WAEC SSCE - English Language - 1991

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Dog

Maelezo ya Majibu

The underlined sound in the word "dog" is /ɒ/ (short "o" sound). Among the options, the word that has a similar sound to /ɒ/ is "don" (option A), as it also has the short "o" sound. The other options, "dawn," "dam," and "done," have different vowel sounds (/ɔː/, /æ/, and /ʌ/ respectively), so they do not have a similar sound to "dog."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes each of the following sentences.
Do you notice John and Comfort glancing at ...?

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "each other". "Each other" is a reciprocal pronoun used to indicate a mutual action or relationship between two people or things. In the sentence, the speaker is asking if the listener has noticed John and Comfort glancing at each other, meaning that they are exchanging glances or making eye contact with one another. Option A, "themselves", is not a suitable option in this sentence, as it suggests that John and Comfort are glancing at themselves, which does not make sense in context. Option B, "the others", is also not a suitable option as it does not convey the mutual relationship between John and Comfort. Option D, "theirseleves", is not a valid word in English, and therefore cannot be the correct option.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Do you notice John and Comfort glancing at .....?

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "each other." Explanation: The phrase "glancing at" implies that John and Comfort are looking at someone or something. The only option that makes sense in this context is "each other." Therefore, the completed sentence would read: "Do you notice John and Comfort glancing at each other?" This suggests that John and Comfort are exchanging glances with each other, perhaps indicating some kind of nonverbal communication or shared understanding. The other options are incorrect because they do not convey the same meaning as "each other" in this context. "Themselves" suggests that John and Comfort are looking at themselves, which would not make sense given the verb "glancing at." "The others" implies that John and Comfort are looking at someone or something other than themselves, but it doesn't specify who or what that might be. "Theirseleves" is not a proper word in English and should be written as "themselves."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Are you keen...........joining me in this venture?

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct answer is "on". "When you are keen on something", it means that you are very interested and enthusiastic about it. In the given sentence, the speaker is asking whether the other person is interested in joining them in the venture. Therefore, the correct preposition to use is "on" to express this interest. For example, you can say "I'm keen on learning new languages" or "She's keen on trying out new restaurants". Similarly, "Are you keen on joining me in this venture?" means "Are you interested in joining me in this venture?"

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
It is a ... that the more you look, the less you see.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "paradox." A paradox is a statement or situation that contradicts itself or seems to go against common sense. In this case, the paradox is that the more you look, the less you see, which seems to go against the idea that the more attention you pay to something, the more you should be able to see and understand it.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Tunji was..............hungry that he ate the food meant for his three sisters

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence describes how hungry Tunji was that he ended up eating the food that was meant for his three sisters. To complete the sentence, we need to use an adverb that indicates the degree or intensity of Tunji's hunger. Among the options given, "so" (option A), "extremely" (option B), and "very" (option C) are adverbs that can convey this meaning. However, "quiet" (option D) is not an adverb that can describe Tunji's hunger, and therefore it is incorrect. Between the three options, "so" is the most appropriate adverb to use in this sentence because it indicates a high degree of hunger. Therefore, the correct option to complete the sentence is "so." The complete sentence with the correct option is: "Tunji was so hungry that he ate the food meant for his three sisters."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
The corrupt bank manager was arrested and convicted..........

Maelezo ya Majibu

Option C, "in the long run" is the correct answer. The phrase "in the long run" means eventually or over time, and is used to suggest that something may not be immediately beneficial, but will be in the future. In the context of the sentence, it implies that the corrupt bank manager's arrest and conviction will ultimately lead to a positive outcome, such as a reduction in corruption and an improvement in the bank's operations. The other options do not fit the context of the sentence and are grammatically incorrect.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
The rather insignificant effort he made yielded ....results

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word "insignificant" means "unimportant" or "not meaningful." Therefore, the opposite of "insignificant" would be a word that means "important" or "meaningful." Out of the options given, the word that means "important" or "meaningful" is "tremendous," so the opposite of "insignificant" is "tremendous."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
On my way to the post office,I ..........my classmate.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "stopped to greet". The phrase "stopped to greet" is a common expression that means to pause one's progress in order to exchange pleasantries with someone. In the sentence, the speaker is stating that on their way to the post office, they stopped to greet their classmate, indicating that they took a moment to say hello or engage in a brief conversation. Option A, "stopped to greet", is the correct form of the phrase in the past tense. Option B, "stop to greet", is not grammatically correct in the context of the sentence. Option C, "had stopped greeting", does not accurately convey the meaning of pausing to greet someone. Option D, "stopped greeting", does not include the preposition "to", which is necessary to indicate the purpose of the speaker's stop.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
They are.....new employees at the headquarters of the factory.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct answer is "taking on." This phrasal verb means to employ or hire someone for a job. Therefore, "They are taking on new employees at the headquarters of the factory" means that the factory is hiring new employees.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
..........bring a letter of authority before he can collect the money?

