Use of English JAMB Syllabus
Ace your JAMB exam with flying colors! Mastering the Use of English section is crucial for gaining admission into your dream tertiary institution in Nigeria.
But navigating the vast syllabus can feel overwhelming. Worry no more! This detailed guide dives deep into the JAMB Use of English Syllabus, providing you with all the essential information and tools to conquer this section with ease.
What is the JAMB Use of English Syllabus?
The JAMB Use of English Syllabus outlines the specific areas and skills tested in the UTME English Language section.
It acts as a roadmap, guiding your preparation and ensuring you focus on the key areas for exam success.
General Objectives
The syllabus aims to assess your ability to:
Communicate effectively in both written and spoken English. This includes understanding, interpreting, and expressing yourself clearly in various contexts.
Use the English Language for learning at the tertiary level. This requires a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills.
Syllabus Breakdown:
The JAMB Use of English Syllabus is divided into three sections:
Section A: Comprehension/Summary (50 marks)
This section tests your reading comprehension and summarization skills. You will encounter passages of varying lengths and styles, requiring you to:
Identify main ideas and supporting details.
Discern the writer’s purpose and tone.
Draw inferences and make logical conclusions.
Summarize the key points of the passage accurately and concisely.
Topics covered:
Descriptive, narrative, expository, and argumentative passages
Identifying main points and topic sentences
Recognizing implied meaning and figurative language
Understanding grammatical functions of words and phrases
Inferring the writer’s intentions, mood, and attitude
Section B: Lexis and Structure (40 marks)
This section focuses on your vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation skills. You will be tested on:
Vocabulary: Identifying synonyms, antonyms, and appropriate word choices in context
Grammar: Understanding and applying grammatical rules, sentence structure, and punctuation
Register: Recognizing and using different levels of formality in written and spoken English
Topics covered:
Identifying words in their ordinary, figurative, and idiomatic contexts
Determining synonyms and antonyms of words
Differentiating between correct and incorrect punctuation and spelling
Identifying various grammatical patterns in use, including tenses, clauses, and sentence types
Interpreting information conveyed in sentences
Section C: Writing (10 marks)
This section tests your ability to write a concise and coherent essay on a given topic. You will be assessed on:
Content: Relevance to the topic, logical flow of ideas, and supporting arguments with evidence
Organization: Clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
Grammar and Mechanics: Correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling
Expression: Clear and concise language with appropriate vocabulary and style
Recommended Texts
The JAMB syllabus also recommends specific texts to enhance your preparation:
Sweet Sixteen by Bola Ige
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
The Palm Wine Drinkard by Amos Tutuola
The Gods Are Not to Blame by Ola Rotimi
Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
FAQs
How long is the JAMB Use of English exam?
The JAMB Use of English section lasts for 60 minutes.
How many questions are there?
There are 50 multiple-choice questions in Section A and B, and one compulsory essay in Section C.
What is the passing score for JAMB Use of English?
The minimum score required for most courses varies, but generally falls between 50% and 60%.
What are some effective tips for preparing for the JAMB Use of English exam?
Thoroughly study the JAMB Use of English Syllabus and understand the specific areas covered.
Practice reading a variety of texts, including those recommended in the syllabus.
Focus on building your vocabulary and understanding of grammar rules.
Regularly practice writing essays on different topics.
Take practice tests under timed conditions to build your speed and accuracy.
Join a study group or online forum to discuss your preparation with other candidates
