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WAEC English Language 2019 Objective Past Questions

All 145 questions from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) English Language 2019 Objective paper, with the correct answer and a full explanation for each. Free, no signup needed.

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English Language 2019 Objective — Question 1

Though my mother was convinced about the success of the business, her manager remained ____ .

  • A. skepticalCorrect
  • B. serious
  • C. confused
  • D. concerned

Explanation

To be convinced about something means to be certain or have a strong belief in it. The opposite is skeptical, doubtful, or unconvinced.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 2

Judgement should always be in favour of the innocent and not the ____ .

  • A. guiltyCorrect
  • B. accused
  • C. weak
  • D. elderly

Explanation

An innocent person is not guilty of a crime. The opposite of innocent is guilty, criminal, erring.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 3

Layi is quite reliable but his sister is ____ .

  • A. unswerving
  • B. untrustworthyCorrect
  • C. deceptive
  • D. pretentious

Explanation

Someone reliable can be trusted or believed because they behave well and consistently. The opposite of reliable is untrustworthy.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 4

The gullible and not the ____ usually fall prey to tricksters.

  • A. unfriendly
  • B. carefree
  • C. brave
  • D. discerningCorrect

Explanation

A gullible person is easily deceived and too willing to believe others without good judgement. The opposite is discerning.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 5

Tom's humility contrasts with his brother's ____ .

  • A. haughtinessCorrect
  • B. stubbornness
  • C. gentleness
  • D. quietness

Explanation

Humility is the quality of not being proud or considering yourself better than others. The opposite is haughtiness.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 6

The life of man appears long but, in reality, it is ____ .

  • A. briefCorrect
  • B. shortened
  • C. quick
  • D. stunted

Explanation

'Long' here describes a life that continues for a large amount of time. The opposite is 'brief' — a life that is shortly lived.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 7

In the interest of peace, it is better to dialogue than to be ____ .

  • A. controversial
  • B. rational
  • C. confrontationalCorrect
  • D. forceful

Explanation

To dialogue, in a crisis, means to hold talks aimed at bringing peace and compromise. The opposite is to be confrontational — to instigate conflict.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 8

All the wealth amassed by a greedy father is often ____ by undisciplined children.

  • A. destroyed
  • B. scattered
  • C. squanderedCorrect
  • D. ruined

Explanation

To amass wealth is to collect a large amount over time. The opposite, as used in the sentence, is to squander — to waste it.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 9

Many people find cod liver oil disgusting but soldiers find it ____ .

  • A. refreshing
  • B. medicinal
  • C. pleasantCorrect
  • D. bitter

Explanation

Whatever is disgusting is extremely unpleasant or repellent. The opposite is pleasant, appealing.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 10

The arrival of the riot police at our campus ____ the tension rather than mitigate it.

  • A. lengthened
  • B. heightenedCorrect
  • C. prolonged
  • D. created

Explanation

If a tension is mitigated, it is made less harmful. The opposite of mitigate is to worsen or heighten.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 11

Investigations revealed that the senior students ____ the juniors to throw stones at the Principal's car.

  • A. infuriated
  • B. integrated
  • C. instigatedCorrect
  • D. instituted

Explanation

Instigate means to stir or get people to revolt or do what is wrong; to cause an event to happen by stirring up a set of actions.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 12

The Supreme Court ____ the ruling of the lower court.

  • A. nullifiedCorrect
  • B. abused
  • C. proclaimed
  • D. cancelled

Explanation

The legal register used for cancelling a decision or making it have no legal effect is 'nullify' — to make a legal decision have no legal force.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 13

The board has ____ the film because it contains some nude scenes.

  • A. edited
  • B. censoredCorrect
  • C. examined
  • D. isolated

Explanation

'Censor' is the register used for a film, book, or music that is banned from being published or circulated because it is considered unsuitable for the public.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 14

Many young graduates have ____ to the West in search of greener pastures.

  • A. hurried
  • B. emigratedCorrect
  • C. absconded
  • D. flown

Explanation

Emigrate means to leave a country permanently to live in another. It differs from 'abscond', which means to leave secretly to escape from somewhere.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 15

The Committee let him go because they considered her explanation ____ .

