English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First Term

You’re welcome to our school exams series where we provide you with termly examination questions in different subjects. In today’s post, we will focus on English Language exam questions. We will cover English Language exam questions for SS1 First term with answers. This means that we’ll be providing you with answers to the questions at the end. Also, you will get a few success tips on how to pass English Language examinations with flying colors. Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Introduction to English Language as a School Subject

Before we venture into Past English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First term, here’s a brief introduction to the subject:

English Language is one of the most important subjects taught in schools. It serves as the main medium of communication in education, government, business, and social interaction in Nigeria and many other countries. Through English, students learn how to read, write, speak, and listen effectively.

The subject helps students to develop their vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. It also builds confidence in expressing ideas clearly in both speech and writing. English Language connects learners to the wider world by exposing them to literature, media, and global information.

In summary, studying English Language equips students with the communication and critical thinking skills needed for academic success and everyday life.

English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First Term

English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First Term are divided into two sections:

• Section A
• Section B

The first section, namely, Section A is the objective test, and students are expected to attempt all questions in the section. Section B is the theory part, and students are expected to follow specific instruction and answer the required number of questions.

Note that what you have below are SS1 English Language First Term Exam Past Questions made available to assist students in their revision for 1st term examinations and also teachers in structuring standard examinations.

SECTION A: COMPOSITION

Answer only ONE question from this section

1. Your mother has written to you asking of your well-being in your new class in the senior secondary school you attend. Reply her narrating your experiences so far this term.

2. You are the chief speaker in a debate on the topic: “The Establishment of Federal Government Colleges is a Blessing to the Nigerian Child.” Write your argument for or against the proposition.

SECTION B: COMPREHENSION

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

When Bademosi heard that he had some visitors from Ireti, his hometown, he concluded immediately that they must be the usual seekers of financial assistance or jobs. He decided that this time he would give them the rough edge of his tongue. They had come on those earlier callers had not reported what he had stressed: that he was not in Kapital town for anyone’s sake.

He told his wife to put his office and workshop order determined not to leave in a hurry just because of some stubborn fortune-seekers. He made sure that all his seventy-two workers had signed out before he signaled to his driver. There, in the huge limousine, he thought of the two million-dollar contract for his construction company and how he would get a helicopter from the profit. That would be the ultimate solution to the persistent problem of the traffic jam which he faced in Kapital town.

The five kilometers distance to his mansion was covered in about two hours. On arrival, his youngest wife informed him that his visitors were chiefs from Ireti. He felt a revulsion as he imagined that they must have come with a king-size request. As he entered the house, he steeled his mind.

However, the three chiefs disarmed him with their cheerful smiles. Each met him in the doorway with a bear hug. As soon as the chit-chat ended, they announced that the Ireti ruling council had decided to confer on him the highest traditional title of the land and that a date had been set for the great event. He was flabbergasted. So they had come with an offer. He immediately accepted.

Thereafter, things moved very fast. He contacted all the great names in the country, among them his state governor, the top politicians in the land and his business associates from far and near. However, he did not even pay a preparatory visit to Ireti. He took everything for granted.

The great day came. Hundreds of limousines from far and near streamed into Ireti. As he was not the only awardee, the conferment ceremony began with the others. Each took about fifteen minutes, so before Bademosi’s turn, all his invited guests had arrived. Just as he was called, some heavily-built youngsters appeared, shouting into the microphone. Their leader announced: “Bademosi doesn’t deserve this conferment and cannot have the title. A man who has deserted his community for more than thirty years, who did not think it proper to return home to care for his sick parents before they died, and who has consistently turned deaf ears to the calls of our youths, cannot have the title. Good day, everybody!”

With that, the youths continued to appear in their hundreds, angry and fierce, wielding all forms of weapons, wanting everybody to disappear immediately, otherwise heads would roll including theirs if the police wanted it so. Within minutes, the whole arena was deserted.

QUESTIONS

1. How had Bademosi treated visitors from his hometown?

2. What evidence is there in the passage that Bademosi is wealthy?

3. Why has Bademosi planned to buy a helicopter?

4. Give two reasons why the youths objected to Bademosi’s installation.

5. Give another word or phrase that is similar to the following words/expressions and can suitably replace them in the passage: (i) stubborn (ii) seventy-two (iii) solution (iv) jam (v) imagined (vi) flabbergasted

SECTION C: OBJECTIVE TEST

From the options lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word in the sentences below.

