Practice neco model questions vol1 english_language 2017 Past Questions

Question 1 View Details

You are to write the opening two sentences of a persuasive speech addressed to senior secondary students on the importance of recycling. The opening must (i) begin with a rhetorical question that engages the audience, (ii) present a striking statistic about waste in Nigeria, and (iii) end with a clear statement of the speech's purpose. Write these two sentences.

A. What would our schools look like if every piece of plastic were reused? Nigeria creates roughly 32 million tonnes of solid waste each year, but 90% is recycled. Today I will discuss why recycling is a myth and why we should not bother.

B. What would our schools look like if every piece of plastic were reused? Nigeria generates about 15 million tonnes of solid waste each year, yet only 5% is recycled. Today I will argue that recycling is unnecessary and we should focus on other issues.

Correct C. What would our schools look like if every piece of plastic were reused? Nigeria generates about 32 million tonnes of solid waste each year, yet only 10% is recycled. Today I will show you why recycling is essential and how we can make a difference together.

D. What would our schools look like if every piece of plastic were reused? Nigeria generates about 45 million tonnes of solid waste each year, but 80% is recycled. Today I will explain why recycling is optional and how we can avoid it.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 2 View Details

In the sentence "I could have gone to the market, but I decided to stay home," identify the tense and aspect of the verb phrase "could have gone" and explain its function in the sentence.

A. Past modal perfect; it expresses a completed past action.

B. Present modal perfect; it expresses an unrealised past possibility.

C. Past modal perfect; it indicates a habitual past action.

Correct D. Past modal perfect; it expresses an unrealised past possibility.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 3 View Details

In the exchange: A: "Do you mind if I open the window?" B: "Not at all." Identify the speech act performed by B and justify why it is appropriate in this context.

A. A negative politeness response refusing permission; it politely declines the request and indicates inability.

B. A direct answer providing information; it clarifies the status of the window without granting permission.

Correct C. A positive politeness response granting permission; it courteously acknowledges the request and gives clear consent.

D. A face‑threatening act expressing annoyance; it criticizes the request and suggests keeping the window closed.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 4 View Details

Rewrite the following direct speech paragraph into reported (indirect) speech, making all necessary tense, pronoun, and time reference changes. Direct speech: "Maria said, \"I will finish the project by tomorrow evening,\" and added, \"If I need any help, I will ask the teacher.\""

Correct A. Maria said that she would finish the project by the following evening and added that if she needed any help, she would ask the teacher.

B. Maria said that she will finish the project by the next evening and added that if she needs any help, she will ask the teacher.

C. Maria said that she would finish the project by tomorrow evening and added that if she needed any help, she would have asked the teacher.

D. Maria said that she had finished the project by the following evening and added that if she needed any help, she had asked the teacher.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 5 View Details

The sentence "The thunder clapped angrily across the night sky" contains a figure of speech. Identify the figure and explain its effect on the reader.

A. Alliteration; the repetition of the 't' sound in 'thunder' and 'across' creates a rhythmic effect.

B. Onomatopoeia; it mimics the sound of thunder with the word 'clapped', enhancing auditory imagery.

C. Metaphor; it compares thunder to a clapping hand, suggesting a direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as'.

Correct D. Personification; it gives thunder human qualities, creating vivid imagery and intensifying the storm's perceived menace.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 6 View Details

Read the passage and fill in the blanks with the most appropriate words. "The recent increase in industrial activities has led to serious __1__ of natural habitats. To ensure that future generations can enjoy the same resources, it is essential that we adopt __2__ practices that __3__ the impact on the environment." Provide the three words in order, separated by commas.

Correct A. degradation, sustainable, mitigate

B. destruction, eco-friendly, reduce

C. preservation, renewable, exacerbate

D. erosion, green, offset

Correct Answer: A

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Question 7 View Details

In the sentence "The student worked __1__ on the project, earning praise from the supervisor," identify a suitable synonym for the underlined word and an appropriate antonym. Provide the synonym and antonym separated by a comma.

A. industrious, sluggish

B. hardworking, idle

Correct C. diligent, lazy

D. attentive, careless

Correct Answer: C

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Question 8 View Details

You have just met your new form teacher, Mr. Okafor, for the first time in the staff room. Choose an appropriate short oral response that shows respect and introduces yourself. Write the response exactly as you would say it.

Correct A. Good morning, Sir. My name is Adaeze Nwankwo.

