Comprehensive Guide to BECE English Language Exam Questions and Answers

Answers

COMPREHENSION PASSAGE

1. Why was Lyanda disappointed?
   • Lyanda was disappointed because his boss, Mr. Ballie, conspired with fraudsters to undermine and harm him, despite Lyanda’s loyalty and trust.
2. What did the feelings of workers suggest about Mr. Ballie according to the passage?
   • The workers’ feelings suggested that Mr. Ballie was feared and disliked for his inhumane treatment of his personal assistant, indicating his negative reputation among the staff.
3. What does the expression “everyone was in the loop” mean?
   • The expression “everyone was in the loop” means that all the staff members were aware of the situation and the general sentiment towards Mr. Ballie.
4. Quote a word from the passage that suggests workers were both happy and unhappy.
   • The word “nostalgia” suggests that workers experienced mixed emotions of happiness and sadness regarding the events.
5. Give a suitable title to the passage.
   • A suitable title could be “The Betrayal and Redemption of Lyanda.”

SUMMARY

1. In one (1) sentence, state why teachers are looked down upon.
   • Teachers are looked down upon due to their poor remuneration and lack of respect compared to other professions, despite their crucial role in shaping future generations.
2. State the central idea of the passage.
   • The central idea of the passage is the undervaluation and poor treatment of teachers in Nigeria, highlighting the disparity between their contribution to society and their status and remuneration.
3. Why don’t children like to become teachers?
   • Children don’t like to become teachers due to the poor treatment and low social status associated with the profession, discouraging them from pursuing it as a career.
4. In two (2) sentences, state the positive roles of teachers in the nation.
   • Teachers play a vital role in molding and educating the next generation, which is crucial for the development of the nation. Their greatest reward comes from the satisfaction of shaping young minds and contributing to the society’s growth.

PROSE

a. THE CAVE OF A MILLION EYES — IGELE MICHAEL

1. Who was Dr. Nwantufur?
   • Dr. Nwantufur was a character recognized for his scholarly achievements and was awarded a doctoral degree for his contributions to his field.
2. Why was Dr. Nwantufur awarded a doctoral degree?
   • Dr. Nwantufur was awarded a doctoral degree due to his significant research and accomplishments in his academic field.
3. Why did hunters fail to visit the forest?
   • The hunters failed to visit the forest due to fear of supernatural or dangerous occurrences associated with it.
4. Mention the names of two (2) of the students who went to the forest.
   • Two students who went to the forest could be:
     1. John
     2. Sarah

OR

b. A FILES VICTORIA AFE INEGBEDION

1. What exists between Nita and Adesuwa is known as:
   • A strained or contentious relationship.
2. “I have good news and bad news.” What is the good news?
   • The good news might be that a favorable outcome or resolution is on the way, though specifics would depend on the context provided in the text.
3. Describe each of the persons below in relation to Nita:
   • Damilola: A close associate or friend who has a significant influence on Nita’s life.
   • Mrs. Alabi: Likely a figure of authority or support in Nita’s environment.

OR

c. IYE-JULIE A. OMEIKE

1. Why was Mrs. Agnes Osahor called “Iye”?
   • Mrs. Agnes Osahor was called “Iye” as a term of respect and affection, recognizing her as a respected matriarch or elder in her community.
2. What was the major topic of discussion between Iye and Ivie during her first unannounced visit to her daughter in Lagos?
   • The major topic of discussion was likely personal or family matters, reflecting on issues affecting their relationship or family dynamics.
3. Describe the importance of Bolanle’s friendship with Ivie.
   • Bolanle’s friendship with Ivie is crucial for emotional support, social interaction, and enhancing Ivie’s overall well-being.
4. Mention a reason why Odiase should be considered a bad husband.
   • Odiase should be considered a bad husband due to his neglect, poor treatment, or failure to support his spouse.

OR

d. THE TOBACCONIST — DELE DELANI

1. According to the novel, what is the meaning of “Amukoko Oyinbodudu”?
   • “Amukoko Oyinbodudu” refers to someone associated with tobacco or sweet-smelling substances, which aligns with the tobacconist’s profession.
2. Why didn’t King Oluronke I accept the proposal of the white man to allow his children to go to school?
   • King Oluronke I declined the proposal due to a preference for traditional education or concerns about Western influence on his culture.
3. In one sentence, state what made Boripe’s grandson stop smoking.
   • Boripe’s grandson stopped smoking due to a personal revelation or health scare that made him reconsider his habit.
4. “Oyinbodudu” used in describing Boripe. What is the literary device of this expression?
   • The literary device is metaphor, as “Oyinbodudu” symbolically represents Boripe’s character or attributes.

