Hello, Students!

One of the best ways to prepare for your English exams is by practicing with past questions and sample exercises. This lesson will guide you on how to use past papers effectively and provide practice questions that align with the WAEC and NECO exam formats.

Why Practice with Past Papers?

1. Understanding the Format:
   • Past papers help you become familiar with the structure and types of questions you will face in the exams.
2. Time Management:
   • Practicing under timed conditions helps you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
3. Identifying Common Topics:
   • Reviewing past papers allows you to identify frequently tested topics and areas you need to focus on.
4. Building Confidence:
   • Regular practice with past papers can help build your confidence and reduce anxiety on exam day.

How to Use Past Papers Effectively

1. Start Early:
   • Begin practicing with past papers well before the exam date to give yourself enough time to review and improve.
2. Simulate Exam Conditions:
   • Practice under exam conditions by timing yourself and working in a quiet environment. This will help you get used to the pressure of the actual exam.
3. Review Your Answers:
   • After completing a practice paper, review your answers carefully. Identify areas where you made mistakes and understand why.
4. Focus on Weak Areas:
   • Use the results of your practice sessions to identify weak areas. Spend extra time revising those topics.
5. Repeat Regularly:
   • Regular practice with past papers will help reinforce your learning and ensure that you are well-prepared.

Sample Practice Questions

Here are some sample questions to help you get started:

1. Comprehension Passage

Read the passage below and answer the following questions:

“In a small village in Nigeria, there lived a wise old man named Baba Tunde. He was known for his stories and wisdom, which he shared with the children of the village every evening under a large baobab tree…”

Questions:

• What is Baba Tunde known for in the village?
• Where did he share his stories?
• What does the word “wisdom” mean in the context of the passage?

2. Essay Writing

Choose one of the following topics and write an essay of about 250 words:

• “The Importance of Education in Today’s World.”
• “A Day I Will Never Forget.”
• “The Role of Technology in Modern Society.”

3. Letter Writing

Write a formal letter to your school principal requesting permission to organize a cultural day event. Your letter should include reasons for the event, proposed dates, and activities planned.

4. Grammar and Vocabulary

• Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb:
  • If she (go) __ to the market, she will buy some fruits.
  • They (finish) __ their homework before dinner.
• Match the synonyms:
  • Happy – (Joyful, Sad)
  • Large – (Tiny, Big)

5. Sentence Structure and Syntax

Rearrange the words to form a correct sentence:

• “the / cat / chased / the / mouse / quickly.”

Tips for Answering Exam Questions

1. Read the Questions Carefully:
   • Make sure you understand what each question is asking before you begin to answer.
2. Plan Your Answers:
   • For essay and letter writing, take a few minutes to outline your main points before you start writing.
3. Use Clear and Concise Language:
   • Avoid unnecessary words and be direct in your answers.
4. Check Your Work:
   • If time permits, review your answers to correct any grammatical errors or unclear expressions.

Next Steps

• Regular Practice: Make a habit of practicing with past papers at least once a week.
• Seek Feedback: Share your practice answers with your teachers or peers for constructive feedback.