managed urgent D. delayed] measures. An
B. examined D. studied] could immediate consequence of any
result in social unrest. drought would be famine.

The timeliness of the onset of the In addition, where whole

rains in various regions of the populations are forced to abandon
country and their adequate their lands or pastures in search
distribution thereafter have of food, there are bound to be
become …19… [A. objects B. other lasting and …23… [A.
subjects C. issues D. topics] of longitudinal B. objective C.
considerable anxiety to all people. simultaneous D. parallel]
consequences such as distress,
The fact, however, is that periodic sales of cattle by livestock owners
reduction in normal …20… [A. in order to buy food.
amount B. supply C. size D. flood]
of rainfall in the country is not Government should provide
new. farmers with agricultural inputs
Since large areas of the country and ensure that they have easy
are drought prone, the access to these inputs under the
consequences are …21… [A. relief …24… [A. action B. process
effective B. disastrous C. evident C. scheme D. plan].
D. inevitable]. Dry spells could be
very severe. There are two Emergency measures will be
aspects of coping with drought. much more …25… [A. normal B.
correct C. idealistic D. effective] if
a mechanism is established to

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ensure adequate preparedness D. He takes a rather hazy view of
and defence against the his members
occurrence of drought.
27. People are not interested in
Adapted from Oluikpe, B.O.A. et who rules.
al (2005) Intensive English for
Senior Secondary School, A. People are not ruled by the
Onitsha: Lexis, Structure and Oral leaders they want
Forms B. People are not concerned about
who rules them
In each of questions 26 to 35, C. The rulers are not concerned
select the option that best about the people
explains the information D. People who rule are not
conveyed in the sentence. interested in the ruled

Each question carries 2 marks. 28. It was good to steer a middle

course in whatever one does.
26. Though Mr. Iro is a new
chairman, he views other A. It is always good to get
members with jaundiced eye. midway in anything one does
B. It is always good to act with
A. He takes a rather forceful moderation
position on dealing with his C. It is always good to move away
members from the forefront
B. He takes an unfavourable D. It is always good to work very
position concerning his members hard.
C. He takes a sickly view of his
members 29. The witness said he had no
axe to grind with his brothers

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A. He had no hatred for the B. he managed to give a speech
brothers out of a difficult situation
B. He had no axe and therefore C. he managed to get himself out
stole the matchet of a difficult situation
C. He had no axe and therefore D. he managed to talk on his way.
borrowed their matchet
D. He had no vested interest in 32. As regards the matter, we
the brothers have crossed the rubicon

30. The footballers moved with A. we are completely at a loss

their tails between their legs. B. we are irrevocably committed
C. we are already qualified
A. they moved happily because D. we are perfectly committed
they won the match
B. they were unhappy because 33. Uche is full of himself
they had been despised by their
opponents A. He is conceited
C. they were ashamed because B. He is complete
they had been defeated C. He is a rich man
D. they moved with their tails D. He is careful.
between their legs.
34. As debutants in that
31. The headmaster managed to tournament, the Super Eagles
talk his way out of having to give were up against their first
a speech opponents by three goals to nill

A. he delivered a speech despite A. The Super Eagles were playing

the difficulty in the tournament for the first

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time, but they won their match by D. She was mourning because her
three goals to nothing husband drank and died
B. Though the Super Eagles were
rated as the weakest side in the In each of question 36 to 50,
tournament, they won their first choose the option opposite in
match by three goals to nill meaning to the word or
C. Even though the Super Eagles phrase in italics.
were playing without some of
their regulars, they won their 36. I am optimistic about the
match by three goals to nill. interview though it was a mind-
D. As the best attackers in the bending exercise
match, the Super Eagles easily
defeated their opponents by three A. An enervating
goals to nothing. B. A debilitating
C. A difficult
35. The woman was mournful as D. An easy
her husband was found dead
drunk 37. The trader was amused by the
cut-throat rush for the goods
A. She was sad because of her
husband was absolutely drunk A. Worrisome
B. She was apprehensive that her B. Strange
husband would drink again as C. Lacklustre
soon he recovered from the D. Mad
drunken stupor 38. The teacher said that Ali’s
C. She was sad because her essay was full of many redundant
husband was drunk and always as details
helpless as a dead man
A. Unexplained

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B. Strange 42. Beneath Ado’s guff exterior,
C. Necessary he’s really very kind-hearted
D. Useful
A. Nice
39. His father surmounted the B. Harsh
myriad of obstacles on his way C. Rough
D. Gentle
A. Most
B. Few 43. The captain says sports is
C. All being debased by commercial
D. Many sponsorship

40. Her ingenuous smile drew our A. Localized

attention B. Perverted
C. Elevated
A. Witty D. Overvalued
B. Naïve
C. Clever 44. Governing a country is not
D. Arrogant always as straightforward as
people sometimes imagine
41. Ndeni gave a flawless speech
at the party A. Complicated
B. Troublesome
A. A wonderful C. Untoward
B. A careless D. Irksome
C. An interesting 45. The crowd was very receptive
D. An imperfect to the speaker’s suggestion

A. Disobedient

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B. Repellent 49. The weather was still very
C. Alert heavy and sultry
D. Hostile
A. Wintry and shadowy
46. There was a general B. Cold and friendly
acquiescence on the new drug law C. Cloudy and thundery
D. Hot and uncomfortable
A. Resistance
B. Discrepancy 50. Ada gave her husband a look
C. Compromise that made words superfluous
D. Agreement
A. Redundant
47. Aisha seems to feel B. Spurious
ambivalent about her future C. Unnecessary
D. Scanty
A. Decisive
B. Anxious In each of questions 51 to 65,
C. Ambitious choose the option nearest in
D. Inconsiderate meaning to the word or
phrase in italics
48. The report of the committee
contained a plethora of details 51. A political Impasse does not
offer the best opportunity for
A. Shortage merrymaking
B. Simplicity
C. Multitude A. manifesto
D. Spectrum B. party
C. gridlock
D. rally

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52. We were all enthusiastic as A. expensive
we awaited the result of the B. foreign
election C. insipid
D. cheap
A. bemused
B. agitated 56. Kaltume crouched over the
C. elated paper on her desk
D. nervous
A. wrote on
53. The uniform makes the B. stood on
guards look absurd C. walked over
D. bent over
A. dirty
B. smart 57. The panacea for a country’s
C. sensible economic mess lies in systematic
D. ridiculous planning and hardwork

54. The law is often tardy in A. cure

reacting to changing attitude B. hope
C. foresight
A. quick D. trouble
B. slow
C. exclusive 58. Thousands of workers have
D. generous been victims of retrenchment
since the military came back to
55. Isa and llu ate sumptuous power
meal on their brother’s wedding
day A. Unemployment
B. Trench mentality

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C. Suffering 62. The director’s remark was
D. Increase in penury extremely apposite to the issue
being discussed
59. The principal gave his speech
offhand at the sports meeting A. Appropriate
B. Inconsequential
A. calmly C. Emphatic
B. beautifully D. Adequate
C. unconcerned
D. unprepared 63. Her reputation is without a
blemish
60. Jankoli was dressed in an old
assortment of clothes A. Struggle
B. Problem
A. Avalanche C. Fault
B. Homogeneity D. Blessing
C. Sameness
D. Melange 64. Ugo is eligible for the post of
secretary
61. The girl’s father was
astounded to see her appear from A. Nominated
the shrine B. Invited
C. Qualified
A. collected D. Intelligent
B. Overwhelmed
C. embarrassed 65. This is an abridged version of
D. Astonished No Longer at Ease

A. An outdated

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B. An enlarged B. that was the girl I told you
C. An illustrated about her
D. A shortened C. that was the girl I told her
about
In each of question 66 to 85, D. that is the girl he told her
choose the option that best about
completes the gap(s)
69. Last Monday his father asked
66. Lemoti……… as a painter, but me ……..
also as a sculptor
A. if I had come some days before
A. is a gifted only not B. if I had come the day before
B. is only not gifted C. did you come yesterday
C. is gifted not only D. had I come yesterday
D. is only gifted
70. His wife was badly injured in
67. He can recall the important the fracas, but I think she will pull
dates in the nation’s history, it is …….
interesting to listen as he rattles
……… A. up
B. over
A. off C. through
B. over D. back
C. up
D. out 71. A wide range of options ……..
68. The boy told his mother …….. made available to students in the
final year last year
A. that was the girl he told her
about A. is

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B. were 75. Paper is made……. Wood pulp
C. are
D. was A. on
B. of
72. One of the women who …….. C. from
in the premises ……. been ordered D. with
to quit
76. Long after everyone…….. the
A. sells/have hall, obi still sat inside.
B. sell/has
C. sell/have A. left
D. sells/has B. is leaving
C. has left
73. The new trade agreement D. had left
should facilitate………
77. They are the…….. dresses
A. more economic rapid growth
B. economic more rapid growth A. babys’
C. rapid economic more growth B. baby
D. more rapid economic growth C. babies
D. babies’
74.The principal said that he was
pleased……… my effort. 78. The politician was sent…….
Exile
A. on A. onto
B. of B. into
C. with C. on
D. about D. to

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79. When we looked up, we…….. C. prescribed
the plane some miles away D. proscribed

A. site 83. The man was happy that his

B. cited son confessed his guilt and so the
C. sited others were……
D. sighted
A. Implicated
80. Vital….. is still spread….. word B. accused
of mouth in most villages in Africa C. punished
D. exonerated
A. information/from
B. information/with 84. Based on the facts before me,
C. information/by I have no alternative…… to hold
D. information/through you responsible

81. Western education is one of A. only

the….. of colonial rule. B. as
C. than
A. legacies D. but
B. evidence
C. remnants 85. Many people would always
D. inheritance find reasons to……the law

82. The federal government A. arrogate

has…… child trafficking B. debase
C. circumvent
A. postulated D. circumspect
B. projected

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In each of questions 86 to 88, the same consonant sound as
choose the option that has the the one represented by
same Vowel sound as the one letter(s) underlined
represented by the letters
underlined. 89. Sheath

86. Coup A. bathe

B. length
A. whup C. months
B. hoot D. paths
C. couple
D. scout 90. High

87. Indict A. what

B. honest
A. bright C. who
B. fish D. vehicle
C. pick
D. brick 91. Of course

88. Roared A. plough

B. dough
A. towered C. over
B. coast D. orphan
C. brought In each of question 92 to 94,
D. rod choose the option that rhymes
with the given word.
In each of the questions 89 to
91, choose the option that has 92. Boys

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A. stays C. POlitical
B. moist D. political
C. noise
D. elbows 96. Satisfactory

93. Shine A. saTISfactory

B. satisFACtory
A. clean C. SATisfactory
B. fine D. satisfactory
C. machine
D. lain 97. captivity

94. Seer A. captiVIty

B. CAPtivity
A. snare C. capTIvity
B. spare D. CAPtiviTY
C. spear
D. square In each of question 98 to 100,
the word in capital letters has
In each of question 95 to 97, the emphatic. Choose the
choose the most appropriate option to which the given
stress pattern from the sentence relates
options. The stressed syllables 98. EMEKA finished his home
are written in capital letter(s) work yesterday

95. Political A. Was Emeka helped to do his

homework?
A. poliTIcal B. Did Emeka do his homework?
B. PoLItical

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C. When did Emeka finish his 36. D 37. C 38. C 39. B 40. D
homework? 41. D 42. A 43. C 44. A 45. D
D. Who finished his home work 46. A 47. A 48. A 49. B 50. D
yesterday?
51. C 52. B 53. D 54. B 55. A
99. Taiwo SAILED to London 56. D 57. A 58. A 59. A 60. D
61. D 62. A 63. C 64. C 65. D
A. Did Taiwo fly to London? 66. C 67. A 68. A 69. B 70. C
B. Did Taiwo sail to Brazil? 71. D 72. D 73. D 74. C 75. C
C. Did Taiwo sail to London?
D. Where did Taiwo sail to? 76. C 77. D 78. C 79. D 80. C
81. A 82. D 83. D 84. C 85. C
100. My bag is made of LEATHER 86. B 87. A 88. A 89. B 90. C
91. C 92. C 93. B 94. B 95. B
A. Whose bag is made of leather 96. B 97. C 98. D 99. A 100. B
B. Is my bag made of polythene?
C. Is Abu’s bag made of leather?
D. Is my bag made of leather?

ANSWERS

1. A 2. D 3. C 4. D 5. A 6. A 7. B
8. A 9. D 10. B 11. A 12. C 13. C
14. C 15. B 16. B 17. C 18. A
19. B 20. B 21. D 22. A 23. D
24. C 25. D

26. B 27. B 28. B 29. A 30. C

31. C 32. B 33. A 34. A 35. C

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 2011 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PAPER TYPE: D experiment. The bio cell is being

develop as producers of electricity
COMPREHENSION: Read each for radio, for signal to guide ship,
passage carefully and answer for lighting and other uses.
the questions that follow it
Though the working bio cell is
PASSAGE I only a few years old, some
scientist feels that it will one day
In 1962, a team of scientists produce power cheaply as is now
produce a special radio station being done by other method, and
that had a range of fifteen miles. that the bio cell will use materials
Even though communication was that would otherwise be consider
being accomplished in space at a a waste.
range of more than a million
times this distance, the new radio Early bio cells were powered with
station caused much excitement sugar, but a wide range of fuel
among scientist. can be used. Work is being done
using sea water to feed the
The reason: its power supply was bacteria.
a ‘battery’ made of bacteria. For Electricity from living cells is no
the first time, practical amounts new idea. Man experience the
of electricity were being produced strange shock produce by some
by a form of life and put to use. fish even before electricity was
Bio cell, the new power supply really discovered.
had a liquid fuel containing tiny
forms of life that changed the fuel Then in time, there were other
directly into electric energy; this discoveries. Benjamin Franklin
was far more than an interesting found that lightening in the sky

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was electricity. Luigi Galvani (b) Type B
found some electricity in the (c) Type C
muscles and nerves of animals, (d) Type D
but the African catfish produce far
more electricity than most other 2. The writer’s posture, as
living creatures. conveyed in the statement
Electricity from living cells is no
And other fish, the electric eel, new idea, can be describe as
well named, for it has an even
greater electric charge. Research (a) Ineffectual
works also discovered that even (b) Contentious
humans produce small amount of (c) Logical
electricity in their bodies. (d) unguarded

Our heart produces a very small 3. Which of the following is true

amount that can be measured, so according to the passage?
do our brain. The bio cell is
completely new in the field of (a) Scientist felt that bio-cell
power production and as yet, no would produce very costly energy
mass-production models have (b) Bio cell, at the beginning,
begun to replace the older type of derived their energy from sugar
batteries. (C) Sugar and fuel were initially
Its might be wondered, then, used as source of energy for bio
what the excitement is all about. cells
(d) Bio cells were forms of power
1. Which question paper type of used by the scientists
use of English is giving to you?

(a) Type A

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4. The inventor of biocell justified for us and will drag us down to
the need for it by saying that ruin.
would
But some people may say that
(a) develop ways for changing bio they cannot help having bad
cell into fuel for use thought even though they sting
(b) yield a source of energy like vipers. That may be so, but
without much spending the question is, do they hate
(c) produce electricity for all type them or not?
of machines
(d) produce signal to guide all We cannot keep thieves from
ship and other vessels looking in at our window, but if
we open our doors to them and
5. According to the passage, receive them joyfully, we are as
electricity was first discover in bad as they.

(a) heart and brains We cannot help the birds flying

(b) muscles of animals over our head; but we may keep
(c) lightning them from building their nets in
(d) fish. our hair. Vain thought will knock
at the door but we must not open
PASSAGE II to them. Though bad and evil
thought rise in our hearts, they
Like a clock with the pendulum in must not be allowed to reign.
full swing, the mind moves as fast
as time. But we ought to mind our He who turns a morsel over and
thoughts for if they turn to be our over in his mouth dose so
enemies, they will be too many because he likes the flavour, and
he who meditate upon evil, love

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it, and is ripe to commit it. Think watching every day, the thought
of the devil, and he will appear, and imagination of our heart.
turn your thought toward evil and
your hands will soon follow. Good thoughts are blessed guest
and should be welcome, and
Snails leaves their slime behind much sought after, but bad
them, and so do vain thought. An thought must fly out as swiftly as
arrow may fly through the air, they moved in.
and leaves no trace, but an evil
thought always leaves a trail like 6. Which of the following
a serpent. represents the writer’s view in the
passage?
Where there is much traffic of bad
thinking, there will be much mire (a) evil thought may come but
and dirt. Every wave of wicked there is virtue in keeping them
thought adds something to the out
corruption which rots upon the (b) evil thought will continue to
shore of life. It is dreadful to think sting us likes vipers as long as
that a vile imagination, once there are enemies who cause
indulge, gets the key of our offence
minds, and can get in again very (c) like the pendulum, evil
easily, whether or not we let it in, thought will always come to our
and what may follow, no one mind no matter what we do
knows. (d) like most birds, evil thoughts
fly swiftly in our minds without
Nurse evil on the laps of thought, perching
and it will grow into a giant.
Therefore; there is wisdom in 7. Which of the following
statement represent the view

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expressed by the writer in the (a) likes the devil evil thoughts
first paragraph? must not reign in our hearts
(b) evil thoughts are fantasies
(a) evil thought will eventually which exist only in people’s mind
ruin the evil man (c) uncontrolled evil thoughts may
(b) if we do not stop the lead to evil deeds
pendulum of thought from (d) the devil gives evil thoughts
swinging, our thoughts will soon only to those who invite him in
become our enemies
(c) To many evil thoughts leave 10. which of the following
fatal consequences statement summarizes the
(d) it is possible to decide what argument of the fourth paragraph
control our thoughts
(a) heavy traffic on a miry and
8. From the argument in the dirty road may lead to evil
second paragraph, it can be thoughts
concluded that evil thought (b) the more evil we think, the
control the lives of people who more vile we are likely to become
(c) evil people should not be
(a) Are helpless because they fly welcome as guest in our homes
out of their minds the same way we welcome good
(b) cherries idle and slothful ways people
(c) are thieves with evil instincts (d) evil thoughts control the key
(d) treasures and ruminate on to human heart and no one can
them keep them out

9. The expression ‘Think of the

devil and he will appear…..., as
used in the passage suggests that

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PASSAGE III rooms. Some rooms lead to
wealth, others to the opposite.
Though assumption is the lowest Ultimately, we decide where we
level of knowledge; it is still a end up; and life, thus far, has
form of knowledge, and proved that not everyone of us
knowledge is key. Assumptions decides well, we all behave
are the foundation upon which differently where we have
interpretation and conclusion are different levels of understanding,
built. and behave the way where our
understanding is the same.
Everything in life operate under
certain assumptions. We make We eat because we all understand
management decisions based on the consequences of not eating.
the assumptions we hold about We all wear clothes because each
how management ought to of us comprehends lunacy. The
function and how people ought to list goes on and on. It is
be governed. inevitable that some of us will
make choices that get and keep
For some of us, we consciously us on the lower rung of the ladder
imbibe assumptions and principles by reason of exposure, training or
about life and consciously decide some others variables.
based on them; for others, it is
unconsciously but potent all the Life is about role playing. We
same. Our assumptions will either choose our roles wisely or
drown us or help us soar through foolishly, consciously or
life. unconsciously. Some of us get
wiser to new levels of self-
We have always seen life as an awareness enough to redefine our
immense mansion with many