B. Good afternoon, Sir. My name is Adaeze Nwankwo.

C. Good morning, Sir. My name is Adaeze Nwankwa.

D. Good morning, Sir. My name is Chinedu Okeke.

Correct Answer: A

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Question 9 View Details

Write a formal letter of complaint to "TeleConnect Ltd" regarding repeated network outages that have affected your studies for the past two weeks. In your letter, you should: 1. State the date of writing and the address of the company. 2. Describe the problem with specific dates. 3. Request a reasonable compensation and a guarantee of improved service. 4. Use the correct letter format (date, address, subject, salutation, body, closing, signature). Provide the complete letter.

Correct A. 12 September 2024 The Manager TeleConnect Ltd. 45, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. Subject: Complaint about Repeated Network Outages and Request for Compensation Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to bring to your attention the persistent network outages I have experienced over the past two weeks, which have severely disrupted my academic work. The service was unavailable on 3rd September, 5th September, 9th September, and 12th September, each lasting several hours. These interruptions have caused me to miss online lectures and submit assignments late, adversely affecting my grades. I kindly request a reduction of my monthly subscription fee for the month of September as compensation, and I ask that you take immediate steps to ensure reliable service henceforth. I trust that TeleConnect Ltd. values its customers and will address this matter promptly. I look forward to your written response within ten working days. Yours faithfully, [Signature] Chinedu Okeke Room 402, Greenfield Hall University of Lagos

B. 12 September 2024 The Manager TeleConnect Ltd. 45, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. Subject: Complaint about Repeated Network Outages and Request for Compensation Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to bring to your attention the persistent network outages I have experienced over the past two weeks, which have severely disrupted my academic work. The service was unavailable on 3rd September, 5th September, 9th September, and 12th September, each lasting several hours. These interruptions have caused me to miss online lectures and submit assignments late, adversely affecting my grades. I kindly request a reduction of my monthly subscription fee for the month of September as compensation, and I ask that you take immediate steps to ensure reliable service henceforth. I trust that TeleConnect Ltd. values its customers and will address this matter promptly. I look forward to your written response within ten working days. Yours sincerely, [Signature] Chinedu Okeke Room 402, Greenfield Hall University of Lagos

C. 13 September 2024 The Manager TeleConnect Ltd. 50, Ikoyi Road, Lagos, Nigeria. Subject: Complaint about Network Outages Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to inform you about the network outages I have faced over the past two weeks, specifically on 2nd September, 4th September, 8th September, and 11th September. These disruptions have affected my studies. I request a full refund of my subscription fee for September and assurance of better service. I look forward to your prompt response. Yours faithfully, [Signature] Chinedu Okeke Room 402, Greenfield Hall University of Lagos

D. 12 September 2024 The Manager TeleConnect Ltd. 45, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. Subject: Repeated Network Outages Dear Sir/Madam, I have experienced network outages on 3rd September, 5th September, 9th September, and 12th September, each lasting several hours, which have disrupted my academic work. I kindly ask for a temporary suspension of my account until the service stabilizes. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, [Signature] Chinedu Okeke Room 402, Greenfield Hall University of Lagos

Correct Answer: A

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Question 10 View Details

For the word "photography", provide the following: 1. Its phonetic transcription in IPA (British English). 2. The total number of phonemes. 3. The number of syllables. 4. Indicate which syllable carries the primary stress. Present your answer in the order: transcription, phoneme count, syllable count, stress pattern (e.g., 2nd syllable).

A. /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/, 9, 4, 1st syllable

B. /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/, 9, 3, 2nd syllable

Correct C. /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/, 9, 4, 2nd syllable

D. /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/, 8, 4, 2nd syllable

Correct Answer: C

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Question 11 View Details

You have been asked to deliver a 2‑minute speech at your school's annual Sports Day. The speech must (i) greet the audience, (ii) acknowledge the efforts of the athletes, (iii) encourage sportsmanship, and (iv) end with a memorable call‑to‑action. Write the concluding two sentences that satisfy points (iii) and (iv).

A. Keep in mind that success is measured by the number of trophies you collect, and I invite you all to strive for personal records in every sport you try.

B. Let us all remember that true victory lies only in crossing the finish line first, so I urge you to focus solely on winning at any cost. I challenge each of you to chase personal glory above all else, both on the field and in life.

C. Remember that the greatest glory comes from beating your opponents, and I challenge you to dominate every match you enter, on the field and beyond.

Correct D. Let us all remember that true victory lies not only in crossing the finish line first, but in playing with fairness, respect and teamwork. So, I challenge each of you to carry this spirit of sportsmanship into every challenge you face, both on the field and in life.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 12 View Details

Read the passage below and answer the question that follows. "When Mr. Okeke first inherited his family farm, the fields were parched and the yields were dwindling. After attending a workshop on modern agriculture, he installed a drip‑irrigation system that delivered water directly to the roots. Within a season, the crops were greener, the harvest increased by 30 %, and his water bill fell dramatically. His neighbours soon asked him for advice, and many began to adopt the same technique." What is the main reason Mr. Okeke decided to adopt drip irrigation?

