Comprehension and Summary | Jamb Use of English Past Questions and Answers

Success in the JAMB (UTME) Use of English section largely depends on a student’s ability to read, understand, and analyze passages effectively. Comprehension and Summary questions test essential skills such as identifying main ideas, understanding contextual meanings of words and phrases, making logical deductions, and summarizing key points concisely. Practicing past questions allows students to familiarize themselves with the typical passage structures, question patterns, and the level of reasoning required. It also enhances critical reading skills, helping students grasp information quickly and respond accurately within the limited exam time. By repeatedly working through past questions, students build confidence, improve their reading speed, and develop a strategy for tackling even the most complex passages with ease.
Beyond familiarity with question formats, consistent practice with JAMB past questions strengthens a student’s ability to recognize different question types and avoid common traps set by examiners. Many students struggle with comprehension because they do not read actively or fail to identify subtle clues in the passage. However, solving past questions repeatedly trains the mind to focus on key details, interpret figures of speech correctly, and extract relevant information efficiently. This preparation ultimately ensures that students do not only understand what they read but also answer questions correctly and concisely summarize passages when required. As comprehension and summary questions carry significant marks in the exam, dedicated practice will greatly enhance overall performance, making the difference between an average score and an outstanding one. Blissful learning.

The old man sat by the riverside, watching the sun dip slowly below the horizon. The orange hue of the evening sky reflected on the rippling water, creating an illusion of fire dancing on the surface. He sighed deeply, his mind burdened with memories of a life filled with triumph and regret.
Years ago, this same river had been his sanctuary, a place of solace where he had sought refuge from the harshness of the world. Now, as the years weighed heavily on his shoulders, he found himself returning to the very place where his journey had begun. The laughter of children playing in the distance momentarily lifted his spirits, but the echo of his own youth soon replaced the fleeting joy with melancholy.
His eyes, once filled with youthful ambition, now carried the wisdom of experience. He had fought battles, won and lost friendships, and seen the world change before him. Yet, as he watched the river flow endlessly towards an uncertain destination, he knew that time, like the water before him, could never be reversed.

What does the old man’s sigh most likely indicate?
A. He is tired from walking to the riverside.
B. He is reflecting on his past experiences.
C. He is admiring the beauty of the river.
D. He is eager to join the children in playing.

Answer: B. He is reflecting on his past experiences.

What is the meaning of the word "sanctuary" as used in the passage?
A. A place of punishment
B. A place of peace and safety
C. A place of adventure
D. A place of noise and chaos

Answer: B. A place of peace and safety

What does the phrase "weighed heavily on his shoulders" suggest?
A. He is physically weak.
B. He carries a lot of burdens in his heart.
C. He is carrying something heavy.
D. He is reluctant to leave the riverside.

Answer: B. He carries a lot of burdens in his heart.

In the sentence, "The laughter of children playing in the distance momentarily lifted his spirits, but the echo of his own youth soon replaced the fleeting joy with melancholy," what does the second clause convey?
A. The laughter made him completely happy.
B. He felt joy that turned into sadness.
C. He wished to join the children in playing.
D. The sound of the river reminded him of his past.

Answer: B. He felt joy that turned into sadness.

Which of the following best summarizes the last sentence of the passage?
A. The old man regrets his past mistakes.
B. The old man wishes he had done more in life.
C. The old man understands that time cannot be reversed.
D. The old man hopes to relive his youth.

Answer: C. The old man understands that time cannot be reversed.

Which literary device is used in "creating an illusion of fire dancing on the surface"?
A. Metaphor
B. Simile
C. Hyperbole
D. Personification

Answer: D. Personification

What can be inferred about the old man's life from the passage?
A. He lived a completely happy life.
B. He has had both successes and regrets.
C. He dislikes being around people.
D. He has never been to the river before.

Answer: B. He has had both successes and regrets.

How does the writer portray the old man’s feelings?
A. Joyful and satisfied
B. Nostalgic and reflective
C. Confused and indecisive
D. Angry and resentful

Answer: B. Nostalgic and reflective

What is the grammatical function of the word "watching" in the sentence: "The old man sat by the riverside, watching the sun dip slowly below the horizon."?
A. Main verb
B. Gerund
C. Present participle acting as an adverbial phrase
D. Noun phrase

Answer: C. Present participle acting as an adverbial phrase

As the heavy rain poured relentlessly, Janet huddled under the small wooden shelter at the bus stop, clutching her worn-out bag tightly. The air was thick with the scent of wet earth, and distant thunder rumbled like a growling beast. She shivered, partly from the cold, but mostly from the fear that she would be late for the interview that could change her life.
For weeks, she had rehearsed her responses, carefully memorizing the right words to impress the interviewers. But now, as she watched the road flood with water and buses become scarce, doubt crept into her mind. What if she never made it in time? What if fate had decided that today was not her day? She tried to shake off the thought, adjusting the sleeves of her slightly oversized blazer—her only decent piece of formal clothing.
Then, suddenly, a bus appeared in the distance, splashing through the puddles like a small ship battling ocean waves. Relief flooded her chest. Whether she got the job or not, she knew one thing: she had done everything in her power to get there.

