The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is a key step for students seeking admission into Nigerian universities. Among the subjects tested, Use of English is compulsory and plays a crucial role in determining a student’s overall score. To help students prepare effectively for the 2024/2025 exam session, this article provides insights into Use of English questions and answers, as well as tips to succeed in this section.
JAMB Use of English
The Use of English section of the JAMB exam is designed to test candidates’ proficiency in the English language. This section assesses the following areas:
- Grammar: Understanding sentence structure, tenses, articles, prepositions, conjunctions, and parts of speech.
- Vocabulary: The meaning, usage, and context of words.
- Comprehension: Reading passages followed by questions to assess comprehension.
- Summary: Understanding the main idea of a passage and summarizing it concisely.
- Literary Appreciation: Identifying and understanding literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, etc.
JAMB Use of English 2024/2025 Sample Questions and Answers
Here’s a selection of potential Use of English questions for JAMB 2024/2025. These questions are designed to give you an idea of the format and types of questions you might encounter.
1. Vocabulary Questions
Question: Choose the word that is most similar in meaning to the word underlined in the sentence:
“The scientist made an important discovery in the field of medicine.”
- A. Invention
- B. Realization
- C. Observation
- D. Revelation
Answer: D. Revelation
2. Grammar Questions
Question: Select the correct option to fill the gap in the sentence:
“Neither the teacher nor the students ______ responsible for the mistake.”
- A. was
- B. were
- C. are
- D. is
Answer: A. was
3. Comprehension Questions
Passage:
In a society driven by technological advancement, the need for privacy has become more important than ever. People are becoming increasingly aware of the dangers of sharing personal information online. While technology has improved many aspects of life, it has also posed new risks related to cyber security and personal data theft.
Question: What is the main idea of the passage?
- A. The benefits of technological advancement.
- B. The increasing importance of privacy in the digital age.
- C. The role of the government in protecting personal data.
- D. The risks of online shopping.
Answer: B. The increasing importance of privacy in the digital age.
4. Summary Questions
Question: Which of the following best summarizes the passage below?
“Education is the key to unlocking human potential. Through learning, individuals gain knowledge and skills that are essential for personal and societal growth. A well-educated society tends to be more prosperous and stable, fostering innovation and progress.”
- A. Education helps individuals unlock their potential and leads to prosperity.
- B. A prosperous society is a result of wealth, not education.
- C. Innovation and progress are only possible through wealth.
- D. Education is the main cause of instability in society.
Answer: A. Education helps individuals unlock their potential and leads to prosperity.
5. Literary Appreciation
Question: Identify the figure of speech used in the following sentence:
“The wind howled through the night, as if it were alive.”
- A. Personification
- B. Metaphor
- C. Simile
- D. Alliteration
Answer: A. Personification
Tips for Preparing for JAMB Use of English
- Read Widely: Exposure to different forms of writing—novels, newspapers, journals, etc.—helps improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
- Practice Regularly: Engage with sample questions from past JAMB exams to familiarize yourself with the format and style of questions.
- Study Grammar Rules: Brush up on grammar rules, especially tenses, subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure.
- Time Management: During your exam practice, simulate exam conditions by timing yourself. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual test.
- Take Mock Tests: Taking mock tests helps you assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many questions are asked in the JAMB Use of English section?
The Use of English section typically consists of 60 questions, each designed to test your grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and literary knowledge.
What is the best way to prepare for JAMB Use of English?
The best way to prepare is by reading regularly, practicing past questions, studying grammar, and improving your vocabulary. Additionally, working through comprehension passages will help you improve reading speed and accuracy.
Are there recommended books for JAMB Use of English?
Yes, some recommended books include “The Complete English Grammar” by Ayo Babalola and “JAMB Use of English Past Questions and Answers” by various authors. These can help you better understand the test format and improve your skills.
How is the Use of English section graded?
The Use of English section is graded on a scale from 1 to 400, and it contributes to your total JAMB score. The questions are designed to test your command of English and ability to communicate effectively.
What should I do if I don’t understand a passage in the comprehension section?
If you don’t understand a passage, try to skim through it to get the general idea. Focus on the key details, and avoid getting stuck on unfamiliar words. Often, the questions will give you enough context to answer correctly.
Conclusion
The JAMB Use of English exam plays a vital role in determining whether you’ll gain admission into your preferred Nigerian university. By preparing adequately, practicing regularly, and understanding the format of questions, you can improve your chances of performing well. Stay consistent with your studies, and use available resources like past questions and textbooks to sharpen your skills.
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Good luck with your JAMB 2024/2025 exam!