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roles, others make no effort to Take the almost scared office of a
build further capacity and teacher for instance; there are
therefore remain where they are. people who have the natural gifts
It is based on those realities that and inclinations to be school
we draw the conclusion that not teacher. But teaching profession,
everyone will be wealthy in life. as it is, does not appear to be
We lead, inspire and motivate lucrative. So we have people who
people to strive and succeed. could have been more fulfilled and
effective working as school
It is also important that we paint teacher serving in banks.
the full and true picture of life so
that we can discourage vain 11. According to the writer,
pursuits. Balance must be people lead and motivate others
enthroned as a critical component because they want to
of truth, and people know, for
instance, that ‘the top’ is not a (a) project individual contribution
place that all must ascend. (b)encourage selfless service
(c) make the world a home
Our greatest consolation lies in (d) prevent empty search
our deep conviction that true
prosperity is in fulfilment through 12. According to the passage,
hard work than in intangible balance must be enthroned
acquisition. There are set roles because it is
that some of us have been wired
up to play in life but which we are (a) a critical interdependent
not content enough to play function
because society esteems such (b) an amazing help for
roles to be inferior. conscience
(c) a critical part of fidelity

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(d) a serious way of ensuring 15. From the passage, it can be
success. inferred that

13. The word inclinations, as in (a) People insincerely discuss

the passage means facts that govern their behaviour
(b) all managerial decisions are
(a) creeds based on assumptions.
(b) tendencies (c) people make conscious effort
(c) inhibitions to acquire hidden knowledge
(d) power. (d) all things in life exist on some
belies.
14. Which of the following
statements is true according to PASSAGE IV
the passage?
The passage below has gaps
(a) greatness in life emerges numbered 16 to 25.
when square pegs are put in Immediately following each
round holes gap, four options are
(b) people do certain things in life provided. Choose the most
because they know the appropriate option for each
repercussion gap.
(c) people agree on all issues and
behave the same way for the Believe it or not, change is to
same reason human existence what the blood
(d) understanding life at different is to the human body. We live in
levels gives no account of visible an era of amazing ……16…. [A.
acquisition. well-define, B. fast-paced, C.
favourable, D. social] change

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spawned by advancing technology confirm that human action are
and industrialization. changing the earth’s climate and
However, man’s…...17…. [A. creating major disturbance in
Knowledge of, B. attitude to, C. human….22….[A. geography B
commitment to, D. opinion of] society C systems D life] and
promoting and defending change ecosystems. The IPCC reports
in a deliberate effort to establish that world has warmed by an
….18… [A customs, B companies, average of 0.760c since pre-
C trade-zone, D variations] that Industrial times.
stimulate advancement for man’s
concern is proving unfavourable The rising global …23…. [A
to the climate with threatening command B demand C warning D
….19…. [A repercussions B clouds supply] for energy and the
C pressure D implication] adverse changes on each were
commensurate with the level of
Human-induced climate change greenhouse ….24…. [ A structure
has awakened widespread B paints C emulsion D emissions]
concern across the globe. As a it spews out, perhaps Africa would
matter of fact, climate change is have been spared and would
now….20….. [A. an acceptable B a probably be just an amused
foremost C the only D the last] spectator. But as it, this is not the
globe issue. It is a major test of case.
Africa’s….21… [A popularity B
energy C ingenuity D Here again, we see well-meaning
incapability]! global citizen appealing for the
rest of the world to take
The forth Assessment Report responsibility for the problem of
(AR4) of the intergovernmental Africa, a strategy that cannot,
panel of climate change (IPCC) thus far, be termed ……25…. [A

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notable B liable C credible D (a) The date of the meeting was
flexible]. shifted as a result of unexpected
reasons.
LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL (b) The meeting’s date was put
FORMS off for strange reasons.
(c) The meeting was called off as
In each of questions 26 to 35, a result of obstacles hitherto
select the option that best unknown.
explains the information conveyed (d) The meeting broke off as a
in the sentence. result of unusual difficulties.

26. If he were here, it could be 28. The hunter has a bird’s-eye

more fun view of the animals.

(a) He was expected but did not (a) He views the animal from a
show up to make the occasion high position.
lively. (b) He views the bird’s eye.
(b) There was no fun because he (c) He views the birds on the tree
was not present. with one eye.
(c) He did not show up and so the (d) He watches animals and birds
occasion lacked much fun. closely.
(d) He was being expected to
supply more fun. 29. Even though Susan was the
last in the examination, her result
27. The secretary said that the wasn’t too different from what
postponement of the meeting was had been expected.
due to unforeseen circumstances.
(a) Her result was poor.

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(b) Her result was a 32. The plan to upgrade the
disappointment. dispensary to a general hospital
(c) Her result was as expected. did not materialize.
(d) She had not been serious with
her studies. (a) The plan did not meet the
required specifications.
30. Mrs. Adasu does all her work (b) The arrangement did not work
with more haste, less speed. out as wished.
(c) It was difficult to obtained the
(a) She accepts whatever she materials.
does with more haste and speed. (d) The materials purchased ware
(b) She approaches whatever she not the right ones.
does hurriedly.
(c) She addresses everything she 33. Okon’s company took a hit
does very quickly to avoid last year.
mistakes.
(d) She does everything carefully (a) His company improved last
to avoid mistakes. year.
(b) His company made a huge
31. She stopped her education as success last year.
her uncle left her in the lurch. (c) His company was badly
damaged last year.
(a) Her uncle deceived her. (d) His company was established
(b) Her uncle disinherited her. last year.
(c) Her uncle refused to help her
(d) Her uncle disrespected her 34. My eldest son, who is in Lagos
is studying English.

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(a) Only my son is in Lagos (a) renaissance
studying English. (b) coming
(b) My only son is in Lagos (c) commencement
studying English. (d) publication
(c) One of my son is in Lagos
studying English 37. Mrs. Asio wanted her sister to
(d) My sons are in Lagos but only stop being so detached
one is studying English.
(a) friendly
35. If I went to the village, I (b) careless
would visit the king. (c) indifferent
(d) passionate
(a) If I go to the village I will visit
the king. 38. Lantana dwelt in a ruined
(b) I did not go to the village and cottage on the hillside.
I did not visit the king
(c) All the times I went to village I (a) sat
also visited the King (b) worked
(d) I will visit the king when I go (c) slept
to the village (d) lived

In each of questions 36 to 50, 39. The mistake brought the show

choose the option nearest in to an ignominious end
meaning to the word or
phrases in italics. (a) a good
(b) a palatable
36. Since its inception in 1983, (c) a disgraceful
the newspaper has attracted (d) a satisfactory
thousands of readers.

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40. He compliments me on my (a) a bad
way of doing things. (b) a shrewd
(c) an unprofitable
(a) complements (d) an insincere
(b) imitates
(c) disgusts 44. The principal described Oche
(d) praises as the most tactful person he had
ever worked with.
41. The girl is angry with her
friend who had ensnared her into (a) passionate
this relationship. (b) discrete
(c) hard-working
(a) tricked (d) innovate
(b) encouraged
(c) encouraged 45. The old woman is suffering
(d) forced from dementia.

42. Their new house was roofed (a) lucidity

with corrugated sheets. (b) senility
(c) insanity
(a) folded (d) sagacity
(b) iron
(c) aluminium 46. Some drugs have deleterious
(d) corrupted effect on a child’s development.

43. The stockbroker said it was an (a) debilitating

astute move to sell the shares (b) helpful
then. (c) harmful
(d) healing

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47. Fila has always described as (b) solved
belligerent. (c) aggravated
(d) infuriated
(a) beautiful
(b) attractive In each of question 51 to 65,
(c) combative choose the word that is
(d) innocent opposite in meaning to the
word or phrase in italics
48. Laraba saw a forlorn little
figure sitting outside the class. 51. The warring communities
were coerced into negotiation a
(a) wise and intelligent settlement
(b) lonely and unhappy
(c) smart and healthy (a) driven
(d) short and ugly (b) compelled
(c) persuaded
49. The circular supersedes all (d) pressured
previous correspondence on the
matter. 52. His father served as a
mercenary in the army
(a) supports
(b) displaces (a) preacher
(c) eliminates (b) regular
(d) circumvent (c) recruit
(d) officer
50. Her problem was exacerbated
by the loss of her father. 53. Jummai is cruel to her
husband
(a) exaggerated

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(a) harsh 57. What you are asking me to do
(b) brutal is a herculean task
(c) passionate
(d) ferocious (a) a strenuous
(b) a demanding
54. The teacher who beat the (c) a lovely
student was treated with mercy (d) an easy

(a) disrespect 58. Nkechi was a novice when she

(b) contempt was first employed
(c) vengeance
(d) kindness (a) manager
(b) clerk
55. His wife hated his garrulous (c) supervisor
attitude. (d) professional

(a) outspoken 59. ‘I do not trust him ‘he said, in

(b) unfriendly a rare moment of candour
(c) reticent
(d) thoughtful (a) reproach
(b) dishonesty
56. Agoshito is a callow youth; (c) frankness
said the teacher (d) fairness

(a) An ignorant 60. Mrs Akunilo looks anaemic

(b) An experience today
(c) An idle
(d) An organized (a) strange
(b) sick

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(c) weak 64. His antipathy affected the
(d) strong growth of his business

61. It is inconceivable that the (a) hatred

sun shone in the night (b) receptiveness
(c) loyalty
(a) credible (d) hostility
(b) unthinkable
(c) impossible 65. Okonkwo’s lethal right foot
(d) contestable did the magic in the football
match
62. She only gives a superficial
impression of warmth and (a) Weak
friendliness (b) wicked
(c) fat
(a) a strong (d) harmless
(b) a fake
(c) a deep In each of question 66 to 85,
(d) an unrealistic choose the option that best
complete the gap
63. As a prudent businessman,
Adayi does not leave anything to 66. When his car tyre ….. on the
chance way, he did not know what to do

(a) A frugal (a) has burst

(b) Shrewd (b) had burst
(c) careless (c) bursted
(d) unsuccessful (d) burst

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67. Lami’s father …. As a (a) ferreted
gardener when he was young, but (b) ferreted
now he is a driver (c) ferreted about
(d) ferreted about
(a) had been working
(b) use to work 71. Suara needn’t come with
(c) has worked us...?
(d) used to work
(a) does she
68. ……. He switches on the light, (b) will she
the shadow disappears (c) can she
(d) need she
(a)whenever
(b) except 72. Unoka…. the whole house to
(c) since find his missing wristwatch
(d) until
(a) scourged
69. it is important that you clear (b)scoured
the refuse in front of your house (c) scored
every …… (d) scouted

(a) fourtnight 73. Ife asked me….

(b) fortnight
(c) fourthnight (a) what time it was
(d) forthnight (b) what is it by my time
(c) what time is it
70. The policemen became (d) what time it is
suspicious as the hoodlums…… in
their office

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74. There are many ways to kill a (c) her pleading
rat, so we should be …. In our (d) plead
approach to the task ahead of us
78. Of the three girls, Uka is
(a) ecletic the….
(b) eclectic
(c) eclektic (a) so much notorious
(d) eclectik (b) notorious
(c) naught
75. Audu took these action (d) naughtiest
purely…. His own career
79. I wonder how he will … being
(a) on furtherance of absent from school for a long time
(b) in furtherance of
(c) to furtherance in (a) make in
(d) in furtherance with (b) make up
(c) make off
76. Here is Mr. Odumusu who (d) make out
teaches English … in our school
80. Please sit on the…
(a) pronuntiation
(b) pronounciation (a) carier
(c) pronunciation (b) career
(d) pronountiation (c) carrier
(d) carrear
77. Instead of… she lied
81. I want to … his chance to
(a) pleading acquaint you with the latest
(b) her to plead development

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(a) size 85. The school authority
(b) seize dismissed him for …. But I won’t
(c) sieze tell you about it yet
(d) cease
(a) certain reason
82. Getting a well-paid job (b) a reason
nowadays is on….. task (c) more reason
(d) a certain reason
(a) utmost
(b) upbeat In each of question 86 to 88,
(c) uphill choose the option that has the
(d) upfield same vowel sound as the one
represented by the letter(s)
83.The secretary has no right to underlined
… my affairs
86. bubble
(a) spy from
(b) meddle in (a) guy
(c) toy at (b) bull
(d) complain into (c) bumper
(d) gurgle
84. Bola studiously avoided… the
question 87. Weight

(a) parrying (a) whale

(b) answering (b) while
(c) projecting (c) wheat
(d) destroying (d) writhe

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88. Leach (a) cot
(b) keep
(a) gear (c) norm
(b) cedar (d) king
(c) cheer
(d) death In each question 92 to 94,
choose the option that rhymes
In each of question 89 to 91, with the given word
choose the option that has the
consonant sound as the one 92. Fuel
represented by the letter(s)
underlined (a) cruel
(b) fool
89. mention (c) rule
(d) field
(a) that
(b) machine 93 match
(c) church
(d) test (a) harsh
(b) batch
90. prestige (c) such
(d) watch
(a) bag
(b) badge 94. Sheer
(c) reggae
(d) leisure (a) Sheila
(b) care
91. knot (c) ear
(d) sherry

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In each of the question 95 to has the emphatic stress.
97, choose the appropriate Choose the option to which
stress pattern from the option. the given sentence relates
The syllables are written in
capital letters. 98. Uche LOVES Toyota cars

95. Termination (a) Who loves Toyota cars?

(b) What brand of car does Uche
(a) terminaTION love?
(b) TERmination (c) Does Uche hate Toyota cars?
(c) termiNAtion (d) Does Uche love bicycles?
(d) terMInation
99. The POLICE arrested the
96. meditative suspect

(a) meDItative (a) Did the police placate the

(b) mediTAtive suspect?
(c) Meditative (b) Who arrested the suspect?
(d) meditaTIVE (c) Who did the police arrest?
(d) Did the police arrest the
97. Sugestible suspect?

(a) suggeSTIble 100. Maiduguri is the CAPITAL of

(b) Suggestible Borno state
(c) suGGEstible
(d) suggestible (a) Is Maiduguri the capital of
plateau state?
In each of the question 98 to (b) Which state is Maiduguri the
100, the word in capital letters capital of?

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(c) Is Maiduguri a town in Borno 91. C 92. A 93. B 94. C 95. C
state? 96. C 97. C 98. C 99. B 100. C
(d) What is the capital of Borno
state? Facebook Study Group

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31. C 32. B 33. B 34. C 35. C
36. C 37. C 38. D 39. C 40. D
41. A 42. B 43. B 44. B 45. B
46. C 47. C 48. B 49. B 50. C

51. C 52. B 53. C 54. C 55. C

56. B 57. D 58. D 59. B 60. D
61. A 62. C 63. C 64. B 65. A
66. D 67. D 68. A 69. B 70. C
71. A 72. B 73. A 74. B 75. B

76. C 77. A 78. D 79. B 80. C

81. B 82. C 83. B 84. B 85. A
86. C 87. C 88. A 89. B 90. D

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 2012 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PAPER TYPE: YELLOW endowed with special powers to

make contact with the other
COMPREHENSION: Read each world. These individuals lay down
passage carefully and answer the ceremonies or rituals which must
questions that follow it be observed if due honour is to be
paid to the unseen beings.
PASSAGE I
The religious beliefs and practices
Religion in its various forms is of Nigerians can be classified
very strong in Nigeria. In order under three main headings:
words, Nigerian people are very Traditional religion, Islam and
religious. Most of them believe Christianity. In this passage, our
that there is an unseen focus in on Traditional Religion.
supernatural world, apart from
the natural world we see around Traditional or indigenous religion
us. continues to exert a strong
influence on many people’s mind
This other world is inhabited by partly because of its association
beings who are the source of our with their birth places and
knowledge of good and evil. They families. Each ethnic group has its
watch and judge us and if we own religious traditions, and these
offend them they may have to be are often linked to some sacred
appeased with prayers and spots in the ethnic homeland. Yet
sacrifices. the various traditional religions
have much in common: a remote
Certain individuals in the natural but benevolent high god; under
world-priest, prophets and him, a number of lesser gods who
diviners – are believed to be interact with mankind; and below

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them various spirits who inhabit important figure was Ala or Ani,
natural objects (trees, streams, the goddess of the earth.
rocks, etc.); below them again,
and closest to living men and In Hausa land, traditional religion
women, the spirits of the has largely gone underground
ancestors. owing to the influence of Islam,
but belief in the existence of ‘Bori‘
In Yoruba tradition, for example, spirits and their power to possess
there are more than 400 lesser people, especially women, is
deities presided over by the high strong in some areas. Each spirit
god, Olorun. Because he is is associated with certain type of
remote from mankind, shrines are behaviour, which is manifested by
not built to him and worship is not the possessed individual.
offered to him directly. The lesser
gods, on the other hand, are the Divination – the discovery of what
subject of special cults, each with is unknown or is yet to happen by
its own priest and devotees. supernatural or magical means –
is an important element of
Eshu, the messenger of the Gods; traditional religion. It is often one
Ifa, the god of divination; of the function of ‘medicine men’
Shango, the god of thunder, and or ‘herbalists’. In Igboland, there
so on. Traditional religion was also used to be several oracles
also strong in other parts of which people consulted in order to
Nigeria. seek solutions to their problems.

In igbo Traditional religion, there With the coming of Christianity,

were fewer gods. Although there their influence has however
was a remote high god, the most waned, but in areas like
Arochukwu and Okija, the

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influence of such oracles is still 3. According to the first
strongly felt. paragraph, Nigerians believe that
the
(Adapted from Grant, Nnamonu
and Jowitt (1997), Senior English (a) supernatural and natural
Project: For Senior Secondary world co-exist
School Students) (b) natural and supernatural
worlds are antagonistic
1. Which Question Paper Type of (c) supernatural world controls
Uses of English as indicated above the natural world
is given to you? (d) supernatural world exploits
the natural world.
(a) Type Green
(b) Type Purple 4. Traditional religion has waned
(c) Type Red in Nigeria owing to the
(d) Type Yellow
(a) influence of Islam over Bori
2. From the passage, one can say spirits
that all ethnic groups have (b) influence of Christianity over
local oracles
(a) different traditional religions (c) decline of the interest in
with some elements of similarities traditional religions
(b) completely different religious (d) influence of non-traditional
practices religions.
(c) the same traditional religion
(d) the same religious 5. Which factor is common to all
manifestations with common traditional religions as mentioned
deities. in the passage?

