BECE English Language 2024 Theory Past Questions

Model answer

12, Unity Street, Ikeja, Lagos. 18th October, 2024. The Principal, Great Minds Secondary School, Ikeja, Lagos. Dear Sir/Madam, REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF TIME TO PAY SCHOOL FEES I am writing to humbly explain why my school fees and other requirements have not been paid and to ask for your kind understanding. My parents have been passing through serious financial hardship this year. My father's business has suffered heavy losses because of the high cost of goods and the poor state of the economy, and my mother's income has also dropped. As a result, they cannot pay my school fees, buy my textbooks and uniform, or settle other levies at the moment. They have told me how sad they are about it, and I have seen how hard they work to keep the family going. I am a serious and obedient student, and I do not want this situation to affect my studies. I therefore plead that I be allowed to remain in school while my parents pay in instalments as soon as they are able. If it is possible, I would also be grateful to be considered for any available scholarship, bursary or work-study arrangement. I am grateful for your kindness and understanding, and I promise to keep up my good conduct and hard work. Yours faithfully, Adaeze Okon.

Model answer

Mr. Chairman, panel of judges, the opposing team, teachers and fellow students, good morning. I stand here as the chief speaker for the proposition to support the motion that parents are to be blamed for the misconduct of their children. The home is the first school of every child. A child learns speech, behaviour and values from the parents before any teacher or friend. When parents fail to teach good morals, the child grows up without direction. A child who sees his parents quarrel, cheat or use abusive language will most likely copy them. Secondly, many parents neglect their duty of care and supervision. They are so busy chasing money that they do not know the friends their children keep, the films they watch or the places they go. Children left alone easily fall into bad company, cultism, drug abuse and examination malpractice. Thirdly, some parents spoil their children by giving in to every demand and refusing to discipline them. The Bible says, 'Train up a child in the way he should go.' A child who is never corrected will not know the difference between right and wrong. Finally, parents who do not provide the basic needs of their children push them into street hawking, stealing and other vices. In conclusion, although friends, the media and society also influence a child, parents carry the greatest responsibility. I therefore urge this house to support the motion. Thank you.