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence is asking whether someone must bring a letter of authority before they can collect the money. To make this sentence a question, we need to use the auxiliary verb "does." Therefore, the correct option should start with "Does he." Now, we need to decide which of the options following "Does he" is grammatically correct. The subject of the sentence is "he," and the verb is "need" in its base form. The correct structure for a question using the verb "need" is "Need + subject + verb?" Therefore, the correct option is "Need he" (option B). The complete sentence with the correct option is: "Does he need to bring a letter of authority before he can collect the money?"

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
The rainstorm did a lot of.......to the houses and trees in the area.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct word to complete the sentence is "damage". This is because the sentence is talking about the effects of a rainstorm on houses and trees in the area, and "damage" is the noun form of the word that best describes the harm or injury caused by the rainstorm. Option A "damages" is also a noun form, but it is not the best fit for the sentence because it is usually used in a legal context to refer to compensation awarded for harm or loss. Option B "damaging" is the present participle form of the verb "damage", which means to harm or injure. While this word can be used to describe the action of the rainstorm, it does not fit well in the sentence because it is not a noun that can describe the result of the action. Option D "havocs" is a noun that means widespread destruction or chaos. While this word can be used to describe the effects of a rainstorm, it is not the best fit for the sentence because it is more commonly used in a broader sense to describe a situation with a lot of disorder and destruction.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
The police are...the trail of the suspect.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to complete the sentence is "on." The word "on" is commonly used to indicate pursuit, as in "on the trail" or "on the scent." In this context, it suggests that the police are actively following or searching for the suspect. The other options do not convey the same sense of active pursuit.

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
Akpan does not let grass grow under his feet. This means that Akpan

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most appropriate interpretation of the sentence "Akpan does not let grass grow under his feet" is that Akpan does not waste time in doing things. The phrase "let grass grow under one's feet" is an idiom which means to not waste time or to be idle. Therefore, the sentence means that Akpan is a proactive and productive person who does not waste time in completing tasks.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
The measures that were introduced to accelerate the process of national development have in actual fact ...it

Maelezo ya Majibu

The underlined word "accelerate" means to increase the speed or rate of something. To find the opposite of this meaning, we need to look for a word that means to slow down or decrease the speed of something. Among the options given, the word that is opposite in meaning to "accelerate" is "retarded" (option B). Therefore, the correct answer is "retarded." It is worth noting that "retarded" is not commonly used in modern English as it can be considered offensive and derogatory. A more appropriate and commonly used antonym for "accelerate" would be "retard" or "slow down."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
.............candidates passed in English Language than in Mathematics.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct word to complete the sentence is "More." "More" is used to compare two quantities or amounts, and in this case, we are comparing the number of candidates who passed in English Language to those who passed in Mathematics. "Many" and "plenty" refer to a large quantity or amount, but they do not provide a comparison. "Much" is used for non-countable nouns, and since we are referring to the number of candidates, it is not the correct choice. Therefore, "More" is the best option as it indicates a comparison between the two subjects.

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
The appearance which the famous actor made last month was his swan song. This means that

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to fill the gap in question 69 is "traditional." The passage describes how wild bees are allowed to enter a hive and then smoked out later to obtain honey, which is a traditional method of obtaining honey in African countries. Therefore, "traditional" fits the context and meaning of the passage.

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word.
Blood

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that rhymes with "blood" is "flood". Rhyming words are words that have the same ending sounds, particularly in their last syllable. In this case, "blood" and "flood" share the same ending sound of "-ud". Option A, "flowed", does not rhyme with "blood" as it has a different ending sound of "-owed". Option B, "bled", shares the same ending sound with "blood" but it is not a perfect rhyme. Option D, "brood", does not rhyme with "blood" as it has a different ending sound of "-ood".

Instruction. Choose the word most suitable for the sentence.
The .....of the few rich in our society contrasts with the poverty of the masses.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "affluence". The sentence is comparing the wealth of the few rich people in society with the poverty of the masses. The word "affluence" means wealth or abundance, which is the most appropriate word to describe the rich people in this context. The other options, such as "arrogance," "authority," "influence," and "monopoly" do not accurately describe the wealth of the rich people in the sentence.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
At the end of the crisis, the leaders declared that there was neither victor nor.....

Maelezo ya Majibu

The opposite of "victor" is "vanquished". In the given sentence, the leaders declared that there was neither victor nor vanquished, which means that no side had won or lost the crisis. "Victor" means a person who has won in a competition or conflict, while "vanquished" means a person who has been defeated or beaten. Therefore, the word opposite in meaning to "victor" is "vanquished".

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Mr. Smith had worked here before leaving for the U.K....?