  • A. permissible
  • B. clear
  • C. plausibleCorrect
  • D. necessary

Explanation

A plausible explanation is one likely to be true or believable; a plausible person appears honest and truthful.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 16

The company has paid dividends to its ____ .

  • A. buyers
  • B. wholesalers
  • C. shareholdersCorrect
  • D. consumers

Explanation

Dividends are paid to shareholders — persons who own shares in a company, into which its ownership is divided.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 17

Within one year, that country has ____ its currency five times.

  • A. reduced
  • B. devaluedCorrect
  • C. revamped
  • D. defaced

Explanation

In economics, to devalue currency means to reduce the rate at which it can be exchanged for foreign money.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 18

The man was arrested because he ____ in the repayment of the loan.

  • A. paused
  • B. delayed
  • C. deferred
  • D. defaultedCorrect

Explanation

In banking, to default means to fail to do something you are legally obliged to do, such as repay a debt.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 19

Many members of political parties ____ to opposing parties just before elections.

  • A. depart
  • B. change
  • C. defectCorrect
  • D. go

Explanation

In politics, defect means to leave a political party, especially to join an opposing one (also called 'cross-carpeting').

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 20

The boy must have ____ the disease from the school.

  • A. received
  • B. taken
  • C. contractedCorrect
  • D. carried

Explanation

In medicine, contract means to catch or become ill with a disease, especially by being infested by someone/something.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 21

The class captain got cold feet when he was asked to lead the protest. This means that the class captain became

  • A. nervousCorrect
  • B. afraid
  • C. concerned
  • D. calm

Explanation

To 'have cold feet' means to suffer a loss of nerve or confidence.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 22

Street traders often try to palm their customers off with faulty goods. This means that street traders

  • A. trick customers into buying faulty goodsCorrect
  • B. assist customers in choosing perfect items
  • C. ask for a lot of money for faulty goods
  • D. are ready to swap faulty items for good ones

Explanation

To 'palm something off' is to give it away or persuade someone to accept/buy it because you know it has no value, i.e. to trick them.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 23

He has broken new ground in cancer treatment with his drug. This means that he has

  • A. been highly acclaimed
  • B. introduced a new method in cancer treatmentCorrect
  • C. solved all cancer problems
  • D. thought of a new drug for cancer treatment

Explanation

'Break new ground' means to do pioneering work; to be the first to introduce a new method, idea, or invention.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 24

The Principal stood her ground even when the students revolted. This means that the Principal

  • A. maintained her positionCorrect
  • B. remained standing
  • C. refused to listen
  • D. condemned the protest

Explanation

'Stand your ground' means to refuse to be pushed backwards, or to maintain your beliefs/position in an argument.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 25

Looking after young children can tax one's patience. This means that looking after children

  • A. is pleasant
  • B. requires enduranceCorrect
  • C. is a lot of fun
  • D. takes time

Explanation

If something 'taxes' you, it requires a lot of effort, strength, or endurance to accomplish.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 26

When the show was about to begin, we were still at sixes and sevens. This means that we were

  • A. confusedCorrect
  • B. in groups
  • C. excited
  • D. far away

Explanation

'At sixes and sevens' means in a confused, badly organized, or difficult situation.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 27

My aunt's rough driving could make one tear one's hair out. This means that her driving could make one

  • A. lose the hair on one's head
  • B. feel very sad
  • C. get very worriedCorrect
  • D. feel like crying

Explanation

If you 'tear your hair out' over something, you are feeling a great deal of anxiety over it.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 28

We never expected that Father would read us the riot act. This means that our father

  • A. taught us the riot act
  • B. cautioned us not to be involved in riots
  • C. warned us to stop making troubleCorrect
  • D. encouraged us to make trouble

Explanation

'Read the riot act' means to give someone a strong warning that they must improve their behaviour.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 29

You will certainly break his heart if you tell him that. This means that telling him that would

  • A. make him very sadCorrect
  • B. meet his expectations
  • C. greatly disappoint him
  • D. make him confirm his suspicion

Explanation

When you 'break someone's heart', you cause them great or extreme sadness/sorrow.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 30

He is at a crossroads of his life. This means that it is time for him to

  • A. make a very important decisionCorrect
  • B. retrace his steps
  • C. make peace with everyone
  • D. take matters seriously

Explanation

'Be at a crossroads' means to be at a stage in your life when you must make a very important decision.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 31

Amina is fond of making derogatory remarks about her brother.

