gce model questions vol1 2017 english_language | Objective

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Question 1 View Details
Write an expository essay of 250‑300 words on the impact of social media on teenage mental health. Your essay must contain a clear thesis statement, three distinct supporting arguments, and a concluding paragraph that summarises the points and proposes a realistic solution.
Correct A. A model essay that follows the structure described above, containing a thesis, three separate supporting arguments (connectivity, comparison, cyberbullying), and a conclusion that summarises and suggests a digital‑wellness programme.
B. A model essay that includes the three supporting arguments but exceeds the word limit, reaching over 400 words.
C. A model essay that omits a clear thesis statement and provides only two supporting arguments, failing to meet the required structure.
D. A model essay that contains the thesis and three arguments but lacks a concluding paragraph that proposes a realistic solution.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 2 View Details
Describe a bustling market scene in a coastal town, using at least five sensory details and varying your sentence structures to create vivid imagery.
Correct A. A descriptive paragraph that includes at least five sensory details (sound, smell, sight, touch, taste) and shows varied sentence structures, similar to the model description provided.
B. A descriptive paragraph that mentions only three sensory details and uses repetitive sentence structures, falling short of the requirement.
C. A description that includes five sensory details but repeats the same sentence pattern throughout, lacking varied sentence structures.
D. A paragraph that describes a market scene but focuses solely on visual details, omitting sound, smell, touch, and taste.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 3 View Details
You are the class representative. Write a formal report (200‑250 words) to the school principal recommending the construction of a new library. Include an introduction, findings from a student survey (120 students surveyed; 78% say the current library is insufficient; average weekly library use is 1.2 hours), analysis of the data, recommendations, and a conclusion.
A. An informal email to the principal that lists only the survey percentages and omits analysis and recommendations.
B. A brief memo summarizing the survey results without a formal introduction or conclusion.
Correct C. A formal report matching the structure and content of the model answer, containing introduction, survey findings, analysis, recommendations, and conclusion.
D. A report that includes the introduction and findings but lacks a separate analysis section and provides no recommendations.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 4 View Details
Write an expository essay of 250‑300 words discussing the advantages and disadvantages of remote learning. Present at least two advantages and two disadvantages, and finish with a reasoned personal stance on whether remote learning should continue post‑pandemic.
Correct A. A model essay that includes a clear thesis, at least two advantages (flexibility, resource access), two disadvantages (reduced interaction, digital divide), and a concluding personal stance advocating a blended learning model.
B. A piece that lists several advantages but omits any discussion of disadvantages and does not provide a concluding stance.
C. An essay that mentions only one advantage and one disadvantage and ends without a personal stance.
D. A paragraph that states a personal opinion on remote learning without presenting any advantages or disadvantages.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 5 View Details
Write a descriptive paragraph of 150‑180 words portraying a quiet winter night in a forest. Use at least one personification and one metaphor to enhance the atmosphere.
A. A paragraph of 150‑180 words that vividly describes a winter forest night, includes a metaphor (e.g., "the moon was a silver lantern") but does not contain any personification, falling short of the prompt's requirements.
Correct B. A paragraph of 150‑180 words that vividly describes a winter forest night, includes personification (e.g., "the wind whispered") and a metaphor (e.g., "the night itself seemed to breathe"), and matches the sensory richness of the model answer.
C. A paragraph of 120‑140 words that describes a winter forest night, includes a personification (e.g., "the trees sighed") but omits any metaphor, and lacks the required sensory richness.
D. A paragraph of 150‑180 words that describes a winter forest night with both personification and metaphor, but the word count exceeds the limit at 200 words, making it non‑compliant.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 6 View Details
You have purchased a digital camera online for \(\$250\). After two weeks of use, the camera stops functioning and you discover a dead pixel on the sensor. The seller's return policy states that faulty items can be returned within 30 days for a full refund, but you must provide a written complaint. Write a formal letter of complaint to the seller requesting a full refund, ensuring you include: the date of purchase, a clear description of the fault, reference to the return policy, a polite but firm tone, and a deadline of seven days for a response.
A. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postcode] [Email] [Phone] [Date] Customer Services [Seller's Company] [Company Address] [City, Postcode] Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to complain about a digital camera (model ABC) I bought from your website on 12 March 2024 for $260. After two weeks the device stopped working because of a dead pixel. According to your return policy, I am entitled to a full refund of $260 and I expect a response within seven days. Yours faithfully, [Signature] [Your Name]
Correct B. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postcode] [Email] [Phone] [Date] Customer Services [Seller's Company] [Company Address] [City, Postcode] Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to complain about a digital camera (model XYZ) I purchased from your website on 12 March 2024 for $250. After only two weeks of use, the camera ceased to function and I discovered a dead pixel on the sensor, rendering the device unusable. According to your return policy, faulty items may be returned within 30 days for a full refund. As the camera is clearly defective, I request a full refund of $250. I would appreciate a response within seven days of the date of this letter, after which I will consider further action. I trust this matter will be resolved promptly. Yours faithfully, [Signature] [Your Name]
C. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postcode] [Email] [Phone] [Date] Customer Services [Seller's Company] [Company Address] [City, Postcode] Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to complain about a digital camera (model XYZ) I purchased from your website on 12 March 2024 for $250. After only two weeks of use, the camera stopped working, but I do not think this qualifies as a fault under your return policy. I would therefore be satisfied with a partial refund of $125. Please let me know your decision within ten days. Yours sincerely, [Signature] [Your Name]
D. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postcode] [Email] [Phone] [Date] Customer Services [Seller's Company] [Company Address] [City, Postcode] Dear Sir/Madam, I purchased a digital camera (model XYZ) on 12 March 2024 for $250. The camera ceased to function after two weeks due to a dead pixel. Although your return policy allows returns within 30 days, I have not included a reference to that policy in this letter and I am not requesting a specific deadline for your reply. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully, [Signature] [Your Name]