11. The manager’s banal presentation did not impress his employers.
A. effective      B. well-prepared
C. formal         D. systematic

12. He showed a marked antipathy to foreigners.
A. fondness       B. profundity
C. objection       D. willingness

13. According to the columnist, the modern man has become inert.
A. lily-livered     B. quiescent
C. apathetic       D. active

14. The priest’s sermons are often wordy and pointless.
A. esoteric         B. concise
C. garrulous      D. voluble

15. The poet’s life is rather uneventful.
A. exciting       B. sedentary
C. tedious       D. monotonous

16. Life is ephemeral in nature.
A. fleeting      B. contradictory
C. eternal       D. everlasting

From the words lettered A to D below in each of the following sentences, choose the word or phrase that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word.

17. Christie is not only hardworking but also painstaking.
A. ambitious     B. scrupulous
C. pleasant       D. daring

18. There has been a marked setback in her study habit recently.
A. real      B. significant
C. full       D. complete

19. Ochendo’s house caught fire because his wife had turned on the gas inadvertently.
A. automatically
B. hurriedly
C. carelessly
D. unintentionally

20. The Military Governor called for a joint effort in solving the problems of the state.
A. a dedicated
A. concerted
C. an audacious
D. a directed

21. Banky made a profligate use of scarce resources.
A. extravagant    B. frugal
C. efficient          D. thrifty

22. Dangote opined that accepting the government’s proposal would be inimical to the objectives of his company.
A. helpful       B. relevant
C. harmful      D. indispensable

After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence.

23. When he leaves Nigeria, it will be for good. This means that he will
A. never come back
B. leave for better conditions elsewhere
C. become an adventurer
D. improve his ways

24. When we missed the last bus, we were left high and dry and had to walk home in the rain. This means that we
A. were intoxicated
B. found ourselves in a difficult situation
C. were robbed
D. were very tired

25. The symposium was attended by people from all walks of life. This means that the symposium was attended by people
A. of all races
B. who had travelled widely
C. from all professions
D. from different parts of the world

26. All her plans fell through at the last minute. This means that her plans
A. were exposed
B. were delayed
C. were abandoned
D. failed

27. Now that Tenge has become rich, Precious has begun to make much of him. This means that Precious
A. now values Tenge
B. now gets a lot of money from Tenge
C. is considering marrying him
D. wants to help Tenge

28. The shopkeeper concurred that the particular design of boots is a dime a dozen. This means that the design is
A. very common
B. expensive
C. artistic
D. new

29. The supervisor is high-handed with his subordinates. This means that the supervisor
A. respects his staff highly
B. is friendly and easygoing with his staff
C. uses his authority over his staff sternly
D. is boastful in the presence of his staff

30. Whenever Awele finds herself at a loose end, she goes visiting people. This means that Awele goes visiting people when she
A. is happy
B. feels worried and confused
C. has finished her chores
D. has nothing to occupy her

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following

31. The pupils ______ into two groups last week.
A. had been splitted
B. were splitted
C. were split
D. were splited

32. The chef bought some ______ at Mayor market last week.
A. grinded pepper
B. grind pepper
C. ground pepper
D. grounded pepper

33. The news of Trump’s election victory ______ before we arrived there.
A. has been broadcasted
B. has been broadcast
C. had been broadcast
D. had being broadcasted

34. ______ must make a pact.
A. I and them
B. Them and us
C. You and I
D. You and me

35. The poor ______ our assistance.
A. deserves
B. deserve
C. is deserving of
D. has deserved

Choose the options lettered A to D one that contains the sound segment represented by the given phonetic symbol.

36. /tʃ/
A. tuesday      B. machete
C. closure       D. nonchalant

37. /s/
A. conspire     B. transit
C. residue       D. jersey

38. /z/
A. azure       B. cosmetic
C. Czech      D. consonant

39. /dʒ/
A. message      B. procedure
C. concierge    D. garage

40. /g/
A. axiomatic     B. songster
C. exhult           D. hamstring

41. /h/
A. silhouette     B. ghastly
C. cohort          D. honorary

42. /p/
A. shepherd      B. empty
C. raspberry      D. pterygium

43. /l/
A. folksy         B. wheel
C. salmon       D. almond

44. /w/
A. awry        B. wrestle
C. once        D. playwright

45. /ʒ/
A. immersion      B. convulsion
C. reversion        D. excision

Read Also: English Language Exam Questions for SS2 First Term

SECTION D: TENSE

Rewrite the following sentences using the tense indicated in the brackets.

46. He had done his work with diligence. (Simple present)

47. That will be interesting. (Present continuous)

48. I will not allow this to happen. (Simple past)

49. I will never raise any demand. (Present perfect)

50. He is crying at the top of his voice. (Past perfect)

SECTION E: CLOZE PASSAGE

In the following passage, the numbered gaps indicate missing words. From the options lettered A to D, choose the word that is the most suitable to fill the gaps in the sentence.

