WAEC SSCE - English Language - 2019 (Essay)

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a newspaper article. It requires a striking title, a by-line, an introduction defining the menace, developed paragraphs on causes and effects, suggested remedies, and a firm conclusion. No address or salutation. Below is a model answer.

SECRET CULTS: THE CANKERWORM EATING UP OUR SCHOOLS

By Aisha Bello

Not long ago, our schools and colleges were regarded as sacred grounds of learning, discipline and character. Today, that noble picture has been stained by the menace of secret cults. Barely a week passes without a report of bloodshed, initiation or terror on one campus or another. If urgent steps are not taken, our citadels of learning may soon become theatres of war.

What are secret cults? They are unlawful fraternities whose members operate in secrecy, bound by oaths and given to violence. Once glamorized as brotherhoods, they have degenerated into gangs that kidnap, maim and kill. Their activities have turned peaceful schools into places of fear.

The causes of this menace are many. Peer pressure lures weak-minded students who crave a sense of belonging and false protection. Bad parental upbringing leaves some children without moral guidance. Others are drawn in by the desire for power, revenge or the promise of easy influence over fellow students. The lure of drugs and money completes the trap.

The effects are devastating. Cultism has cut short the lives of many promising students in their prime. It has caused the closure of schools, disrupted academic calendars and spread fear among innocent students and teachers. Families have been thrown into mourning, and the good name of our schools has been dragged in the mud.

How can this evil be curbed? First, parents must give their children proper moral training and monitor the company they keep. Second, school authorities must intensify enlightenment campaigns and deal firmly with any student found guilty. Third, the government should enforce the laws against cultism and provide counselling units in schools. Above all, students themselves must resolve never to yield to the deceptive invitations of cultists.

The fight against secret cults is a battle for the soul of our educational system. Parents, teachers, government and students must join hands to drive out this cankerworm before it consumes an entire generation. The time to act is now.

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a letter to the editor. It has the features of a formal letter (writer's address, date, the editor's address, formal salutation, formal close) plus a title, and the body argues a case. Below is a model answer.

18 Balogun Street,
Ilorin,
Kwara State.
10 July, 2026.

The Editor,
The National Herald,
Broad Street,
Lagos.

Dear Sir,

THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF THE COMPUTER ON EDUCATION

I write through your widely-read newspaper to draw attention to the many ways in which the computer has transformed education for the better. In this age of rapid technological change, it would be a great disservice to allow the immense benefits of this device to pass unnoticed.

In the first place, the computer has made learning easier and more interesting. Through educational software, diagrams, animations and videos, difficult subjects such as Mathematics and the Sciences are now presented in ways that students can readily understand. Learning that once seemed dull has become lively and enjoyable.

Secondly, the computer, through the Internet, has opened the door to a vast ocean of knowledge. A student can now access libraries, journals and lectures from all over the world without leaving his classroom. Information that once took days to find can now be obtained within minutes.

Thirdly, the computer has improved teaching and administration. Teachers prepare lessons, set questions and keep records with greater ease, while schools now register students, process results and store data more accurately and quickly than before.

Finally, the computer has made distance learning possible. Through online classes, people who cannot attend regular schools can now acquire knowledge and earn certificates from the comfort of their homes.

In view of these benefits, I urge the government, school authorities and parents to make computers available in all our schools and to train both teachers and students in their use. The computer is truly a powerful ally in the pursuit of quality education.

Thank you for granting space to my views.

Yours faithfully,
Fatima Ibrahim

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a semi-formal letter to a relative (uncle). It needs the writer's address and date, a semi-formal salutation ("Dear Uncle..."), a respectful register, a clear description of the business idea, and a polite request for financial assistance. Below is a model answer.

25 Odunlami Street,
Warri,
Delta State.
10 July, 2026.

Dear Uncle Emmanuel,

I hope this letter meets you and the entire family in good health. It has been a while since I visited, and I look forward to seeing you all soon. I am writing to share with you a business idea that has been on my mind and to seek your kind assistance in bringing it to life.