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

In question 71, the best option is "fire". The passage talks about the African method of obtaining honey by allowing wild bees to enter a hive and smoking out the bees with something. The most common substance used to smoke out bees is fire. Therefore, option D, "fire", is the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
For our Sunday lunch. Mother always cooked a .......

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
That load is......heavy for a child of his age to carry.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to complete the sentence is "too". This is because it shows that the load is excessively heavy for a child of his age to carry.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
As fresh fruits are scarce in the dry season, we had to.............tinned fruits.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "make do with." "Make do with" means to manage or cope with something that is not ideal or is less satisfactory than what is desired. In this context, the speaker is indicating that they had to manage or cope with tinned fruits because fresh fruits were scarce during the dry season. The other options, "make up for," "take out with," and "take up with," do not fit the context of the sentence. "Make up for" means to compensate or replace something that is lacking, "take out with" means to remove or withdraw something with, and "take up with" means to start doing something new or to form a relationship with someone. Therefore, "make do with" is the best option to complete the sentence.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
I thought that the comments made by the secretary were quite innocuous but the chairman considered them.....

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
You are not allowed to carry.....on this flight.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "much luggage." Explanation: The word "luggage" is an uncountable noun, meaning it cannot be pluralized by adding an "s" at the end. Therefore, options B, C, and D are incorrect since they use the plural form of the noun. The correct adjective to use with uncountable nouns like "luggage" is "much" instead of "many" or "more." Hence, option A, "much luggage," is the correct choice to complete the sentence. In summary, the sentence should read: "You are not allowed to carry much luggage on this flight."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
He succeeded ....the odds he faced.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "despite". The word "despite" is used to introduce a contrast or concession, and is often used to show that something happened or is true in spite of some obstacle or difficulty. In the sentence, the speaker is stating that the subject succeeded, even though there were odds or obstacles to overcome. Option A, "after", does not accurately convey the meaning of overcoming obstacles. Option B, "despite", is the correct option to indicate that success occurred in the face of obstacles. Option C, "even", is not specific enough to convey the meaning of overcoming odds. Option D, "in addition to", suggests an additional element rather than a contrasting one.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
If I had heard this earlier, I ....given him the job.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct answer is "would not have". The sentence is in the past tense and uses the third conditional, which expresses an imaginary situation in the past and its hypothetical result. The speaker is regretting not having heard something earlier, which would have led to a different outcome. The correct structure for the third conditional is "if + past perfect, would/could/might + have + past participle". In this case, the past perfect form of the verb "hear" is "had heard", and the correct auxiliary verb to express the hypothetical result is "would". Therefore, the correct sentence is: "If I had heard this earlier, I would not have given him the job."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Fortunately my father..........the scene before the explosion occurred.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most suitable word that completes the sentence is option C: "had just left". This is because the sentence is in the past tense, and we need to use a verb tense that indicates an action that was completed before another action in the past. The past perfect tense "had just left" is used to show that an action (leaving the scene) was completed before another action (the explosion) occurred. The other options, such as "has just left", "just left", and "is just leaving", do not fit the context of the sentence and do not show that the action of leaving the scene was completed before the explosion.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
It is no longer easy for graduates to secure.......

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word or group of words that best completes the sentence is "employment." The sentence is stating that it is no longer easy for graduates to secure something, and the options all relate to the word "employment." However, the options with "many employments" and "an employment" are not appropriate because they are either too specific or too general. "Employments" could be a possible choice, but "employment" is more commonly used and grammatically correct. Therefore, the correct answer is "employment." It means a job or occupation that someone is hired to do.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Ameh....to school nowadays.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence is incomplete and contains a grammatical error. It is missing the auxiliary verb "go" before the main verb. A correct sentence could be "Does Ameh walk to school nowadays?" or "Is Ameh walking to school nowadays?" depending on the context. Assuming the correct sentence is "Does Ameh walk to school nowadays?", the answer would be "walks". In this sentence, the present simple tense is used to talk about habits or routines that happen regularly. "Walks" is the present simple tense form of the verb "walk" in the third person singular form, which agrees with the subject "Ameh". For example, you can say "He walks to work every day" or "She walks her dog in the park every morning". Similarly, "Does Ameh walk to school nowadays?" means "Is it Ameh's habit to walk to school nowadays?"

From the words or group of words lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined words as used in the sentence.
Edet will have to face the consequences of his rash action.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence means that Edet will experience the outcome of his hasty decision, so a word that is closest in meaning to "consequences" is "results." Therefore, the answer is A - results.

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
economics

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
I cannot travel in an open car because I am allergic......dust

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "to". "Allergic to" is a common phrase used to describe an adverse reaction that a person has to a particular substance or object. In the sentence, the speaker is stating that they cannot travel in an open car because they are allergic to dust, meaning that they experience an allergic reaction when exposed to dust. Option A, "with", does not accurately complete the sentence, as it does not convey the necessary meaning of an allergic reaction. Option B, "to", is the correct preposition to use with the word "allergic". Option C, "on", is not the correct preposition to use in this context. Finally, option D, "by", does not accurately convey the meaning of an allergic reaction.