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(a) Prayer only. When contacted by DAILY
(b) Divination. INDEPENDENT, the general
(c) Sacrifice only. manager of popular bookstore in
(d) Rituals. Lagos Island declared that most
of the bookshops preferred to
PASSAGE II stock foreign books because of
higher demands for them, the
Recently, literally research reveals question that bothers most
that Nigerians hardly have time to Nigerian authors is, while their
read. In essence, the reading overseas counterparts are being
culture in Nigeria is now at a low rewarded with great international
ebb. It is disturbing, however, honours, why are Nigerians not
that the few Nigerians that read according them such recognition
concentrates on foreign books in their own country?
than indigenous productions. Most
Nigerian authors of novels, Recently, Nigerian novelist,
storybooks, fiction and non-fiction Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie won
series have decried, on different the 2007 Orange Prize Award, the
occasions, their woes. literary world’s top award for
fiction in English written by
They were bitter in the way most women. The award carries a prize
owners of bookshops and tag of $30,000. It was reported in
publishers treat them. It was Publishers Weekly, Half of a
gathered that most renowned Yellow Sun, the book that earned
bookshops in Nigeria hardly sell her the award, was profoundly
books written by indigenous gripping. According to the
authors. They preferred to stock reviewer, the book is a
foreign books. ‘transcendent novel of many
descriptive triumph, most notably

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its diction of the impact of war Most of the books are not
brutalities on peasant and properly edited and actually
intellectuals alike. It is a searing become substandard when
history in fictional form, intensely compared with the foreign
evocative and immensely products. The extent to which
absorbing’. book publishing standard has
fallen in Nigerian is alarming.
Chinua Achebe, ‘Father of Modern
African Literature’, also won the Often Nigerian publishers have
second ever Man Booker been blamed for this. It is
international ‘Prize of “£60,000 instructive that none of the books
with his first novel Things Fall mentioned had been published in
Apart, published in 1958.’ Nigerian. It was discovered that
most students in tertiary
When Professor Wole Soyinka institutions depends on dictations
won the Nobel Prize for Literature from their lecturers and/or
in 1986, the fame confirmed the handouts.
relevance of Nigerians in the
world of classical excellence. A science lecturer in one of the
Nigerian universities, who had
Ben Okri won the 1991 Booker been a victim of handout sales
Prize with his work, The Famished scandal, told DAILY
Road, and the world celebrated INDEPENDENT the reality of
Nigeria as the giant of Africa. It campus challenges in relation to
was also gathered that most of books. ‘I was to dictate notes
the publishers hurriedly produce slowly to students who hung on
books and in the process marred every word in the absence of
their good contents. textbooks in a library that had, to
all intent and purpose, stopped

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buying new books when the local (c) indigenous books are
currency devalued. But what sometimes not available
other alternative does one have? (d) the low quality of indigenous
books.
Adapted from DAILY
INDEPENDENT, Monday, 20 8. The expression ________ that
August, 2007 earned her the award is
profoundly gripping, as used in
6. It can be inferred from the the passage, means that the book
passage that
(a) is highly interesting and
(a) Nigerians have access to captures attention
foreign books only (b) is of high quality to the writer
(b) Nigerian undergraduates do (c) attracts many indigenous and
not read textbooks foreign readers
(c) Nigerians read foreign and (d) is widely acknowledged by
indigenous books alike many authors
(d) Nigerians read mostly foreign
books 9. The university science lecturer
gives his reason for issuing
7. The reason for lack of handouts as
indigenous books in most
renowned bookshops, according (a) lack of teaching aids among
to the passage, students
(b) low purchasing power
(a) Nigerians prefer reading (c) low quality of books
foreign books (d) lack of sufficient time
(b) foreign books attracts more
buyers

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10. A suitable title for this and wisdom rather than leave our
passage is learning to chance. Surely, we
can learn from mistakes but why
(a) Nigerian Literary Writers wait till when we make mistakes
(b) Nigerian Publishers and before we learn? We should give
International Awards more premium to learning by
(c) Poor reading Culture in Nigeria wisdom than by experience.
(d) Why Nigerian Lecturers Sell
Handouts. This will involve one making up
ones’ mind to be decisive in
PASSAGE III learning. We must decide to learn
consciously and not necessarily
It is said that experience is the from negative experiences. The
best teacher, but to learn first step is to realize that life is
consciously through wisdom may simply the outcomes and outplay
even be a better and more of decisions.
convenient way. To learn by
experience is to learn from Our life now is the sum total of
mistakes. our decisions and our future will
be determined by our decision of
It means you have burnt your today. If we decide to learn
fingers and now ‘your eyes are today, we are not likely to make
open’. This is a tough, costly and mistakes and when we do not
inconvenient way to learn. Rather make mistakes. Experience need
than leaving our learning to not to be our best teacher.
experience, why do we not learn To avoid making experience our
consciously through wisdom? We best teacher will take more than a
can learn by consciously going out decision. We must couple our
of our way to acquire knowledge decision with a complete and

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wholehearted devotion. We must It is much easier and cheaper to
be resolved, resolute and resilient learn consciously by wisdom than
in our bid to learn by wisdom and to learn by experience. When we
not necessarily by experience. learn by experience, the deed is
done and we are just picking up
This is crucial because situations the pieces – learning in regret
and circumstances will want us to how to avoid such predicament
make a detour and leave our next time. Consider the child who
learning and life to chance. We grasps a burning coal, he has
must therefore be disciplined to learned the hard way through the
remain with our resolve to make a painful experience, but his fingers
clean break with experience as will remain burnt. Thus, the
our best teacher. saying, that experience is the best
teacher, may not be justifiable
Discipline in this regard means after all.
learning something new every day
by wisdom rather than Adapted from Sunday Tribune,
experience. It means consciously July 2007
getting better by the day in you
chosen field. Discipline will 11. The attitude of the writer of
demand taking advantage of the passage can best be described
every learning opportunity that as
comes our way. It will mean we
must pay the price for learning by (a) objective
wisdom – invest in books, (b) critical
magazines, seminars and other (c) non-committal
means by which we may become (d) emotional
wiser.

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12. It can be deduced from the (a) make experience our best
passage that teacher in reality
(b) learn from experience in
(a) all experiences are best future
teachers (c) chose the learning opportunity
(b) learning through pains in that comes our way
better (d) decide against making
(c) experience is superior to experience our teacher
wisdom
(d) wise thoughts are more 15. The phrase a complete and
desirable than experience wholehearted devotion, as used in
the passage, means
13. Which of the following states
is true according to the passage? (a) acting without doubt
(b) learning with tension
(a) man must make mistake in (c) learning without pains
order to survive (d) teaching with ease
(b) The totality of our actions
should be decided by our PASSAGE IV
judgement
(c) If we do not make mistakes, The passage below has gaps
experience must be our teacher numbered 16 to 25. Immediately
(d) Our future would be judged by following each gap, four options
our past mistakes are provided. Choose the most
appropriate options for each gap.
14. According to the passage, we
be disciplined to Each question carries 3 marks

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The medical definition of [A. painfully B. frequently C.
miscarriage is the spontaneous gradually D. Commonly] than
loss of a pregnancy before usual stop unexpectedly.
twenty-four weeks. Miscarriage is
very common, occurring in ten to Sometimes there are no signs or
twenty per cent, of conformed symptoms of miscarriage and
pregnancies. Most of these pregnancy symptoms continue,
feature …16… [A. In the and the miscarriage is only …20…
penultimate B. In the first C. [A. prevented B. managed C.
around D. For] twelve week of discovered D. Stopped] in a
pregnancy. routine scan.

The most common …17… [A. type About half of all early
B. Cause C. Period D. Symptom] miscarriages happen because of a
is vaginal bleeding, which can problem in the way the genetic
range from light spotting to material from the egg and sperm
heavier than a period. You may have combined during …21… [A.
see blood clots, brown discharge pregnancy B. incubation C.
or other tissues that are not mating D. Fertilization]. It can be
…18… [A. clearly B. naturally C. difficult to find out why this has
directly D. Medically] identifiable. …22… [A. occurred B. enlarged C.
continued D. emerged], but it is
Sometimes a sac-like structure is more likely to be due to random
seen. Often, there is cramping chance than to any underlying
with pelvic or back pain. You may problem with either parent.
find that the usual symptoms of Imbalances in pregnancy
pregnancy, such as breast hormones, problems in the
tenderness, feeling sick and immune …23… [A. syndrome B.
having to pass urine more …19… process C. response D. system],

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and some serious infections are 26. Hardworking students must
also thought to make not have a finger in very pie at
miscarriages more likely. The risk school.
of miscarriage …24… [A. increases
B. starts C. reduces D. appears] (a) Hardworking students must
with age because the quality of not have a role to play in most
eggs deteriorates. activities in the school
(b) Only hardworking students
If a woman drinks too much must participate in all activities in
alcohol or smokes heavily, the the school
risk of miscarriage is higher. It is (c) Hardworking students do not
also increased with …25… [A. participate in all activities in the
complicated B. advance C. school
multiple D. confirmed] (d) Hardworking students must
pregnancies such as twins. ask others to participate in school
activities.
Adapted from Saturday Punch, 13
October, 2007 27. The vice chancellor is riding
the crest of the last quarter of his
LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL administration.
FORMS
(a) The vice chancellor enjoys the
In each of question 26 to 35, acknowledgement of the success
select the option that best of his administration
explains the information conveyed (b) The vice chancellor does not
in the sentence. enjoy the people’s criticism of his
administration
Each question carries 2 marks

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(c) The vice chancellor hopes to 30. The company ought to have
overcome soon, the poor issued warrants for one billion
comments on his administration shares.
(d) The vice chancellor does not
talk of his successes on office (a) The company has issued one
billion shares
28. She was absolved by the (b)The management expected the
course from the charge. company to issue more than one
billion shares
(a) She was convicted for the (c) Members of the company
charge bought less than one billion
(b) She was blamed and charged shares
to court (d) The company did not issue
(c) Her case was resolved by the one billion shares
court
(d) She was declared free from 31. He needed not to have played
the charge in the position of quarterback in
the volley ball.
29. The landlord is fond of
throwing his weight about (a) He participated in the game in
his unusual position
(a) The landlord likes healthy (b) Nobody expected him to have
exercise participated in the game
(b) The landlord is overweight (c) He wanted to play in a
(c) The landlord gives orders to position other than the one he
people was offered.
(d) The landlord is respected by (d) Someone did not want him to
his tenants play in the position that he played

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32. I wouldn’t have responded to (b) The player did not score the
his rude talk, if I were you. shot
(c) The player scored the shot
(a) The advice was taken by the that made them win the gold cup
respondent, so he did not respond (d) Instead of a silver cup, they
to the talk received the golden one
(b) The adviser put himself in the
respondent’s position, so he did 35. As far as Abu is concerned,
not respond to the talk Mero should be given fifty naira at
(c) The respondent replied to the the most
speaker’s talk, although he ought
not have done so (a) All Abu is saying is that Mero
(d) What was advisable was that probably deserves more than fifty
the respondent gave it back to naira and not less
the speaker (a) All Abu is concerned with is
that Mero should be given nothing
33. He could not speak out more than fifty naira
because he had a feet of clay. (c) In Abu’s estimation, Mero
merits not more than fifty naira
(a) His feet was muddy (d) In Abu’s opinion, Mero
(b) He was weak and cowardly deserves fifty naira or probably
(c) He was clumsy and lazy more
(d) He was shy and timid
(Question 36 to 100 carry 1
34. The player wasted a golden mark each.)
opportunity during the penalty
shoot-out. In each of question 36 to 50,
choose the option opposite in
(a) The player first the bar

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meaning to the word or (a) excited
phrase in italics. (b) serious
(c) worried
36. As an idiot, the boy is weak in (d) helpless
class.
40. Dupe was promoted for her
(a) a deviant efficiency.
(b) a dunce
(c) an expert (a) ability
(d) a genius (b) incompetence
(c) inconsistency
37. We were shocked by the news (d) rudeness
that he had lost the money.
41. The management wants to
(a) astonished consider her reticent behaviour in
(b) disconcerted due course.
(c) unconcerned
(d) surprised (a) disapproving
(b) disciplinarian
38. The principal was advised to (c) contemplative
be flexible on critical issues. (d) loquacious

(a) livid 42. Election process often become

(b) cautious volatile.
(c) evasive
(d) rigid (a) calm
(b) strange
39. Bola always looks sober. (c) sudden
(d) latent

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43. Oche entered the principal’s adduced to explain the fall in the
office in a rather abrasive birth rate.
manner.
(a) affirmed
(a) gentle (b) diffused
(b) rude (c) mentioned
(c) lackadaisical (d) refuted
(d) indifferent
47. The presidential system is an
44. Otokpa is a member of the ad antidote to some political
hoc committee on stock ailments.
acquisition.
(a) an answer
(a) improvised (b) a reply
(b) formal (c) an injury
(c) temporary (d) an obstacle
(d) fact-finding
48. Ola thought that her father
45. His gift to the poor was was very callous.
always infinitesimal.
(a) parlous
(a) large (b) compassionate
(b) small (c) wicked
(c) supportive (d) cheerful
(d) shameful
49. He was very much respected,
46. The economist concluded that though he had no temporal
several factors have been power.

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(a) spiritual 52. Okibe was rusticated for his
(b) mundane derogated remark about the
(c) permanent principal
(d) ephemeral
(a) complimentary
50. The way the worship was (b) unsavoury
organized was rather hit-and- (c) unwarranted
miss. (d) lacklustre

(a) systematic 53. Justice is difficult to enforce

(b) hasty because people are unwilling to
(c) slow accept any loss of sovereignty.
(d) funny
(a) autonomy
In each of question 51 to 65, (b) position
choose the option nearest in (c) leadership
meaning to the word or (d) kingdom
phrase in italics
54. There are still virtuous women
51. Some men will continue to in our society today.
cause offences until they are
given a taste of their own (a) clever
medicine. (b) upright
(c) devilish
(a) placated (d) intelligent
(b) revenged on
(c) recompensed for 55. The type of response is typical
(d) cured of a lazy teacher.

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(a) symptomatic (d) beams
(b) characteristic
(c) universal 59. Every human being is
(d) incontestable vulnerable to communicable
diseases.
56. Akin is an inveterate gambler.
(a) liable
(a) a selfish and self-centred (b) lifted
(b) an extremely unlucky but (c) immuned
popular (d) closed
(c) an incurable but fearful
(d) a long time and incorrigible 60. Mariam looks rather furtive to
Shehu.
57. He was too petrified to give
the closing remarks at the (a) intoxicated
conference. (b) unfriendly
(c) sad
(a) frightened (d) sly
(b) delighted
(c) agitated 61. The student’s union leader
(d) happy delivered his speech extempore.

58. During a particular time of the (a) out-of-hand

day, the road shimmers in the (b) off the cuff
heat. (c) accurately
(d) courageously
(a) darkens
(b) lightens
(c) shines

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62. His story gave us an inkling of (b) debunked
what he passed through during (c) projected
the strike. (d) confirmed

(a) a possible idea In each of question 66 to 85,

(b) a taste choose the option that best
(c) a summary complete the gap(s)
(d) the right view
66. He was both a writer and a
63. These policies have been politician, but he was better __
expoused by the ruling party. [A. as if B. like C. as D. to be] a
singer
(a) condemned
(b) rejected 67. Vacancies in the company will
(c) supported be notified by __ [A. bulletin B.
(d) outlined publication C. publicity D.
advertisement].
64. We must not foreclose
reconciliation as the purpose of 68. The driver was short of petrol,
his trip. so he __ [A. glided B. coasted C.
wheeled D. taxied] down the hills
(a) exclude with the engine switched off.
(b) consider
(c) underestimate 69. He started his career as an __
(d) forgo [A. auxillary B. auxilliary C.
auxilary B. auxiliary] teacher.
65. Her finding exploded widely
held beliefs about learning. 70. His many years of success in
(a) challenged legal practice, __[A. indeed B. but

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C. in spite of it all D. however] C. earthen discarded black D.
didn’t come without challenges. black earthen discarded] pot.

71. One should be careful how 77. We stood up when the

__behaves in the public, shouldn’t principal came in__ [A. isn’t it B.
__ [A. one/one B. he/he C. didn’t we C. not so D. did us]?
she/one D. one/he]?
78. The professor of __ medicine
72. __[A. First and formost B. has__ [A. vetinary / unraveled B.
First and formust C. First and vertrinary/unravelled C.
farmost D. First and foremost], a veterinary/unraveled D.
good leader must have two veterinary/unravelled] the
characteristics. mystery of flu.

73. We visited his house__ [A. 79. Her mother brought her some
like B. for like C. about D. for __ [A. clothes B. yards C. cloth D.
about] three times. clothing].

74. She was__ [A. at B. on C. by 80. Many workers were__ [A. laid
D. with] the verge of tears down B. laid off C. laid out D. laid
up] as a result of the textile
75. Everyone makes mistakes closure.
occasionally; nobody is__ [A.
incorrigible B. Imperfect C. 81. The driver died in the __ [A.
Infallible D. indestructible]. fatal B. brutal C. serious D.
pathetic] road accident.
76. The woman would not part
with her__ [A. discarded earthen 82. __ your parents frown __ [A.
black B. discarded black earthen Because / over B. Since / at C.

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Although /at D. As / upon] our B. cook
friendship, we shouldn’t see each C. fool
other anymore. D. tool

83. For more productivity, the 87. village

company is focusing attention on
the possible___ [A. synergy B. A. page
tapping C. alignment D. B. pig
arrangement] of available C. made
recourses. D. came

84. __ [A. After B. Much as C. 88. patch

Since D. Though] she didn’t trust
him, she married him. A. starch
B. fare
85. I wanted to know his political C. mad
beliefs, so I asked him what __ D. brave
[A. this was B. these are C. this is
D. these were]. In each of question 89 to 91,
choose the option that has the
In each of question 86 to 88, same consonant sound as the
choose the option that has the one represented by the
same vowel sound as the one letter(s) underlined.
represented by the letter(s)
underlined. 89. tangerine

86. book (a) gear

(b) danger
A. cool (c) girl

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(d) ignore 93. impossible

90. hair (a) imPOSible

(b) IMposible
(a) heir (c) imposSIble
(b) hour (d) impossiBLE
(c) honest
(d) house 94. imperialism

91. edition (a) IMperialism

(b) imPErialism
(a) bash (c) impeRIAlism
(b) catch (d) imperialiSM
(c) bastion
(d) rating In each of questions 95 to 97,
choose the option that has the
In each of questions, 92 to 94, stress on the first syllable.
choose the appropriate stress
pattern from the options. The 95. (a). madam
syllables are written in capital (b) eighteen
letters. (c) invent
(d) command
92. demarcation
96. (a) nineteen
(a) demarCAtion (b) mother
(b) DEmarcation (c) estate
(c) deMARcation (d) announce
(d) demarcaTION
97. (a) commute

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(b) import (verb) (b) Did the cashier pay the
(c) intend workers’ salary in September
(d) export (noun) (c) Workers received their July
salary in September?
In each of questions 98 to (d) The September salary was
100, the word in capital letters paid in July?
has the emphatic stress.
Choose the option to which 100. The cat DEVOURED the rat.
the given sentence relates.
(a) Did the rat devoured the cat?
98. The traditional chief (b) What devoured the rat?
NARRATED the story to the (c) Did the cat pet the rat?
children. (d) Is this the rat the cat
devoured?
(a) The children heard the story
from the traditional chief ANSWER KEYS:
(b) Who narrated the story to the
children? 1. D 2. A 3. C 4. D 5. B 6. D 7. B
(c) The children could not listen to 8. A 9. B 10. C 11. B 12. D 13. B
the story by the traditional chief 14. C 15. A 16. B 17. D 18. A
(d) Did the chief hide the story 19. B 20. C 21. D 22. A 23. D
from the children? 24. A 25. C

99. The ACCOUNTANT paid the 26. C 27. A 28. D 29. C 30. D
workers’ July salary in 31. A 32. C 33. D 34. B 35. B
September. 36. D 37. C 38. D 39. A 40. B
41. D 42. A 43. A 44. B 45. A
(a) When were the workers paid 46. D 47. D 48. B 49. A 50. A

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51. B 52. B 53. A 54. B 55. B
56. D 57. A 58. C 59. A 60. D
61. A 62. A 63. D 64. A 65. B
66. C 67. D 68. A 69. D 70. A
71. D 72. D 73. C 74. A 75. C

76. B 77. B 78. D 79. A 80. B

81. A 82. B 83. B 84. D 85. D
86. B 87. B 88. C 89. B 90. D
91. A 92. A 93. A 94. B 95. A
96. B 97. D 98. D 99. B 100. C

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 2013 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

COMPREHENSION: Read each Fourthly, water, which is an-other

passage carefully and answer the important raw material, is
questions that follow it plentiful.