For some months now, I have observed that our neighbourhood lacks a reliable poultry supply, and traders travel far to buy eggs and chickens at high prices. I therefore intend to start a small poultry farm, beginning with two hundred layers, from which I will supply eggs to the local shops and, in time, sell grown birds during festive seasons. I have studied the trade under a friend's father who runs a successful farm, and I am confident that, with careful management, the business will be profitable and will expand quickly.

However, to make this dream a reality, I need a start-up capital of about two hundred thousand naira to build the pen, buy the birds and stock enough feed for the first three months. I have been able to save a part of this amount myself, but I still fall short of what is required. This is why I have turned to you, knowing your generous heart and your keen interest in my progress.

I therefore humbly appeal to you to assist me with a loan or a gift of any amount you can afford. I promise to manage the business diligently and to keep you informed of its progress. Whatever help you render will not be wasted, and I shall be forever grateful.

Please extend my warm greetings to Aunty and the children. I look forward to your favourable response.

Your loving nephew,
David

Maelezo ya Majibu

(a) The writer thought Adamu was under a spell because he was working too hard, driving himself relentlessly.

(b) Adamu had to take care of himself because:

1. His father was poor and could not provide for him.
2. He lost his mother at an early age, and his stepmother refused to look after him.

(c) Two major types of jobs Adamu engaged in to support himself were weaving and carpentry (carving/craft and working as a farm labourer are also acceptable).

(d) The reference to his academic performance tells us that Adamu was hardworking, brilliant and intelligent.

(e) The writer's attitude towards Adamu is one of admiration and respect.

(f) What tells us he was determined to be educated is that he enrolled in school and bore his own expenses.

(g) The figure of speech in "...like a person pursued by a demon..." is a simile, because the comparison is made using the word "like".

(h) "...that I could take care of myself":

• (i) Grammatical name: it is a noun clause.
• (ii) Function: it is the object of the verb "discovered".

(i) Word replacements as used in the passage

• (i) a spell: an influence / a charm / an enchantment
• (ii) crafted: made / created / designed / produced
• (iii) procure: buy / get / obtain / acquire / secure
• (iv) attracted: enticed / lured / drew / fascinated
• (v) vaguely: barely / dimly / slightly / hazily / faintly
• (vi) simple: plain / common / uncomplicated / ordinary / basic

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a speech on a given topic. It must open with vocatives, use a speech register with direct address, develop the topic "The Challenges of Prefectship" with concrete points, and close with thanks. Below is a model answer.

SPEECH DELIVERED AT THE SEND-OFF CEREMONY FOR PREFECTS ON THE TOPIC: THE CHALLENGES OF PREFECTSHIP

The Principal, the Vice-Principals, our dedicated teachers, invited guests, my fellow outgoing prefects, distinguished students, ladies and gentlemen. It is with mixed feelings of joy and nostalgia that I stand before you today to speak on a subject very close to my heart: the challenges of prefectship.

When we were appointed prefects, we were filled with pride and excitement. Little did we know that the badge we wore so proudly came with heavy responsibilities and no small measure of difficulty. Permit me, therefore, to share some of the challenges we faced, so that those who will step into our shoes may be better prepared.

The first challenge was that of authority without popularity. As prefects, we had to enforce rules, punish latecomers and report offenders. In doing so, we often earned the anger and even the hatred of our fellow students, who saw us as enemies rather than helpers. It was not easy to remain firm while being disliked.

The second challenge was that of balancing duty with academics. We had to wake early, supervise morning assembly, keep order and settle disputes, and still find time to study for our own examinations. Many nights we sacrificed our sleep to make up for the hours spent on our duties.

The third challenge was that of leading by example. As prefects, all eyes were upon us. We could not afford to break the very rules we enforced, and so we had to discipline ourselves first before we could correct others. This demanded great self-control and integrity.

Yet, in spite of these challenges, prefectship has been a priceless training ground. It has taught us patience, courage, responsibility and the true meaning of service. We leave this office better prepared for the greater responsibilities of life.

