English Language Exam Questions for SS3 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 SS3 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 (Including WAEC, NECO and UTME) 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 SS3 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 both a subject of study and a medium of instruction in many countries, including Nigeria. The subject helps students to develop the four basic language skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — which are essential for effective communication.

Through the study of English Language, students learn grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, composition, and oral skills that enable them to express their thoughts clearly and confidently. It also prepares them for higher education and professional communication. In essence, English Language is not just an academic requirement but a key tool for success in every field of life.

English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First Term are divided into Three Papers:

• Paper 1
• Påper 2
• Paper 3

The first paper, namely, Paper 1 is the essay / theory part, and students are expected to follow specific instruction and answer the required number of questions. Paper 2 is the objective test, and students are expected to attempt all questions. Paper 3 is test of Orals.

Note that what you have below are SS3 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.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER 1

SECTION A: ESSAY (50 Marks)

INSTRUCTION: Answer one question only from this section. All questions carry equal marks. Your answer should not be less than 450 words.

You are advised to spend about 50 minutes on this section.

1. You have recently moved into a new neighbourhood with your parents. Write a letter to your sister who is studying overseas, giving at least three reasons why you dislike the new place.

2. Write an article for publication in a national newspaper on the topic: Vocational Training is the Answer to Unemployment Among Youths.

3. Your country’s public transport system is not functioning properly. Write a letter to the Minister of Transport, highlighting the causes and suggesting at least two measures that could improve the situation.

4. You are the Chief Speaker in a debate on the topic: The Youths of Today Are More Interested in the Pursuit of Pleasure than in Academic Work. Write your speech for or against the motion.

5. Write a story to illustrate the saying: A Good Name is Better Than Riches.

SECTION B: COMPREHENSION PASSAGE (40 Marks)

INSTRUCTION: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.

It was a little past 10 a.m., but the medium-sized hall that served as a prayer house was already brimming with people from different parts of the metropolis who had come to seek healing or solutions to their problems. The majority of them were individuals suffering from seemingly intractable mental health conditions.

The superintendent of the prayer house in question was often spoken of in whispers as possessing uncanny spiritual powers to exorcise evil spirits. It was also believed that he had cures for numerous illnesses that defied orthodox medication. Wednesdays of each week were set aside for these healing sessions.

On this particular Wednesday, noisy supplications to the Most High and ceaseless invocations of His name to free those supposedly held captive by evil spirits had reached a fever pitch. Suddenly, a middle-aged man broke loose from the crowd and ran as fast as his wobbly legs could carry him. Some male workers from the prayer house gave him a hot chase.

At first, bemused bystanders rained curses on the fleeing man, wondering why a person in his right senses would, in broad daylight, rob a house of God. They mistook him for a robber fleeing the scene of his crime. But he was not. Minutes later, he was caught and chained hand and foot despite his struggles against his captors, who intermittently lashed him with horsewhips. As he was violently dragged along the street, the man ceaselessly muttered incomprehensible words that sounded like the chatter of a colony of baboons.

Then a clear picture of the situation dawned on the onlookers. The man was not a thief and had stolen nothing; rather, his ability to think and reason properly had deserted him. Simply put, he was mentally deranged.

The above incident is a common occurrence in many parts of the country. It aptly underscores the devastating mental health challenges plaguing a sizeable number of people in recent times. It also highlights the unspeakable and inhuman treatment that people with such disorders suffer at the hands of self-styled spiritualists. This is the usual fate of mental patients whose family members refuse to take advantage of orthodox treatment.

Questions

6. What brought the people to the prayer house?

7. State the functions of the superintendent of the prayer house.

8. What was wrong with the onlookers’ assessment of the runaway man?

9. Mention two instances of inhuman treatment in the passage.

10. What is the writer’s attitude towards the treatment of mentally ill people at the prayer house?

11. “… like the chatter of a colony of baboons.” What figure of speech is contained in this expression?

12. “… whose family members refuse to take advantage of orthodox treatment.”
i. What grammatical name is given to this expression as used in the passage?
ii. What is its function?