PASSAGE I Finally, Abuja is in a central

position for the whole region and
In 1951, the Government decided is a town where learners from
to start a Pottery Training Centre many different parts can find a
where new and more advanced congenial temporary home, and
technical methods, especially where the Emir and his Council
glazing, could be taught. The are actively interested in the
centre was intended to serve the project.
whole of the defunct Northern
Region, and there were several Nearly all the making is done by a
reasons for choosing Abuja. The process called ‘throwing’, so
first was the excellence of the called because the lumps of clay
traditional pottery made in the are thrown by the potter onto a
Emirate. wheel-head. They are weighed
out so that each pot will be
Secondly, fire-wood is plentiful; roughly the same size; for
this is a most important example, for making pint-sized
consideration, because in the jugs, the lumps of clay will be one
making of glazed pottery, more and a half kilogrammes. The
firewood than clay is required. potter sits on the saddle of the
wheel and spins it by pushing a
Thirdly, there are good clays, and pedal with his left foot. He has a
good local sources for the raw bowl of water, a loofah, a bamboo
materials needed for the glazes. knife, a pointed stick or porcupine

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quill, a wooden smoothing tool 2. Which of the following is true
which potters call a rib, and a according to the passage?
piece of wire-like object that is
used for wedging. He makes the A. Anyone, with almost no
wheel-head slightly damp, and training, can run pots on a wheel.
throws the lumps into the middle. B. Pots can be made quickly and
correctly.
The first work is to force the lump C. A pot thrown on a wheel is less
to the centre, then he presses his likely to break.
thumb into the middle of the D. The potter does not have to
lump, using water to keep it work hard if he uses the wheel.
slippery. When the bottom is of
the right thickness, he begins to 3. From the passage, how does a
draw up the walls until they are of potter make several pots of
the right height. Then he shapes almost identical size?
the belly and shoulder of the pot.
He trims off any waste clay. A. By having the knowledge of
different pots.
In this way, a small and medium- B. By weighing the lumps of clay.
sized pot can be made more C. By having the right tools
quickly and accurately. D. By knowing what to do from
experience.
1. Which question Paper Type of
Uses of English is given to you? 4. The phrase trims off any waste
clay, as used in the passage,
A. Type D means to---
B. Type I
C. Type B A. cut away unnecessary parts
D. Type U B. force the clay to the centre

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C. divide the clay into two music can now be heard in
D. wash away different colours. diverse places. Such places
include living rooms and cars,
5. The word congenial, as used in jogging paths can also function as
the passage, means--- new kinds of concert halls where
we can hear what we want as
A. congested often as we want.
B. precise
C. similar Live performances provide a
D. nice special excitement. In a live
performance artistes put
PASSAGE II themselves on the line. To avoid
embarrassment, the artiste must
Music plays a vital role in human train before hand and ensure that
society. Good music provides technical difficulties are avoided
entertainment and emotional and that the listeners are actively
release, and it accompanies involved. What is performed, how
activities ranging from dances to it sounds to the excitement of
religious ceremonies. such a moment and feelings are
exchanged between stage and
Music is heard everywhere; in hall.
auditoriums, homes, elevators,
schools, sports arenas and on the Our response to a musical
streets. Recorded performance is performance or an artiste is
a sensational innovation elevation subjective and rooted in deep
of the twentieth century. Thanks feelings. Even professional critics
to modern technology like can differ strongly in their
compact disc (CD) digital video evaluations of a performance.
disc (DVD) and the MP 3 player,

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There is no one ''Truth'' about C. All artistes are objective in
what we hear and feel. Does the their feelings.
performed project a concept, an D. Music influences feelings at
overall idea, or an emotion? Do different levels
some sections of a piece, but not
others, communicate something 7. The expression…..stage and
to you? Can you figure out why? hall, as used in the passage,
It is up to us as listeners to means the
evaluate performances of music
so that we can fully enjoy it. A. artiste and his music
B. artiste and the audience
People listen to music in many C. producer and the director
different ways. For instance, D. director and the audience
music can be a barely perceived
background as in a film or a 8. From the passage, it can be
totally absorbing experience as in deduced that music Is –
a concert.
A. appreciated as the
Adapted from Roger, K. (1990) An environment dictates .
Appreciation Music: Fourth Brief B. better appreciated in a crowd
Edition, McGrow-Hill Higher C. better appreciated when we
Education. are happy
6. Which of the following is true D. better appreciated by
according to the passage? professional critics

A. Music can enhance evaluation 9. According to the writer, live

performance performances provide a special
B. All listeners are music makers excitement because they are

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A. stage-managed exhaustion C. eruption D.
B. interactive expulsion]. But there are certain
C. error-free and original features of a man-made
D. educative disturbance that requires special
examination.
10. According to the passage,
music plays a vital role in human As with all events on this…13… [A.
society because— scanner B. skate C. snow D.
scale), it is impossible to describe
A. music provides enjoyment and what happens in details. However
relief we can be reasonably sure of the
B. it is easy to appreciate music main effects, and the most
C. stage performance is the most impressive of these arises
popular music opportunity. from…14….. (A. pressure waves
D. everybody can listen to music B. pressure volume C. pressure
through the CD, MP3 and DVD. air D. pressure gauge ).

PASSAGE III The immediate result of the…15…

(A. reduction B. commotion C.
Whatever may be its wider detonation D. distortion) is that
imputations, the explosion of the air surrounding the bomb is
hydrogen bomb is, for the raised very rapidly to an
meteorologist, simply another enormously high…16… (A. way B.
atmospheric disturbance. It temperature C. class D. profile].
should therefore be classified with
certain rare natural…..11…… (A. The hot gases expand violently as
programmes B. occurrences C. great…17…(A. firearms B. fireballs
resources D. laws), such as C. fireworks D. firesmokes),
volcanic…12….[A. insurrection B. compressing the air around them

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into what is called…18…[A. shock A. force them to dance with the
jocks B. shock therapy C. shock masquerade.
waves D. shock troops), or blast B. try his tricks on them to know
wave that is responsible for much their secrets
of terrible destructive power of- C. prepare well ahead of them
the weapon. D. put them to shame.

Another kind of wave arises 22. In the novel; Nwomiko was

because of the weight of the air. famous for her
The force of the explosion lifts
the…19… (A. form B. atmosphere A. lack of fighting spirit
C. space D. height around the B. spiritual powers
bomb. The gravity waves can also C. political struggles
resemble ordinary…..20….. (A. D. lack of spiritual values
stream B. lake C. ocean D. river)
waves. Waves of this type are 23. With remarkable agility, he
normally felt by human beings mounted The Fallen Goliath and
and they have their effect on the went on to stuff his mouth with
weather. earth.

Questions 21 to 30 are based Who was the Fallen Goliath in the

on Chukwuemeka Ike’s The excerpt above?
Potter’s Wheel.
A. Cromwell
21. In their preparation for the B. David
masquerade, David and others C. Polycarp
agreed to exercise extra caution D. Samuel
in their dealings with Samuel
because he would.

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24. If you have not beheld your 27. In the novel, Bright lived with
chi in his stark nakedness, be Teacher because
prepared to do so as soon as you
set foot in that man’s house. A. his father had gone on a long
From the excerpt above, whose journey
house was being referred to? B. he was Teacher’s nephew
C. his father was indebted to
A. Mazi Nwokike Teacher
B. Teacher Zaccheus D. he wanted to become a
C. Mazi Okeke teacher.
D. Mazl Laze
28. According to the novel, Obu
25. In the novel, the people of was good at
Umuchukwu likened samuel to
A. Jokes
A. a swimmer B. proverbs
B. an ancestral spirit C. cricket
C. a chief priest D. games
D. a fisherman
29. Uke was conscripted into the
26. Obu dashed out of the school military because
building because
A. he wanted to travel to Burma
A. he was given a prize by the B. he was a social nuisance
headmaster C. he loved the British soldiers
B. his teacher wanted to ‘flog him D. his grandfather was a military
C. he came top of Standard I man.
D. his teacher sent him on an
errand.

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30. In the novel, the ‘pad’ was a C. take part in the election
symbol of process
D. extort money from the people.
A. love
B. success 33. The civil war created business
C. unity opportunities for people like
D. failure Owiocho because

Questions 31 to 35 are based A. he became the supplier of all

on Jerry Agada’s The essential commodities
Successors. B. the Ibos were conscripted into
the army
31. It can be inferred from the C. the exit of the Ibos created a
novel that Mr Eze was Terkura vacuum
Atsen’s D. the Ibos had ventured into
other businesses.
A. business partner
B. uncle 34. My boy, your future is bright,
C. role model you can be anything you want to
D. boss. be ….

32. From the novel, David The statement above was made
thought Ifenne should be involved because Ifenne had
in politics because he wanted him
to ……… A. purchased his first bus
B. been working for others to
A. make a ‘name’ for posterity make profit
B. rig the election for someone C. been planning to excel

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D. proven himself faithful and C. The team’s performance was
committed. full of disappointment.
D. The team’s performance was
35. The departure of Ibo rewarded.
competitors to the East had
favoured 37. Tolu and Chinedu live in each
other’s pockets.
A. Okoh’s marriage
B. Mama Okoh’s business A. They are long-term business
C. Torkwase at Otukpo partners
D. Sgt. Onyilo in the war front. B. They steal from each other.
C. They blackmail each other.
LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL D. They are very close to each
FORMS other.

In each of questions 36 to 45, 38. As the drama unfolded,

select the option that best Olatinuke was advised
explains the information
conveyed in the sentence. A. She was advised to wear her
shirt
36. The team’s poor performance B. She was advised to commit
at the tournament plumb the herself
depths of horror. C. She was advised to stay calm.
D. She was advised to join the
A. The team’s performance took club.
them to the next round.
B. The team’s performance was 39. He is a clinging child.
enjoyed by all
A. He is a handsome young man

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B. He is possessive A. She would pass the drink to
C. He likes to cling with his sister the queen who is sitting next to
D. He is a bully. her.
B. She would be accepted by all
40. Zinana’s examination result as a beauty queen.
was not unfavourable. C. She walked past the beauty
queen.
A. She failed her examination D. She was acting as a beauty
B. Her examination did not meet queen.
her expectation.
C. She was successful in the 43. ‘I can’t wait to become a
examination mother,’ The new bride declared
D. Her result could not earn her
admission. A. She sees motherhood as a
burden
41. You need to brush up on your B. She is excited about
Spanish. motherhood
C. She is not keen on becoming a
A. You need to study the history mother
of Spain D. She will be patient as a
B. You need to improve your skills mother.
C. You need a brush from Spain
D. You need to learn to play with 44. Usman needs to get his acts
a Spainard. together if he wants to pass the
examination.
42. Amaka Would pass for a
beauty queen A. He needs to put all points down
in the examination
B. He needs to organize himself.

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C. He needs to be fast when 47. The girl took a cursory glance
writing the examination. at the letter and hid it.
D. He needs to put on his stage
costume. A. sententious.
B. concise.
45. Ramatu ‘expressed her C. brief.
feelings in no uncertain terms. D. lasting.

A. She expressed it dearly and 48. The relationship between the

strongly. couple has been frosty.
B. She expressed it secretly and
courageously. A. fraudulent.
C. She expressed it quietly and B. cordial.
cautiously. C. amenable.
D. She expressed it feebly and D. frugal.
sickly.
49. The Nobel laureate’s activity
In each of questions 46 to 55, in the field of science is heinous.
choose the option opposite in
meaning to the word or A. indelible.
phrase in italics. B. laudable.
C. deplorable.
46. Chibuzor gave a curt nod and D. forgettable.
walked away.
50. The accused was eventually
A. gentle. convicted.
B. rude.
C. polite. A. initially.
D. shocking. B. consequently.

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C. subsequently. A. happening
D. finally. B. decreasing
C. increasing
51. The plebs can be found in D. wavering
every society of the world.
55. The soldiers tried in their
A. masses dogged defence of the city.
B. middle class
C. elite A. indifferent
D. politicians B. strong
C. miserable
52. Everyone’s condition was D. classical
appalling.
In each of questions 56 to 65,
A. simple choose the option nearest in
B. cloudy meaning to the word or
C. pleasant phrase in italics.
D. complex
56. Ayodeji is an ardent supporter
53. The man’s mordant wit is of education for the girl child.
apparent to the entire village.
A. an optimistic
A. Kind B. a cogent
B. scathing C. a passionate
C. caustic D. an ignorant
D. withering
57. The scholars’ epitaph was
54. The war against malaria demolished.
keeps waxing.

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A. monument D. height
B. embodiment
C. farmland 61. I am tired of your eternal
D. book argument

58. Mohammed does his work A. open

with so much ardour. B. constant
C. strong
A. enthusiasm D. useless
B. discouragement
C. knowledge 62 The lamb is a feeble little
D. indifference animal.

59. The athlete is proud to be in A. fat

the vanguard of sports B. quiet
development. C. loving
D. weak
A. unforgettable position
B. leading position 63. The actress screamed when
C. destructive position she noticed an object behind her
D. emerging position
A. wailed
60. Nwankwo was on the verge of B. protested
signing a two-year contract with C. waded in
the club. D. stormed out

A. shore 64. The exhibition was an eye

B. brink opener to all.
C. summit

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A. dispatch B. onomatopoeia
B. display C. onomatopoeia
C. style D. onomatopea
D. examination
68. The philanthropist devoted
65. As a journalist, Bala has himself... the poor
always had a nose for stories.
A. to helping
A. soft comment B. in helping
B. cynical statement C. by helping
C. an instinct D. to be helping
D. a command
69. Tinu likes apples... she does
In each of question 66 to 85, not like oranges.
choose the option that best
completes the gap(s) A. or
B. for
66. The girl says she is averse... C. so
what others admire. D. but

A. for 70. The students had a ... on

B. from Independence Day.
C. to
D. with A. march past
B. match pass
67. Our teacher defined... in his C. march pass
introductory D. match pass

A. onomatopiea

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71. Do you mind ... another hour B. colonial
or two C. collusion
D. coalition
A. to wait
B. to have waited 75. All farmers were
C. wait encouraged... carry out
D. waiting fumigation on their farms

72. The continuous rain has really A. to

... the soil. B. from
C. in
A. melted up D. with
B. mopped up
C. satiated 76. There are lots of... in the
D. saturated park.

73. The police described the boy A. luxury buses moving fast
as being... hand B. luxury buses fast moving
C. moving fast luxury buses
A. on by D. fast-moving luxury buses
B. up to
C. over at 77. Yours is to command... is to
D. out of obey

74. It was very easy for the two A. their

political parties to form a... B. theirs
government C. theirs'
D. their's
A. co-operative

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78. Local governments are B. whoever offers
authorized to pass --- C. whomever offers
D. whomsoever offer
A. bye's-law
B. bye-law 82. Our teacher defined... as the
C. bye-laws killing of one's mother.
D. byes'-laws
A. patriach
79. Umar: I have never visited B. matricide
the dentist. C. matriarch
Aliyu:___ D. patricide

A. neither have l 83. If you are confused...

B. I also never anything, phone my office.
C. neither myself
D. I myself haven't A. about
B. for
80. Usman would have won the C. of
race.... D. with

A. if he had run faster faster 84. We have a family mutiny...

B. although he ran faster our hands.
C. only if he could run fast
D. if he had run faster A. from
B. of
81. My father told me to take the C. on
money from....it D. for

A. ever who offers 85. We should try to help...

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A. the less fortunate D. comma
B. this less fortunate
C. the less fortunate In each of questions 89 to 91,
D. less fortunate. choose the option that has the
same consonant sound as the
In each of question 86 to 88, one represented by the
choose the option that has the letter(s) underlined.
same vowel sound as the one
ran letter(s) underlined 89. lose

86. glasier A. mouse

B. nurse
A. gleam C. noise
B. flat D. horse
C. feign
D. glass 90. guitar

87. laud A. jam

B. strange
A. lavatory C. judge
B. loud D. rogue
C. lathe
D. core 91. loose

88. coma A. sell

B. fuse
A. colonel C. close
B. cogent D. rouse
C. come

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In each of question 92 to 94, options. The stressed syllables
choose the option that rhymes are written in capital letters
with the given word.
95. dedication
92. rite
A. dedicaTION
A. list B. deDlcation
B. wit C. dedication
C. wright D. Dedication
D. rim
96. international
93. Joys
A. interNAtional
A. elbow B. internaTIONal
B. pots C. International
C. boys D. inTERnational
D. stays
97. information
94. Call
A. information
A. wall B. information
B. quail C. information
C. dull D. Information
D. slate
In each of question 98 to 100,
In each of questions 95 to 97, the word in capital letters has
choose the most appropriate the emphatic stress. Choose
stress pattern from the the option to which the given
sentence relates.

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98. Adamu is leaving a CAR 19. C 20. C 21. B 22. B 23. D
behind. 24. B 25. B

A. What is Adamu leaving behind? 26. B 27. A 28. C 29. B 30. A

B. Is Adamu driving the car in 31. C 32. A 33. C 34. D 35. B
front? 36. C 37. D 38. C 39. B 40. C
C. Who is leaving a car behind? 41. B 42. B 43. B 44. B 45. C
D. Where is Adamu leaving a car? 46. A 47. D 48. B 49. B 50. A

99. Lambusa TOOK OFF the wig. 51. C 52. C 53. D 54. D 55. A
56. C 57. A 58. A 59. B 60. B
A. Who took off the wig? 61. C 62. D 63. A 64. B 65. C
B. What did Lambusa do? 66. C 67. C 68. A 69. D 70. A
C. Did Lambusa take off a wig? 71. D 72. D 73. D 74. D 75. A
D. Did Lambusa take off the ring?
76. D 77. B 78. C 79. A 80. D
100. The bed is IN the room 81. B 82. B 83. A 84. C 85. D
86. D 87. B 88. B 89. C 90. D
A. Is the bed in the parlour? 91. A 92. C 93. C 94. A 95. C
B. Was the bed in the room? 96. A 97. A 98. A 99. B 100. D
C. What is in the room?
D. Where is the bed?