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Gnash

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Please let me have.........salt in my soup.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "a little." In this context, the speaker is requesting a small amount of salt to be added to their soup. "A little" is the appropriate phrase to use when requesting a small quantity of a non-countable noun like salt. The option "few" is incorrect because it is used to describe a small quantity of countable nouns, and "salt" is a non-countable noun. "Small" is used to describe the size or amount of something, but it does not indicate a specific quantity of salt. "A few" is used to describe a small quantity of countable nouns, and since salt is a non-countable noun, it is not the correct option to use in this context.

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
democracy

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or group of words lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined words as used in the sentence.
You will incur your father's wrath if you do that.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined words "your father's wrath" is "anger." The sentence is saying that if you do a certain thing, your father will become very angry with you. "Wrath" is an intense anger or rage, so it can be closely associated with the word "anger." Therefore, the correct answer is "anger." It means that the father will be displeased or furious with you if you do the thing that he does not approve of.

From the words or group of words lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined words as used in the sentence.
The points he made are germane to the argument.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option is E, "relevant." In the sentence, the word "germane" is used to describe the points made by someone in an argument. "Germane" means relevant or closely related to the matter at hand. Therefore, if something is "germane to the argument," it is relevant to the discussion and supports or adds to the main point being made. The other options do not convey the same meaning as "germane" and can be eliminated. For example, "irregular" means not conforming to rules or norms, "convincing" means persuasive, "helpful" means useful, and "unnecessary" means not needed.

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
The peace meeting nipped the crisis in the bud. This means that

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most appropriate interpretation of the sentence is that the crisis was averted. "Nipped in the bud" is an idiomatic expression that means to stop something at an early stage before it becomes a bigger problem. So, the sentence means that the peace meeting was able to prevent the crisis from getting worse by addressing it early on.

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
photographer

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Surely, he ....come in person if he doesn't want to !

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence expresses surprise or disbelief that the person in question has not come in person. To complete the sentence, we need to use a phrase that indicates that the person has the option not to come. The phrase "need not" means "does not need to," which fits this context. Therefore, the correct option is A, "need not." The completed sentence would be: "Surely, he need not come in person if he doesn't want to!" meaning that the person is not obligated to come in person if they don't want to.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Sherifat did not behave.....her parents' wishes.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence is expressing that Sherifat did not behave according to her parents' wishes. To complete the sentence, we need to use the phrase that correctly conveys this meaning. Among the options given, the only one that provides the correct phrase is "in accordance with" (option D). Therefore, the correct option to complete the sentence is "in accordance with." The complete sentence with the correct option is: "Sherifat did not behave in accordance with her parents' wishes."

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
Femi's plans amount to building castles in the air. This means that Feml's plans are

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct interpretation of the sentence "Femi's plans amount to building castles in the air" is that Femi's plans are unrealizable. The phrase "building castles in the air" is an idiom that means making plans that are unrealistic or impossible to achieve. Therefore, the sentence implies that Femi's plans are unrealistic and impractical.

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
democracy

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
Despite all our pleas, the manager remained.... in his refusal of our request.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best word that completes the sentence is "adamant." "Adamant" means to be unyielding, immovable, or stubborn. Therefore, the sentence indicates that despite all their pleas, the manager remained unyielding in his refusal of their request. The other options are not suitable in this context. "Flexible" and "pliable" mean capable of bending without breaking or being easily influenced, which is the opposite of what is described in the sentence. "Unconvinced" means not convinced, which is close but does not necessarily imply stubbornness. "Curious" means having a strong desire to know or learn something, which is not relevant to the context.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
The celebrations were rounded ....... with a novelty match.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "off." The phrase "rounded off" is an idiom used to indicate the completion of something, usually an event or an activity. Therefore, the sentence is saying that the celebrations came to an end with a novelty match. The correct preposition to use with "rounded" in this context is "off." Hence, the complete sentence is "The celebrations were rounded off with a novelty match." This indicates that the celebrations have ended and the novelty match was the final event of the celebrations. The other options, "up," "down," and "out," do not fit well with the idiom "rounded off" in this context.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
If you would listen, I could give you............

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to complete the sentence is "valuable advice". This is because "advice" is an uncountable noun, meaning that it cannot be pluralized. Therefore, options B and C can be eliminated. Option A has a grammatical error, as "advice" is singular and requires the article "a" rather than "some". Option D is the correct form, using the adjective "valuable" to describe the noun "advice". In the context of the sentence, the speaker is offering something of value to the listener, and the noun "advice" fits this meaning well. Therefore, "valuable advice" is the most appropriate choice to complete the sentence.