13. For each of the following words, find another word or phrase that means the same and can replace it as used in the passage:
i. intractable
ii. supplications
iii. wobbly
iv. intermittently
v. deranged

SECTION C: SUMMARY (30 Marks)

You are advised to spend about 50 minutes on this section.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.

It is now fashionable to hear discussions about the disproportionate representation of males and females in the population. It is not uncommon to hear people claim that for every man, there are about two or three women; therefore, every man can marry more than one woman. This theory is especially popular among those who favour the glamour of polygamy. But how correct is this theory, and what are the facts?

The truth is that in any normal population, out of every one hundred conceptions, about fifty-three to fifty-five are male, while forty-five to forty-seven are female. So, there are potentially more boys than girls at conception. However, due to several factors—some of which are not fully understood—the male foetus is far more fragile than the female. Consequently, there are more miscarriages of male babies. By the time the children are born, the ratio between boys and girls has reduced to about fifty-two boys to forty-eight girls.

As infants, boys are more delicate than girls. They are less resistant to certain killer diseases, giving girls a higher survival rate. The result is that before adolescence, around the ages of nine to eleven, boys and girls are nearly equal in number.

During adolescence (ages twelve to nineteen), boys continue to suffer from illnesses at a higher rate than girls. In addition, their adventurous, daring, and risk-taking nature exposes them to more accidents, further reducing their number.

By the end of adolescence, there are slightly more girls than boys. This reduction continues progressively. Men, being the breadwinners, soldiers, and travellers, face more risks. Many die tragically in their middle ages, especially in the line of duty. Thus, by their mid-thirties, there are more women than men.

Finally, in their forties and fifties, more men than women die of heart-related diseases such as hypertension and heart attacks. This explains why there are more widows than widowers.

Overall, therefore, there are more females than males, though not in the exaggerated proportions claimed by polygamy advocates. During their marriageable years, the ratio is about eleven women to ten men of the same age. The reason some men can marry multiple wives is that they often choose younger women, and this age gap makes polygamy possible in some societies.

Questions

a. In five sentences, one for each factor, summarize the reasons responsible for the progressive reduction in the number of males as against females from conception to adulthood.

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

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER 2 (OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS)

SECTION I

In each of the following sentences, there is one underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time, correctly fill the gap.

1. “Hello Musa” is a _________ opening for a friendly letter, but it is inappropriate for a formal letter.
A. casual          B. serious
C. happy          D. suitable

2. We blamed Obi for breaking the door, but when Ade confessed that he did it, Obi was __________ .
A. rewarded       B. exonerated
C. released         D. pardoned

3. Parking on this street is __________ on weekdays but permitted at weekends.
A. rejected         B. sanctioned
C. abolished      D. prohibited

4. They had to ________ the old building to construct a fine star hotel.
A. close             B. remove
C. demolish       D. damage

5. If we can commence the meeting on time, we should be able to_______ by 4:00 p.m.
A. return           B. vacate
C. convene       D. adjourn

6. The children expected to be praised for putting out the fire, but they were_________ for taking such a risk.
A. rebuked         B. accused
C. despised        D. sentenced

7. A child got stuck trying to squeeze through an iron fence, but some aunts managed to _________him.
A. extract        B. push
C. save            D. extricate

8. They ended the discussion on amicable terms.
A. unacceptable    B. hostile
C. unknown           D. annoying

9. Good teaching stimulates the interest of students, whereas bad teaching_________ it.
A. dampens        B. encourages
C. supersedes     D. retracts

10. Some youths of this generation are often hard-hearted compared to those of past generations who were _________.
A. indifferent      B. fastidious
C. proficient        D. compassionate

11. The doctor does not think the patient will recover; the signs are ominous rather than _________.
A. gloomy        B. feasible
C. obvious        D. encouraging

12. The purpose of education is to enhance progress and not to _________it.
A. proscribe       B. intercept
C. impede          D. confuse

13. The teacher gave him marks and wrote complimentary remarks in the margin, which surprisingly gave him_________ feelings.
A. doubtful         B. secret
C. unpleasant      D. serious