  • A. inconsiderate
  • B. discreet
  • C. unnecessary
  • D. belittlingCorrect

Explanation

'Derogatory' describes a remark that shows strong disapproval and disrespect — disparaging, offensive, or belittling.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 32

His jail terms are to run concurrently.

  • A. consistently
  • B. alternately
  • C. simultaneouslyCorrect
  • D. consecutively

Explanation

Whatever runs 'concurrently' happens at the same time — simultaneously. ('Consecutively' means one after another without interruption.)

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 33

Here's a man who comes from a background of entertainment.

  • A. an experienceCorrect
  • B. a place
  • C. a culture
  • D. a mood

Explanation

'Background' here refers to his experience, knowledge, or exposure to entertainment.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 34

She has always been grateful to you for having saved her from kidnappers.

  • A. content
  • B. comforted
  • C. happy
  • D. thankfulCorrect

Explanation

'Grateful' describes showing or expressing thanks, especially to another person — i.e. thankful.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 36

Charles' concern for Anna is affected.

  • A. insincereCorrect
  • B. incorrect
  • C. weak
  • D. unfair

Explanation

'Affected' describes a manner or behaviour that is artificial, fake, and not sincere; full of pretence.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 37

Corporal punishment is meant to be a deterrent to indiscipline.

  • A. remedy
  • B. measure
  • C. discouragementCorrect
  • D. prevention

Explanation

A 'deterrent' is a punishment which prevents other people from doing something for which a person is punished — a discouragement.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 38

The new bank is fast becoming insolvent.

  • A. inactive
  • B. ineffective
  • C. bankruptCorrect
  • D. lax

Explanation

'Insolvent' means not having enough money to pay debts or having no control over one's financial matters — i.e. bankrupt.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 40

I hope the Principal would be gracious enough to forgive us.

  • A. cordial
  • B. polite
  • C. mercifulCorrect
  • D. gentle

Explanation

'Gracious' here means merciful, compassionate, forgiving, tender-hearted.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 41

You have no excuse ____ late.

  • A. of being
  • B. to being
  • C. been for
  • D. for beingCorrect

Explanation

The noun 'excuse' collocates with the preposition 'for', followed by a gerund (-ing verbal noun): 'You have no excuse for being late'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 43

You will surely help me with my work, ____ ?

  • A. can you
  • B. won't youCorrect
  • C. would you
  • D. don't you

Explanation

The auxiliary verb 'will' in a positive statement forms a negative question tag: 'You will surely help me... won't you?'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 44

The trader tried to cash in ____ the customer's ignorance.

  • A. by
  • B. at
  • C. onCorrect
  • D. with

Explanation

'Cash in on' is a phrasal verb meaning to get money or an advantage from something, often unfairly.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 45

She hates ____ kept waiting.

  • A. having been kept
  • B. having kept
  • C. being keptCorrect
  • D. to be keeping

Explanation

What follows the verb 'hate' should be a noun or gerund (verbal noun); the correct form here is 'being kept'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 47

It is advisable to mind your own business and not ____ .

  • A. somebody's else
  • B. somebody else'sCorrect
  • C. some body else's
  • D. somebody else

Explanation

The apostrophe marks possession and should be attached to 'else' to show the matter belongs to another person: 'somebody else's'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 48

Mike was very glad ____ that he had won the lottery.

  • A. to hearCorrect
  • B. for hearing
  • C. at hearing
  • D. on hearing

Explanation

In this sentence structure, what follows 'glad' must be a to-infinitive verb: 'glad to hear'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 49

Mr Kwesi bought ____ .