To the incoming prefects, I say: be firm but fair, be humble but courageous, and remember that leadership is service. To our teachers and Principal, we say a heartfelt thank you for the trust you placed in us.

Thank you all, and God bless our great school.

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is an informal letter to a friend. It needs the writer's address and date, an informal salutation, a warm register, and a clear account of experiences as Library Prefect and the positive lessons drawn from them. Below is a model answer.

Girls' Hostel, Room 9,
Queen's College,
Ibadan.
10 July, 2026.

Dear Amaka,

How have you been? I hope your studies are going well. As I prepare to graduate from secondary school, I have been reflecting on my years here, and I could not resist writing to share with you my experiences as the Library Prefect and how they have shaped me for the better.

When I was appointed Library Prefect two years ago, I was both excited and nervous. I was placed in charge of arranging the books, keeping the reading room orderly, recording books borrowed and returned, and guiding younger students on how to use the library. At first, it seemed a heavy burden, especially when some students returned books late or refused to keep quiet in the reading room.

These experiences, however, have blessed my life in ways I never imagined. First, the responsibility taught me to be organized and disciplined, for I had to keep hundreds of books in perfect order. Secondly, dealing with different students day after day improved my confidence and my ability to relate with people politely but firmly. Thirdly, spending so much time among books developed in me a deep love for reading, which has broadened my knowledge and improved my performance in class.

Above all, the position taught me the value of service and leadership. I learnt that true leadership is about patience, fairness and putting others before oneself. These lessons, I am sure, will remain with me for the rest of my life and will help me wherever I find myself in future.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity I was given, and I leave school a better and more confident person. Do write soon and tell me about your own experiences. I miss our long talks.

Your dear friend,
Ronke

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a newspaper article. It requires a title, a by-line, an introduction, developed paragraphs stating the causes of drug abuse and suggesting ways to curb it, and a firm conclusion. No address or salutation. Below is a model answer.

CURBING THE RISING TIDE OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG OUR YOUTH

By Chinedu Eze

Few problems threaten the future of our nation as gravely as the growing incidence of drug abuse among the youth. From secondary schools to universities, and from the streets to the motor parks, more and more young people are falling victim to the misuse of substances such as tramadol, codeine, Indian hemp and other dangerous drugs. Unless this tide is stemmed, the nation stands to lose the very generation it depends upon for its future.

Several factors are responsible for this menace. Peer pressure ranks foremost, as many young people take to drugs simply to belong to a group of friends. Unemployment and idleness push others into the habit, since the idle mind easily drifts into vice. Broken homes and poor parental care leave some children without guidance, while the desire to escape from stress, poverty or examination pressure drives yet others to seek false comfort in drugs. The easy availability of these substances and the negative influence of certain films and songs worsen the situation.

The effects are ruinous. Drug abuse destroys the health of the youth, wrecks their academic future and fuels crimes such as cultism, armed robbery and violence. Many young lives have been cut short or reduced to madness because of this evil.

How, then, can it be curbed? First, parents must train and monitor their children closely, teaching them the dangers of drugs from an early age. Second, schools should intensify enlightenment campaigns and set up counselling units to guide troubled students. Third, government must strengthen the agencies fighting the drug trade, punish dealers severely and build rehabilitation centres for victims. Fourth, gainful employment and healthy recreation should be provided to keep young people meaningfully engaged. Above all, the youths themselves must have the courage to say a firm "No" to drugs.

The battle against drug abuse is a collective one. If parents, schools, government and the youth join hands, this menace can be defeated, and our young people can be saved for the noble future that awaits them.

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a narrative composition that must end with the exact given sentence. The story must build naturally toward that ending, showing a decision taken against a parent's advice and the regret that followed. The final sentence must be reproduced word for word. Below is a model narrative.