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
Ugonna passed his examinations with flying colours. This means Ugonna

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Alhaji Musa owns fifty....

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most suitable word to fill the numbered gap 68 is "pollinating." The context of the passage suggests that bees play an important role in the process of pollination. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male parts of a flower to the female parts of a flower, which is essential for the fertilization of the plant and the production of seeds. Therefore, the best option to complete the sentence is "pollinating." The options "dispersing," "beautifying," "flavouring," and "colouring" do not accurately convey the meaning of the sentence. "Dispersion" implies spreading out, but it does not relate to the role of bees in pollination. "Beautifying" is not relevant to the passage since it does not describe the function of bees. "Flavouring" and "colouring" are also not relevant to the context of the passage. Therefore, the correct option to complete the sentence is "pollinating."

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
The young man was advised to be ....and not rigid on critical Issues if he wanted to make a good career in politics.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The opposite of "rigid" is "flexible" which means capable of bending easily without breaking. In the context of the sentence, being flexible on critical issues is important for making a good career in politics. Therefore, the correct answer is the option that means the opposite of "rigid," and that is option D, "flexible."

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
His appointment was....because of the irregularities discovered in his credentials.

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
He......say it to my face that I did that.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option is "dare not". The sentence is in the present tense, and the correct form of the verb "dare" in the present tense is "dare not". This means that the subject is not willing to do something because they are afraid of the consequences. Here's an example to illustrate the usage of "dare not" in a sentence: "I dare not ask my boss for a raise because I'm afraid of being rejected."

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most suitable option to fill the gap in question 67 is "produce". The passage is discussing the important services provided by honey bees in addition to producing honey. The word "produce" means to make or create something, which accurately describes the honey bees' role in making honey. The other options, such as "invent" or "forge", do not make sense in the context of the passage.

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Child

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Charisma

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option is B, "caricature." This question is asking for a word that has a similar sound to the underlined sound in "charisma." The underlined sound is the "kris" sound, which is the same as the "kərɪkətjʊə(r)" sound in "caricature." The other options do not have the same sound as "charisma." "Chores" has a "ch" sound, "machine" has a "sh" sound, and "cinema" has a "s" sound.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
If you keep trying, you'll succeed...........the end.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "in". The phrase "succeed in" is commonly used to mean achieve a goal or accomplish something. So, the complete sentence "If you keep trying, you'll succeed in the end" means that if you continue to make an effort to achieve your goal, you will eventually be successful.

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word.
Head

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the given passage, the sentence talks about allowing wild bees to enter a place, which later would be smoked out. So, the suitable word that would fit in the blank is a place where bees can enter and create a home. Among the options provided, "hive" is the most appropriate choice. Therefore, the answer is option C - hive.

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Pool

Maelezo ya Majibu

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
agriculture

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word.
Cause

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that rhymes with "cause" is "pause." The reason for this is that both words have the same vowel sound in the final syllable "-awz." The other options, "course" and "purse," have different vowel sounds at the end (-ors and -ers respectively) and do not rhyme with "cause."

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Mate

Maelezo ya Majibu

The underlined sound in "mate" is /eɪ/. Among the options, the word that has a similar sound is "eight." It also has the /eɪ/ sound. Therefore, the answer is option C, "eight."

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
The messenger .....home until his boss leaves.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word or group of words that best completes the sentence is "dare not go." In this sentence, "dare" is being used to express reluctance or refusal to do something because of fear or apprehension. The correct form of the verb that follows "dare" in this case is the base form or simple present tense, which is "go." The other options are incorrect because they use the past tense form "went" or the gerund form "going," which are not appropriate in this context.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Who saw the accused...the purse from the complainant's handbag?

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct word to complete the sentence is "take." "Take" is the correct form of the verb to use in this sentence because it matches the subject-verb agreement with the singular subject "who." In addition, "take" is the correct verb tense to use in this sentence because it is in the simple past tense, which describes a completed action that happened at a specific time in the past. Therefore, the sentence should read: "Who saw the accused take the purse from the complainant's handbag?" meaning that someone witnessed the accused person taking the purse from the complainant's handbag.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
Bola was vocal in protesting against the high-handedness of the police unlike Sola who was ....

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word opposite in meaning to "vocal" is "mute." In the given sentence, the word "vocal" means to express opinions or feelings freely and publicly, often with a lot of noise or activity. Therefore, Bola was actively protesting against the high-handedness of the police. The opposite of being vocal is being mute, which means to remain silent and not express any opinions or feelings. Hence, the correct answer is "mute." It means that Sola did not express any opinions or feelings on the matter, and remained silent in contrast to Bola who was actively protesting against the police.