14. Many people find cod liver oil disgusting, but soldiers find it _________.
A. refreshing       B. medicinal
C. pleasant          D. bitter

SECTION II

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

15. The bride was praised by her mother-in-law for her impeccable behaviour.
A. spotless       B. appropriate
C. beautiful      D. faultless

16. Ogene was not the least cowed by the bully’s threats.
A. intimidated      B. worried
C. encouraged     D. distracted

17. The dissidents held several clandestine meetings before the attack.
A. secret          B. important
C. exclusive     D. impromptu

18. The principal warned the final-year student about the consequences of procrastination.
A. hatred             B. delay
C. protesting       D. rioting

19. The incessant chatter of the pupils irritated the teacher.
A. excited          B. meaningless
C. unceasing     D. illogical

20. With his cogent argument in favour of the proposal, he was able to check the opposition.
A. insistent
B. urgent
C. convincing
D. uncompromising

21. The professor’s explanation of the point was lucid.
A. lengthy     B. complicated
C. clear          D. surprising

22. The foreman believed that with the augmented workforce, the construction job would take one more month to complete.
A. skilled       B. enlarged
C. hired         D. determined

23. The children were warned not to be unduly inquisitive.
A. naughty
B. playful
C. troublesome
D. curious

24. The accused vehemently denied the charges.
A. ignorantly
B. stupidly
C. deliberately
D. strongly

SECTION III

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

25. The class prefect’s _________of the quarrel is different from yours.
A. statement       B. account
C. outline            D. summary

26. I refused to _________my statement because it was true.
A. retract           B. make
C. withhold        D. voice

27. But for the timely _________of the police, there would have been a riot.
A. interference
B. intrusion
C. intervention
D. interruption

28. The boys were about to trade blows, but I managed to hold one of them back while my friend _________the other.
A. restrained     B. subdued
C. coaxed          D. captured

29. We are waiting to hear the weather _________for tomorrow.
A. broadcast     B. declaration
C. report           D. forecast

30. I will tell you a secret if you promise not to_________ it.
A. divulge       B. show
C. scatter        D. relay

31. The hilltop was a beautiful metres above sea level, and from that _________the whole town could be seen beautifully laid out.
A. magnitude     B. altitude
C. latitude          D. longitude

32. Until now, Etim has always started the fights, but this time Adamu is clearly the _________.
A. oppressor       B. fighter
C. aggressor       D. underdog

33. If found guilty, a person may appeal to a higher court in the hope that it will _________ the verdict.
A. discharge     B. revise
C. dismiss         D. reverse

34. The visit of the patron of the club _________the morale of the players.
A. elated         B. induced
C. boasted      D. boosted

35. Tests revealed that the winning athlete had taken performance-enhancing _________.
A. drugs           B. tablets
C. vitamins       D. capsules

36. The lawyer’s client was _________ under oath in the law court.
A. investigated
B. interrogated
C. cross-fined
D. cross-examined

37. That Fulani man has a large _________of cattle.
A. herd
B. flock
C. multitude
D. swine

38. The _________relationship between the couple is for lack of communication.
A. tense        B. strained
C. relaxed     D. uneasy

39. Many players have complained about biased _________referees.
A. officiating       B. control
C. direction         D. handling

40. She won by_________ because her opponent refused to play.
A. defeat          B. default
C. defiance       D. defence

41. The river _________towards the sea.
A. meandered
B. rolled
C. ran
D. trickled

42. At a _________of 200 kilometres an hour, the hurricane swept away everything in its path.
A. movement
B. flow
C. velocity
D. drive

43. We saw a _________of lions at the game reserve.
A. pride        B. family
C. band        D. group

44. All the people in the bus died in that _________accident.
A. serious        B. reckless
C. fatal            D. ghostly

45. What a _________! The more you look, the less you see.
A. wonder          B. miracle
C. challenge       D. paradox

46. The trade unions decided to _________in order to form a stronger body.
A. intermix
B. amalgamate
C. consolidate
D. join

47. The boys rushed out to the beach to enjoy the _________.
A. breath          B. wind
C. breeze          D. air

48. Daylight armed robbery is a common _________in big cities.
A. plan
B. site
C. exercise
D. phenomenon

49. All the children were inoculated _________polio.
A. from           B. by
C. against       D. for

From the words lettered A to D, choose the option that correctly interprets the meaning of each of the following sentences.

