The JAMB Use of English syllabus is designed to test candidates’ understanding of correct language usage, comprehension, vocabulary development, and communication skills. It is compulsory for all candidates, regardless of their intended course of study.
Mastering this syllabus is crucial for achieving a high UTME score and gaining admission into Nigerian universities.
Objectives of the JAMB English Syllabus
Candidates should be able to:
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Communicate effectively in both written and spoken English
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Understand and analyze written texts
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Identify correct grammar and sentence structure
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Develop vocabulary and spelling accuracy
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Interpret literary works and figures of speech
Structure of the JAMB Use of English Examination
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Total Questions: 60
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Time Duration: 60 minutes
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Sections:
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Comprehension and Summary
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Lexis and Structure
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Oral Forms
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Literature in English (selected texts and figures of speech)
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Detailed Breakdown of Topics in the Syllabus
1. Comprehension and Summary (25%)
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Understanding main ideas and supporting details
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Deduction of conclusions
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Interpretation of meaning and tone
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Paraphrasing and summarizing passages
Skills to master:
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Reading for meaning
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Identifying key points
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Logical reasoning
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Answering WH-questions (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How)
2. Lexis and Structure (35%)
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Vocabulary in context
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Synonyms, antonyms, idioms, and collocations
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Sentence completion
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Word classes (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs)
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Concord (subject-verb agreement)
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Articles, prepositions, conjunctions
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Sentence types and functions
Focus areas:
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Word usage
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Common grammatical errors
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Substitution in sentences
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Logical connectors and tenses
3. Oral Forms (15%)
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Vowel and consonant sounds
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Stress patterns in words and sentences
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Intonation and pitch
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Rhymes and rhythm
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Homophones and homonyms
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Word transcription (phonetic symbols)
Note: This section emphasizes understanding how words sound and are pronounced.
4. Literature (25%)
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Literary terms: metaphor, simile, irony, personification, etc.
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Figures of speech and their effects
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Identification of themes, settings, and characters
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Analysis of poems, drama, and prose passages
Recommended Textbooks for JAMB English Language
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“Exam Focus for JAMB Use of English”
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“A-One JAMB Use of English” by Segun Abiona
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“Invisible Teacher Series – English Language”
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JAMB Past Questions (10–15 years)
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JAMB Official Brochure & Novel (e.g., The Life Changer by Khadija Abubakar Jalli)
JAMB Prescribed Novel for 2025 (Compulsory Reading)
The JAMB novel for 2025 is The Life Changer by Khadija Abubakar Jalli.
All questions in the literature section will include comprehension and analysis of this book.
Exam Tips for JAMB English
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Practice reading and summarizing daily
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Improve vocabulary using word games and flashcards
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Solve past JAMB questions regularly
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Focus on tenses, concord, and punctuation
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Study the prescribed novel thoroughly
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Use official JAMB practice apps or CBT platforms