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word.
Quicken

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that rhymes with "quicken" is "chicken". Rhyming words are words that have the same ending sound. "Quicken" ends with the sound "ick-en" and "chicken" also ends with the same sound. The other options, "queen", "kitten", and "kitchen" have different ending sounds, so they do not rhyme with "quicken". For example, you can say "I need to quicken my pace" and "I cooked a chicken for dinner". Both words end with the same "ick-en" sound, making them rhyme.

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
Femi has a...appetite.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "voracious." "Voracious" means having a huge appetite or craving for food. In the given sentence, it is used to describe Femi's appetite, implying that he has a strong desire or craving for food.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
We all look forward to ........ ourselves at the party.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "enjoying." The sentence is expressing anticipation for a future event, specifically a party. The verb "look forward to" is a common expression used to describe anticipation for something that is going to happen in the future. The verb that follows this expression should be in its present participle form, which is "-ing" form in English grammar. Therefore, the correct form of the verb in the sentence is "enjoying," making the complete sentence "We all look forward to enjoying ourselves at the party." This indicates that the party is a future event, and the speaker and others are anticipating having a good time at it.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
One of his greatest achievements...the restoration of order and stability to the company.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The option that best completes the sentence is "was". The subject of the sentence is "one of his greatest achievements", which is a singular noun phrase. Therefore, the verb that follows should also be singular. The past tense of the verb "to be" is "was", which agrees with the singular subject. The other options, such as "were", "have been", and "are", are all plural forms of the verb "to be" and do not agree with the singular subject.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
Rather than show remorse for his offense, he remained......

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word opposite in meaning to the underlined word "unrepentant" in the sentence is "repentant". In the sentence, the word "unrepentant" means that the person did not feel or express remorse for their offense. The word "repentant" means feeling or expressing remorse or regret for past actions, which is the opposite of being unrepentant. Option A, "calculated", option B, "unpleasant", option C, "apathetic", and option D, "abrasive", do not accurately convey the opposite meaning of "unrepentant" in the sentence. Option E, "repentant", is the correct antonym for "unrepentant".

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
The shrill voice of the actor....across the hall.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to complete the sentence is "reverberated". This is because "reverberate" means to be repeated several times as an echo, which describes the sound of the actor's voice bouncing off the walls of the hall. The other options don't fit the context of the sentence.

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word.
Brother

Maelezo ya Majibu

After the sentence, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for the sentence.
Emeka had a field day at the dancing competition. This means that Emeka

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most appropriate interpretation for the sentence "Emeka had a field day at the dancing competition" is that Emeka triumphed in all aspects of the competition. "Having a field day" means having a great time and enjoying oneself, usually with success or accomplishment. In this context, it means that Emeka did very well at the dancing competition and enjoyed himself. Therefore, option C, "triumphed in all aspects of the competition," is the most appropriate interpretation.

In the question, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the stressed syllable in capital letters.
From the words lettered A to D Choose the one that has the correct stress.
criticism

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Gear

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Work

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
Many people died in the ...accident

Maelezo ya Majibu

The correct option to complete the sentence is "fatal." A fatal accident is an accident that results in the death of one or more people. Therefore, the most appropriate word to complete the sentence is "fatal." The options "serious," "wicked," "evil," and "reckless" do not accurately convey the meaning of an accident resulting in death. "Serious" suggests a significant event, but it does not necessarily mean that there were fatalities. "Wicked" and "evil" are more appropriate for describing intentional harm or wrongdoing, while "reckless" implies negligence or carelessness, but not necessarily death. Therefore, the correct option to complete the sentence is "fatal."

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Those

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
The meeting was...indefinitely to reconvene at a later date.

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to D,choose the word that has a similar sound with the underlined sound in the given word.
Splash

Maelezo ya Majibu

From the words lettered A to E, choose the word that best completes the sentence.
Poor feeding causes .....in children.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The word that best completes the sentence is "malnutrition". The sentence talks about the consequences of poor feeding in children, which is likely to lead to malnutrition. Malnutrition is a condition that occurs when the body does not get enough nutrients, and it can lead to a range of health problems. Therefore, option E is the correct answer. The other options (maladjustment, malfunction, malediction, and malaria) do not describe the consequences of poor feeding in children.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
He preferred travelling by road....travelling by air.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The sentence compares two modes of transportation: travelling by road and travelling by air. To indicate a preference for one option over the other, we need to use a phrase that expresses comparison. The phrase "preferred...to" is commonly used to indicate a preference for one thing over another. Therefore, the correct option is A, "to." The completed sentence would be: "He preferred travelling by road to travelling by air," meaning that he likes travelling by road more than travelling by air.

From the words or group of words lettered A to E below the sentence, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined words as used in the sentence.
I have implicit confidence in Abass' ability to win the race.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The underlined phrase "implicit confidence" means complete and unquestioning trust. The word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to this is option B, "absolute." Therefore, the sentence means that the speaker trusts Abass completely and without any doubt to win the race.