50. While paying a visit to his uncle, Ayo intends to kill two birds with one stone. This means that Ayo
A. promises to bring two birds home
B. takes part in a double deal
C. hopes to achieve two aims with one action
D. intends to do two things at the same time

51. People hardly show their true colours. This means that people rarely show
A. their abilities
B. how colourful they can be
C. their real character
D. how noble they are

52. We heard that Bada has served time. This means that Bada has
A. always been punctual
B. been the timekeeper
C. been to prison
D. been a faithful servant

53. Mary and I have never seen eye to eye on politics. This means that we have never
A. agreed on politics
B. engaged in politics
C. discussed politics
D. benefitted from politics

54. Helen has always been a wet blanket. This means that Helen
A. always gets wet
B. betrays her friends
C. interacts freely with other people
D. stops others from enjoying themselves

55. The new policy has come under fire. This means that the policy is
A. generating controversy
B. being criticized
C. being scrutinized
D. causing a riot

56. Please, don’t let them get under your skin. This means that you should not let them
A. infect you
B. defeat you
C. bully you
D. annoy you

57. We were surprised to learn that Tom had been let off the hook. This means that Tom had
A. not been punished
B. gone fishing alone
C. been sent away
D. not been dismissed

58. He is at the crossroads of his life. This means that it is time for him to
A. make a very important decision
B. retrace his steps
C. make peace with everyone
D. take his studies seriously

59. We did understand her better by and by. This means we shall know her better
A. without her knowing
B. much later
C. before long
D. by spending time with her

60. The student’s story did not ring true. This means that the student’s story was
A. not audible
B. not believable
C. full of suspense
D. quite thrilling

61. Mathematics is a closed book to me. This means that I
A. do not have to study Mathematics
B. do not understand Mathematics
C. have never passed Mathematics
D. cannot avoid studying Mathematics

62. On hearing the news, he flew off the handle. This means that he
A. changed his decision
B. ran away
C. felt very disappointed
D. became very angry

63. John’s money was barely enough to keep the wolf from the door. This means that
A. John had killed a wolf
B. the money was just sufficient
C. the situation was desperate
D. John spent money lavishly

64. He was given the boot by the chairman. This means that he was
A. offered a pair of boots
B. promoted
C. sacked
D. sent to buy boots

65. Since he left home, he has been trying to find his feet. This means that he
A. has been suffering a lot
B. lost his pair of shoes
C. has forgotten about his relatives
D. has been trying to get used to his new situation

66. He finds it difficult to put up with her behaviour. This means that he finds it difficult to
A. tolerate her behaviour
B. understand her behaviour
C. determine her behaviour
D. consider her behaviour

67. The government troops extended the olive branch to the rebels. This means that the government troops
A. had reached a critical stage
B. killed a lot of rebels
C. were ready for peace
D. defended their territory bravely

68. At the last minute, he had cold feet. This means that he
A. suddenly fell ill
B. became nervous
C. lost his imagination
D. rejected the offer

PASSAGE

In the following passage, the numbered gaps indicate missing words. Against each number in the list below, four options are offered in columns lettered A to D. Choose the option that is most suitable to fill each gap in the passage.

I remember with much delight the first time I travelled by _____69_____. It was a journey that took me outside the country. When I got to the Kokonbilo International Airport, my uncle who accompanied me showed me the _____70_____ where many aircraft, big and small, were parked. Soon, I was taken to the _____71_____ hall and checked in. I was then given a boarding pass. I was privileged to see the _____72_____ which contained the names and particulars of all of us travelling on the plane.