  • A. a cupboard attractive new
  • B. attractive a new cupboard
  • C. a new attractive cupboard
  • D. an attractive new cupboardCorrect

Explanation

The headword 'cupboard' comes last; modifiers are ordered: article ('an'), quality adjective ('attractive'), then age/time adjective ('new').

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 50

Don't let Jack bully you: stand up ____ him.

  • A. for
  • B. against
  • C. above
  • D. toCorrect

Explanation

'Stand up to somebody' is a phrasal verb meaning to defend yourself against a powerful person or group treating you unfairly.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 51

The culprits ____ when we entered the courtroom.

  • A. were being interrogatedCorrect
  • B. are being interrogated
  • C. will be interrogated
  • D. would be interrogated

Explanation

The action was ongoing at a point in the past, so the verb should be past progressive (passive): 'were being interrogated'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 52

The students had no choice ____ to do as they had been commanded.

  • A. except
  • B. butCorrect
  • C. rather
  • D. even

Explanation

'But' (meaning 'except') is appropriate here because 'except' cannot be followed directly by a to-infinitive verb, only by a prepositional phrase.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 53

My submission ____ by the Council at the moment.

  • A. considering
  • B. is being consideredCorrect
  • C. considered
  • D. is considered

Explanation

'At the moment' shows the action is ongoing, so a passive present continuous is needed: 'is being considered'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 54

If she had known, she wouldn't have come, ____ ?

  • A. could she
  • B. couldn't she
  • C. wouldn't she
  • D. would sheCorrect

Explanation

The tag uses the modal verb of the last clause ('wouldn't have come'); since the statement is negative, the tag must be positive: 'would she'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 55

Last week's assignment was ____ difficult for me.

  • A. much tooCorrect
  • B. too much
  • C. much
  • D. too much too

Explanation

'Much too' should come before 'too' to indicate a large degree of difficulty: 'much too difficult for me'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 56

Could you please ____ a receipt for my purchase?

  • A. make in
  • B. make outCorrect
  • C. make up
  • D. make for

Explanation

To 'make out' a cheque, slip, or receipt means to write all the necessary information on it.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 57

This is an improvement ____ the last report.

  • A. over
  • B. onCorrect
  • C. in
  • D. of

Explanation

'Improvement' collocates with 'on' when referring to a particular thing being better than a previous version.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 58

You can apply if you agree ____ their terms.

  • A. upon
  • B. toCorrect
  • C. about
  • D. in

Explanation

'Agree' collocates with 'to' for agreeing to something (e.g. terms), and with 'with' for agreeing with somebody.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 59

When we were in boarding school, my parents usually came to check ____ us every week.

  • A. with
  • B. over
  • C. onCorrect
  • D. for

Explanation

'Check on somebody' means to try to discover what someone is doing or how they are faring, to be sure they are safe and well.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 61

The holiday came to an end all ____ soon.

  • A. tooCorrect
  • B. rather
  • C. much
  • D. more

Explanation

'All too' is used before an adjective/adverb to emphasize a negative meaning: 'The holidays flew all too quickly'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 62

The research was carried out ____ a sample population.

  • A. over
  • B. in
  • C. with
  • D. onCorrect

Explanation

The noun 'research' collocates with 'on' when referring to what it was carried out on (the verb 'research' collocates with 'into').

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 63

Though ____ by opposition from his own supporters, the Chairman pressed ahead with his plans.

  • A. shaking
  • B. shook
  • C. shakenCorrect
  • D. was shaken

Explanation

Only the participle ('-en') form is needed in this clause: 'Though shaken by opposition...'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 64

To avoid trouble, it is best to say very ____ on the case.

  • A. less
  • B. too
  • C. few
  • D. littleCorrect

Explanation

'Little' (not much) is appropriate here; 'less' does not take 'very' in this way, while 'few'/'small' apply to countable nouns.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 65

He offered no explanation, ____ an apology.

  • A. still less
  • B. and even less
  • C. still less anCorrect
  • D. less still

Explanation

'Still less' is used to make a negative statement stronger: 'He offered no explanation, still less an apology'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 66

Our school will ____ one hundred and twenty students this year.