ANSWER KEYS:

1. C 2. B 3. B 4. A 5. D 6. A 7. B
8. A 9. B 10. A 11. B 12. C 13. D
14. B 15. D 16. B 17. A 18. C

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 2014 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PAPER TYPE: L posed by the ongoing process of

globalization.
Read passages I, and II
carefully and answer the While political and social changes
questions that follow. Each may appear to be distinct
question carries 3 marks phenomena, they are analytically
inseparable. Political and social
PASSAGE I changes refer to alteration or
transformations in human
Political change and social behaviour, norms and politico-
transformation in the form of social institutions. Such changes
revolutions have radically altered are often a collective response to
the course of human civilization the need to change, or as a tacit
and history. recognition of a shift in the
prevalent power relations in the
Today, the world is witnessing society. Therefore, the coming to
political and social changes arising power of new sets of rulers, or
from the desire of people all over the establishment of new
the globe for greater freedom and structures and processes of
a voice in the way they are governance broadly typifies socio-
governed and a better standard of political changes.
living. Part of these struggles and
processes have become more It is important to note that
pronounced in the third world change can either be positive or
since the end of the east west negative. In most cases, political
cold war in the late 1980s, and in and social changes are caused by
the face of the challenges being certain factors or reasons. These
push people to collectively

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organize themselves to struggle 2. Which of the following is true
for a change in the existing power according to the passage?
relations.
A. Change is inimitable
Another reason is to capture B. Change is inestimable
political power, in the hope of C. Change is invaluable
making life better for the D. Change is inevitable
generality of the people. If politics
is defined as who gets what, 3. It can be deduced from the
when and how; it then implies passage that political and social
that political change refers to an changes are
alteration in the form of power,
and the identity of the group or A. Intertwined
class which controls and wields B. Antithetical
state power C. Independent
D. Repulsive
Adapted from Anifowose, R. and
Enemuo, F. (1999) Element of 4. A suitable title for this passage
politics. is

1. Which question paper type of A. Reasons for political change

use of English is given to you? B. The struggle for political power
C. Elements of politics
A. Type F D. Social change and political
B. Type E empowerment
C. Type L
D. Type S 5. The word alteration, as used in
the passage, means

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A. Multiplication the African rock python, have
B. Recognition been observed eating animals as
C. Modification large as an antelope or a small
D. Complication cow.

PASSAGE II With over two thousand five

hundred species belonging to
Like all reptiles, snakes are cold- more than ten families, snakes
blooded, or more correctly, are large and successful group.
ectodermic- they cannot produce They owe much of this success to
their own body heat; instead, their versatility snakes occupy
they rely on the sun to heat their habitat ranging from underground
bodies. Because they do not rely burrows to the top of the tree, to
on energy from food to generate ocean depths as great as one
body heat; snakes can survive on hundred and fifty meters. They
an extremely meagre diet. Some are found on every continent
wait for months between except Antarctica , and although
successive meals and a few they are most abundant in
survive by eating a large meal tropical areas, many survive in
just once or twice a year. When regions marked by extreme cold.
they do eat, snakes swallow their
prey whole rather than biting off The only places without snakes
small pieces. are parts of the Polar Regions and
isolated islands, such as the
Many snakes have specialized republic of Ireland and New-
jaws that enable them to swallow Zealand as opposed to places in
animals that are far larger than Nigeria like plateau and Gombe
their own heads. Although states in the northern parts where
uncommon, some snakes, such as

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there is a large population of C. There are countless number of
snakes. snakes in the republic of Ireland
D. Snakes are seldom seen at the
6. It can be inferred from the Antarctica
passage that snakes are
9. It can be deduced from the
A. Heterogeneous creatures passage that snakes have
B. Voracious cow eaters
C. Great insect eaters A. No external auditory organ
D. Homogeneous reptiles B. Visible internal locomotive
organs
7. The most notable thing about C. No visual sense of
snakes, according to the passage, measurement
is that they D. Large appetite for antelopes

A. Abound in gombe and plateau 10. A suitable title for this

state passage is
B. Are versatile in reproduction
C. Eat big but seldom A. Feeding habits of snakes
D. Exist in families B. Some characteristics of snakes
C. Snakes as legless, cold-
8. Which of the following is true blooded reptiles
according to the passage? D. Species of snakes in Nigeria
and other lands
A. Snakes are not in the polar
region PASSAGE III
B. Snakes are endemic on every
continent The passage below has gaps
numbered 11 to 20.

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Immediately following each announcer B. news editor C.
gap, four options are proofreader D. reporter], who has
provided. Choose the most to choose the most important
appropriate option for each stories .... 15 .... [A. subeditors B.
gap. writers C. agents D. producers]
go through stories sent to make
Each question carries 2 marks. necessary adjustments

Setting up a newspaper involves a The Editor-in-chief could

lot of preparations. The .....11 .... determine for instance, whether a
[A. processor B. lithographer C. particular journalist should write
proprietor D. sub-editor] has to articles daily or weekly in a
employ a lot of people. Other particular column. Such a
people working with him are journalist is known as ..... 16
cartographers, editors, ..... [A. a freelancer B. a
typesetters, readers, who work in composer C. a columnist D. an
various ways to produce the text essayist]. The editorials of the
of the newspaper, .... 12 .... [A. newspaper will be coordinated by
agents B. reporters C. analysts D. ..... 17 ..... [A. a guild of
vendors ] who go out and collect researchers B. an editorial board
stories and items of news, and .... C. all readers D. an agent].
13 ..... [A. correspondents
B.distributors C. listeners D. The publisher could decide to
newscasters ], who specialize in establish ..... 18 ..... [A. an article
one kind of topic. B. column C. magazine D. a
gazetteer] which would be on sale
Another important person who weekly, fortnightly or monthly .....
works closely with the editor --in - 19 ..... [A. a contrast from B. a
- chief is the ... 14 ... [A. contrast in C. a contrast to D. a

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contrast for] the eye catching, a solemn and humiliating pledge
screaming headlines and captions that he would never cross Obu`s
of newspapers on sale everyday path.
from the ..... 20 ..... [A. readers From the excerpt above, the word
B.distributors C. pressmen D. vanquished means
salesmen]
A. Unflappable
Adapted from idowu, et al. (1998) B. Unconcerned
Round-up English: A complete C. Sensitive
Course. Lagos: Longman D. Subdued

Questions 21 to 30 are based 23. In the novel, the suspicion

on Chukwuemeka Ike’s The that Obu was an `ogbanje` had
potters wheel. revalued the

21. Chief Okeke Okafo decided to A. Time Obu spent at teachers

buy an 'iron horse' because it house
would B. Disappearance of Obu in
standard
A. Allow him to be the head of the C. Price tag Mazi Laza and his
clan wife placed on Obu.
B. Raise his status in the clan D. Participation of Obu as a
C. Minimize the strain of travel member of the masquerade group
from one town to another
D. Give him the opportunity to act 24. According to the novel, a pupil
like the district commissioner who `carried his class` would be
instructed to
22. .... the vanquished dragon,
spewing sand instead of fire gave A. Dance on the assembly ground

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B. Fetch firewood for the teachers 27. From the novel, the first
C. Carry a pad person to own a bicycle in
D. Clean the latrines Umuatala clan was

25. If you get confused at any A. Chief Okeke Okafo

stage, let me know; I want this B. Polycarp's father
pottage to be well prepared. C. Mazi Lazarus
The statement above was meant D. Teacher zacheaus kanu
to
28. In the novel, what did Mazi
A. Distract Ada Laza do after putting a pinch of
B. Encourage Ada`s cooking habit snuff into each nostril?
C. Confuse Obu
D. Test Obu`s cooking skills A. He commended his wife
B. He gave the remaining to
26. According to the novel, Mazi Nwobiara
laza would shout at any person C. He nodded with satisfaction
standing in his way because his D. He complained of the stuff
bicycle in Umuatala clan was
29. From the novel, what was
A. Had injury people on many Ada`s punishment for fighting
occasions with madam
B. Was manufacture by local
engineers A. She copied psalm 119 from
C. Had faulty brakes and outdated start to finish
pedals B. She fetched water from the
D. Came from the same stock as stream with a basket
chief Okeke`s C. She ate only once a day for
one week

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D. she scrubbed the school latrine A. smoked Indian hemp
for one week B. were gainfully employed
C. listened to their parents
30. In the novel, Obu would not D. went to schools
touch cocoyam soup because he
claimed it 33. From the novel, what did
Terkura do with the balance of the
A. had lost its taste money chief Ofega paid him?
B. would get struck in his throat
C. would make him sick A. He married another wife
D. was not well prepared B. He brought a beautiful house
C. He invested it in his business
Question 31 to 35 are based D. He bought two cars for his
on Jerry Agada`s The father
Successors
34. Makurdi became more
31. The entertainment expenses prominent because of the
for Okoh Ameh`s traditional
marriage rites were paid for by A. Road
B. Bridge
A. Okoh amah`s parents C. International hotel
B. the bide`s parents D. Railway station
C. Okoh Ameh
D. Terkura Atsen 35. In the novel, Maria's tolerance
of her husband spending half the
32. Mfa`s friend asserted that night on duty at the hotel was
Bob Marley and other reggae considered a
stars were "good" because they
A. Way of taking great risk

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B. way to remedy all natural C. The money approved cannot
problems compete the pipeline project
C. necessary price to pay for the across the ocean.
success of their marriage D. The pipeline project across the
D. bad thing that couple should ocean will be abandoned unless
discourage. budgetary allocation improves

LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL 37. The police are looking for the
FORMS. woman who framed her children
out to her neighbours.
In each of questions 36 to 45,
select the option that best A. The woman and her children
explains the information are in the habit of working in
conveyed in the sentence. neighbour’s farm and the police
are not well disposed to this.
Each question carries 2 marks. B. The police may arrest the
woman for allowing her
36. The minister considered the neighbours to take care of her
ministry’s budget to a drop in the children
ocean in view of the number of C. The woman may be arrested
projects in the pipeline. for allowing her children to be a
nuisance to her neighbours
A. The amount available may be D. The police wanted remarked
inadequate for projected for allowing her children to
expenditure destroy her neighbour’s crops.
B. The minister maybe dropped
for failing to complete a number 38 Jummai's father remarked that
of projects. pigs would fly before she passed.

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A. It would be possible to pass D. He is quiet
only if she worked harder
B it would never be possible for 41. Olu gave his brother a bumpy
her to pass ride
C. He would have to bribe her
teachers to enable her to pass A. Olu's brother rode on Olu's
D. She would have to cheat in back to success.
order to pass B. Olu took his brother on a
bumpy road
39. The president said that he C. Olu gave his brother a difficult
found himself between a rock and time
a hard place when the press said D. Olu gave his brother a ride in
that he had resigned his car

A. He dreamt that he was 42. Adeola dosen't have to go the

abandoned farm today.
B. He thought that hard places
were unsafe A. Adeola may go to the farm
C. He had a hard decision to today if he so wishes
make B. Adeola ought not to have gone
D Hard places are dangerous for to the farm today
the president C. Adeola must not go to the farm
today
40. Kunana is like a bear with a D. Adeola should not go to the
sore head. farm today

A. He is a bully 43. My boss asked me to take my

B. He is grumpy eyes off the ball.
C. He is ugly

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A. I should stop paying attention C. They are barely surviving
to what is most important D. They have rejected the use of
B. I should be focused when I am spoons.
about stay off football
C. I should stay off football after In each of questions 46 to 55,
sustaining an injury choose the option opposite in
D. I should be focused when meaning to the word or
playing football. phrase in italics.

44. The robber was hedged in by 46. Prolonged strike action

the people. debilitated the industry.

A. The robber was surrounded by A. invigorated

the people B. isolated
B. The robber was killed by the C. weakened
people D. destroyed
C. The robber was exposed by the
people 47 One of the students bought a
D. The robber was caught by the plagiarized copy of the book
people
A. a used
45. Many workers are not happy B. an original
because they live a hand-to- C. a revised
mouth life. D. an annotated

A. They work hard with their 48. The young girl was taken
hands aback by her father's gift of a car.
B. They are voracious and
avaricious A. shocked

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B. unmoved 52. Some of my neighbours have
C. surprised an antipathy to dogs.
D. nonplussed
A. enmity towards
49. Musa is a gifted but erratic B. affection for
player C. acronym for
D. alarm for
A. strong
B. regular 53. The dressmaker-...- unpicked
C. unpredictable the seam of the shirt
D. unstable
A. threaded
50. The lamp shades were B. sewed up
translucent C. picked up
D. tore for
A. opaque
B. interested 54. The testimony of the witness
C. luminous was vague.
D. transparent
A. disturbing
51. My niece has an B. true
unquenchable thirst for adventure C. ambiguous
stories. D. clear

A. a spurious 55. As a student, Isa tried

B. an illegitimate communal living for a few years
C. a reduced
D. an inextinguishable A. collective
B. general

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C. shared B. dismayed
D. private. C. satisfied
D. relaxed
In each of questions 56 to 65,
choose the option nearest in 59. Joke gave Muhammed a
meaning to the word or jaunty smile.
phrase in italics.
A. a discouraging
56. The chairman admires B. an inviting
incessant meetings. C. a frightful
D. a cheerful.
A. unusual
B. planned 60. The first round of the
C. constant tournament was a doddle.
D. irregular
A. easy
57. Today's weather is favourable B. balanced
for a game of tennis. C. dodgy
D. exasperating
A. impartial
B. abnormal 61. The lazy man cast a lustful
C. encouraging glance at his neighbour's wife.
D. disapproving
A. hateful
58. the candidates looked aghast B. quick
at the first reading of the C. covetous
questions. D. envious

A. fulfilled

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62. They accused him of A. breaking
fomenting political unrest. B. securing
C. swapping
A. inciting D. strengthening
B. discouraging
C. preventing In each of questions 66 to 85,
D. guiding. choose the option that best
completes the gap
63. You can learn a great deal
just from watching other players. 66. The House and The Senate
will __ At noon next Wednesday
A. invent to hear address by the president
B. accumulate
C. allow A. convene
D. discover. B. adjourn
C. rise
64. All the researchers were D. collude
asked to garner information on
the new viral infection. 67. At the --- of the century many
ways of doing things were
A. collect introduced.
B disseminate
C. distort A. turn
D. give. B. event
C. birth
65 The dispute between the two D. sight
countries has resulted in the
severing of diplomatic relations 68. You may have the pencil, but
you can't have the ballpoint ...

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A. either 72. The guard spent all the night
B. furthermore pacing---
C. also
D. as well A. from and to
B. fro and to
69. The president said that the C. to and from
country was not out of the.... yet. D. to and fro

A. forest 73. The woman refused to

B. fog testify.... Her husband
C. water
D. wood A. in
B. at
70. He went to the restaurant to C. against
enjoy the special. D. from

A. suite 74. Abike must have found the

B. cuisine very interesting movies quite....
C. a la carte
D. chef A. absolving
B. absorbing
71. The invigilator--- to know how C. nauseating
long the examination.... going on. D. perverting

A. wanted/has been 75. The words___ divided

B wants/had been between the end of one line.
C. wants/have been
D. wanted/had been A. have been
B. have being

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C. has been A. very
D. has being B. neither
C. hotly
76. Those___ are very beautiful. D. just

A. flowers of her 80. The chairman is too much---

B. flowers of her's an idealist for this government
C. our flower
D. flowers ours A. from
B. about
77. Cooking has never been C. of
Jumoke’s--- D. with

A. recital 81. The clock--- 12 O’clock two

B. purview hours ago.
C. style
D. forte A. strikes
B. strike
78. When the strike is over, there C. struck
will probably be an increase in D. striking
wages and a __ increase in prices
82.Whats is the jury’s --- the
A. sporadic matter
B. concordant
C. concurrent A. verdict on
D. chronic B. verdict from
C. verdict at
79. My mother was—annoyed D. verdict with.
with me for coming late.

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83. The unconscious man was---- 86. cool
after receiving first aid.
A. full
A. reawakened B. luke
B. reformed C. look
C. restored D. should
D. revived
87. odour
84. The laughter –his face for a
moment. A. flow
B. sugar
A. improved C. hold
B. controlled D. floor
C. animated
D. remade 88. palm

85. She traced her family history- A. ranch

--matrilineal descent. B. florid
C. lunch
A. in D. plait
B. by
C. with In each of questions 89 to 91,
D. at. choose the option that has the
same consonant sound as the
In each of questions 86 to 88, one represented by the
choose the option that has the letter(s) underlined.
same vowel sound as the one
represented by the letter(s) 89. vision
underlined.

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A. instruction 93. keep
B. mansion
C. nation A. reap
D. enclosure. B. seethe
C. threat
90. gnash D. dead

A. forge 94. tax

B. new
C. king A. box
D. ring B. lacks
C. back
91. epitaph D. ask

A. pseudo In each of questions 95 to 97,

B. fan choose the most appropriate
C. paper stress pattern from the
D. pneumonia. options. The stressed syllables
are written in capital letter.
Choose the option that rhymes
with the given word. 95. valedictory

92. ever A. valeDICtory

B. valedicTORY
A. favour C. VAledictory
B. fever D. vaLEdictory
C. never
D. heavier 96. congratulation

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A. congraTUlation D. When did my mother buy a
B. congratuLAtion bicycle?
C. CONgratulation
D. conGRAtulation 99. AMINA went to Abuja by air.

97. conspiracy A. Is Amina going to Abuja by air?

B. Who went to Abuja by air?
A. conspiRAcy C. Did Amina go to Abuja by
B. conspiraCY road?
C. consPIracy D. Did Amina go to Jos by air?
D. CONspiracy
100. Musa is STAYING in Enugu.
In each of questions 98 to
100, the world in capital A. Is Musa passing through
letters has the emphatic Enugu?
stress. Choose the option to B. Is Musa staying on the outskirt
which the given sentence of Enugu?
relates. C. Is Audu staying in Enugu?
D. Was Musa staying in Enugu?
98. My mother brought a BICYCLE
yesterday. ANSWER KEYS:

A. What did you mother buy 1. C 2. C 3. A 4. D 5. C 6. A 7. A

yesterday? 8. A 9. B 10. B 11. C 12. B 13. A
B. Whose mother bought a bicycle 14. B 15. A 16. C 17. B 18. C
yesterday? 19. A 20. D 21. D 22. D 23. D
C. Did my mother steal a bicycle 24. A 25. D
yesterday?