A. Because it was the cheapest technology available at the time.

Correct B. Because it reduced water waste and increased crop yield.

C. Because it attracted more tourists to his farm.

D. Because it required less labor and allowed him to plant more crops.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 13 View Details

Write a well‑structured paragraph (4‑5 sentences) explaining why digital literacy is essential for secondary school students in the 21st century. Include at least one specific benefit and one potential consequence of lacking this skill.

A. Digital literacy is primarily important for university students, not secondary school learners, since high school curricula focus on foundational knowledge. While using educational platforms can be helpful, it is not essential for improving grades. Moreover, lacking digital skills only affects extracurricular activities, not academic performance or job prospects. Therefore, integrating digital literacy into secondary education is a lower priority.

Correct B. Digital literacy is indispensable for secondary school students because it equips them to navigate the vast amount of information available online, enabling effective research and collaborative learning; for example, students who can use educational platforms can supplement classroom instruction and improve their grades. Moreover, proficiency with digital tools prepares them for future workplaces where computer skills are a basic requirement. Conversely, students who lack digital literacy may struggle to complete assignments, miss out on scholarship opportunities, and find themselves at a disadvantage in the job market, where many entry‑level positions now require basic computer competence. Therefore, integrating digital literacy into the curriculum is crucial for both academic success and future employability.

C. Digital literacy is optional for secondary school students because most information can be accessed through printed textbooks, and teachers can provide all necessary resources; for example, students who rely on library books can achieve high grades without using computers. Additionally, familiarity with digital tools does not significantly affect future employment, as many entry‑level jobs still rely on manual processes. Consequently, schools need not prioritize digital literacy in the curriculum.

D. Digital literacy is useful only for students interested in computer science careers; the average secondary student gains little from it. For instance, students who use online resources may become distracted and see lower test scores. In the workplace, most entry‑level positions value interpersonal skills over computer competence. Hence, schools should limit digital literacy instruction to elective courses.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 14 View Details

Complete the sentence with the most appropriate words. "Despite the heavy rain, the marathon runners ___ their pace, showing remarkable ___ ."

Correct A. maintained, determination

B. increased, stamina

C. reduced, speed

D. kept, focus

Correct Answer: A

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Question 15 View Details

In three sentences, describe the atmosphere of a Lagos market at dawn, focusing on sounds, colours, and the activity of the vendors.

A. At first light, the market glows with neon signs, and the vendors loudly advertise fast‑food burgers, soda cans, and imported chocolates. The atmosphere is dominated by the blaring of loudspeakers playing pop music, the screech of motorcycles, and the clatter of metal trays. Energetic sellers sprint between stalls, tossing items into the air as they compete for customers.

B. When dawn breaks, the market is cloaked in thick fog, and the vendors whisper quietly while selling tropical fish, wooden carvings, and second‑hand clothing. The sounds are muted, with only the occasional chirp of birds and the faint rustle of leaves, and there is no traffic noise. The sellers sit down to rest, letting the day begin without any activity.

C. As the sun rises, the market stalls are bathed in a pale blue light, and the vendors shout about imported electronics, fresh bread, and imported cheeses. The air is filled with the soft hum of radio music, the occasional clink of glass bottles, and the distant rumble of a ferry. Lazy sellers slowly arrange their merchandise, their movements unhurried as the day drifts by.

Correct D. As the first light paints the stalls in warm gold, the market awakens with the rhythmic calls of vendors hawking fresh fish, ripe mangoes, and colourful fabrics. The air hums with the chatter of buyers bargaining, the clatter of wooden crates, and the distant honk of early traffic. Energetic sellers swiftly arrange their goods, their hands moving in practiced choreography as the day's commerce begins to pulse through the streets.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 16 View Details

Identify the grammatical error in the sentence: "Neither the teachers nor the principal were aware of the new policy." Then provide the correct verb form.

A. were

Correct B. was

C. is

D. be

Correct Answer: B

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Question 17 View Details

You are required to write a short expository essay on the importance of digital literacy for secondary school students. Which of the following thesis statements would be most appropriate for the essay? 1. "Digital literacy is a modern fad that schools should consider.", 2. "Mastering digital tools equips secondary school students with essential skills for academic success and future employment.", 3. "Only students interested in technology need digital literacy." Select the correct statement.

A. 4

B. 3

C. 1

Correct D. 2

Correct Answer: D

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Question 18 View Details

Provide the phonemic transcription (using IPA) of the word "students" as pronounced in Nigerian English and name the phonological process illustrated by the vowel in the second syllable.