  • A. turn in
  • B. turn on
  • C. turn outCorrect
  • D. turn over

Explanation

'Turn out' means to produce something, often in large numbers: 'Our school will turn out one hundred and twenty students this year'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 68

We need to ____ for lost ground.

  • A. make in
  • B. make by
  • C. make upCorrect
  • D. make through

Explanation

'Make up for' lost ground is the standard idiomatic expression, meaning to compensate for something.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 70

I believe he'll be arrested ____ .

  • A. some days
  • B. many days
  • C. many a day
  • D. some dayCorrect

Explanation

'Someday' means at some time in the future which is not yet known or stated: 'Maybe someday you'll both meet again'.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 71

(gap 71)

  • A. audience
  • B. spectatorsCorrect
  • C. crowd
  • D. congregation

Explanation

'Spectators' best fits people who trooped into the stadium to watch — people watching an event without taking part.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 81

1. Informal letter: Write a letter to a friend describing the experiences you have gained from a leadership/prefect role in your school.

Explanation

18, Giwa Williams Street, Iyana Church, Abeokuta, Osun State. June 29th, 2019. Dear Funke, It's been a while since we've heard from each other. I trust you're doing just fine, as no news is good news. I'm quite sure you're coping and balancing your studies with your role as the Health Prefect of your school, so that none suffers. In fact, I find it quite interesting to share the experiences I've gained in my role as the Library Prefect of Bright Tomorrow College, hence the essence of this letter. As a Library Prefect, I've been working with the school Librarian in a number of capacities which include lending books out and seeing to their return, keeping a proper catalogue of outgoing and incoming books, and being accountable for the contact information of borrowers, etc. These duties, I must say, have improved my organizational skill; I now pay attention to details and keep proper records of things. Interestingly, being in charge of books has increased my quest for knowledge. I've read quite a good number of books not only academic but also literary and historical books as well as documentaries. I've explored and travelled to many parts of the world through the pages of books. The knowledge I've gained regarding sciences, culture, social behaviour, and tribal and racial differences is quite invaluable. Since I get to deal with different students every day, solving problems relating to them has improved my communication with people and understanding of humans generally. By virtue of being the Library Prefect, I'm automatically one of the leaders of the Literary and debating, and reading clubs. We've either organized or attended some interesting initiatives to create awareness on the reading culture of students. In one of those occasions, Books for Every African Child (BEAC), an NGO based in Abuja, invited ten schools, including Bright Tomorrow College, to give a speech on the reading culture of Nigerian youths. This experience further strengthened my confidence in facing a crowd of students and impacting them through talk. Funke, I won't say everything has been rosy, as I've faced challenges dealing with people and balancing my role alongside my academic performance. But the challenges have all strengthened my resolve to do more. I'd love to hear from you too. I'm sure you've got a lot of gist for me, especially how you're able to navigate your responsibility as the Health Prefect of your school. Take good care. Yours sincerely, Bunmi

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 82

2. Article: Write an article for publication in a magazine on the topic 'Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youth: Causes and Solutions.'

Explanation

DRUG ABUSE AMONG NIGERIAN YOUTH: CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS By Mezie Ojukwu, SS 3B The incidence of drug abuse, especially among Nigerian youths and the country at large, are spelling doom we may not be able to cope with if nothing is done urgently to nib this menace. Drug abuse here refers to the use of illicit substances, misuse or overdose of drugs for different unhealthy purposes. These substances include cocaine, cannabis, heroine, codeine, tramadol, among other substances that are dangerous to health. One noticeable cause of drug abuse among youth is peer pressure. The youthful exuberance in every young person gives them the hunches to wanting to try everything new, especially doing drugs and engaging in sexual practices. An innocent boy, if not well-guided, can be influenced by his corrupt peers who are used to doing drugs. They can lure him with the temporal 'benefit' they enjoy from drugs such as feeling high and enjoying a fantasied realm. The other day, many young men were caught in a rendezvous in Kano while they were gulping lots of cough syrups containing codeine. Some were even said to have confessed to sniffing the disgusting smell/evaporation emanating from latrine. Peer influence would have dragged some of them into this. Another cause is mental disorder, commonly called depression. Life is hard on many young able-bodied Nigerians. People are facing many problems ranging from economic challenges, family issues, anger issues to poverty. They are leading miserable lives. While many find solace in religious gatherings, a large number of others deal with their depression by drugging and drinking just to enjoy momentary relief. This has further caused addiction to drugs. Besides, parental neglect is another cause. Where parents neglect their responsibility to socially guard and guide their adolescents at the time the latter need close monitoring, such adolescents will find guidance elsewhere either from already damaged adults or from other misguided/unguided adolescents. Many uneducated boys working with public transporters/drivers learned how to smoke cigarette and wraps of grinded dry pawpaw leaves from these drivers. However, one way of curbing drug abuse is by spreading consistent awareness about the negative effects of drugs. This awareness tour should get to secondary schools, universities and every nook and cranny of our societies. Youths must be sensitized in different languages on the need to desist from doing drugs. The government should strongly implement policy against the sales of hard drugs and their importations. Arrested drug addicts should undergo mental and psychological rehabilitation. Awareness to resist people suffering from depression should equally be initiated. All these will definitely curb and reduce the incidence of drug abuse among Nigerian youths.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 83