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26. C 27. C 28. C 29. D 30. C Facebook Study Group
31. A 32. A 33. C 34. D 35. C
36. A 37. B 38. B 39. C 40. A If you need an explanation to
41. C 42. B 43. A 44. A 45. C any of the answers or you want to
46. A 47. B 48. B 49. B 50. A download more past questions
for FREE.
51. C 52. B 53. A 54. D 55. D
56. C 57. C 58. B 59. D 60. A
Click to ENTER our Facebook
61. C 62. A 63. D 64. A 65. A
study group
66. A 67. A 68. D 69. D 70. B
71. D 72. D 73. C 74. C 75. A

76. D 77. D 78. C 79. A 80. C

81. C 82. A 83. D 84. C 85. B
86. A 87. D 88. A 89. D 90. B
91. B 92. C 93. A 94. D 95. A
96. C 97. B 98. A 99. B 100. A

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 2015 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

COMPREHENSION: Read the denial of privileges, and subtle

passage carefully and answer the manipulation short of the use of
questions that follow physical forces, while those of the
military approach relate to the
PASSAGE I use of physical coercion. The use
of physical force could be by a
There are many different party to a conflict or third party,
approaches to conflict to promote one side's interest,
management, each of which may impose a settlement, or create a
have utility in particular situation in which diplomatic
circumstances. A great deal of negotiations can occur.
scholarship has been devoted to
analysing how and in what Secondly, conflict management
situations different approaches approaches can also be classified
can be applied most effectively. according to the status of the
Conflict management approaches participants in the bargaining
can be classified into two broad process. For example, a conflict
categories. could be managed through
'negotiation', that is, direct
Firstly, on the basis of the level of bargaining by the parties involved
escalation which the particular in the conflict; or through
conflict is being managed. In this 'mediation', that is with the help
sense, one can distinguish of a third part
between the peaceful and the
'military' approaches. The 1. The expression third party, as
trademarks of the peaceful used in the passage, means
approach are negotiation, verbal
persuasion, use of inducements, a. Politician

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b. Intruder d. There is a general
c. Conformist disagreement among scholars on
d. Mediator conflict management.

2. From the passage, it can be 4. According to the passage, the

deduced that different approaches to conflict
management are
a. All nations adopt the peaceful
approach a. Pernicious
b. All nations prefer the military b. Uniform
option c. Misleading
c. Prevailing circumstances push a d. Fundamental
warring nation to sue for peace
d. Conflicts are noted for 5. The word utility, as used in the
facilitating opportunities passage, means

3. Which of the following a. Difficulty

statements can be inferred from b. Attitude
the passage? c. Usefulness
d. Management
a. The approach to employ in
conflict management depends on 6. The word couched, as used in
the state of affairs the passage, means
b. Only one conflict management
approach can be applied in all a. Arranged
situations b. Expressed
c. All conflict management c. Modified
approaches can be all situations. d. Itemized

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7. From the writer's point of view, 9. What is the symbolic function
one can conclude that of a native language, according to
the passage?
a. The only authority a society
has is its a. It enables the society itself the
language more
b. Language and culture are b. It promotes understanding
interwoven within the group
c. People of the same culture in c. It distinguishes that society
the same society from others
d. Developing people of the world d. It alienates progress within the
have not developed their society and beyond.
language
10. From the passage, one can
8. Which of the following can be imply that
inferred from the passage?
a. The language of instruction is
a. The world is interpreted to use ideally one's own language
only in our native language b. Native languages are difficult to
b. Our native language is as use as languages of instruction.
important as the world around us c. No foreign language should be
c. We know more about the world taught in any society
around us if our language is not d. No society conducts its
written education in a foreign language
d. The world around us is the
world of people who speak the PASSAGE II
same language
The passage below has gaps,
immediately following such

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gap, four options are provided This spirit of rivalry among
chose the most appropriate mission and private schools
waned with government take-over
Before now, students bumped of schools.
unto career by chance or through
the insistence of parents. Government involvement in
These parents had pre-conceived career development is beset with
notions of ....11 .... professions many problems. One such
and gave little consideration to problem is the ..... 16 ....
their children's interest, aptitude, Shortage of professional career
knowledge and skills. Students' development officers. These few
career decisions were also ........ officers are ...... 17 ...... given the
12 ..... by the type of secondary opportunity to practice.
schools they attended.
If the government of Nigeria has
Before government take - over of ...18 ... a guidance and
schools in 1971. Over 80% of counselling policy. It must be
elementary and secondary schools pointed out that emphasis is still
were privately owned and at the secondary level of
competition was ..... 13.... among education. This situation..19.. the
these schools. Each strived to current view that career
carve an ...14... for herself by development should start at the
excelling in sports or academics pre- primary level and continue
and students often ended up in till adulthood.
engineering, medicine, the
science and law. Junior students 11. A. Insignificant
tried to ......15.... the career B. prestigious
choices of their seniors. C. inferior
D. debased

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12. A. influenced 18. A. lauded
B. hampered B. muffled
C. subdued C. muffled
D. rejected D. enunciated

13. A. high 19. A. rejects

B. minimal B. approves
C. low C. contradicts
D. moderate D. verifies

14. A. attitude 20. A. Lauded

B. image B. Muffled
C. effort C. Mumbled
D. avenue D. Enunciated

15. A. appreciate These question 21 to 36 are

B. emulate based on A. H Mohammed's
C. reject "The Last Day at Forcados
D. denounce High School"

16. A. mild 21. The information that Efua's

B. acute diary had been leaked to all in the
C. slow school was first made known to
D. average her by ----

17. A. seldom a. Caro

B. usually b. Ansa
C. often c. Nene
D. frequently d. Joke

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22. "What do you want? Doesn't it 26. At one time, the closeness
offend your pure gentle soul to be between Jimi and Wole
sitting beside me? heightened because they wanted
In the excerpt above, pure and to
gentle soul referred to
a. Contend with Jimi adversaries
a. Nene at Forcados High School
b. Jimi b. Unite against the bullying of
c. Efau the eldest brother
d. Ansa c. Present a common front in their
quest to learn at school
24. What did Ansa do when Efau d. Practice the act of dancing in
was introduced to him for the first the school choir
time
27. Teacher Bade earned the
a. He smiled sheepishly nickname "cane" because he was
b. He murmured awkwardly
c. He snubbed her a. A Discipline master in the
d. He embraced her school
b. Always ready to listen to
25. After the graduation, Nene student's complaints
hoped to study c. Always ready to punish
offenders
a. Accountancy d. Always ready to appreciate
b. Law students
c. Architecture
d. Education 28. From the storyline, we could
conclude that Forcados high
school emphasized

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a. Individuality b. Organizing committee
b. Conformity c. Ss3 students
c. Duplicity d. School teachers
d. Truancy
32. What did Jimi occupy himself
29. Despite the fact that Anza with as he took his shower
was not as brilliant as Jimi, he still
saw Jimi as a a. He was whistling
b. He was crying
a. Friendly and likeable person c. He was dancing
b. Timid and likeable person d. He was brooding
c. Likeable but hostile person
d. Humble ad likeable person 33. Who was considered as a
bright spark in an unspoken
30. Jimi was to run away from the contest with Jimi over their
policemen when they asked him chemistry results?
to stop by
a. Eze
a. Getting help from a good b. Caro
Samaritan c. Nene
b. Jumping into a nearby bush d. Efau
c. Hiding under the table
d. Jumping into a moving bus 34. The teacher's attitude towards
Efau was that of
31. The impromptu meeting to
prepare for the mid-term dinner a. Recognition
was attended by the b. Misconception
c. Misapplication
a. School prefects d. Repression

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35. Which of these best describe a. His actions were seriously
Aunty Moni's character trait rejected
b. His action were severe and
a. Garrulous accepted
b. Docile c. His action were itemized
c. Arrogant because he was young
d. Extravagant d. His action provoked the
humour
36. The workers tightened their
hold on the capital 38. I haven't seen the movie and
my brother hasn't either
a. They tightened a rope round
their capital a. I have seen the movie but
b. They controlled the capital neither of my brother have
more strictly b. My brother and I haven't seen
c. The held unto other workers in the movie
the capital c. Only my brother has seen the
d. They stretched their hold on movie
the capital and beyond. d. I was the only one that has
seen the move
From these questions, select
the options that best explain 39. Sule would have been given
the information conveyed in the car if his father had hot
the sentence. complained.

37. Amedu's actions provoked A. He wasn't given the car

severe criticism because his father complained
B. He was given the car because
his father complained

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C. His father complained about A. He is one of those that live in a
the car and he was given. distant and underdeveloped area
D. He was given the car even B. He is one of the active member
though his father didn't complain. of the community
C. He is one of the honest men
40. Adayi cannot halt the march that lives in the community
of time. D. He is one of those that live in
the most developed part of the
A. she is willing to march on city.
B. She cannot change the way
things happen. 43. Bello said he would pitch his
C. She halts the march on time. tent with the club.
D. She cannot alter the peace
march. A. He would support the club.
B. He would build a pitch in the
41. The lecture is Uye s road to club
Damascus. C. He would build a tent on the
pitch.
A. The lecture is an opportunity to D. He would distance himself from
travel to Damascus. the club.
B. The lecture is an experience
that changes the way she thinks 44. Try not to lose heart, said the
C. The lecture talks exclusively man.
about Damascus.
D. The lecture is an experience A. Try not to be bold and weak
that cannot be changed. B. Try not to become sad and
hopeless
42. Ado is one of the C. Try not to be happy and feeble
backwoodsmen.

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D. Try not to be timid and 47. She said, the experience was
hopeful. harrowing.

45. Kasim would have attended A. Educating

the party if he had been invited. B. Frightening
C. Pleasant
A. He would not have attended D. Strange
even if he eat
B. He attended the party before 48. The house was invaded by the
he was invited. young officers
C. He was not invited and so, he
did not attend A. Set up
D. He attended the party without B. Put down
invitation. C. Defended
D. built.
For these questions, choose
the option opposite in 49. I like Adamu weird attitude.
meaning to the word or
phrase in italics A.Buoyant
B. Peculiar
46. Adewale's arrival always C. Zestful
triggers a media frenzy D. Normal.

A. Violence. 50. We travelled to an obscure

B. Agitation little town
C. Calm
D. Excitement. A. rugged
B. Distinguished
C. Secluded

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D. inglorious A. Respectful
B. Derisive
51. She is known for her bizarre C. Sarcastic
dressing. D. Deluded.

A. Natural 55. Alade is noted for his erratic

B. Weird behaviour.
C. Obsolete
D. Odious A. Fitful
B. Bizarre
52. Lami normally scurries around C. Consistent
town D. Euphoric

A. Scampers 56. The priest knows Ochai as an

B. Dashes abstainer
C. Dawdles
D. Scuttles A. Someone who never drinks
alcohol
53. Sule’s poem is always explicit B. Someone who holds onto his
and compelling ideas
C. Someone who reads a lot
A. Exciting D. Someone who never cares
B. Clear about others
C. Ambiguous
D. Long. From these questions, choose
the option nearest in meaning
54. Usman smiled in a scornful to the word or phrase in
way italics.

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57. She gave a caustic remark on C. essential
the occasion D. critical

A. tangible 61. Usman likes toys made with

B. Friendly bright and animated colours.
C. insignificant
D. Sarcastic. A. dull
B. sparkling
58. It was a good try but it didn't C. black
quite work out. D. deep

A. Come to 62. The man has strong distaste

B. come off for alcohol.
C. come from
D. come for A. love
B. aversion
59. Garuba’s performances in the C. desire
competition was horrid. D. excitement.

A. terrible 63. The schism in the'

B. encouraging organization is on the increase.
C. Commendable
D. rigid. A. disagreement
B. understanding
60 Just me the basic facts with C. opportunity
needless details D. rot

A. relevant 64. Sule admires people who have

B. extraneous unbending character

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A. mobile C. A life
B. steady D. A live
C. wavering
D. unstable 68. The mechanic did not tell me
the brakes ... bad
65. He detests honesty
A. were
A. likes B. are
B. hates C. is
C. encourages D. was.
D. commands.
69. Tayo could have supplied the
From questions 66 to 85, goods but it was --- into two
choose the option that best
completes the gap(s) A. splitting
B. split
66. The number of stores will be C. splited
increased ... twenty to thirty. D. splits.

A. from 70. Had Aisha realized what

B. on marriage entails she –
C. at
D. into A. could have not rush into it
B. would have rushes into it
67. ... bomb had earlier been C. would not have rushes into it
defused D. would not have rushed into it.

A. A leaf 71.
B. An alive

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72. The company deals ... C. that
computer software D. while

A. with 76. He ran out when he saw the

B. for teacher ...?
C. in
D. to. A. didn't he
B. isn't he
73 There is no logic --- any of C. does he
their claims. D. is he.

A. with 77. Parents should be good

B. in examples ... their children.
C. from
D. up A. to
B. at
74. ... the house was an easy task C. from
for the demolition squad. D. by.

A. Bringing forth 78. He travelled ... last week

B. Tearing down
C. Bringing up A. somewhat
D. Tearing with. B. somewhere
C. some at
75. The player sat on the bench D. somewhere
... the match lasted.
79. He was present at the party
A. since ....?
B. when

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A. wasn't he 83. Oboro will always ... his
B. did he friends.
C. could he
D. didn't he. A. stand up for
B. stand down for
80. The prisoners had been ... C. stand across for
from all contacts D. stand besides for.

A. kept upon 84. She arrived ... air for the

B. kept apart occasion.
C. kept for
D. kept on. A. for
B. in
81. We detest these... declared C. with
the woman D. by

A. types of programme 85. Audu overbalanced and ... the

B. type of programmes water.
C. types of programmes
D. type of programme. A. fell into
B. fell from
82. lima doesn't like working in C. fell for
the dark ...? D. fell at.

A. has she For this question, choose the

B. does she option that has the same
C. will she sound as the one represented
D. did she. by the letter(s) underlined.

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86. Bore A. of
B. often
A. call C. off
B. curl D. physics.
C. slot
D. hum 91. Lodge

87. Head A. soldier

B. rogue
A. said C. go
B. heard D. measure.
C. herd
D. shirt For this question, choose the
option that rhymes with the
88. Sky given word.

A. cite 92. Suite

B. eats
C. breaks A. tree
D. coil B. breath
C. bleat
89. Loath D. sweet.

A. breathe 93. Cart

B. that
C. thaw A. lash
D. tank B. cat
C. part
90. Van D. pack.

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94. Sight A. moTIvation
B. motivaTION
A. skate C. motiVAtion
B. short D. MOtivation.
C. cite
D. plait In the question, the words in
capital letter has the emphatic
For this question, choose the stress. Choose the option to
choose the appropriate stress which the given sentence
pattern from the options. the relates.
stress syllables are written in
capital letter(s) 98. Bukola’s UNCLE is a strict
teacher
95. Programmatic
A. Is Bukola’s uncles a strict
A. proGRAMmatic cook?
B. PROgrammatic B. Is Tunde’s uncle a strict
C. programMATIC teacher?
D. programmatIC C. Is Bukola’s aunt a strict
teacher?
96. Certification D. Is Bukola’s uncle an easy going
teacher?
A. certiFIcation
B. CERtification 99. She puts spoon on the CHAIR.
C. certifiCAtion
D. cerTIfication. A. Did she put the fork on the
chair?
97. Motivation B. Did she put the spoon on the
chair?

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C. Who put the spoon on the 66. A 67. D 68. A 69. C 70. D
chair? 71. NO ANSWER 72. C 73. B 74.
D. Who took the spoon on the B 75. D
chair?
76. A 77. A 78. A 79. A 80. B
100. ASA is a lawyer 81. A 82. B 83. A 84. D 85. A
86. C 87. A 88. A 89. C 90. A
A. Is Asa a robber? 91. A 92. D 93. C 94. C 95. C
B. Who is a lawyer? 96. C 97. C 98. C 99. B 100. B
C.Is Asa the lawyer?
D. Was Asa the lawyer?

ANSWER KEYS

1. D 2. D 3. A 4. D 5. C 6. B 7. A
8. B 9. C 10. A 11. A 12. C 13. A
14. A 15. A 16. B 17. C 18. B
19. A 20. D 21. D 22. A 23. B
24. A 25. A

26. B 27. A 28. B 29. D 30. B

31. A 32. D 33. A 34. B 35. D
36. B 37. A 38. B 39. A 40. B
41. B 42. A 43. A 44. B 45. C
46. C 47. C 48. C 49. D 50. B

51. A 52. C 53. C 54. A 55. C

56. A 57. D 58. B 59. A 60. C
61. B 62. B 63. A 64. B 65. B

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 2016 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PASSAGE I few people in the society, the fear

of the moralist has not been
COMPREHENSION: Read the justified.
passage carefully and answer
the question that follows. The However, the economist is
question carries 3 marks primarily interested in the habit of
smoking and the consumption of
The African moralist has always alcohol in so far as they give
regarded smoking as an indication satisfaction to smokers and
of moral degradation. drinkers and so generate supply
of and demand for tobacco and
A number of people have alcohol.
accepted the moralist idea on
smoking while a good many Some moral principles associated
people have remained indifferent with religion tend to lead on to
to the moralist view and have economic problems.
continued to smoke. The same Followers of certain religions are
argument has been applied to the expected not to consume pork,
consumption of alcohol. The take alcohol or smoke tobacco.
African moralist, basing his Devotees of some religious
judgement on the behaviour of a groups, on the other hand, can
few alcoholics, tend to regard the eat pork while others are
habit of taking alcohol as a sign of expected to abstain from alcohol
wretchedness. The moralist holds and smoking.
the view that anybody who forms
the habit of consuming alcohol Strict observance of these moral
will never do well in life. While rules could cripple the breweries,
this may be true in respect of a the cigarette factories and some

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businesses; however, there (c) certainly different
seems to be a growing number of (d) certainly unrelated
alcohol consumers and cigarette
smokers-a development which 3. According to the passage, the
should be of interest to the moralist idea is that
economist.
(a) the smoking of cigarettes is
Adapted from Peter Scott's article bad and unacceptable
in Sunday Times. (b) it is typically African not to
smoke cigarettes
1. The view expressed by the (c) people should accept a point
writer in the last paragraph is that of view only when they are
convinced
(a) the number of alcoholics and (d) smoking is not good but a
smoker is certainly increasing little alcohol may be permitted
(b) more people appear to take to
drinking and smoking 4. Which of the following
(c) sales of alcohol and tobacco statements is true according to
products have improved the passage?
tremendously
(d) more people now abstain from (a) total abstinence from drinking
drinking and smoking and smoking is a religious
obligation
2. It can be concluded from the (b)smoking and drinking may
passage that morality, religion have positive effects on the
and economy are economy
(c) every one ignores the moralist
(a) somewhat interconnected view on drinking and smoking
(b) clearly interconnected

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(d) people who drink or smoke was otherwise a nuisance to him
surely die of cancer in the business of keeping alive.