Why was Janet afraid while waiting at the bus stop?
A. She was scared of the thunder.
B. She was afraid of missing an important event.
C. She had lost her belongings.
D. She did not have enough money for the bus fare.

Answer: B. She was afraid of missing an important event.

What does the word "relentlessly" mean as used in the passage?
A. Gently and lightly
B. Suddenly and unpredictably
C. Continually and intensely
D. Briefly and weakly

Answer: C. Continually and intensely

What does the phrase "doubt crept into her mind" suggest?
A. She started to feel sleepy.
B. She began to question if she would make it.
C. She became angry at the rain.
D. She was excited about the interview.

Answer: B. She began to question if she would make it.

In the sentence, "Whether she got the job or not, she knew one thing: she had done everything in her power to get there," what does the first clause suggest?
A. She had already been offered the job.
B. She was unsure of the outcome but satisfied with her effort.
C. She had lost interest in the interview.
D. She had missed the interview.

Answer: B. She was unsure of the outcome but satisfied with her effort.

What is the main idea of the last sentence of the passage?
A. Janet was no longer worried about the rain.
B. Janet had successfully secured the job.
C. Janet was satisfied that she had tried her best, regardless of the outcome.
D. Janet regretted leaving her house for the interview.

Answer: C. Janet was satisfied that she had tried her best, regardless of the outcome.

What figure of speech is used in "distant thunder rumbled like a growling beast"?
A. Metaphor
B. Simile
C. Hyperbole
D. Personification

Answer: B. Simile

What can be inferred about Janet’s personality?
A. She is lazy and easily discouraged.
B. She is determined and hardworking.
C. She does not take interviews seriously.
D. She enjoys waiting in the rain.

Answer: B. She is determined and hardworking.

What mood does the writer create in the passage?
A. Playful and humorous
B. Hopeful and determined
C. Angry and resentful
D. Joyful and celebratory

Answer: B. Hopeful and determined

What is the grammatical function of the word "clutching" in the sentence "Janet huddled under the small wooden shelter at the bus stop, clutching her worn-out bag tightly."?
A. Main verb
B. Adjective
C. Present participle acting as an adverbial phrase
D. Pronoun

Answer: C. Present participle acting as an adverbial phrase

Drug abuse among young people has become a significant social problem, with devastating effects on individuals and society. Many young people, in their quest for pleasure or escape from personal struggles, turn to substances that alter their mental state. Unfortunately, what starts as a momentary thrill often leads to addiction, destroying dreams, careers, and relationships.
The consequences of drug abuse are far-reaching. It affects not only the users but also their families and communities. Many addicts experience deteriorating health, financial instability, and loss of self-control. Society also suffers, as drug abuse contributes to increased crime rates, broken homes, and economic losses. Despite the known dangers, peer pressure, ignorance, and emotional distress continue to lure many into substance abuse.
However, all hope is not lost. Education, counseling, and rehabilitation programs play a crucial role in curbing this menace. It is important for individuals to make informed choices and seek help when necessary. With the right support system and determination, those struggling with addiction can break free and rebuild their lives.

What is one of the major reasons young people abuse drugs?
A. To increase their intelligence
B. To escape personal struggles
C. To improve their financial status
D. To make their families happy

Answer: B. To escape personal struggles

What does the word "devastating" mean as used in the passage?
A. Mild and insignificant
B. Causing severe destruction
C. Bringing joy and relief
D. Easy to overcome

Answer: B. Causing severe destruction

What does the phrase "momentary thrill" suggest?
A. A lasting period of excitement
B. A brief feeling of excitement
C. A painful experience
D. A permanent escape from reality

Answer: B. A brief feeling of excitement

In the sentence "Despite the known dangers, peer pressure, ignorance, and emotional distress continue to lure many into substance abuse," what does the clause "Despite the known dangers" indicate?
A. People are fully aware of the risks but still engage in drug abuse.
B. People have successfully eliminated drug abuse.
C. People do not know the dangers of drug abuse.
D. People are not influenced by external factors.

Answer: A. People are fully aware of the risks but still engage in drug abuse.

What is the main idea of the second paragraph?
A. Drug abuse only affects the users.
B. The consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the individual to society.
C. Drug addicts are not responsible for their actions.
D. Drug abuse only causes health problems.

Answer: B. The consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the individual to society.

Which literary device is used in "drug abuse contributes to increased crime rates, broken homes, and economic losses"?
A. Hyperbole
B. Metaphor
C. Parallelism
D. Simile

Answer: C. Parallelism

What can be inferred about the writer’s view on drug rehabilitation?
A. It is a waste of resources.
B. It is an effective way to combat drug abuse.
C. It does not help drug addicts recover.
D. It is only beneficial for young people.