3. Formal letter: Write a letter to the Principal of your school, giving a true account of a fight you witnessed, to defend a student who was wrongly expelled because of it.

Explanation

Okigbo Memorial College, 4, Okigure Road, Owerri, Imo State. June 29, 2019. Dear Sir, A TRUE ACCOUNT OF THE RECENT FIGHT I am Peter Njokwu, a student in S.S. 3B. Being an eye witness of the fight that occurred on the 15th of June, 2019, resulting in the expulsion of Julius Obi, I find it necessary to set the record straight by giving a true account of the incidence, and to show that Julius Obi was not at fault and should not have been expelled. Truth be told, it was Amaka Joseph, the most notorious troublesome girl in S.S. 2, who triggered the fight. Amaka had once had issues with Rebecca Okafor, the Labour Prefect, because the latter ordered her and a couple of others to clean up the field as punishment for coming late to school. This had happened some weeks earlier. Amaka, being a belligerent girl, was then looking for a slight opportunity to waylay Rebecca. On the day of the incidence, both were seen fighting near the hall. Amaka was almost tearing the Labour Prefect's uniform as well as slapping, when Julius and I got to the scene. Knowing the kind of person Amaka is, I did not intervene, but Julius mediated between the fighters and freed Rebecca off Amaka's hands. Suddenly, Amaka held Julius, while slapping, harassing and shouting at the same time. She called attention and screamed that Julius was fondling with her body. In a short while, Amaka's boyfriend, Michael Chukwu, and his friend, John Nnanna, both in SS3, arrived the scene. They took Amaka's word for it and started beating Julius up. The beating was too much as they were hitting him with broken legs of chairs. Julius had to defend himself; Julius swiftly threw his elbow to defend himself but it hit Amaka on the left eye and she fell. It was a serious hit; the eye swelled with many stains of blood. She was rushed to the school clinic. Sir, Julius was just a victim of the whole situation, and shouldn't have been expelled. Many students know him as a well-behaved, brilliant boy, with no single record of fight in the school. The real culprit here is Amaka herself, her boyfriend Michael and John who worsened the whole situation. Julius was only trying to mediate and everything turned against him. Sir, I will like that his case, and see reasons why Julius Obi should be reinstated. Thank you for your understanding. Yours faithfully, Peter Njokwu

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 84

4. Speech: Prepare the text of a speech to be delivered by the outgoing Head Boy at a send-off ceremony, addressing 'The Challenges of Prefectship.'