5. The positions maintained by In the primitive situation, man

the moralist and the economist was, therefore, basically against
can be described as being nature but, as the battle was
progressively won, conscience
(a) quite indifferent crept in; the awareness of
(b) very agreeable responsibility, and a failure to
(c) very passionate meet it, produced feelings of guilt.
(d) at variance
Those who live in cities and need
PASSAGE ll no longer do battle against nature
are nowadays most actively for
Read the passage carefully nature. At this time, something
and answer the question that like a thousand kinds of animals
follows. The question carries 3 (vertebrate animals) can be said
marks to be in danger of extinction. A
few of them have been reduced to
When man evolved a conscience, this precarious position by
his basic relationship with the extensive killing but the majority
other animals began to change. are disappearing only as fast as
Until then, they were broadly the particular kind of country they
divided into those which ate him need for existence is itself
when they got the chance, those disappearing and all the hands of
which he ate when he got the man, as often as not by mistake.
chance, and a third group which
competed with him for food, or There are three species of turtles
whose future survival is menaced

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by the demand for turtle soup, Adapted from Peter Scott's article
which would hardly justify the in Sunday Times.
extermination of a giant reptile
whose family has existed for 200 6. The sentence There will be
million years. twice as many of us before most
of us are dead means
Leopards are in jeopardy because
of the fashion for their skins. As (a) some increase in human and
they get rarer, the prices rise and, animal population growth rates
as leopard skin become more (b) mankind is fast spreading
expensive, the demand increases. across the earth
No species can long survive the (c) the population growth rate will
price of N60,000 which a half- double before our death
grown baby leopard now carries (d) many of us will die as a result
on its skin. of population explosion

And crocodiles, the longest 7. Which of the following

surviving reptiles, are now statements is true according to
dwindling alarmingly as a result of the passage?
the fashion in crocodile skin for
ladies' handbags and men's (a) man kills animal only when he
shoes. The human population can afford to do so.
explosion spreads mankind across (b) man eats all categories of
the land surfaces of the earth at animals
an alarming rate. There will be (c) man cannot spare those
twice as many of us before most animals that eat his kind
of us are dead. Does this mean no (d) man poses the greatest threat
room for wild animals? Of course to nature
not.

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8. The basic causes of the 10. From the passage, the
elimination of certain animals attitude of the writer can be
from the earth include described as

(a) a deliberate battle against (a) indifferent

nature and the quest for leopard (b) partial
skin (c) optimistic
(b) man's decision to live in cities (d)pessimistic
and the development of large
farm lands PASSAGE III
(c) man's penchant for meat and
the sale of animals for meat and The passage below has gaps.
hides Immediately following each
(d) extensive killing of animals gap, four options are
and the fast disappearances of provided. Choose the most
their favourable habitats appropriate option for each
gap
9. The expression when man
evolved a conscience means when A prepared speech is not easy to
deliver, especially if it is not
(a) man's intellect improved written by the presenter ..... 11
tremendously (a) quantum (b) document (c)
(b) man became a critical free (d) manuscript .....
creature delivery is one in which the
(c) man developed an awareness speech has been written out word
of right and wrong for word and is read to – 12 (a)
(d) man acquired new habits an audience (b) a
congregation (c) a gathering
(d) a conference.

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This kind of delivery is usually delivery could --- 18 (a) decisive
reserved for every --- 13 (a) (b) positive (c) interactive (d)
genuine (b) impromptu (c) restrictive --- effects created by
guaranteed (d) formal --- the carefully chosen --- 19 (a)
occasions when exact wording is - dialect (c) slang (d) language
-- 14 (a) reportive (b) --- lack of familiarity with the ---
conclusive (c) critical --- such 20 (a) text (b) context (c)
as the State of the Union Address exchange (d) note --- could
or speeches before the United also speaker from maintaining
Nations General --- 15 (a) eye contact with the people being
assembly (b) organisation (c) addressed.
negotiation.
These questions are based on
The primary advantage is that A. H. Mohammed's "The First
speech may be highly --- 16 (a) Days at Forcado High School"
advanced (b) analogue (c)
discreet (d) polished in terms 21. According to the Novel, Efua
of word choice, turns of phrase was in Forcados High School
and development of ideas. The because
main advantage is that this type
of delivery is difficult to do well. (a) her stepfather was a board
member
Reading aloud with meaningful --- (b) of her former principal's
17 (a) vocal (b) bifocal (c) recommendation
anticipatory (d) profuse (c) the school needed her
inflection speaker to be very mother's support
familiar with the text. If not the (d) of aunt Muni' gift to the school
words will come out in a choppy,
expressionless way. Such poor

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22. According to the Novel, who 25. When did a boy faint at
intimated Efua that there was a Forcados High School?
clash between area boys?
(a) during the prize-giving day
(a) Miss Novi (b) during the Mid-term dinner
(b) Mr Salami (c) during the valedictory service
(c) Mr Edet (d) during the inter-house sports
(d) Mr Mallum competition

23. The speculation amongst the 26. Mr Mallum, the principal, was
students of Forcados High School a symbol of
gas that Jimi was dating
(a) freedom
(a) Joke (b) envy
(b) Caro (c) condemnation
(c) Risikat (d) achievement
(d) Efua
27. Ansa decided not to like Efua
24. The best thing that happened because he
to Efua at the end of the term
was (a) learnt she was controversial
(b) thought she was fetish
(a) the visit of Nene's family (c) Felt she was snobbish
(b) her participation in the (d) thought she was wayward
Christmas concert
(c) her exclusion from Miss Novi's 28. In the novel, Ansa looked
charity group around glumly when Jimi was
(d) the principal's open engrossed in laughter and chatter
commendation of her result because he was

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(a) distracted by a b playing on (c) he saw an accident on the way
the field (d) he was carrying illicit drugs
(b) neglected by Jimi
(c) given twelve strokes of the 31. After listening to Jimi's
cane by the principal explanation on the stolen
(d) anxious to go home laboratory equipments, Mr Mallum
decided to
29. Which of the following
statements captures Ansa's (a) get in touch with Jimi's
thought about Jimi? relations
(b) punish Jimi for the wrong
(a) He thought Jimi was a lucky doings
boy (c) put an end to the matter
(b) He was going to break his (d) contact the police for Jimi's
friendship with Jimi release
(c) He thought Jimi cut corners to
succeed 32. Which of the following best
(d) He was envious of Jimi's describes Mr Mallum?
achievement
(a) He was a small, wiry man with
30. Jimi was still trembling when odd accent
he got home from the bar (b) He was a tall, wiry man with
because good diction
(c) He was crude, rash and
(a) he ran into a team of impatient
policemen (d) He was a fat, tall man with
(b) Wole's friend wanted to beat wimpish behaviour
him

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33. How did Nene feel when she (c) the students of the school did
saw Efua's painting by Ansa? not like her
(d) she bribed the principal before
(a) She became friendly she was admitted
(b) She acted timidly
(c) She was delighted LEXIS, STRUCTURE AND ORAL
(d) She was surprised. FORMS: In these questions,
select the option that best
34. One of the things Ansa explains the information
observed about his fellow conveyed in the sentence
students when they resumed for
the new term was that some of 36. Ramatu expressed her
them feelings in no uncertain terms

(a) wore their ties in odd knots (a) she expressed it feebly and
(b) were eager to go back home sickly
(c) looked sickly and (b) she expresses it quietly and
malnourished cautiously
(d) had become rude and unruly (c) she expressed it secretly and
courageously
35. Efua was not in the good book (d) she expressed it clearly and
of teachers at Forcados High strongly
School because
37. Usman needs to get his act
(a) her admission into the senior together if he wants to pass the
class was unusual examination
(b) she was expelled from her
previous school (a) he needs to put on his stage
costume

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(b) he needs to be fast when (d) the team's performance was
writing the examination full of disappointment
(c) he needs to organise himself
(d) he needs to put all points 40. He is a clinging child
down in the examination
(a) He is a bully
38. As the drama unfolded, (b) He likes to cling with his sister
Olatinuke was advised to keep her (c) He is possessive
shirt on (d) He is a handsome young man

(a) she was advised to stay calm 41. You need to brush up on your
(b) she was advised to commit Spanish
herself
(c) she was advised to join the (a) you need a brush from Spain
club (b) you need to study the history
(d) she was advised to wear her of Spain
shirt (c) you need to learn to play with
a Spaniard
39. The team's poor performance (d) you need to improve your
at the tournament plumbed the skills.
depths of horror.
42. Tolu and Chinedu live in each
(a) the team's performance was other's pockets
rewarded
(b) the team's performance took (a) They are long-term business
them to the next round partners
(c) the team's performance was (b) They are very close to each
enjoyed by all other

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(c) They blackmail each other (b) she would pass the drink to
(d) They steal from each other the queen who is sitting next to
her
43. Zinana'a examination result (c) she would be accepted by all
was not unfavourable as a beauty queen
(d) she walked past the beauty
(a) She failed her examination queen
(b) Her result could not earn her
admission For these questions, choose
(c) She was successful in the the option opposite in
examination meaning to the word or
phrase in italics
44. can't wait to become a
mother. 'the new bride declared 46. The relationship between the
couple has been frosty
(a) she sees motherhood as a
burden (a) amenable
(b) she will be patient as a (b) fraudulent
mother (c) frugal
(c) She is not keen on becoming a (d) cordial
mother
(d) She is excited about 47. The dressmaker unpicked the
motherhood. seam of the shirt

45. Amaka would pass for beauty (a) tore up

queen (b) sewed up
(c) threaded
(a) she was acting as a beauty (d) picked up
queen

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48. Some of my neighbours have (c) subsequently
an antipathy to dogs (d) consequently

(a) enmity towards 52. My niece has an

(b) alarm for unquenchable thirst for adventure
(c) acronym stories
(d) affection for
(a) an illegitimate
49. Chibuzor gave a curt nod and (b) a spurious
walked away (c) an inextinguishable
(d) a reduced
(a) rude
(b) polite 53. Musa is a gifted but erratic
(c) gentle player
(d) shocking
(a) regular
50. The girl took a cursory glance (b) strong
at the letter and hid it (c) unstable
(d) unpredictable
(a) brief
(b) sententious 54. The testimony of the witness
(c) lasting was vague
(d) concise
(a) real
51. The accused was eventually (b) factual
convicted (c) true
(d) clear
(a) initially
(b) finally

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55. As a student, Isa tried 58. The exhibition was an eye
communal living for a few years opener to all

(a) shared (a) dispatch

(b) private (b) examination
(c) collective (c) style
(d) general (d) display

56. The lamb is a feeble little 59. The first round of the
animal tournament was a doddle

(a) fat (a) exasperating

(b) weak (b) balanced
(c) loving (c) dodgy
(d) quite (d) easy

For these questions, choose 60. As a journalist, Bala has

the nearest in meaning to the always had a nose for stories
word or phrase in italics
(a) a command
57. The chairman admires (b) cynical statement
incessant meetings (c) soft comment
(d) an instinct
(a) planned
(b) unusual 61. The actress screamed when
(c) irregular she noticed an object behind her
(d) constant
(a) wailed
(b) protested

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(c) waded in 65. Joke gave Muhammad a
(d) stormed out jaunty smile

62. Today's weather is favourable (a) frightful

for a game of tennis (B) cheerful
(c) discouraging
(a) impartial (d) Inviting
(b) abnormal
(c) encouraging From questions 65 to 85,
(d) disapproving choose the option that best
completes the gap(s)
63. All the candidates looked
aghast at the first reading of the 66. You live in the city now, __ ?
questions
(a) are you
(a) fulfilled (b) don't you
(b) dismayed (c) didn't you
(c) satisfied (d) haven't you
(d) again
67. Concrete is made of __
64. I am tired of your eternal
argument (a) sand and cement
(b) a sand and a cement
(a) open (c) sand and a cement
(b) strong (d) a sand and cement
(c) constant
(d) useless 68. Suana___ that hexagons had
five sides, but later he knew they
were six-sided figures.

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(a) would have believed (d) orthopaedic
(b) had believed
(c) believes 72. I have been doing this
(d) has believed exercise___

69. The___ to the fallen heroes (a) for five minutes

was erected at the market square (b) five minutes ago
(c) since five minutes
(a) exhibition (d) during five minutes
(b) monument
(c) myth 73. Oloyede always sleeps like a
(d) picture baby,___ ?

70. The Flying Eagles of Nigeria (a) does he

couldn't have won the match if (b) could he
they hadn't prepared well,___? (c) doesn't he
(d) did he
(a) can't they
(b) couldn't they 74. The man was given degree
(c) could they despite the fact that he did not
(d) can they attend a___ university

71. They all gathered to exhume (a an honorary

the___musician's corpse for (b) an honourable
examination (c) a ceremonial
(d) a ceremonious
(a) posthumous
(b) post-mortem 75. My father has just bought___
(c) post-natal

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(a) a peugeot brand new car 79. Nkiru has lots of friends, but I
(b) a car brand new peugeot have___
(c) a new brand peugeot car
(d) a brand new peugeot (a) only a little
(b) little
76. The university is a corporate (c) only a few
body made___ different colleges (d) few

(a) in with 80. The HOD says she considers

(b) of with her degree certificate___ than as
(c) up of a prize through labour
(d) up from
(a) rather as a gift of God
77. The secretary hadn't___ (b) rather God as a gift
money left. (c) as a gift rather of God
(d) as a rather gift of God
(a) any
(b) anything 81. Mr Ojo instructed his son to
(c) none replace the faulty___ tube
(d) no
(a) flurescent
78. The King was recognised___ (b) flourescent
the scar on his face. (c) fluorescent
(d) florescent
(a) with
(b) to 82. The employer, not the
(c) by salesmen___responsible for the
(d) for loss

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(a) have been (d) ought
(b) was
(c) were For these questions, choose
(d) will be the option that has the same
sound as the one represented
83. She was___ as anyone could by the letter(s) underlined
have had
86. Waiter
(a) as patient as teacher
(b) as a patient a teacher (a) flavour
(c) as patient teacher (b) cite
(d) a patient a teacher (c) road
(d) hair
84. There was a serious___
between the new couple over 87. Flee
feeding allowance
(a) field
(a) arguement (b) skate
(b) argeument (c) faith
(c) arguement (d) rid
(d) argument
88. Palm
85. They thought Musa___ agree
if they altered some of the (a) florid
conditions (b) ranch
(c) blunt
(a) can (d) lunch
(b) may
(c) might 89. Phantom

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(a) physics 93. Cable
(b) pew
(c) phew (a) bible
(d) party (b) mabel
(c) able
90. Chest (d) marble

(a) fixture 94. Mail

(b) school
(c) charisma (a) bale
(d) mass (b) slate
(c) girl
91. Epitaph (d) galle

(a) pneumonia For these questions, choose

(b) fan the appropriate stress pattern
(c) paper from the options, the stress
(d) pseudo syllables are written in capital
letter(s)
For these questions, choose
the option that rhymes with 95. Advantages
the given word
(a) advantaGES
92. Ever (b) adVANtages
(c) ADvantages
(a) never (d) advanTAges
(b) heavier
(c) fever 96. Intentional
(d) favour

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(a) inTENtional 99. Kanu can play FOOTBALL
(b) INtentional
(c) intentionAL (a) Who can play football?
(d) intentioNAL (b) What can Kanu play?
(c) What can Kanu do with
For this question, choose the football?
option that is stressed on the (d) Why should Kanu play
first syllable football?

97. (a) guitar 100. Aisha plays TENNIS always

(b) guilty
(c) confuse (a) Who plays tennis always?
(d) relief (b) Does Aisha watch tennis
always?
In the question, the words in (c) What does Aisha play always?
capital letter has the emphatic (d) When does Aisha play tennis?
stress. Choose the option to
which the given sentence ANSWER KEYS
relates.
1. B 2. A 3. A 4. B 5. D 6. C 7. D
98. I left my bag on the TABLE 8. D 9. C 10. D 11. C 12. A 13.
D 14. A 15. A 16. D 17. A 18. C
(a) Is the bag left under the 19. D 20. B 21. B 22. A 23. B
table? 24. D 25. B
(b) Did I leave the shoe on the
table? 26. C 27. C 28. A 29. A 30. A
(c) Who left the bag on the table? 31. B 32. A 33. D 34. D 35. A
(d) Where did I leave the bag? 36. D 37. C 38. A 39. D 40. C

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41. D 42. B 43. C 44. D 45. C
46. D 47. B 48. D 49. B 50. C

51. A 52. D 53. A 54. D 55. B

56. B 57. D 58. D 59. D 60. D
61. A 62. C 63. B 64. C 65. D
66. B 67. A 68. B 69. B 70. C
71. B 72. A 73. C 74. A 75. D

76. C 77. A 78. C 79. D 80. B

81. C 82. B 83. B 84. D 85. C
86. A 87. A 88. B 89. A 90. A
91. B 92. A 93. C 94. A 95. B
96. A 97. A 98. D 99. B 100. C

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 2017 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PASSAGE I men began to be eroded one after

another. There is hardly any
Read the passage carefully sphere of human Endeavour in
and answer each question that which women have not gained a
follows. firm foothold: there are women
doctors, engineers, pilots, prime
Anthropologists tell us that for a ministers, judges, bankers and so
society to remain stable, the roles on.
of men and women must be
properly differentiated and well Today, the women's spheres of
defined. In primitive societies, the operation are no longer restricted
men were assigned the roles of to the home; she is successfully
going out to hunt, fish and fight competing with her counterpart in
off the hostile tribe next door every area of human activity. But
while the women did the has this development been an
housekeeping and minded the unqualified blessing to the
children. The men were believed society?
to be superior to the women in
physical strength and capability. To answer this question, let us
There was a controversy in these examine some of the problems
societies as to what the roles of created in the process of
the sexes should be. achieving women's emancipation.
First, a large number of women
Consequently, primitive societies including the married ones and
enjoyed great stability. However, mothers now take up paid
with the advancement of employment.
civilization, many of the special
privileges traditionally enjoyed by

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The conditions attached to such 2. According to the passage, what
employment make it extremely two masters are women
difficult if not impossible for them struggling to serve?
to take adequate care of their
children at homes. Since no one (a) The health and education of
serve two masters, the health and their children
education of the children suffer (b) The husband and the children
tremendously. (C) The office and the husband
(d) The office and the home
Adapted from Ukwuegbe C., et
al (2006) CATCH-Up English 3. According to the passage,
Language for SSCEMME, ancient societies were secured
Ibadan: Heinemann because
Educational Books (Nigeria)
PLC. (a) men were assigned superior
roles
1. Advantages usually enjoyed by (b) the tasks of women and men
men began to were outlined
(c) women accepted inferior roles
(a) weaken through gender interpreted the roles of women
sensitivity were commonly interpreted
(b) diminish through women (d) the roles of women were
emancipation commonly interpreted
(c) dwindle with the advancement
of civilization 4. From the passage, it can be
(d) fade with wide self-realization inferred that women emancipation
results in

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(a) women becoming covertly the planning ...7...[A. holistic B. a
ambitious partial C. abnormal D. curative].
(b) resentment of men by gain When ...8... [A. planning B.
women budgetary C. projected D.
(c) crises at tome national] provisions are made,
(d) men becoming nonchalant. infrastructural ...9..[A. estimates
B. prompt C. prompt D.
5. The phrase suffer processes] shot lid be embedded.
tremendously, as used in the Where these are glaringly
passage, means ...10...[A. shortened B. cleared C.
omitted D. altered], then national
(a) greatly disadvantaged development and integration can
(b) to become worse be greatly ...11... [A. impaired B.
(c) badly unpleased degraded C. reduced D. denied].
(d) badly affected
However, the case with most
PASSAGE II developing countries is to place
other ...12... [A. sectional B.
The passage below has gaps. sectorial C. selectional D.
Immediately following each palliative] interests for above the
gap, four options are development of infrastructure. A
provided. Choose the most nation inclined to this erroneous
appropriate option for each position may continue to
gap experience ...13... (A. economic
stagnation B. recession C. social
In truth, realistic planning efforts decay D. management. This
its go with infrastructural...6... [A. implies that infrastructural
development B. projected C. development should be made to
arrangement D. tenet]. It makes take ...14...[A antecedent B.