Despite our complexity of language skills, the face is still our primary means of communication. It is _____(51)______ because our faces are so complex in appearance that we can easily ______(52)______ a friend in a crowd or attempt to check the trustworthiness of a stranger. _______(53)______ our ability to recognise faces quickly, in all sorts of circumstances, is arguably our most important and remarkable visual skills.

Thanks to its very elastic skin, animated by a complex musculature capable of an enormous range of ______(54)______ movements, the human face can quickly display a whole ______(55)______ of contrasting emotions. As a result of evolution, we can read faces, making judgements about them _______(56)______ on our experience, without effort and without anything being said.

Read the text below. Use the highlighted words written below the passage to form a word that fits in the matching numbered gaps in the passage.

People are often put off meditation by what they see as its many mystical associations. Yet meditation is a _____(57)______ technique which merely involves sitting and resting the mind. In addition to its ______(58)______, meditation offers powerful help in the battle against stress. Hundreds of studies have shown that meditation, when _______(59)______ in a principled way, can reduce hypertension which is related to stress in the body.

Research has proved that certain types of meditation can ______(60)______ decrease key stress symptoms such as anxiety and ______(61)______. In fact, those who practise meditation with any  _______(62)_____ see their doctors less and spend, on average, seventy per cent fewer days in hospital. They are said to have more stamina, a happier ______(63)______ and even enjoy better relationships.

When you learn to meditate, your teacher will give you a personal ‘mantra’ or word which you use every time you practise the technique and which is ________(64)______ chosen according to your needs. Initial classes are taught individually but ______(65)______ classes usually consist of a group of students and take place over a period of about four days. The aim is to learn how to slip into a deeper state of ______(66)______ for twenty minutes a day. The rewards speak for themselves.

(57) straight (58) simple (59) take (60) substance (61) irritable (62) regular (63) dispose (64) suppose (65) sequence (66) conscious

SECTION F

Transcribe the following words, identify the consonant phonemes, and describe them accordingly. Use a table.

67. Years

(68) English

(69) Closure

(70) Issue

Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Answers to English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First Term

SECTION A: COMPOSITION

1. Reply to Mother

HGHS
Enugu.
29/12/2025

Dear Mama,

Thank you for your letter and your prayers. I am well and settling into senior secondary school. My new class is bigger than before. The teachers are strict but kind. They expect us to read every day. I have a timetable now and I wake early to study before lessons. Lessons are more challenging, but I enjoy them. I like English and Biology most. The library is quiet and helpful; I borrow one book every week.

My classmates are friendly. We formed a study group that meets twice a week. We help one another with homework and past questions. I joined the school choir and we practice on Wednesdays. The school canteen serves good food, though I bring extra water. I miss home sometimes, but calls and your messages keep me strong.

I am learning to be responsible. Ī sweep my dorm and lay out my clothes. I also help a younger student with reading. Please keep praying for me. Send my love to everyone at home. I will write again soon.

Lovingly,

Your son/daughter

2. Debate Speech — For the Motion

Good Mr Moderator, Panel of Judges, Co-debaters and my Audience,

I stand for the motion that the establishment of Federal Government Colleges is a blessing to the Nigerian child. First, these colleges raise academic standards. They attract qualified teachers and provide textbooks and laboratories that many state schools lack. A child who attends a Federal Government College gains access to a better learning environment.

Second, they promote unity. Students from different states meet, learn together and share cultures. This builds respect and a sense of nation. Third, admission often rewards merit. Talented pupils from poor backgrounds get a chance to excel. That chance can change a life.

Some say the schools are crowded or underfunded. These are real challenges. But the idea is right. With proper support, the colleges can lead the way for good education across the country.

In short, Federal Government Colleges give many children hope, strong lessons and wider horizons. For these reasons I urge you to support the motion. Thank you.

SECTION B: COMPREHENSION

1. How had Bademosi treated visitors from his hometown?

Bademosi usually treated visitors from his hometown harshly and with annoyance. He often believed they only came to seek money or favors, so he decided to give them the “rough edge of his tongue.”

2. What evidence is there in the passage that Bademosi is wealthy?

He owned a large construction company with seventy-two workers, rode in a huge limousine, lived in a mansion, and was about to win a two million-dollar contract. These show that he was a very wealthy man.

3. Why has Bademosi planned to buy a helicopter?

He planned to buy a helicopter to avoid the heavy traffic jams in Kapital town and make his movement faster and more convenient.

4. Give two reasons why the youths objected to Bademosi’s installation.

(i) He had deserted his community for more than thirty years without returning home.
(ii) He ignored the calls and needs of the youths and failed to care for his sick parents before they died.