Correct Answer: B

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Question 7 View Details
Identify and correct the error in the following sentence: "Each of the students have completed their assignments on time."
A. Each of the students have completed their assignments on time.
B. Each of the students has completed their assignments on time.
Correct C. Each of the students has completed his or her assignment on time.
D. Each of the students have completed his or her assignment on time.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 8 View Details
Read the passage below and answer the question that follows. "In the heart of the town, a small plot of land has been transformed into a community garden. Residents of all ages gather each weekend to tend the raised beds, share seeds, and exchange gardening tips. The garden not only supplies fresh vegetables and herbs but also serves as a meeting place where neighbours forge friendships, children learn about nature, and the elderly find a sense of purpose. Over the past year, the harvest has increased by 40%, and the garden has become a symbol of collective effort and sustainable living." What is the main purpose of the community garden as described in the passage?
A. To provide a recreational space for sports and outdoor concerts.
Correct B. To bring the community together and promote sustainable living while providing fresh produce.
C. To increase property values in the neighborhood and generate profit for local businesses.
D. To serve as a commercial farm that supplies produce to supermarkets.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 9 View Details
Complete the following paragraph by filling each blank with the most appropriate word from the list: [rising, mitigate, emissions, sustainable, climate]. "The ___ of global ___ has become a pressing issue. To ___ its impact, governments are encouraging ___ energy sources and stricter regulations on industrial ___ ."
A. rising, emissions, mitigate, sustainable, climate
B. climate, rising, mitigate, sustainable, emissions
C. rising, climate, mitigate, emissions, sustainable
Correct D. rising, climate, mitigate, sustainable, emissions