Explanation

THE CHALLENGES OF PREFECTSHIP: A SPEECH DELIVERED BY THE HEADBOY The Principal, Vice-principal, Teachers, Parents, my fellow outgoing Prefects and every student of Latter Glory College here present. I count it a privilege standing before you all on this memorable send-off ceremony and giving a speech on the challenges of prefectship. My experience, as the Head Boy, has taught me that prefectship is a clarion call to serve. My fellow outgoing prefects can attest that on many occasions either an individual or as a group we have sacrificed time, energy and even resources to get students organized and get things done in the right way. Enthusiastic in-coming prefects must understand that beyond the title and euphoria of being called prefects, lies real work, challenges, responsibility, sacrifice and leadership, requires commitments and determination to organize humans. And students, I must say, are very difficult to lead. Yet at prefects, you have responsibility to balance the expectations from both the school authorities and the students. Many times, we have left our personal studies to attend to complaints, issues and fight among students, especially cases of bullying and harassment. Many students hardly comply with school rules, and you, as prefects, have to find a way of making them do so in the most civil way. For instance, roaming while classes are ongoing is common among senior students, as prefects, you must ensure this indiscipline should not be tolerated, even if the student is your friend or classmate. Also, I need to say that many challenges are unforeseen and unexpected; prefects must be pro-active to manage conflicts before it degenerates boldly. One way to do this is by timely reporting to teachers or school authorities. Besides, some challenges require that you learn safety and first-aid tips. I'm sure the Health Prefect, Debora Miracle, can recall the day a junior student collapsed while all teachers were at a compulsory meeting at the school Hall. You all know how far the Hall is to the Junior Block A. The Health Prefect and I dashed to the scene. Immediately we forced her mouth open, and put a spoon across her teeth to prevent her teeth gnashing. We then applied other safety tips to resuscitate the girl. Afterwards, she was taken to the clinic. God forbid what would have happened if we hadn't provided that timely intervention. You therefore need to be prepared for service always and be ready to solve problems because challenges will come your way unexpectedly. I will like to end my speech by thanking the school authorities for giving us the privilege to serve and learn through the challenges that came our way. The leadership lessons we have learnt will be useful to us in life. To the next set of prefects, I pray you receive the enablement to perform better than we did, and do the school proud. Thank you for listening.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 85

5. Narrative essay: Write a story to illustrate the saying 'I wish I had listened to my parents.'

Explanation

I WISH I HAD LISTENED TO MY PARENTS It seemed my parents saw the womb of time; they knew that whatever an adult sees while sitting, a child won't see it even if he climbs a tree. They know what might befall me if I kept being under the bad influence of Yetunde. They knew her case wasn't just a youthful exuberance; she was completely wayward. My parents were sure that if I kept being in Yetunde's company, it was only a matter of time for evil communication to corrupt good manners. But I thought they were only mean, and didn't want me to enjoy my adolescence; I misconstrued their intention to save me from danger ahead. I though they wanted to keep friends away from me; I though they were over-protective. So, I would sneak out every weekend to Yetunde's house. We would have luscious fun, we would drink, party and go out with weird boys and girls I have never known before. I attended a school that was a stone's throw to Yetunde's. I always looked forward to seeing her, during break, and I wouldn't return to school to complete my lesson for the day. Yetunde was such a social enthusiast, talker and bad influencer. We would do all sorts of nasty things including smoking. I was naive and inquisitive; I wanted to try everything that would make me free from home. Although she was two years older than me, both in age and in class, I always preferred to rapport and relate with older persons even much older. "Would you give Uncle Wolex a chance to roll with you? You will enjoy him I swear! Just try him", Yetunde said. Wolex was a neighbourhood uncle I didn't know before. Since Yetunde had endorsed him, I started going out with him. His car was enticing, his outlook and fragrance, alluring. We would eat, party, kiss and have sex. The first time my period ceased, I was afraid to call Uncle Wolex. I called Yetunde instead; she informed Wolex and we did something about it in a nearby clinic. My mum, being a mother, almost suspected my restlessness, but I pretended nothing had happened. I lost concentration. My performance in school soon reduced to woes. It is either my thought was filled with next outing, next fondling with Wolex or how to get rid of another abortion. We always did something about it when it happened. It never occurred to me to question Yetunde why her boyfriend, Joe hadn't got her pregnant. I was always the one visiting the clinic. The last one I had messed my life up. It was on a Sunday evening. My parents had gone for their usual extended family meeting. Wolex and Yetunde drove in to pick me up. We did it but it went wrong this time. I got home feeling weak and dying on the inside. I covered up so my parents wouldn't notice when they returned. I barely slept that night. Dad drove me to school the next, a Monday morning, though I was in distress unknown to him. Few hours later I passed out while lesson was ongoing. I was rushed to the school clinic from there to a hospital. My dad was contacted. The doctor rescued my life, but I lost my womb. My parents arrested Wolex and Yetunde, but that wouldn't fix my shattered life. I wish my path had never crossed Yetunde's. I wish I had listened to my parents.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 86