As soon as we _____73_____ the aircraft and got comfortably seated, I heard the voice of one of the pleasant-looking _____74_____ who said, “Fasten your _____75_____.” Everybody immediately complied with the order. The _____76_____ entered the _____77_____ and after a few other routine checks, the aircraft began to _____78_____ on the _____79_____ before it smoothly took off. Soon, we were _____80_____.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PAPER 3 (TEST OF ORALS)

SECTION 1

From the words lettered A–D, choose the one that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined.

An example is given below:

Example : seat         Q(a) sit            (b) cite           (c) set             (d) key

The correct answer is (d) because only key contains the same vowel sound as the one underline in seat. So, answer space (d) would be shaded.

1. Bill
A. seal       B. need
C. bit        D. ninth

2. Bag
A. lack        B. was
C. pass      D. class

3. Heat
A. wife         B. beard
C. legal       D. sieve

4. Fed
A. pays       B. regal
C. face       D. says

5. Mark
A. lad          B. morale
C. ballot     D. vocal

6. Good
A. wool        B. fool
C. hoot       D. boot

7. Sun
A. coat        B. lock
C. gone      D. run

8. Port
A. word        B. board
C. pod         D. tough

9. Purge
A. bus         B. fork
C. bush      D. worm

10. Plot
A. wonder        B. border
C. ponder        D. month

11. Now
A. bough      B. mow
C. snow        D. though

12. Cheer
A. dare       B. wear
C. bear       D. mere

13. Know
A. how        B. show
C. allow      D. brow

14. Care
A. dear       B. leer
C. pair       D. hear

15. Fire
A. sheer       B. tyre
C. pier         D. gear

SECTION 2

From the words lettered A–D, choose the one that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined.

16. Dim
A. stopped       B. walked
C. shamed       D. asked

17. Post
A. receipt     B. heap
C. psalm       D. pneumonia

18. Vase
A. off       B. ferry
C. of        D. leafy

19. Rain
A. wretch      B. park
C. light         D. surge

20. Leisure
A. sugar               B. pressure
C. compulsion     D. decision

21. Charge
A. nonchalant    B. chagrin
C. chapter          D. brochure

22. Journal
A. gentle       B. guess
C. goose      D. colleague

23. Zone
A. horse      B. verse
C. haste      D. cause

24. Filth
A. though      B. wrath
C. worthy      D. those

25. Pass
A. pose           B. result
C. menace      D. dissolve

26. Ash
A. chamber         B. monarch
C. moustache      D. chasm

27. Tailor
A. walk       B. lamb
C. calm       D. talk

28. Gold
A. guide       B. gem
C. gist          D. gene

29. Ask
A. gasp        B. tax
C. scene       D. masque

30. Toast
A. added       B. rushed
C. tossed       D. posed

SECTION 3

From the options lettered A–D, choose the word that rhymes with the given word. An example is given below:

Example: obtain

(a) detain                   (b) detail                    (c) claim                    (d) relay

The correct answer is (a) because only ‘detain rhymes with obtain’. Therefore, answer space (e) would be shaded.

31. Averse
A. rehearse      B. revise
C. reverts         D. review

32. Mountain
A. country        B. fountain
C. bounty         D. contain

33. Tension
A. season          B. prison
C. equation      D. mention

34. Father
A. platter        B. further
C. rather         D. later

35. Labour
A. cater       B. neighbour
C. mirror     D. terror

SECTION 4

In each of the following questions, the main/primary stress is indicated by writing the syllable on which it occurs in capital letters.

From the words lettered A–D, choose the one that has the correct stress. An example is given below:

Example:  democratic

A. DE – mo – cra – tic        B. de – MO – cra – tic

C. de – mo –CRA – tic        D. de – mo – cra – TIC

The correct answer is C because the main/primary stress of the word democratic is on the third syllable. Now, answer the following questions.

