Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 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 Civic Education exam questions. We will cover Civic Education exam questions for JSS3 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 Civic Education 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 Facebook. (Like and Follow Page)

Introduction to Civic Education as a School Subject

Before we venture into Past Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 First term, here’s a brief introduction to the subject:

Civic Education is a school subject that teaches students about their rights, duties, and responsibilities as members of society. It helps young people to understand how the government works, the importance of laws, and the role of citizens in building a better nation.

The subject covers areas such as:

• Respect for human rights and the rule of law.
• Duties and responsibilities of citizens.
• Democratic values like tolerance, justice, and equality.
• National consciousness, unity, and peaceful co-existence.
• The dangers of corruption, indiscipline, and social vices.

By studying Civic Education, students learn to be responsible, patriotic, and active participants in the development of their community and country.

Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 First Term

Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 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 JSS3 Civic Education 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: Objectives

Instruction: Answer all questions in this section by choosing from the options lettered A—D. Each question carries equal marks.

1. A foreign child adopted by Nigerian parents is a citizen by
A. Birth               B. Registration
C. Conferment    D. Naturalization

2. Nigeria’s coat of arm as a national Logo was adopted in _________
A. 1914        B. 1957
C. 1959        D. 1960

3. The various criticism leveled against 1960 Independent constitution made it clear that there is need to change from monarchical to _________
A. Federal       C. Parliamentary
B. Unitary       D. Presidential

4. The flag is a symbol of authority and an instrument of State power, the symbol, Indicates government presence and a symbol of National _________
A. Choice      B. Unity
C. Force        D. Oath

5. If the president is both the head of state and the head of government the country is practicing __________
A. Monarchical
B. Presidential
C. Confederal
D. None of the above

6. Nigeria became a full fledged federal state under a constitution promulgated by _________
A. Hugh Clifford
B. Sir Oliver Lyttleton
C. John Macpherson
D. Lord Lugard

7. The existence of concurrent, exclusive and residual lists matters means that Nigerian government is practising __________
A. Republican system
B. Unitary system
C. Monarchical System
D. Federal system

8. Human Rights are contained in the Universal declaration of Human rights (UDHR) which was articulated by United Nations general assembly in the year __________
A. 1944         B. 1945
C. 1950         D. 1948

9. INEC is made up of a chairman and 12 members all are normally appointed by the president with the approval of the __________
A. Chamber      B. Councillor
C. Senate          D. Commissioner

10. At the federal level, the president appoints the Chief Justice (CJ) who is also the head of the __________
A. Bar         B. Executive
C. Clerk      D. Judiciary

11. Under 1963 republican constitution the highest Nigeria court of appeal was the_________
A. Customary Court
B. Supreme Court
C. Magistrate Court
D. Judicial privy council

12. The geographical political unit in which a country is divided for the purpose of election is called _________
A. Region       B. Constituency
C. Units          D. Ward

13. The blindfolded Lady of Justice shows that the lady does not recognize __________
A. The policemen and other law enforcement agents
B. The litigants or parties involved in the case
C. The military in the battle field
D. The president and its ministers

14. Treason, disloyalty, imprisonment, all are termed as ways of losing_________
A. Birth Certificate
B. Citizenship
C. Relationship
D. Scholarship

15. Murder means a crime of a person Killing another person without a valid __________
A. Opinion      B. Consent
C. Excuse        D. Inclusion

16. INEC is publicly financed and accountable to national assembly, it is independent of government and political _________
A. Control        B. Interference
C. Funding       D. Monitoring

17. The steps or phases of emergency are __________ in number.
A. 3        B. 4
C. 7        D. 5

18. If the criminal paid certain amount of money for the illicit actions, it means that the criminal was __________
A. Jailed       B. Criticized
C. Fined       D. Punished

19. When the human rights are enshrined in the Constitution which is supreme and above every other law, It will help in protecting human rights from __________
A. Injury       B. Daniel
C. Abuse      D. Promotion

20. Human rights are contained in chapter four of the 1999 Constitution of the federal republic Section 33 – __________
A. 50        B. 45
C. 28        D. 62

21. The development of Civic Education programmes at the Secondary and Primary school levels was done by __________
A. NSCDC        B. ASUU
C. NERDC        D. ICPC