1. marry

  • A. batterCorrect
  • B. barter
  • C. perk
  • D. martyr

Explanation

Letter 'a' in marry produces a short /æ/ sound, also represented by 'a' in batter. 'Barter' and 'martyr' produce the long /ɑ:/ instead.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 106

21. truth

  • A. threwCorrect
  • B. teak
  • C. trend
  • D. though

Explanation

Letters 'th' in truth represent the voiceless dental fricative /θ/, also represented in threw ('though' instead has the voiced /ð/).

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 126

41. (compare stress patterns)

  • A. cleric
  • B. allowCorrect
  • C. classic
  • D. partridge

Explanation

The other words have primary stress on the first syllable; 'allow' has its primary stress on the second syllable.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 127

42. (compare stress patterns)

  • A. repellentCorrect
  • B. publicly
  • C. particle
  • D. primary

Explanation

The other words have primary stress on the first syllable; 'repellent' has its primary stress on the second syllable.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 128

43. (compare stress patterns)

  • A. sinister
  • B. convalesceCorrect
  • C. circumstance
  • D. relegate

Explanation

The other words have primary stress on the first syllable; 'convalesce' has its primary stress on the third syllable.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 129

44. (compare stress patterns)

  • A. sinisterCorrect
  • B. religion
  • C. efficient
  • D. encourage

Explanation

The other words have primary stress on the second syllable; 'sinister' has its primary stress on the first syllable.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 130

45. (compare stress patterns)

  • A. suggest
  • B. obey
  • C. denounce
  • D. vehicleCorrect

Explanation

The other words have primary stress on the second syllable; 'vehicle' has its primary stress on the first syllable.

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 131

46. John was a football LEGEND.

  • A. Was Ernest a football legend?
  • B. Was John a football coach?Correct
  • C. Was John a hockey legend?
  • D. Is John a football legend?

Explanation

The emphasis on LEGEND reinforces a correction to 'Was John a football coach?' — 'No, he was rather a football LEGEND.'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 132

47. Three executives REQUESTED to see the manager.

  • A. Did three top executives request to see the clerk?
  • B. Did three top executives decline to see the manager?Correct
  • C. Did three junior executives request to see the manager?
  • D. Did three top executives request to accompany the manager?

Explanation

The emphasis on REQUESTED reinforces a correction to 'Did three top executives decline to see the manager?'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 133

48. DORIS is a meticulous worker.

  • A. Is James a meticulous worker?Correct
  • B. Is Doris a careless worker?
  • C. Is Doris a meticulous student?
  • D. Was Doris a meticulous worker?

Explanation

The emphasis on DORIS reinforces a correction to 'Is James a meticulous worker?' — 'No, it is DORIS that is meticulous.'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 134

49. The junior BOY cleaned the floor.

  • A. Did the junior boy sweep the floor?
  • B. Did the junior girl clean the floor?Correct
  • C. Did the senior boy clean the floor?
  • D. Did the junior boy clean the compound?

Explanation

The emphasis on BOY reinforces a correction to 'Did the junior girl clean the floor?'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 135

50. Omo's brother won a RADIO.

  • A. Did Omo's brother lose a radio?
  • B. Did Omo's sister win a radio?
  • C. Did Omo's brother win a phone?Correct
  • D. Did Tayo's brother win a radio?

Explanation

The emphasis on RADIO reinforces a correction to 'Did Omo's brother win a phone?'

English Language 2019 Objective — Question 142

57. /p/

  • A. pneumonia
  • B. compareCorrect
  • C. cupboard
  • D. psychology

Explanation

The plosive /p/ is noticeable only in compare; 'p' is silent in pneumonia, cupboard has /b/ context, and psychology's 'p' is silent.

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