36. Circumstances
A. CIR-cum-stan-ces
B. cir-CUM-stan-ces
C. cir-cum-STAN-ces
D. cir-cum-stan-CES

37. Contribution
A. CON-tri-bu-tion
B. con-TRI-bu-tion
C. con-tri-BU-tion
D. con-tri-bu-TION

38. Criticism
A. CRI-ti-ci-sm
B. cri-TI-ci-sm
C. cri-ti-CI-sm
D. cri-ti-ci-SM

39. Inadequate
A. IN-ad-e-quate
B. in-AD-e-quate
C. in-ad-E-quate
D. in-ad-e-QUATE

40. Manipulate
A. MA-nip-u-late
B. ma-NIP-u-late
C. ma-nip-U-late
D. ma-nip-u-LATE

SECTION 5

In each of the following, all the words except one have the same stress pattern. Identify the one with a different stress pattern. An example is given below:

Example:                   A. away                     B. apart                     C. behind                  D. river

Options A, B, C are all stressed on the second syllable while option D is the only one stressed on the first syllable. So, (d) is the correct answer. Therefore, answer space (d) would be shaded

41.
A. comment
B. despite
C. purchase
D. genuine

42.
A. diverse
B. defer
C. challenge
D. profess

43.
A. exhibit
B. confident
C. satisfy
D. devastate

44.
A. refugee
B. referee
C. understand
D. importance

45.
A. continent
B. opponent
C. exciting
D. ingredient

SECTION 6

In each of the following sentences, the word in capital letters receives the emphatic stress. From the options lettered A–D, choose the question to which the sentence is the appropriate answer. An example is given below:

Example: My mother’s FRIEND hates pets.

A. Does your mother’s boss hate pets?
B. Does your mother’s friend love pets?
C. Does your mother’s friends hate toys?
D. Does your mother’s friend hate pets?

The correct answer is A because MY mother’s FRIEND hates pets answers the question, Does your mother’s boss hate pets? Therefore, answer space A would be shaded.

46. Tunde is visiting his UNCLE in Abuja next month.
A. Is Tunde visiting his aunt in Abuja next month?
B. Is Tunde visiting his uncle in Kaduna next month?
C. Is Tunde visiting his uncle in Abuja next week?
D. Is Tunde visiting his uncle in Abuja next month?

47. Yemi scrubs the floor every SATURDAY.
A. Does Ngozi scrub the floor every Saturday?
B. Does Yemi sweep the floor every Saturday?
C. Does Yemi scrub the floor every Sunday?
D. Does Yemi scrub the wall every Saturday?

48. The PASSENGER boat docked at Accra yesterday.
A. Did the passenger boat dock at Accra last week?
B. Did the cargo boat dock at Accra yesterday?
C. Did the passenger boat dock at Tema yesterday?
D. Did the cargo boat sail from Accra yesterday?

49. Kemi’s watch is made of GOLD.
A. Is Bisi’s watch made of gold?
B. Is Kemi’s necklace made of gold?
C. Is Kemi’s watch plated with gold?
D. Is Kemi’s watch made of silver?

50. The FINAL match of the hockey competition was exciting.
A. Was the final match of the hockey competition boring?
B. Was the final match of the football competition exciting?
C. Was the preliminary match of the hockey competition exciting?
D. Was the final match of the football competition boring?

SECTION 7

From the words lettered A–D, choose the one that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol.

51. /e/
A. people     B. heinous
C. ewe         D. jeopardy

52. /ʌ/
A. wonder      B. dough
C. wander      D. cough

53. /ɔː/
A. pour          B. clerk
C. journal      D. surprise

54. /əʊ/
A. folly        B. toll
C. curly       D. bout

55. /aː/
A. sack         B. card
C. search     D. fact

56. /θ/
A. bathe        B. faith
C. month      D. length

57. /ʃ/
A. mission      B. shoe
C. attach        D. character

58. /t/
A. begged     B. carved
C. urged        D. attend

59. /ʒ/
A. equation        B. addition
C. impression    D. pressure

60. /z/
A. consist       B. insist
C. design       D. reverse

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Answers to English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Answers to Paper I (Essay / Theory)

SECTION A: ESSAY

1. Letter to Your Sister Abroad About Why You Dislike the New Neighbourhood

Dear Sister,

It’s been a few weeks since we moved into our new neighbourhood, and I must confess that life here has not been pleasant at all. I know you would want to hear how I am coping, so I’ll share a few reasons why I’m not happy here.