22. The nationality of a Nigerian who travel abroad can be identified though _________
A. Tribal mark
B. International Passport
C. Skin Colour
D. Flag

23. Which of these is not a cause of common crime _________
A. Poverty
B. Contentment
C. Lack of love
D. Over population

24. Which of the following is not a definition of Security _________
A. A state of feeling secured
B. Freedom from threat
C. Activities of the mob
D. Assurance of safety and calmness

25. Which of the following is not a characteristic of democracy?
A. Freedom of the press
B. Rule of Law
C. Rigging of election
D. Separation of power

26. Any biological or chemical substance which when taken into the body, changes its functioning and produce effects is referred to as _________
A. Food        B. Snack
C. Drug        D. Poison

27. The following are types of constitution except _________
A. Confederal Constitution
B. Decree Constitution
C. Unitary Constitution
D. Federal Constitution

28. Which of these best defines value?
A. What we like
B. What we hate
C. Good Principles that have positive Influence in our lives
D. Lifestyles of people

29. Nigeria police is under the command of _________
A. General Inspector
B. Commission of Research
C. Inspector General
D. Commission of police

30. The only difference between pressure groups and political parties as democratic institutions is _________
A. Their Objectives
B. Their mandates
C. Their rules
D. Their principles

31. The agency that protect human rights charged with the taking action in combating global corruption and preventing criminal activities arising from it and violation of rights is called _________
A. Amnesty International
B. Ombudsman
C. Transparency International
D. NAPTIP

32. Any measure or strategy taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant and inconvenience that may happen unexpectedly or suddenly in our environment is known as _________
A. Emergency Situation
B. Emergency Precaution
C. Emergency Management
D. Emergency Prevention

33. In a Democracy that allows for secret balloting, the electorate are allowed to choose their leaders freely without intimidation but according to the dictate of their _________
A. Soul        B. Opinion
C. Spirit       D. Conscience

34. The moral principles and beliefs that direct, influence and control our pattern of behavior, choices and decisions we make are called _________
A. Habits         B. Values
C. Priority        D. Resolutions

35. Any democratic government must have the support of the people and they are there to serve their interest and this is clearly shown in one of the features of democracy known as _________
A. Rule of Law
B. The will of the people
C. Multi party system
D. Separation of powers

36. Behavior or Language that insults or shows a lack of respect of God or religion is called _________
A. Insolvency       B. Pride
C. Blasphemy      D. Negligence

37. Human rights are found in all cultures and native to all nations, they are universal, indivisible and interdependent. This statement was credited to former UN Secretary general called _________
A. Banki Moon
B. Dr. Kofi Annan
C. Botrons Botions Ghali
D. Muhammadu Bunari

38. Sharing, supporting, Caring, friendship, all are basic attributes of __________
A. Association     B. Cooperation
C. Attitudes         D. Marriages

39. Right attitude to work can simply be defined as the way and manner we attend to our __________
A. Duties       B. Obligations
C. leisure       D. Meetings

40. The attribute of a disciplined behaviour which enables a person to continue to try in spite of difficulties is known as _________
A. Modesty          B. Dedication
C. Self control      D. Perseverance

41. In reference to federation, government at the grassroots is called _________
A. State government
B. Local government
C. Federal government
D. Regional government

42. Which political party uses broom as a logo _________
A. PDP         B. APC
C. APGA       D. YPP

43. Which of the following crimes attracts capital Punishment __________
A. Rape
B. Murder
C. Burglary
D. Pick-pocketing

44. Which of the following act is punishable by law __________
A. Divorce     B. Smoking
C. Gossip      D. Rape

45. The unlawful use of violence and intimidation against citizens in pursuit of political or religious aim is _________
A. Delinquency    B. bombing
C. terrorism         D. armed robbery

46. The desire of a state to be independent is called _________
A. Tribalism       B. Regionalism
C. Ethnicism      D. Nationalism

47. Any place for the confinement of people accused or convicted of a crime defines__________
A. Fine          B. circular
C. Jail            D. Punishment

48. Accountability of the government to the people means that the government should be transparent in money and other issues of public___________
A. Interest            B. Matter
C. Awareness       D. Concern