Correct Answer: D

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Question 10 View Details
Write a descriptive paragraph (approximately 120‑150 words) of a bustling market at dawn. Your paragraph must: - Use at least three sensory details (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste). - Include two similes. - Incorporate the adjective "vibrant". - End with a concluding sentence that reflects the overall atmosphere.
Correct A. At dawn the market awakens in a vibrant burst of colour, stalls spilling over with crimson chilies, golden mangoes and emerald herbs. The air hums with the clatter of wooden carts, a sound as lively as a carnival, while the scent of fresh coriander and roasting coffee beans drifts like a warm blanket over the crowd. Vendors shout their offers, their voices rising and falling like a tide, and the rough texture of woven baskets brushes against eager hands reaching for the day's first produce. A child bites into a juicy mango, its sweet tang exploding on his tongue, and the whole scene glitters under the soft pink light, like a river of colour flowing through the narrow lanes. By the time the sun climbs higher, the market pulses with energy, leaving a lingering feeling of hopeful anticipation for the day ahead.
B. At dawn the market stirs in a bright burst of colour, stalls overflowing with red chilies, golden mangoes and green herbs. The air vibrates with the clatter of wooden carts, a sound as lively as a carnival, while the scent of fresh coriander and roasting coffee beans drifts over the crowd. Vendors shout their offers, their voices rising and falling like a tide, and the rough texture of woven baskets brushes against eager hands reaching for the day's first produce. A child bites into a juicy mango, its sweet tang exploding on his tongue, and the whole scene glitters under the soft pink light, like a river of colour flowing through the narrow lanes. By the time the sun climbs higher, the market pulses with energy, leaving a lingering feeling of hopeful anticipation for the day ahead.
C. At dawn the market awakens in a vibrant burst of colour, stalls spilling over with crimson chilies, golden mangoes and emerald herbs. The air hums with the clatter of wooden carts, while the scent of fresh coriander and roasting coffee beans drifts over the crowd. Vendors shout their offers, their voices rising and falling, and the rough texture of woven baskets brushes against eager hands reaching for the day's first produce. A child bites into a juicy mango, its sweet tang exploding on his tongue, and the whole scene glitters under the soft pink light. By the time the sun climbs higher, the market pulses with energy, leaving a lingering feeling of hopeful anticipation for the day ahead.
D. At dawn the market awakens in a vibrant burst of colour, stalls spilling over with crimson chilies, golden mangoes and emerald herbs. The air hums with the clatter of wooden carts, a sound as lively as a carnival, while the scent of fresh coriander and roasting coffee beans drifts like a warm blanket over the crowd. Vendors shout their offers, their voices rising and falling like a tide, and the rough texture of woven baskets brushes against eager hands reaching for the day's first produce. A child bites into a juicy mango, its sweet tang exploding on his tongue, and the whole scene glitters under the soft pink light, like a river of colour flowing through the narrow lanes. The market is busy.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 11 View Details
Give a single word that means "to make something less severe or intense".
A. exacerbate
B. aggravate
C. intensify
Correct D. mitigate

Correct Answer: D

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Question 12 View Details
The word "psychology" is to be analysed phonologically. (a) Write its phonemic transcription in IPA. (b) State the total number of phonemes. (c) List the voiced consonants present.
A. \/saɪˈkɒlədʒi; 7; l, d
Correct B. /saɪˈkɒlədʒi; 8; l, dʒ
C. \/saɪˈkɒlədʒi; 8; dʒ
D. \/saɪˈkɒlədʒi; 9; l, dʒ, g

Correct Answer: B

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Question 13 View Details
Read the passage: "When the bus finally arrived, the rain had already turned the pavement into a slick mirror. I hurried across, slipping once, but the cold splash seemed to wake me more than the delay itself." What is the most likely reason the author mentions the rain?
Correct A. To emphasise how the unpleasant weather heightens the narrator's alertness and contrasts with the frustration of the delay.
B. To provide a symbolic representation of the narrator's emotional turmoil through the rain.
C. To illustrate the setting's mood by showing that rain makes the pavement dangerous.
D. To indicate that the rain caused the bus to be late, adding to the narrator's frustration.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 14 View Details
In the sentence "The city was a furnace, its streets glowing like embers in the night," identify the primary figure of speech used and explain its effect on the description of the city.
A. Hyperbole; it exaggerates the heat of the city to emphasize discomfort.
Correct B. Metaphor; it likens the city to a furnace, creating a vivid impression of intense heat and oppressive atmosphere.
C. Simile; it compares the city's streets to embers, suggesting a gentle warmth rather than extreme heat.
D. Personification; it gives the city human qualities, implying it feels angry like a furnace.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 15 View Details
Provide a single word that means "a feeling of deep admiration or respect".
A. admiration
Correct B. reverence
C. respect
D. deference