Firstly, the environment is noisy and chaotic. The street is always filled with the blaring sounds of loud music and generators. This makes it difficult for me to read or rest, especially at night. I miss our former house where the environment was calm and peaceful.

Secondly, the people here are unfriendly. Everyone seems to mind their own business, and no one greets anyone. Back in our old neighbourhood, we had neighbours who cared and looked out for one another, but here, everyone is cold and distant.

Lastly, the area is dirty and poorly maintained. The refuse bins overflow with waste, and there are no proper drainage systems. Whenever it rains, the whole place becomes flooded. This has made the environment uncomfortable and unhealthy.

In summary, I really hope Dad considers moving us back to our former neighbourhood soon. I miss you greatly and hope you are doing well in your studies.

Yours lovingly,
Your Brother/Sister

2. Article: Vocational Training is the Answer to Unemployment Among Youths

Unemployment among youths has become one of the biggest challenges facing many nations today. Every year, thousands of graduates leave school in search of jobs that are not available. The solution to this growing problem lies in vocational training.

Vocational training equips young people with practical skills that can help them to become self-reliant. Through such training, youths can learn trades like tailoring, catering, plumbing, electrical work, computer repairs, and fashion design. These are skills that remain relevant in every society, regardless of economic conditions.

In addition, vocational training reduces the overdependence on white-collar jobs. It enables young people to create employment for themselves and even employ others. This, in turn, contributes to national development by reducing poverty and crime.

Governments should establish more vocational centres and integrate skill acquisition into school curricula. Banks and financial institutions should also support trained youths with loans to start their businesses.

In conclusion, vocational training remains the most effective solution to youth unemployment. Every young person should be encouraged to learn a skill because skill, not certificate, is the key to self-reliance and prosperity.

3. Letter to the Minister of Transport About the Poor State of the Public Transport System

The Honourable Minister,
Federal Ministry of Transport,
Abuja.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I write to express my deep concern about the poor state of the public transport system in our country. Many citizens are suffering daily due to the inefficiency and unreliability of public transportation.

One major problem is the poor condition of most vehicles. Many of them are old and not roadworthy, leading to frequent breakdowns and accidents. Another issue is the irregularity of transport schedules. Buses arrive late, and commuters waste several hours waiting. Moreover, the roads are filled with potholes, making journeys slow and uncomfortable.

To improve the system, the government should introduce well-maintained buses and trains that operate on a fixed schedule. There should also be strict vehicle inspection to remove unfit vehicles from the roads. Lastly, good road maintenance and expansion of transport routes will make movement easier and safer.

Sir, the transport sector is too important to be neglected. I hope these suggestions will be given serious attention for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Yours faithfully,
(Signature)
Your Name

4. Debate: The Youths of Today Are More Interested in the Pursuit of Pleasure than in Academic Work

Good day, Mr. Chairman, Panel of Judges, Accurate Timekeeper, Co-debaters, Ladies and Gentlemen. I stand to support the motion which states that “The Youths of Today Are More Interested in the Pursuit of Pleasure than in Academic Work.”

It is obvious that many youths of today spend more time on entertainment than on their studies. Instead of reading, they spend hours scrolling through social media, watching movies, or attending parties. Many even go to school with their phones, not to learn, but to chat and take pictures.

Furthermore, the value of education has declined among young people. They want quick wealth without hard work. Some drop out of school to engage in online fraud, betting, or other immoral acts. How then can we say they value academics?

Even in higher institutions, students spend more time planning social events than studying. The few serious ones are often mocked for being “bookish.” This shows how pleasure has taken over the minds of many youths.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that today’s youths are indeed more interested in pleasure than in academic work. Until they change their attitude, the future of our nation remains uncertain. Thank you.

5. Story: A Good Name is Better Than Riches

There was once a young man named Chidi who lived in a small town. He came from a poor family but was known for his honesty and humility. Everyone respected him because of his good character.

One day, Chidi found a bag full of money on his way home from work. He could have taken it and solved his financial problems, but his conscience would not allow him. He decided to return the money to its owner, who was a wealthy businessman in the town.

