Every year, thousands of Nigerian students prepare for the JAMB UTME exam, yet many struggle with one compulsory subject: English. The secret to Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ lies in understanding what the exam tests and mastering its key areas. This section is not just about knowing words; it measures how well you can think, read, and express ideas in clear English.
This article will guide you through effective strategies, important study areas, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you will have a clearer path to Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ and boosting your total JAMB score.
What is “Use of English”?
“Use of English” is the compulsory subject every JAMB candidate must write. It tests your ability to read, understand, and use the English language correctly. The paper covers comprehension, grammar, lexis and structure, and oral forms.
The goal of Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ is to show that you can use English for communication and academic work. It is not only about writing essays but also about how you understand passages, choose correct grammar forms, and identify the right meanings of words in context.
What It Means to Score High in Use of English in JAMB
To score high means to achieve excellent marks in this subject, usually 60 and above out of 100. Because JAMB “Use of English” carries great weight, performing well can increase your overall score even if you find other subjects challenging.
When you focus on Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’, you:
- Improve your comprehension and vocabulary.
- Answer questions faster and more accurately.
- Gain confidence for other subjects that depend on strong reading and writing skills.
In essence, success here reflects your readiness for university-level education.
What is JAMB?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the Nigerian examination body that organizes the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This exam determines who qualifies to enter higher institutions like universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Among all four subjects candidates choose, English is compulsory. Therefore, Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ gives you a strong foundation and increases your admission chances. Without a good score in this subject, your total UTME performance can drop, even if you excel in other areas.
Understanding the Exam Format
The “Use of English” paper is divided into three major parts:
Comprehension and Summary:
- Tests your ability to read and understand passages.
- You answer questions that test meaning, tone, and writer’s purpose.
- The summary part checks if you can pick out key ideas from long passages and rephrase them briefly.
Lexis and Structure:
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- Focuses on vocabulary, idioms, and grammar.
- You may face fill-in-the-blank questions, synonyms, antonyms, and correct word usage.
Oral English:
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- Tests pronunciation, stress patterns, and sound recognition.
- Even though it looks simple, many students lose marks here due to lack of practice.
To master these sections and aim for Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’, you must familiarize yourself with each question type and understand how they are graded.
Platforms that Can Help You Score High in Use of English
Several learning platforms and resources can guide you toward Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’:
- Past Question Apps: Many apps simulate the real JAMB environment. Practice regularly to understand question patterns.
- Educational Websites: Platforms dedicated to JAMB study share mock tests and topic-based tutorials.
- YouTube Lessons: Some teachers upload simplified explanations on grammar, comprehension, and lexis.
- Reading Groups: Joining an online or physical study group can motivate you to stay consistent and share learning materials.
By combining these resources, you increase your speed, accuracy, and confidence — three vital elements for Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’.
How Guidance and Teachers Can Help Students Score High in Use of English
Teachers and mentors play an essential role in helping students understand complex topics. To achieve Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’, seek guidance early. Teachers can:
- Correct your grammar and writing errors.
- Recommend helpful textbooks and practice materials.
- Conduct mock tests under exam conditions.
- Help you focus on weak areas like comprehension or oral forms.
A student who studies under the supervision of a qualified English teacher usually performs better than one who studies alone without feedback.
Mastering Grammar and Sentence Structure
Grammar is the backbone of the English language. Without understanding it, Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ becomes difficult. To master grammar:
- Learn the eight parts of speech: noun, pronoun, verb, adjective, adverb, preposition, conjunction, and interjection.
- Study sentence structure and agreement between subjects and verbs.
- Avoid common grammar errors such as tense inconsistency, wrong pronoun use, and misplaced modifiers.
- Read standard English newspapers and books daily to see how proper grammar is used.
Good sentence structure shows clarity of thought, which earns you higher marks in comprehension and summary sections.
Strategies for Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ Section of JAMB UTME
Here are practical strategies to help you achieve excellence:
- Read Every Day: Read newspapers, articles, and novels. They improve vocabulary and comprehension speed.
- Study the JAMB Syllabus: Know the exact topics JAMB expects. This keeps your preparation focused.
- Practice Past Questions: Repeated practice reveals patterns and common question types.
- Time Yourself: During practice, limit time per question. It teaches you speed and accuracy.
- Avoid Cramming: Understand concepts, don’t memorize blindly.
- Revise with Friends: Group discussions improve retention.
- Rest Before Exam: Don’t over-read the night before; a calm mind performs better.
Following these strategies consistently will lead you closer to Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’.
Major Areas Covered in the Use of English JAMB Exam
The exam focuses on:
- Comprehension passages
- Summary writing
- Lexis and structure
- Oral English
- Idioms and phrasal verbs
- Spelling and punctuation
To aim for Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’, review all these areas repeatedly. A balanced approach ensures no topic surprises you during the real test.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many students lose marks because of avoidable errors. Here are some to note:
- Ignoring the instructions: Always read the question twice.
- Rushing through passages: Slow down enough to understand the main point.
- Choosing answers by guesswork: Eliminate options carefully before selecting.
- Skipping oral English: It may look small, but it contributes valuable marks.
- Neglecting punctuation: A single comma can change meaning.
Avoiding these mistakes will improve your chances of Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ significantly.
Recommended Study Materials and Resources
To perform well, you need the right tools. The best materials for Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ include:
- JAMB Past Questions and Answers: The most reliable resource for understanding question trends.
- Modern English Textbooks: Books like Countdown to English or Essential English Grammar provide deeper explanations.
- Dictionary and Thesaurus: Expand your vocabulary daily.
- JAMB Syllabus: Always align your study plan with it.
- Mock Tests: Regularly simulate the exam environment to reduce panic and build confidence.
When used consistently, these materials will sharpen your language skills and help you achieve higher scores.
Conclusion
The “Use of English” is the key to your JAMB success. It affects your overall score and shows your readiness for university communication. The secret to Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’ lies in preparation, consistency, and self-discipline.
Study every day, practice past questions, improve your grammar, and pay attention to details. With hard work and smart planning, you can join the group of students who confidently say they succeeded in Scoring High in the ‘Use of English’.
FAQs
Is Use of English compulsory in JAMB?
Yes, it is compulsory for every candidate.
How many questions come from Use of English?
Usually about 60 questions.
Can I pass JAMB without studying English daily?
No, daily practice is important for improvement.
What is the easiest way to score high?
Consistent reading, mock exams, and understanding grammar.
What topics should I focus on?
Comprehension, grammar, lexis, and oral English.
How do I prepare for the oral section?
Listen to spoken English programs or audio lessons.
Can I use past questions from five years ago?
Yes, they remain useful for understanding patterns.
Is guessing allowed?
Only when you have eliminated wrong options carefully.
What books can I use?
Use English textbooks like Countdown to English and Brighter Grammar.
10. Can a teacher help me improve fast?
Yes, a good teacher can guide and correct your mistakes.