A. \/ˈstjuː.dənts\/; stress shift

Correct B. /ˈstjuː.dənts/; vowel reduction

C. \/ˈstjuː.dənts\/; vowel lengthening

D. \/ˈstjuː.dənts\/; consonant devoicing

Correct Answer: B

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Question 19 View Details

Complete the sentence with the most appropriate word: "Although the weather was terrible, the match continued ___ ."

A. as usual

B. as planned

C. as expected

Correct D. as scheduled

Correct Answer: D

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Question 20 View Details

In a formal letter of complaint to a mobile network provider about frequent network outages, which closing phrase is most appropriate when the name of the specific recipient is unknown?

A. Yours sincerely,

B. Sincerely yours,

Correct C. Yours faithfully,

D. Best regards,

Correct Answer: C

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Question 21 View Details

Write a short story of 250-300 words about a teenager who discovers a hidden diary in the attic. The story must (i) begin with a line that hints at a secret, (ii) include at least one dialogue, (iii) use the proverb "A stitch in time saves nine" as a turning point, and (iv) end with an unexpected revelation about the diary's author.

A. A possible story (250‑300 words) that follows the outline above, beginning with a hinting line, containing dialogue, but using the proverb "A bird in the hand…" as a turning point, and ending with the revelation that the diary was written by the protagonist's great‑grandfather.

Correct B. A possible story (250‑300 words) that follows the outline above, beginning with a hinting line, containing dialogue, using the proverb as a turning point, and ending with the revelation that the diary was written by the protagonist's great‑grandfather.

C. A possible story (200‑250 words) that follows the outline above, beginning with a hinting line, containing dialogue, using the proverb as a turning point, and ending with the revelation that the diary was written by the protagonist's aunt.

D. A possible story (250‑300 words) that follows the outline above, beginning with a hinting line, but without any dialogue, using the proverb as a turning point, and ending with the revelation that the diary was written by a fictional character.

Correct Answer: B

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Question 22 View Details

Write an expository essay of 300-350 words on the effects of social media on the mental health of adolescents. Your essay must (i) define the term "mental health", (ii) present at least two cause‑effect relationships, (iii) include a statistic from a reputable source (you may fabricate a plausible figure), (iv) compare the situation in Nigeria with that in another country, and (v) conclude with two practical recommendations for parents.

A. A 300‑350 word essay that follows the outline above, defining mental health, giving only one cause‑effect link, providing a plausible statistic, comparing Nigeria with another country, and ending with two parental recommendations.

B. A 250‑300 word essay that follows the outline above, defining mental health, giving two cause‑effect links, providing a plausible statistic, comparing Nigeria with another country, and ending with two parental recommendations.

Correct C. A 300‑350 word essay that follows the outline above, defining mental health, giving two cause‑effect links, providing a plausible statistic, comparing Nigeria with another country, and ending with two parental recommendations.

D. A 300‑350 word essay that follows the outline above, defining mental health, giving two cause‑effect links, providing a plausible statistic, comparing Nigeria with another country, but ending with only one parental recommendation.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 23 View Details

Identify and correct the error in the following sentence: "Neither the teachers nor the principal were aware of the new policy."

A. Neither the teachers nor the principal were aware of the new policy.

B. Neither the teachers nor the principal had been aware of the new policy.

C. Neither the teachers nor the principal is aware of the new policy.

Correct D. Neither the teachers nor the principal was aware of the new policy.

Correct Answer: D

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Question 24 View Details

Write a balanced argumentative paragraph of 150-180 words on whether school uniforms should be mandatory in secondary schools. Present one argument supporting and one opposing the policy, and conclude with your own position, justified with a reason.

A. A 150‑180 word paragraph that (i) mentions that uniforms have no impact on discrimination, (ii) omits any opposing argument, and (iii) concludes that uniforms should be banned, justified by the need for complete freedom.

B. A 150‑180 word paragraph that (i) argues that uniforms improve academic performance, (ii) claims they enhance school safety, and (iii) concludes that uniforms should be mandatory, justified by the need for discipline.

Correct C. A 150‑180 word paragraph that (i) states that uniforms reduce socioeconomic discrimination, (ii) notes that they limit personal expression, and (iii) concludes that uniforms should be optional, justified by the need to balance equality with freedom of expression.

D. A 150‑180 word paragraph that (i) states that uniforms increase socioeconomic discrimination, (ii) notes that they promote personal expression, and (iii) concludes that uniforms should be optional, justified by the need for student choice.

Correct Answer: C

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Question 25 View Details

Complete the sentence with the most appropriate phrase: "The committee postponed the meeting ___ the unexpected power outage."

A. thanks to

B. despite

Correct C. due to

D. instead of

Correct Answer: C

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