The businessman was surprised and deeply touched by Chidi’s honesty. He rewarded him generously and offered him a good job in his company. Chidi’s integrity brought him blessings beyond his imagination.

Years later, Chidi became successful and respected. People always mentioned his name with admiration and used his story to teach their children about honesty. Truly, Chidi’s good name opened more doors for him than riches ever could. This story proves that a good name is indeed better than riches.

SECTION B: COMPREHENSION

6. The people came to the prayer house to seek healing or solutions to their problems.

7. The superintendent was believed to have the power to exorcise evil spirits and cure illnesses that defied medical treatment.

8. The onlookers wrongly thought the runaway man was a thief, whereas he was mentally ill.

9. Two instances of inhuman treatment are: chaining the man hand and foot, and flogging him with horsewhips.

10. The writer condemns the cruel and inhuman treatment of mentally ill people at the prayer house.

11. The figure of speech is a simile.

12.
(i) It is a relative clause.
(ii) It qualifies the noun “patients.”

13.
(i) intractable – stubborn
(ii) supplications – prayers
(iii) wobbly – shaky
(iv) intermittently – occasionally
(v) deranged – insane

SECTION C: SUMMARY

(a) The progressive reduction in the number of males is due to:

1. The higher rate of miscarriage of male babies before birth.

2. The weaker resistance of male infants to killer diseases.

3. The higher rate of illness and accidents among adolescent boys.

4. The risky nature of men’s occupations and activities in adulthood.

5. The greater incidence of heart-related diseases among men in middle age.

(b) Polygamy is possible because men often marry women younger than themselves, creating an age gap that allows some to have multiple wives.

Answers to Paper II (Objective Test)

The following table gives the correct answers to the Paper II (objective test) of English Language exam questions for SS3 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 Paper II (objective test) of English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First term. Use the comments section to let me know if you have any questions you would want me to clarify or discuss further.

Answers to Paper III (Test of Orals)

The following table gives the correct answers to the Paper III (Test of Orals) of English Language exam questions for SS3 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 Paper III (Test of Orals) of English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First term. Use the comments section to let me know if you have any questions you would want me to clarify or discuss further.

Read Also: English Language Exam Questions for SS2 First Term

How to Pass English Language Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Passing your English Language exam questions for SS3 First term requires a combination of preparation, understanding, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to help you excel:

1. Know the exam

Find out the paper layout: essay, comprehension, summary, objective and oral. Know how many questions and the time for each paper. This stops surprises on exam day.

2. Make a study plan

Plan short daily sessions. Mix reading, grammar, essay writing and past questions. Stick to the plan. Small steady work beats last-minute panic.

3. Read widely and read well

Read newspapers, short stories and model essays. Note useful words and phrases. Reading builds vocabulary and helps comprehension.

4. Practice past questions

Do past questions under timed conditions. Mark your answers. Learn from mistakes. Focus on question types that give you trouble.

5. Improve grammar and vocabulary

Learn common grammar rules: tenses, subject-verb agreement, punctuation. Build a list of strong words and useful phrases. Use them when you write.

6. Master comprehension

Read the passage twice. First read for the main idea. Second read for details. Underline keywords and refer back to the passage when answering.

7. Write clear essays

Plan your essay: introduction, body points, conclusion. Use short paragraphs. Give examples. Keep language simple and direct. Check spelling and punctuation.

8. Summaries and precis

Find the main points. Use your own words. Keep it short and logical. Do not add new ideas. Practice with different passages.

9. Objective questions

Read options carefully. Eliminate wrong choices first. Trust the passage and your grammar knowledge. Don’t rush answers.

10. Oral work

Speak clearly and at a steady pace. Practice common questions. Learn correct stress and intonation. Listen and repeat model sentences.

11. Exam-day tips

Sleep well the night before. Read instructions carefully. Start with questions you know. Manage time—leave a few minutes to check your work.

12. Stay confident

Believe in your work. Stay calm during the exam. A steady mind gives better answers than panic.

Do these things every week. Small steps every day lead to big success. You can pass. Work smart and stay focused.

It’s a wrap!

If you need more clarification on SS3 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..