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procedure C. control D. (d) the food in the college was
advantage] over other sectors. terrible

This is be-cause of the immense 18. In the novel, it was that

importance of infrastructure to Vanessa's father was in the
national ...15...[A. awareness B.
orientation C. policy D. growth] (a) Northern Protectorate
(b) colonial service
This question is based al S.I (c) house of commons
Manyika's INDEPENDENCE (d) house of lords

16. The college food was 19. From the novel, the Nigerian
described as dreadful by film shown created mixed
reactions in
(a) Jane
(b) Charlie (a) Simon
(c) Mahul (b) Ike
(d) Vanessa (c) Francis
(d) Margery
17. According to novel, Vanessa
fell sick after the party at 20. The mention of Negritude, in
Charlie's place because the novel, is an example of

(a) she drank too much and (a) African contribution to

skipped meals democracy
(b) of the continuous ringing of (b) African tribal custom
Oxford bells (c) African contribution to western
(c) her room was not warm civilization
enough

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(d) African adoption of western 24. The article published in
culture Students' paper criticized women
for
21. Who among the following
emphasized the importance of (a) playing music always
cross-cultural breeding? (b) overdressing
(c) distracting the men
(a) Sengbor. (d) partying
(b) Cesaire
(c) Charlie 25. In the novel, Francis pointed
(d) Simon out to Ike that Nigerians

22. Mr. Richardson's daughter (a) were inexperienced in Western

bothered about Lumumba and the democracy
wanted to go to--- (b) had taken control of their own
affairs
(a) Gabon (c) should know their history
(b) Congo better
(c) Togo (d) should speak with one voice
(d) Guinea
For this question, select the
23. The first time Tayo met option that best explains the
Vanessa was at information conveyed in the
sentences
(a) the film presentation
(b) hail for tutorials 26. The government didn't mind
(c) the Charlie's place my mentioning his name
(d) the Oxford University

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(a) He was not angry when I (d) I would like to buy a bigger
mentioned his name car if it was not so expensive
(b) He was angry when I
mentioned his name 29. No sooner had he got into the
(c) He told me not to mention his pool than the telephone rang
name
(d) He forgot to mention his name (a) He didn't get into the pool
to me because the telephone rang
(b) The telephone rang just after
27. The leader said he was not he got into the pool
unaware of the plight of the (c) The telephone rang as he was
people getting into the pool
(d) The telephone rang before he
(a) He knew of their plight got into the pool
(b) He was not informed of their
plight 30. My father said I might just as
(c) He could not understand their well stay at home for another
plight year
(d) He felt their plight
(a) I should stay at home because
28. But for the expense, I'd buy I had no other choice
bigger car (b) I might stay at home and do
well
(a) I want to buy a bigger car (c) Staying at home was probably
because it is more expensive the best thing for me
(b) I will not buy bigger car (d) I ought to stay at home in
because it is too expensive order to do well
(c) I would buy a bigger car if I
had more money

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For this question, choose the (a) anxious
option opposite in meaning to (b) fragile
the word or phrase in italics. (c) healthy
(d) cautious
31. The King's security men
relegated to the east 35. A conscientious student
should not receive a reward
(a) discharge from
(b) known in (a) An irresponsible
(c) accepted in (b) A persistent
(d) hated by (c) busy
(d) An active
32. The minister averred his
commitment 36. The poem appealed to my
sixth sense
(a) denied
(b) pledged (a) brain
(C) undertook (b) mind
(d) accented (c) instinct
(c) intelligence
33. The company was on the
brink of a financial abyss. 37. Sophie anticipated the
celebration of her tenth birthday
(a) difficult
(b) scandal (a) suggested
(c) services (b) hoped for
(d) stability (c) imagined
(d) waited for
34. Nosa is indisposed

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38. Mr. Bola is an irascible young (a) thick up
man (b) thick on
(c) thick about
(a) a weak (d) think at
(b) a crabbed
(c) a hilarious 42. Last week I ........ your friend
(d) a rude in the salon

39. She became neurotic as a (a) came into

result of her performance (b) came by
(c) came across
(a) balanced (d) came over
(b) disturbed
(c) rational 43. We might wait a little longer,
(d) excited but he would not it ..... soon

40. Malam Aliyu lived in lack (a) turn out

(b) turn up
(a) surplus (c) turn in
(b) penury (d) turn over
(c) plenitude
(d) opulence 44. His are tied, so he could not
do anything to help her
For this question, choose the
option that best completes the (a) shoulders
gap(s). (b) arms
(c) hands
41. You have to ...... how to make (d) legs
the whole week a memorable one

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45. If you want to be part of the (a) takes after
conference, you have to ...... a (b) takes up
form on me (c) takes from
(d) takes back
(a) fill up
(b) fill out 49. We have time to -- before the
(c) fill on gallery opens
(d) fill over
(a) Make
46. The flight..... has been (b) waste
postponed (c) conserve
(d) keep
(a) schedule
(b) timetable 50. The time has now come .......
(c) menu policy change in Nigeria
(d) manifest
(a) to
47. My wife should not worry (b) for
about this trial, I will always .... (c) by
her (d) at

(a) stand for For this question, choose the

(b) stand by option that has the same
(c) stand on sound as the one represented
(d) stand over by the letter(s) underlined

48. I can tell from the way he 51. tolerated

talks that he ....... his mentor
(a) stale

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(b) kneel (c) heater
(c) met (d) motor
(d) mat
56. cowed
52. gearbox
(a) low
(a) bare (b) flow
(b) feature (c) loud
(c) beer (d)cooed
(d) teacher
57. distribution
53. confusion
(a) distriBUtion
(a) measure (b) DIStribution
(b) mission (c) disTRIbution
(c) correction (d) distribution’
(d) caution
58. irrevocable
54. tertiary
(a) irreVOcable
(a) shame (b) Irrecocable
(b) question (c) iRREvocable
(c) catch (d) irrevocaBLE
(d) chair
59. My house is ACROSS the road
55. poster
(a) is her house the road?
(a) jotter (b) Is my room across the road?
(b) counter (c) Is my house on the road?

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(d) Is my house across the
street?

60. The shop closes AT 4pm

(a) Does the shop close by 4pm?

(b)Does the shop opens at 4pm?
(c) Does the stall close at 4pm?
(d) Does a shop close at 4pm?

ANSWER KEY

1. A 2. D 3. B 4. A 5. D 6. A 7. A
8. B 9. A 10. D 11. A 12. A 13. C
14. B 15. D 16. D 17. D 18. B
19. B 20. C

21. A 22. D 23. A 24. D 25. D

26. A 27. D 28. B 29. B 30. D
31. B 32. A 33. D 34. C 35. A
36. A 37. C 38. D 39. B 40. B

41. B 42. C 43. B 44. C 45. A

46. A 47. B 48. A 49. C 50. B
51. A 52. C 53. A 54. A 55. D
56. C 57. A 58. A 59. C 60. A

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 2018 JAMB USE OF ENGLISH QUESTIONS

PASSAGE A Of course, he hardly waits for

answers to these and similar
Read the following passage questions before jumping to the
and answer the questions that same inevitable conclusion.
follow. However, he met his match one
day when a new student joined
Returning home after a decade the class and heard the litany we
and half abroad, our Geography were used to. The new boy calmly
master remained incurably said, "Sir, I happen to know a few
addicted to foreign ways and white men who suffer from the
ideas for years after landing here. sickle cell disease; some are
He would forever stick to his Italians and some are Spanish.
theory of Africans suffering from a
curse inflicted on them by the The mosquito is equally deadly in
Almighty God for some heinous India, South-east Asian Countries
sins committed centuries ago. He and South America. The United
would, in support of this theory, States and some other South
ask listeners: American 5 Countries have their
"Why would our mosquito inflict deadly snakes. And, Sir, I know
deadly malaria on us whereas the many white men, some of them
British mosquito does not bite? British, who would prefer our
Why aren't there poisonous brilliant sunshine to their horribly
snakes in Britain whereas here cold winter." And he sat down.
most snakes are deadly?
I had never, before that day, seen
Why should the deadly sickle cell our master so consumed with
disease be peculiar to the black anger. He directed a burning look
race?" at the poor boy, who had no

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answer to this new battle. Without 2. Which of the following
as much as saying a single word, arguments did he not use to
the master stalked out of the support his vies?
classroom. Needless to say, our
anger was turned on the new boy, A. In Africa, the mosquito causes
who had decided to rock the boat deadly malaria whereas in Britain,
without taking the time to sound it doesn't bite or caw e malaria
the water. A delegation was sent B. There is malaria both in Britain
to the master to apologise to him. and in African Countries
C. The snakes in Africa are deadly
He was appeased. But we all but those in Britain are harmless
noticed something rather unusual D. The sickle cell disease is
thereafter never again did he peculiar to the black race.
dwell on the issue of Africans
being the cursed People. 3. "...rock the boat" What figure
of speech is this expression?
1. What point of view is the
Geography master fond of A. Simile
advancing? B. Metaphor
C. Personification
A. Africans are infested with all D. Hyperbole
kinds of problem
B. Only the white men are free
from deadly diseases 4. What extra argument (lid the
C. The Almighty God is punishing new boy offer after countering
Africans for sins they committed each of vie master's points?
long ago.
D. God did not curse the white A. There are problems especially
people. in Africa

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B. There are deadly snakes be the D. Main clause
in America and Africa
C. There are harmless snakes in Passage B
Britain
D. Many white men prefer the The passage below has gaps
African climate to their own. immediately following each
gap, four options are
5. Why do you think the master provided. Choose the most
fought back with his look rather appropriate option for each
than with further argument? gap.

A. He knew that the boy's points Mankind has been ravaged by

were valid many virus and ...7... [A. germ B.
B. He had answers to the boy's bacterial C. dirty D. mosquito]
argument diseases such as measles, but
C. He went out to sort for the tuberculosis, diarrhoea and many
boy's argument others including ... 8... [A. catarrh
D. He already made up his mind B. runny-nose C. headache D.
on his points. influenza] known also as the ...
9... cold [A. common B. sporadic
6. "...who had no answer to this C. universal D. regular].
new battle".
What grammatical name is given Outbreaks of many of these
to the above passage expression diseases have been brought under
as it is used in the passage? control in the last fifty years.
Some 10... [A. pains B. fevers C.
A. (non-defining) relative clause infection D. traces] like measles
B. Adverbial clause and whooping cough still pose a
C. Subordinate clause great danger to younger children.

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The ...11... symptoms B. [A. relievers B. treatments C.
appearance C. feels D. signs] of antibiotics D. Pills] has also
measles are more easily ... 12... helped to reduce the ... 19... [A.
[A. diagnosed B. treated C. dealt high B. mortality C. killing D
with a handled] than those of dangerous] rate among children.
whooping cough. Unlike that of
many others, the virus of measles It is universally accepted that
more easily remain ...13... [A. good ...20... [A. health B. body C.
unchanged B. constant C. sense D. development] is the
undiscovered D. erratic] for right of every human being and
hundreds of years. However, once children. You do not have to die
you have had an ...14...[A. from these diseases which wiped
epidemic B. encounter C. attack out the whole ...21... [A.
D. indisposition] of this dreadful countries B. areas C. communities
disease, you develop an ... 15... [ D. states] in the middle Ages. We
A. impurity B. armour C. have today ...22... [A. bitter B.
immunity D. ability] which is lovely C. potent D. marvellous]
almost complete and long lasting. drugs which give protection
Modern science has made against most childhood diseases.
available ... 16 ...[A. injections B.
medicine C. tablets D. vaccines to After each of the following
prevent many childhood diseases sentences, a list of possible
and this is the only guarantee of interpretations of the
... 17... [A. freedom B. discharge sentence is given. Choose the
C. cure 0. protection] from these interpretation that you
scourges. More effective consider appropriate for each
treatment of Complication arising sentence.
from these childhood diseases
using penicillin and other ...18...

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23. When asked to state her side D. getting to understand each
of the story, Bunmi started by other.
beating about the bush. This
means that Bunmi 26. The driver smelled a rat when
the policemen asked him to stop.
A. went straight to the point This means that the driver was
B. was lost in great thought
C. followed a bush path A. reckless
D. approached the subject without B. suspicious
coming to the point. C. careful
D. offensive.
24. The amount he donated was
small. He said it was his widow's 27. The students were as advised
mite. This means that to face their studies and let the
sleeping dog lie. This means that
A. he was a widow the students should
B. he was misery.
C. it was all he could honestly A. obey the authorities
afford B. organise them properly
D. he could have given more. C. leave matters as they are now
D. be as watchful as sleeping
25. The friendship between Segun dogs.
and Shehu has turned sour. This
means that Segun and Shehu are 28. From the way Ngozi behaves,
it is obvious she is a greenhorn.
A. no longer friends This means that Ngozi is
B. stilt friends
C. better friends now A. arrogant
B. cautious

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C. inexperienced 31. I knew Okoronkwo's father
D. uncivilised. very well and I must say that his
son is a chip off the old block. Thy
29. The economic situation is so means that Okoronkwo
bad that many wage earners are
hardly able to make both ends A. has Chosen the game career as
meet. This means that its father
B. is very much like his father
A. people's income exceed their C. is a I extremely different sort
expenditure of person from his lather.
B. most people are extravagant D. has taken up a different
with their income profession from his father's.
C. people's earnings are not
sufficient for their essential needs 32. The debating team was
D. most people engage in warned to make convincing points
activities that bring them extra and not to play to the gallery.
pay. This means that the team should
not
30. Since I found out his
hypocritical nature, I have been A. be selfish
keeping him at arm's length. This B. underrate opponents
means that I C. be over-confident
D. attempt to win cheap
A. avoid being similar with him popularity.
B. ignore his advice
C. report him to the authority 33. Anyone who thinks that he
D). stop visiting him. can succeed in life without
working hard is living in a fool's

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paradise. This means is that such 36 My hostess greeted her guest
a person in a very relaxed manner

A. is having an illusion A. energetic

B. thinks other people are fools B. athletic
C. thinks hat working is merely a C. stiff
joke. D. perplexed
D. is on the verge of insanity.
37. Ayo takes his studies rather
From these questions, choose lightly
the options opposite in
meaning to the words or A. humorously
phrases in italics. B. tediously
C. carefully
34. I am happy to inform you that D. seriously
your boys are conscientious
38. The doctor was very gentle
A. industrious with his patients in the examining
B. carefree room
C. careful
D. corrupt A. harsh
B. rude
35. My father is a very prosperous C. rough
businessman. D. unkind

A. ungrateful 39. The President took exception

B. unscrupulous to the ignoble role the young man
C. unskilled played in the matter
D. unsuccessful

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A. honourable C. obvious
B. embarrassing D. obscure
C dishonourable
D. extraordinary 43. His anti-apathy to religion
ideas makes him unpopular
40. The man who had been
seriously ill was convalescing at a A. remedy
seaside resort B. Consciousness
C. hostility
A. regaining health D. receptiveness
B. deteriorating in health
C. recuperating For the questions, choose the
D. relaxing options that best complete the
gap(s).
41. For millions of years, the
world resources have remained 44, He was ... [A. assisted B.
boundless duped C. enjoined D. encouraged]
... by the trickster.
A. unlimited
B. scarce 45. When the soldiers saw that
C. indomitable resistance was ... [A. inadequate
D. limited B. inefficient C. futile D.
successful] ..., they stopped
42. The difference between the fighting
experimental procedures was
imperceptible to me 46. You should read all the ... [A.
brochures B. prospectus C. tickets
A. negligible D. handouts] ... carefully before
B. significant

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you decide where to go on A. argued
holiday. B. confirmed
C. denied
47. The Emir and Conqueror of D. affirmed
the enemy territories. ---[A.
arrives B. are to arrive C. arrive 52. The high cost of living these
D. are arriving] --- next week. days calls for a lot of frugality

48 We ought to have visited the A. extravagance

Governor, ...[A. isn't it B, oughtn't B. economy
we C. shouldn't we D. haven't] C. recklessness
D. prudence.
49. He didn't sense Obi's
presence in the room, did he?... 53. Tunde's reaction underscores
[A. yes, he did B. No, he did C. the points I was making.
Yes, he didn't D. No, he didn't]
A. justifies
50. You can stay here --- [A. as B. summarizes
long B. so long C. in a much D. C. emphasizes
for as long] --- as you are quiet. D. clarifies

In each of these questions, 54. Everyone admired the

choose the option nearest in manager's adroit handling of the
meaning to the word(s) or crisis in the company
phrase in italics.
A. emphasised
51. The witness averred that she B. skilful
had seen Dosun at the scene of C. tactless
the crime D. clumsy

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55. The principal took exception In each of these questions,
to the ignoble role the teacher choose the appropriate stress
plays d in the matter item from the options. The
syllables are written in capital
A. embarrassing letters.
B. honourable
C. extraordinary 58. comfortable
D. dishonourable
A. COMfortable
In each of these questions, B. comFORtable
choose the option that has the C. comfortaBLE
same sound as the one D. comforTABLE
represented by the letter(s)
underlined. 59. incapacitate

56. key A. inCApacitate

B. incaPAcitate
A. sit C. INcapacitate
B. bet D. incapaciTATE.
C seat
D. tread 60. encouragement

57. taught A. Encouragement

B. encouragement
A. law C. encouRAgement
B. aunt D. encouragement
C. count
D. plateau

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ANSWERS

1. C 2. B 3. B 4. D 5. A 6. A 7. B
8. A 9. B 10. C 11. A 12. A 13. C
14. C 15. C 16. D 17. D 18. C
19. B 20. A

21. C 22. C 23. D 24. C 25. A

26. B 27. C 28. C 29. C 30. A
31. B 32. D 33. A 34. B 35. D
36. C 37. D 38. A 39. A 40. B

41. B 42. B 43. D 44. B 45. C

46. A 47. A 48. B 49. D 50. A
51. C 52. A 53. D 54. B 55. B
56. A 57. A 58. A 59. B 60. A

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