49. Legal claims enjoyed by the citizen of a country is called _________
A. Rights         B. Duties
C. Powers        D. Obligation

50. The principle of rule of law which supports the protection and guarantee of individual rights is the principles of _________
A. Legality
B. Liability
C. equality
D. Separation of power

51. Under 1999 Presidential Constitution, the appointment of ministers was done by the President with the approval of _________
A. Police        B. Commissioners
C. Senate       D. Voters

52. When someone is honest and has strong moral principles, the person is of high _________
A. Discipline       B. Integrity
C. Maturity         D. Wisdom

53. Voting rights in Nigeria Can be denied on the basis of __________
A. Wealth      B. Age
C. Grace        D. Gender

54. The process of compensating or rewarding someone monetarily for some damages he/she experiences is underlined under the right of consumers called right to _________
A. Be heard            B. Redress
C. Choose              D. Examine

55. The house of representative in Nigeria is constitutionally headed by the _________
A. Senate     B. Speaker
C. Clerk        D. Ambassador

56. Separation of power as an ingredient of democracy is essential because it eliminates the emergency of _________
A. Satisfaction     B. Voting
C. Dictatorship    D. Conspiracy

57. The principle of rule of law which support the protection, promotion and guarantee of basic rights as enshrined in the constitution is the principle of _________
A. Separation of powers
B. Equality
C. Liberty
D. Legality

58. Which of the following symbol is peculiar to the legislature?
A. Mace        B. Constitution
C. Gavel        D. Wig

59. In reference to constitutional development in Nigeria, the first formal constitution was the one promulgated by__________
A. Oliver Lyttleton
B. Author Richard
C. Hugh Clifford
D. John Macpherson

60. The Constitution that introduced for the first time presidential system into Nigeria Political system was _________ Constitution.
A. 1989       B. 1979
C. 1953       D. 1999

SECTION B: Essay

INSTRUCTION – Answer all six (6) questions in this section.

1a. Define Constitution
b. Give four reasons why the constitution should be Supreme

2a Define common crimes
b. Mention four examples of common crime you have studied

3a. What is Human Rights?
b. Mention four agencies that protects and promotes human rights in Nigeria

4a. Define Impeachment
b. Mention four weaknesses of 1960 Independence Constitution

5a. Explain the phrase “Federal System.”
b. Outline four features why 1979, 1989, and 1999 presidential Constitutions are replica.

6a. Define Electoral Malpractice.
b. Mention four basic functions of INEC In the electoral process.

Read Also: Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 Second Term

Answers to Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 First Term

Answers to Section A (Objective Test)

The following table gives the correct answers to the objective section of Civic Education exam questions for JSS3 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 Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 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 Section B (Theory)

1a.

A Constitution is a body of fundamental principles, rules and laws according to which a country is governed. It defines the structure, powers and functions of government and also states the rights and duties of citizens.

1b.

Four reasons why the constitution should be Supreme are:
1. It prevents abuse of power by government officials.
2. It guarantees the protection of human rights.
3. It provides order, peace and stability in governance.
4. It serves as the highest law that guides all other laws and actions of government.

2a.

Common crimes are unlawful acts or offences that are frequently committed by individuals in a society and are punishable by law.

2b.

Four examples of common crime are:
1. Stealing
2. Fraud
3. Rape
4. Armed robbery

3a.

Human Rights are the basic freedoms and entitlements that every individual is entitled to enjoy and exercise simply because they are human beings. They include rights such as right to life, freedom of expression and right to dignity.

3b.

Four agencies that protect and promote human rights in Nigeria are:
1. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
2. Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC)
3. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)
4. The Judiciary (Courts of law)

4a.

Impeachment is the constitutional process of removing an elected government official from office due to misconduct, abuse of office or violation of the law.

4b.

Four weaknesses of the 1960 Independence Constitution are:
1. The Governor-General, who represented the Queen, had overriding powers.
2. It did not provide for a true federal system.
3. The Prime Minister’s powers were limited.
4. The constitution still placed Nigeria under the British monarchy.

5a.

A Federal System is a system of government in which power is shared between a central government and component units (states or regions), with each having its own powers and functions defined by the constitution.