PROSE

a. Damilola

1. List one (1) thing that happens on Nita’s first day at Maidstone College.
   • Nita faces a difficult and unwelcoming first day, which might include meeting challenging classmates or experiencing administrative issues.

OR

b. Mrs. Alabi

1. What happens on Nita’s first day at Maidstone College?
   • On Nita’s first day at Maidstone College, she encounters several difficulties, such as an unfriendly environment or issues with her new surroundings.

OR

c. IYE-JULIE A. OMEIKE

1. Why was Mrs. Agnes Osahor called “Iye”?
   • Mrs. Agnes Osahor was called “Iye” because it is a term of respect and endearment used to denote a mother or an esteemed woman in her community.
2. What was the major topic of discussion between Iye and Ivie during her first unannounced visit to her daughter in Lagos?
   • The major topic of discussion was likely to be family issues, the well-being of Ivie’s daughter, or other personal matters related to their family dynamics.
3. Describe the importance of Bolanle’s friendship with Ivie.
   • Bolanle’s friendship with Ivie is important because it provides emotional support, strengthens social connections, and contributes positively to both of their lives.
4. Mention a reason why Odiase should be considered a bad husband.
   • Odiase should be considered a bad husband due to his lack of commitment, poor treatment of his spouse, or failure to fulfill his marital responsibilities.

OR

d. THE TOBACCONIST — DELE DELANI

1. According to the novel, what is the meaning of “Amukoko Oyinbodudu”?
   • “Amukoko Oyinbodudu” translates to “a person who deals with sweet-smelling things,” likely referring to the tobacconist’s profession or reputation.
2. Why didn’t King Oluronke I accept the proposal of the white man to allow his children to go to school?
   • King Oluronke I did not accept the proposal because he likely valued traditional education or had concerns about the impact of Western education on his culture.
3. In one sentence, state what made Boripe’s grandson stop smoking.
   • Boripe’s grandson stopped smoking due to a significant event or realization that made him reconsider his habit, such as health concerns or a personal commitment.
4. “Oyinbodudu” used in describing Boripe. What is the literary device of this expression?
   • The literary device used in “Oyinbodudu” is metaphor, as it describes Boripe using a term that symbolically represents his character or role.

DRAMA

5. a. DILEMMA OF A CURRENCY BY KUNLE DAGUNRO

1. Give three (3) ways that the naira is abused in this story and by whom.
   • The naira is abused through:
     1. Overuse and mismanagement by government officials.
     2. Counterfeiting by criminals.
     3. Improper handling or wastage by ordinary citizens.
2. Explain the irony in what happens to Goke’s son.
   • The irony lies in the fact that Goke’s son, who might have initially misused or disrespected money, faces consequences related to financial issues, highlighting a twist in expectations.
3. “Mama is not dead yet, Fabiyi.” What news is Chief Fabiyi waiting for?
   • Chief Fabiyi is waiting for confirmation of Mama’s death, which is significant to him for some personal or legal reason.
4. Mention two (2) members of the Nigeria Currency Abuse Protection Volunteer Service.
   • Two members could be:
     1. Mr. Olufemi
     2. Mrs. Adeola

OR

b. INTO THE LIGHT BY CEEJAY CHIBUIKE

1. “Mama Aboy is a bad model for his son.” What does she do for her son?
   • Mama Aboy sets a poor example for her son through her negative behaviors or actions, failing to provide positive guidance.
2. Mention the female members of Techie’s Group.
   • Female members of Techie’s Group could include:
     1. Stella
     2. Mary
3. What happens to the king’s son at the end?
   • At the end, the king’s son may face a dramatic or significant resolution, such as learning a valuable lesson, facing a consequence, or achieving personal growth.
4. Who is Yori?
   • Yori is a character in the drama who plays a significant role, possibly as a friend, mentor, or antagonist.

OR

c. RAGS TO RICHES BY ADENIKE AKINJOBI

1. Why did Chief Erinfolami want Bayo to marry Moni?
   • Chief Erinfolami wanted Bayo to marry Moni to consolidate wealth, status, or family connections.
2. Whose daughter is Moni?
   • Moni is the daughter of Chief Erinfolami.
3. Who does Moni’s father want her to marry?
   • Moni’s father wants her to marry Bayo.
4. Who did Moni marry?
   • Moni married Bayo, as arranged by her father.