Answer: B. It is an effective way to combat drug abuse.

What is the writer’s attitude towards drug abuse?
A. Indifferent
B. Encouraging
C. Concerned and discouraging
D. Amused

Answer: C. Concerned and discouraging

What is the grammatical function of the word "rebuilding" in the sentence "With the right support system and determination, those struggling with addiction can break free and rebuild their lives."?
A. Noun
B. Adverb
C. Present participle acting as a verb
D. Adjective

Answer: C. Present participle acting as a verb

Education is often regarded as the bedrock of national development. It shapes the minds of individuals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society. In many countries, a well-structured education system has been the driving force behind technological advancements, economic stability, and improved living conditions. However, the state of education in some developing nations remains a cause for concern, as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified teachers continue to hinder progress. Without urgent intervention, the potential of millions of young people may remain untapped.
One of the greatest challenges facing education in many developing countries is the lack of proper funding. Governments often allocate insufficient resources to the education sector, leading to a shortage of schools, inadequate learning materials, and poorly paid teachers. In some rural communities, students are forced to study in overcrowded classrooms, with little or no access to modern educational facilities. This situation not only affects the quality of education but also discourages many students from pursuing their academic goals.
Additionally, poor infrastructure remains a significant barrier to effective learning. Many schools in underprivileged areas lack basic amenities such as electricity, potable water, and functional libraries. Without a conducive learning environment, students struggle to focus, and teachers find it difficult to deliver quality instruction. Furthermore, the absence of technology in many schools deprives students of the opportunity to compete with their counterparts in more developed regions. Bridging this gap requires strategic investment in educational facilities and infrastructure.
Another pressing issue is the shortage of qualified teachers. Many educators in developing countries are either underqualified or lack the necessary training to deliver effective lessons. This challenge is further exacerbated by poor remuneration, which discourages skilled professionals from taking up teaching as a career. The few teachers who remain dedicated to the profession often have to handle large class sizes, reducing their effectiveness. If the quality of teaching is not improved, students will continue to struggle with basic literacy and numeracy skills, limiting their future prospects.
Despite these challenges, the situation is not hopeless. With increased government commitment, public-private partnerships, and community involvement, the education sector can be revitalized. Scholarships, teacher training programs, and infrastructural development initiatives can go a long way in addressing these issues. It is imperative that all stakeholders recognize education as a priority, as an educated population is the foundation of a thriving society.

What is the primary concern regarding education in developing countries?
A. Students refuse to attend school.
B. There is inadequate funding and poor infrastructure.
C. Governments do not allow students to study.
D. Students prefer working over studying.

Answer: B. There is inadequate funding and poor infrastructure.

What does the word “revitalized” in the last paragraph mean?
A. To make weaker
B. To restore strength or improve
C. To completely destroy
D. To ignore a problem

Answer: B. To restore strength or improve

What does the phrase “bridging this gap” in paragraph three mean?
A. Destroying all schools
B. Building physical bridges between schools
C. Reducing the difference between educational standards
D. Expanding the infrastructure deficit

Answer: C. Reducing the difference between educational standards

In the sentence “Without a conducive learning environment, students struggle to focus, and teachers find it difficult to deliver quality instruction,” what does the clause “Without a conducive learning environment” indicate?
A. Students and teachers thrive in difficult conditions.
B. Learning is difficult when basic facilities are lacking.
C. Teachers can teach effectively without proper infrastructure.
D. Students do not need a comfortable learning space.

Answer: B. Learning is difficult when basic facilities are lacking.

What is the main idea of the fourth paragraph?
A. Students refuse to learn from teachers.
B. Teachers are responsible for educational failure.
C. The shortage of trained teachers negatively affects education.
D. Teachers are well paid in developing countries.

Answer: C. The shortage of trained teachers negatively affects education.

Which literary device is used in “Education is often regarded as the bedrock of national development”?
A. Metaphor
B. Simile
C. Hyperbole
D. Irony

Answer: A. Metaphor

What can be inferred about the writer’s view on government intervention in education?
A. The government is actively solving all educational challenges.
B. The government should increase investment in education.
C. Governments have done enough to support education.
D. Private individuals should be solely responsible for education.

Answer: B. The government should increase investment in education.

What is the writer’s attitude towards the current state of education in developing countries?
A. Optimistic but concerned
B. Indifferent and uninterested
C. Excited and satisfied
D. Angry and dismissive

Answer: A. Optimistic but concerned

What is the grammatical function of the word “contributing” in the sentence “It shapes the minds of individuals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society.”?
A. Main verb
B. Gerund
C. Adjective
D. Present participle acting as a verb

Answer: D. Present participle acting as a verb

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