From the words or groups of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes the sentence.
Don't believe all.............he had told you.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The most suitable option to complete the sentence is "that". The sentence is advising the listener not to believe everything that the person being referred to has told them. The word "that" is commonly used to introduce clauses that specify or identify something, in this case, the things that the person has told the listener. The other options, such as "what" or "which", are not appropriate in this context as they are used to introduce questions or indicate choices, rather than identifying something specific. The option "there" is also not appropriate as it does not make sense in the context of the sentence.

In the following passage the numbered gaps indicate missing words:Against each number in the list below each passage five choices are offered in the columns lettered A to E. For each question, choose the most suitable word to fill the numbered gap in the passage.
Not all insects are -66- and amongst those which are, the honey bees. Besides the honey they -67- they perform an even move important service by -68- flowers. The -69- method of obtaining honey in African countries is to allow wild bees to enter a -70- and then later to smoke out the bees with -71-. The food value of honey is -72- high; it is derived from -73-, which is merely a sugary solution in water. In honey most of this sugar has been changed into another -74- which, when eaten, is very easily -75- into the blood -76-. An -77- is the name of the place where the beehieves are kept. Bees require water, and this should be provided if not -78- available. A honey -79- is the place where the honey is stored and it is very important that the bees are not destroyed when the honey is -80-.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The best option to fill the gap in question 72 is "exceptionally". This is because the sentence is describing the food value of honey, and it states that it is "exceptionally high", meaning that it is much higher than what would be expected or normal. This fits with what is commonly known about honey and its nutritional properties, as it is a natural sweetener that is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. The other options are not as suitable. "Simultaneously" means happening at the same time, which does not fit with the context of the sentence. "Alternately" means happening one after the other, which also does not fit. "Constructively" means doing something in a helpful or positive way, but it does not make sense in this sentence. "Imaginatively" means doing something in a creative or imaginative way, which is not related to the content of the sentence.

Instruction. Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentence.
Ibrahim's flamboyant lifestyle contrasts sharply with Aminu's ....attitude.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The opposite of "flamboyant" is "austere." Explanation: "Flamboyant" means showy, bold, or extravagant in appearance or behavior. On the other hand, "austere" means plain, simple, or unadorned in appearance or behavior. Since the sentence states that Ibrahim's flamboyant lifestyle contrasts sharply with Aminu's attitude, which suggests that Aminu's attitude is opposite in nature, the word that best fits the sentence to describe Aminu's attitude is "austere." Therefore, the opposite of "flamboyant" is "austere."

Write an article suitable for publication in a foreign magazine on the traditional marriage system of your people.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

You have just ended your tenure as the president of the youth club in your community. Write a speech which will be delivered at the last general meeting before you leave office, recounting your achievements and expressing your hopes for the future of the club.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

Tell a story that ends with the words: It was a bitter experience, but I learnt my lesson.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it.

      It has been found by researchers in education that the odds are stacked high against the learner from a deprived socio-economic background. A learner, whose parents are illiterate, whose. parents earn poor income, who has no access to the electronic media of information, and who has no educated siblings or peers to learn from, faces an uphill task in his educational career. The task is even more difficult if the learner lives in an obscure rural area for he is then cut off from modern civilization.

      The learner from an academically enriched background, whose parents are highly learned and financially stable, and who has constant access to the electronic media, has a head start over his deprived counterparts from the village. Therefore, it is unfair that learners from different backgounds should face the same competition for admission into higher institutions or for employment opportunities since nobody determines their background.

      Unfair as the practice may be, it is not easy to work out an alternative system. n e first place, distinguishing between students from academically enriched and those from educationally deprived backgrounds and reserving some places for the latter, would amount to double standard. Indeed, such a policy would inevitably engender a number of malpractices on the part of candidates. Moreover, formulating a policy by which learners from educationally deprived background are given special employment opportunities would tend to play down the practice of selection on the basis of merit.

      It does appear that the way out is to minimize the odds against which the less advantaged learners have to struggle. If rural communities are improved, and if conscious efforts are made to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor, much would have been done to help the socio-economically disadvantaged learners overcome some of the odds against them.

(a) Mention three factors that distinguish the two classes of learners described in the passage.

(b) Which word in the first paragraph shows that the writer based the article on facts and not on speculation?

(c) Why does the writer say that the present practice is unfair?

(d) Give two reasons why the writer thinks that there is no alternative to the present practice.

(e) Whose parents are highly learned and financially stable?

(i) What grammatical name is given to the expression?

(ii) What is its function as used in the sentence?