Correct Answer: B

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Question 16 View Details
Write a short argumentative paragraph (about 120‑150 words) on the statement: "Social media does more harm than good for teenagers." Your paragraph must present at least two distinct reasons supporting the statement, acknowledge a counter‑argument, and end with a concluding sentence that restates your position.
A. Social media can sometimes affect teenagers, but it mainly offers a platform for staying in touch with friends. It also gives them a chance to share photos and videos, which can be fun. While there are occasional concerns about privacy, most teens use it responsibly. In short, the impact of social media on teenagers is mostly neutral.
B. Social media provides teenagers with valuable educational resources and opportunities for creative expression, which can enhance their learning and confidence. Additionally, it allows them to stay informed about current events and develop digital literacy skills. Some may claim that excessive screen time can be distracting, but the benefits of networking and access to supportive online communities outweigh any minor drawbacks. Therefore, social media largely contributes positively to teenage development and should be encouraged.
Correct C. Social media exposes teenagers to unrealistic body images and cyber‑bullying, both of which can damage self‑esteem and mental health. Moreover, the constant notifications and endless scrolling reduce the time they spend on homework and physical activities, leading to poorer academic performance and health. Some may argue that social media helps teens stay connected with friends, but this benefit is outweighed by the risks of addiction and exposure to harmful content. Consequently, the negative impacts of social media on teenagers' well‑being and development far exceed any advantages, and steps should be taken to limit its use.
D. Social media exposes teenagers to unrealistic body images and cyber‑bullying, both of which can improve self‑esteem and mental health. Moreover, the constant notifications and endless scrolling increase the time they spend on homework and physical activities, leading to better academic performance and health. Some may argue that social media helps teens stay connected with friends, and this benefit clearly outweighs any risks. Consequently, the positive impacts of social media on teenagers' well‑being far exceed any disadvantages, and its use should be expanded.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 17 View Details
Complete the sentence with an appropriate idiomatic expression: "When the manager finally approved the budget, the team let out a collective ___ ."
A. burst of applause
B. roar of approval
Correct C. sigh of relief
D. cheer of triumph

Correct Answer: C

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Question 18 View Details
You are a university student who missed a compulsory laboratory session because the timetable for your core module clashes with a mandatory tutorial for another module. Write a formal complaint letter to the Head of the Department requesting that the laboratory be rescheduled or that an alternative arrangement be made. Your letter must include: the date, a reference number (e.g., REF/2023/045), a brief description of the problem, an apology for any inconvenience, a clear request for a solution, and a courteous closing.
Correct A. 12 October 2023 REF/2023/045 Head of Department Department of Chemistry University of Lagos Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to bring to your attention a scheduling conflict that caused me to miss the compulsory laboratory session for Chemistry 101 on 5 October 2023. The laboratory was scheduled at the same time as a mandatory tutorial for my core module, Mathematics 102, which I was obliged to attend. Consequently, I was unable to participate in the lab, which is essential for meeting the course requirements. I apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to the laboratory staff and my fellow students. I kindly request that the laboratory be rescheduled to an alternative slot, or that an arrangement be made for me to complete the required practical work at another convenient time. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your favourable response. Yours faithfully, [Your Name] Student ID: 20234567
B. 13 October 2023 REF\/2023\/046 Head of Department Department of Chemistry University of Lagos Dear Sir\/Madam, I am writing to inform you that I was unable to attend the compulsory laboratory session for Chemistry 101 on 5 October 2023 because it conflicted with a mandatory tutorial for Mathematics 102. I regret any inconvenience caused. I would appreciate if you could provide me with the lab report so I can submit it for credit. Thank you for your understanding. Yours faithfully, [Your Name] Student ID: 20234567
C. 12 October 2023 REF\/2023\/045 Head of Department Department of Chemistry University of Lagos Dear Sir\/Madam, I was unable to attend the compulsory laboratory session for Chemistry 101 on 5 October 2023 because the lab was cancelled due to equipment failure. I apologise for any inconvenience. I kindly request a refund of the lab fees. Thank you for your attention. Yours faithfully, [Your Name] Student ID: 20234567
D. 12 October 2023 REF\/2023\/045 Head of Department Department of Chemistry University of Lagos Dear Sir\/Madam, I missed the Chemistry 101 laboratory on 5 October 2023 due to a personal illness. I apologise for any inconvenience. Please consider granting me an automatic pass for the practical component. Thank you. Yours faithfully, [Your Name] Student ID: 20234567