I WISH I HAD LISTENED TO MY PARENTS

The long vacation had just begun, and my heart was set on one thing: attending the all-night beach party that my new friend, Tony, had been talking about for weeks. Tony was popular, daring and full of exciting plans, and I felt honoured that he had chosen to include me. There was, however, one obstacle standing in my way, and that obstacle was my parents.

When I told my father about the party, his face darkened. He warned me that Tony kept bad company, that the party was far from home and that such night gatherings often ended in trouble. My mother pleaded with me gently, reminding me of the many young people whose lives had been ruined in a single reckless night. But I was blinded by excitement. I convinced myself that they were simply old-fashioned and did not want me to enjoy my youth.

That evening, while my parents thought I was asleep, I slipped out through the back gate and joined Tony and his friends. The party was loud and dazzling at first. There was music, laughter and more freedom than I had ever known. But as the night wore on, things began to change. Some of the boys brought out bottles of alcohol and strange substances, and the harmless fun turned wild and frightening.

Suddenly, there was shouting, then the roar of vehicles. A rival group had come to settle an old quarrel. In the chaos that followed, glasses shattered, chairs flew and people scattered in every direction. I ran blindly into the darkness, my heart pounding, until I stumbled and fell into a shallow gutter, cutting my leg badly. When the police finally arrived, several people had been injured, and a number of the youths were arrested, Tony among them.

I limped home in the cold hours of the morning, bruised, terrified and deeply ashamed. My parents were waiting at the door, their faces heavy with worry and relief. My mother wept as she dressed my wound, and my father simply looked at me in silence, a silence more painful than any scolding.

As I lay in bed that night, nursing my injury and my shattered pride, one thought kept turning over in my mind. I wish I had listened to my parents.

Maelezo ya Majibu

(a) Effects of the excessive use of the television and the Internet on children

1. The excessive use of the television and the Internet exposes children to bad habits.
2. The excessive use of the television and the Internet destroys the relationship between children and their parents.
3. The excessive use of the television and the Internet discourages children from learning or doing their academic work.
4. The excessive use of the television and the Internet affects the health of children negatively.

(b) How the dangers can be overcome

1. Parents should spend quality time with their children.
2. Parents should guide their children and monitor or censor the programmes the children watch.

Maelezo ya Majibu

How to approach this question: This is a formal letter to the Principal. It needs the writer's address, date, the Principal's title and address, a formal salutation, a title, a body giving an account of the fight and reasons the friend should not have been expelled, a formal close and signature. Below is a model answer.

Senior Boys' Hostel,
Command Secondary School,
Kaduna.
10 July, 2026.

The Principal,
Command Secondary School,
Kaduna.

Dear Sir,

A PLEA FOR THE RECONSIDERATION OF MY FRIEND'S EXPULSION

I write with the greatest respect to give an honest account of the fight that occurred in the school last week and to appeal for a reconsideration of the expulsion of my friend, Ibrahim Sani, of SS 2 Blue.

On the day in question, during the afternoon break, another student, Musa, deliberately knocked over Ibrahim's food and poured water on his textbooks. When Ibrahim protested calmly, Musa slapped him and challenged him to a fight. Ibrahim endured the first blows and tried to walk away, but Musa pursued him and struck him again. It was only then, in defence of himself, that Ibrahim pushed back, and the two boys grappled briefly before other students separated them. I witnessed the whole incident from close by, and I can state truthfully that Ibrahim did not start the fight.

It is against this background that I humbly plead that Ibrahim should not have been expelled. First, he was not the aggressor but the victim who acted only in self-defence after being provoked and struck repeatedly. Secondly, Ibrahim has always been a well-behaved and hardworking student with no record of trouble, and this was his first offence. Thirdly, expulsion is a very severe punishment that could destroy the bright future of a promising student, when a lesser correction would serve the purpose of discipline.

I therefore appeal to your kind heart, Sir, to temper justice with mercy and to give Ibrahim another chance, perhaps through a warning or suspension rather than outright expulsion. I am confident that he has learnt his lesson and will conduct himself well henceforth.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

Yours faithfully,
Abdul Yusuf
(SS 2 Blue)