(f) Give one word or phrase which can replace each of the following words as used in the passage:

(i) deprived; (ii) career; (iii) counterpart; (iv) practice (vii) distinguishing.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

The transistor radio you bought from a department store with a two-year guarantee developed a fault after six months. You took it to the technical section of the store where the foreman refused to accept it, alleging that the guarantee did not cover the fault reported. Write a letter to the General Manager of the store lodging your complaint, explaining the nature of the fault and requesting the store to fulfill its guarantee.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it.

      With some ten hours' journey before them, the professor and his men at first thought of heeding Pa Chukwuka's advice that they should stay till Monday morning. But the professor knew that his department would almost be paralysed for a whole day if he and his colleagues should stay on. That he did not like. So, the journey commenced and, a little later, the heavens were let loose.

      Stubbornly, the five cars ploughed through. The Niger was crossed a little after 4p.m., and Asaba was soon behind the travellers. In front was the departmental car with the professor, his two kinsmen, and his bride. Their mission was the formal traditional marriage ceremony. At the rear was the secretary's car. Stealthily, against all odds, the convoy crept on. Yet, for hundreds of kilometres, the rain persisted: lighter in some places. heavier in others but present in one form or the other throughout.

      Darkness descended with a gentle suddenness over the landscape. The dark arrow of finality nearly struck Dr Stephen Dimgba a few kilometres outside Aba. The on-coming heavy truck dazzled him with its powerful headlights. As it roared towards him, his bespectacled eyes were momentarily blinded. He swerved off the road for the devil of the long lorry. The muddy, side gutter help turn the swerve into an exaggerated skid. By the time the monster roared past, Stephen and his four fellow travellers were struggling to get off the inferno that started after the accident.

(a) What had the travellers been told before the journey?

(b) Why did the professor and his colleagues decide to travel all the same?

(c) (i) What was the mission of the travellers? (ii) Quote the sentence that tells you this.

(d)(i) Where did the accident occur? (ii) Give two reasons why the accident occurred.

(e) (i) What figure of speech is the expression, "the heavens were let loose."

(ii) Give the meaning of the expression as used in the passage.

(f) Give another word or phrase that can replace each of the following words as used in the passage:

(i) heeding; (ii) kinsmen (iii) odds; (iv) roared; (v) monster; (vi) inferno.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it.

      It is now fashionable to hear discussions centering on the disproportionate representation of males and females in the population. it is indeed not uncommon to hear people say that for every man there are about two or three women; so, every man can marry more than one woman. This theory is, of course, more popular among adherents who favour the seeming glamour of the polygamous way of life. The big question is: 'How correct is this theory?' And what are the facts?

      The stark reality is that in any normal population out of every one hundred conceptions, about fifty-three to fifty-five are for boys, and about forty-five to forty-seven are for girls. So, there are potentially more boys than girls in any normal population. However, because of many factors, some of which are not fully clear, the foetus of a boy is far more fragile than that of a girl. So, there are more miscarriages of male children than of female ones. So, by the time the children are born, the ratio between boys and girls has been reduced to about fifty-two boys to forty-eight girls.

      As infants, boys are more delicate than girls. Boys are less resistant to certain killer diseases and girls thus have a higher chance of survival. The result is that before adolescence, at about the age of between nine and eleven years, boys and girls are virtually at par in the population.

      Throughout adolescence, from the age of twelve to nineteen years, boys continue to fall victim of many ailments at a much higher degree than girls do, Besides, boys' tendency to be more adventurous, more daring and more risk-taking, expose them far more to mishaps. Some of these do reduce their representation in the population. So, by the end of the age of adolescence, there are slightly more girls than boys. The reduction, thereafter, in the number of males continues progressively. Men are the breadwinners, the soldiers and the travellers. It is during their middle age that very many men die tragically, as soldiers in their boots, so to say. The net result of this is that by the time they are in the mind-thirties and forties, there are more women than men.

      Finally, in their late forties and fifties, far more men than women die of cardiac diseases like hypertension. heart-attack and anxiety. This is the period when there are clearly more widows than widowers.

      On the whole, therefore, there are more females than males but certainly not in the proportion claimed by adherents of polygamy. During their marriageable years, there are about eleven wives to ten husbands-that is husbands and wives of the same age. That in some communities one man could marry as many as fifteen wives is a result of the fact that men normally marry from among the ladies younger than they are. This, more than any other factor. allows some men who are inclined to polygamy to have their way.

(a) In five sentences, one for each factor, summarize the factors responsible for the progressive reduction in the number o' f males as against females from conception to adulthood.

(b) In one sentence, state why some form of polygamy is possible in a normal population.

Maelezo ya Majibu

None

There was a terrible storm in your town during which houses were destroyed. Your family house was among those affected. Write a letter to your uncle working overseas describing the disaster and requesting for his help in reconstructing the house.

Maelezo ya Majibu

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A youth club in your country is organizing an essay competition for final year Senior Secondary School students on the topic: The lingua franca question: problems and prospects. Write your entry.

Maelezo ya Majibu

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