5b.

Four features why the 1979, 1989 and 1999 Presidential Constitutions are replicas are:
1. They all adopted the presidential system of government.
2. The President is both the Head of State and Head of Government.
3. Separation of powers is emphasized among the executive, legislature and judiciary.
4. Fundamental human rights are entrenched and guaranteed.

6a.

Electoral Malpractice refers to all forms of illegal and dishonest acts carried out to influence or distort the outcome of an election. Examples include ballot box snatching, vote buying, multiple voting, and falsification of results.

6b.

Four basic functions of INEC in the electoral process are:
1. Conducting free and fair elections.
2. Registration of voters and political parties.
3. Monitoring the activities of political parties.
4. Educating citizens on electoral processes and their civic responsibilities.

How to Pass Civic Education Exam Questions for JSS3 First Term

Passing your Civic Education exam questions for JSS3 First term requires a combination of preparation, understanding, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to help you excel:

1) Master the Core First-Term Topics

• Constitution & Rule of Law: meaning, supremacy, separation of powers.
• Human Rights: definition, categories, limitations, protection agencies (NHRC, courts, NGOs).
• Citizenship: acquisition, rights & duties, loss of citizenship.
• Democracy & Elections: features, electoral malpractice, roles of INEC, civic duties.
• Values & Attitudes: honesty, integrity, cooperation, right attitude to work.
• Security & Crime: common crimes, consequences, prevention.
• Government Systems: federalism, institutions (executive, legislature, judiciary).
• National Symbols & Identity: flag, coat of arms, anthem, pledge.

2) Study Smart (Not Just Long)

• After each topic, write 3 bullet points and 1 example in your own words.
• Build a mini-glossary: constitution, impeachment, franchise, rule of law, values.
• Draw simple diagrams (e.g., three arms of government and checks & balances).
• Practise past MCQs weekly; mark the “NOT/EXCEPT” keywords.

3) Examination Technique

Multiple Choice (Objective)

• Read the stem twice; underline command words like best, main, first.
• Eliminate two wrong options quickly; decide between the last two using definitions.
• Watch look-alikes: Human rights vs privileges.

Theory/Short Notes

• Define → give 2–3 features → add a short example (3–5 tidy lines).
• For “reasons” or “functions”, number your points clearly (1, 2, 3, 4…).
• Use civic examples from Nigeria (e.g., INEC, constitution supremacy).

4) Quick Reference (Core Definitions)

• Constitution: the supreme law that organizes government and protects rights.
• Rule of Law: everyone (leaders and citizens) is subject to the law.
• Human Rights: basic freedoms (e.g., life, dignity, expression) with lawful limits.
• Federalism: power shared between federal and state/local governments.
• Electoral Malpractice: illegal acts that distort election outcomes (e.g., vote-buying).
• Impeachment: constitutional process to remove officials for misconduct.

5) Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Mixing up rights and duties (rights are entitlements; duties are obligations).
• Forgetting that the constitution is supreme over all other laws.
• Confusing election bodies (INEC functions) with political parties’ roles.
• Giving long stories—stick to short, precise points + example.

6) One-Week Revision Plan

• Day 1: Constitution, rule of law, separation of powers (make a one-page summary).
• Day 2: Human rights & protection agencies (write examples, limits).
• Day 3: Citizenship, values & right attitude to work (list duties/benefits).
• Day 4: Federalism & organs of government (draw structure chart).
• Day 5: Elections, INEC, malpractice & prevention (past MCQs).
• Day 6: Security & common crimes; national symbols (quick facts).
• Day 7: Two timed past papers; review mistakes and correct notes.

7) Exam-Hall Checklist

• I can define constitution, rule of law, human rights, federalism, INEC.
• Ï know 4–5 functions of INEC and 4 reasons for constitutional supremacy.
• I can list 4–5 electoral malpractices and how to prevent them.
• I write in bullets, number my points, and leave 5 minutes to review answers.

Be clear, be brief, and use examples. Practise regularly and stay calm—you’ve got this!

It’s a wrap!

If you need more clarification on JSS3 First Term Questions on Civic Education, you can use the comments box below. We’ll be there to answer you asap.

Best wishes.