5. Give another word or phrase that is similar to the following words/expressions and can suitably replace them in the passage:

(i) stubborn – obstinate
(ii) seventy-two – 72 (no change in meaning, numeral form)
(iii) solution – answer / remedy
(iv) jam – traffic congestion
(v) imagined – thought / pictured
(vi) flabbergasted – astonished / amazed

Answers to Section A (Objective Test)

The following table gives the correct answers to the objective section of English Language exam questions for SS1 First term. If you are using a mobile device, hold the table and scroll to the right or left for a complete view.

So here you have the answers to the objective section of English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First term. Use the comments section to let me know if you have any questions you would want me to clarify or discuss further.

SECTION D: TENSE

46. He does his work with diligence.

47. That is being interesting.

48. I did not allow this to happen.

49. I have never raised any demand.

50. He had cried at the top of his voice.

SECTION E: CLOZE PASSAGE

Part 1

Despite our complexity of language skills, the face is still our primary means of communication. It is uniquely (51) because our faces are so complex in appearance that we can easily spot (52) a friend in a crowd or attempt to check the trustworthiness of a stranger. Indeed (53) our ability to recognise faces quickly, in all sorts of circumstances, is arguably our most important and remarkable visual skill.

Thanks to its very elastic skin, animated by a complex musculature capable of an enormous range of intricate (54) movements, the human face can quickly display a whole array (55) of contrasting emotions. As a result of evolution, we can read faces, making judgements about them based (56) on our experience, without effort and without anything being said.

Part 2

People are often put off meditation by what they see as its many mystical associations. Yet meditation is a straightforward (57) technique which merely involves sitting and resting the mind. In addition to its simplicity (58), meditation offers powerful help in the battle against stress. Hundreds of studies have shown that meditation, when taken (59) in a principled way, can reduce hypertension which is related to stress in the body.

Research has proved that certain types of meditation can substantially (60) decrease key stress symptoms such as anxiety and irritability (61). In fact, those who practise meditation with any regularity (62) see their doctors less and spend, on average, seventy per cent fewer days in hospital. They are said to have more stamina, a happier disposition (63) and even enjoy better relationships.

When you learn to meditate, your teacher will give you a personal “mantra” or word which you use every time
you practise the technique and which is supposedly (64) chosen according to your needs.
Initial classes are taught individually but subsequent (65) classes usually consist of a group of students
and take place over a period of about four days. The aim is to learn how to slip into a deeper state of
consciousness (66) for twenty minutes a day. The rewards speak for themselves.

Answers to Section F (PHONETICS)

How to Pass English Language Exam Questions for SS1 First Term

Passing your English Language exam questions for SS1 First term requires a combination of preparation, understanding, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to help you excel:

Before the exam — get ready

• Know the exam format. Learn sections and time limits.
• Make a simple study plan. 20–30 minutes a day is enough if you are steady.
• Gather past questions and class notes. Practice with real questions.
• Read short texts daily: news, short stories, or school readers.

During the exam — simple rules

1. Read the instruction first. Follow every instruction exactly.
2. Scan the whole paper. Note marks and time for each section.
3. Answer easy questions first. This builds confidence and saves time.
4. Keep to the time. If a question will take long, move on and come back later.

Comprehension passages

A clear method for comprehension questions.

1. Read the questions first. This tells you what to look for.
2. Skim the passage for a quick idea. Then read carefully.
3. Underline key words in the passage that answer the question.
4. Answer in your own words. Keep answers short and direct.
5. When asked for evidence, quote a short phrase and name the line or sentence.

Grammar, cloze and editing

• For cloze tests, read the whole sentence before choosing a word.
• Use grammar rules. Check verb forms, subject–verb agreement, and tenses.
• In editing questions, look for wrong tense, wrong word, missing punctuation, and spelling errors.
• When unsure, pick the option that fits the sentence meaning and tense.

Composition / Essay

1. Plan quickly: intro, 2–3 body points, short conclusion.
2. Write simple sentences. One idea per sentence.
3. Use linking words (first, next, however, finally) but don’t overdo them.
4. Keep paragraphs short. Each paragraph should have one main idea.
5. End with a clear closing sentence that restates your main point.

Spelling and handwriting

• Write clearly. Examiners must read your answers.
• Slow down a little when spelling hard words.
• If unsure of spelling, use a simpler correct word.

Quick revision checklist (exam day)

• Bring necessary items: pens, pencil, sharpener, eraser, ruler.
• Arrive early and sit where you can see the board and clock.
• Read instructions. Fill the front page correctly (name, class, etc.).
• Leave 5–7 minutes to check your work.

It’s a wrap!

If you need more clarification on SS1 First Term Questions on English Language, you can use the comments box below. We’ll be there to answer you asap. Don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Best wishes..