Correct Answer: A

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Question 19 View Details
Read the following passage and identify the figure of speech used in each highlighted phrase: "The night was a **black blanket**, swallowing the city's lights. The wind **whispered secrets** through the alleys, and the moon **smiled** down on the restless streets." List the figure of speech for each highlighted phrase.
Correct A. • "black blanket" - Metaphor\n• "swallowing the city's lights" - Personification\n• "whispered secrets" - Personification\n• "smiled" - Personification
B. • "black blanket" - Hyperbole • "swallowing the city's lights" - Simile • "whispered secrets" - Symbolism • "smiled" - Metonymy
C. • "black blanket" - Personification • "swallowing the city's lights" - Metaphor • "whispered secrets" - Alliteration • "smiled" - Metaphor
D. • "black blanket" - Simile • "swallowing the city's lights" - Hyperbole • "whispered secrets" - Metaphor • "smiled" - Onomatopoeia

Correct Answer: A

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Question 20 View Details
You have been asked to give a two‑minute speech at a school assembly on the importance of volunteering. Outline three main points you would include in your speech and write an opening line that will capture the audience's attention.
A. Outline of main points: 1. Volunteering reduces taxes for participants. 2. It provides free meals during service. 3. It ensures you will receive awards. Opening line: "Step into the spotlight and collect trophies by simply showing up to volunteer."
B. Outline of main points: 1. Volunteering is a shortcut to fame on social media. 2. It replaces formal education. 3. It eliminates the need for personal responsibility. Opening line: "Join the volunteer craze and watch your follower count skyrocket overnight."
Correct C. Outline of main points: 1. Volunteering strengthens the community by addressing local needs and fostering social cohesion. 2. It promotes personal growth, building empathy, confidence, and a sense of purpose. 3. It provides valuable skills and experience that enhance future academic and career opportunities. Opening line: "Imagine a world where every small act of kindness creates a ripple of change - today, I invite you to be that ripple through volunteering."
D. Outline of main points: 1. Volunteering helps schools meet funding needs through donations. 2. It offers a chance to travel abroad. 3. It guarantees immediate job placement. Opening line: "What if you could earn a paycheck just by helping others - that's the power of volunteering."

Correct Answer: C

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Question 21 View Details
Despite the heavy rain, the marathon runners continued ___ (1) ___ their pace, and the spectators ___ (2) ___ them with cheers. By the time the finish line was reached, the athletes were ___ (3) ___ exhausted but triumphant.
Correct A. maintaining, encouraged, utterly
B. accelerating, cheered, completely
C. sprinting, motivated, wholly
D. slowing, encouraged, barely

Correct Answer: A

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Question 22 View Details
Identify and correct the grammatical error in the following sentence: "She has been working here since five years."
A. She has been working here since five years.
B. She has been working here five years.
C. She has worked here for five years.
Correct D. She has been working here for five years.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 23 View Details
You bought a laptop from TechWorld Ltd two weeks ago, but it stopped working after one day. Write the appropriate opening salutation and closing sign‑off for a formal letter of complaint requesting either a replacement or a full refund.
A. Dear Sir\/Madam,; Yours truly,
B. Dear Sir\/Madam,; Yours sincerely,
Correct C. Dear Sir/Madam,; Yours faithfully,
D. Dear Sir\/Madam,; Sincerely yours,

Correct Answer: C

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Question 24 View Details
Provide the phonemic transcription of the word "photography" in British English, indicate which syllable carries the primary stress, and state the total number of phonemes.
Correct A. /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/; second syllable; 9
B. \/fəˈtɒɡrəfi\/; first syllable; 9
C. \/fəˈtɒɡrəfi\/; second syllable; 8
D. \/fɒˈtɒɡrəfi\/; second syllable; 9

Correct Answer: A

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Question 25 View Details
Give a single‑word synonym for the adjective "benevolent".
A. rude
B. cruel
C. harsh
Correct D. kind

Correct Answer: D

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