(1)
In the lively town of Nkpor, where dusty roads intertwined with the laughter of schoolchildren, there lived a young student named Emeka. He was known for his knack for fixing things and eagerly looked forward to showcasing his skills in the upcoming science fair at school.
One day, Emeka decided to create a simple radio for the fair. Armed with wires, batteries, and a few electronic parts, he enthusiastically set to work. However, as he assembled his project, he encountered an unexpected hiccup – the radio wasn’t working as intended.
Growing frustrated, Emeka grumbled about the quality of the wires, blaming them for the radio’s failure. When the science fair arrived, he proudly displayed his creation, but it didn’t perform as expected. Chima, his friend who had successfully built a working flashlight, shook his head and said, “A bad workman blames his tools.”
Perplexed, Emeka asked Chima to explain. Chima clarified that blaming the wires was akin to making excuses instead of addressing the real issue. Emeka, recognizing the wisdom in Chima’s words, decided to give it another shot.
For his second attempt, Emeka secured better-quality wires and paid closer attention to the details. This time, the radio worked flawlessly. At the science fair, he confidently demonstrated how it tuned in to different stations. Chima, nodding approvingly, reminded Emeka that taking responsibility for his work was crucial for success.
Emeka, embracing this lesson, continued to improve his skills. As he progressed through school, facing various challenges, he remembered Chima’s words: “A bad workman blames his tools.” The phrase became his mantra, encouraging him to overcome setbacks with determination.
In his final year of school, Emeka faced his biggest challenge – a robotics project for the national science competition. As he encountered obstacles and setbacks, he resisted the temptation to blame external factors. Instead, he applied the lessons learned from building the radio.
Emeka persisted, refining his design and seeking guidance when needed. When the day of the competition arrived, his robotic creation astounded the judges. Emeka had not only overcome challenges but had also demonstrated remarkable growth.
Chima, who attended the competition as a guest, approached Emeka with a smile. “Remember,” he said, “a good workman doesn’t blame his tools; he learns to use them better.” Emeka nodded in gratitude, knowing that this saying had become more than a lesson – it was a guiding principle that shaped his journey of continuous improvement.
In the end, Emeka’s story became an inspiration for his peers, illustrating that setbacks were not roadblocks but opportunities for growth. The phrase “A bad workman blames his tools” echoed in the corridors of the school, reminding everyone that success required resilience and a commitment to learning from challenges.
[12/16, 7:15 AM] Olive: *NECO GCE ENGLISH*
*(CONTINUOUS WRITING)*
(1)
In the bustling city of Lagos, where the vibrant colors of market stalls clashed with the chaos of traffic, lived a young artisan named Chijioke. Known for his exceptional woodworking skills, he crafted intricate pieces that captivated the eyes of those who beheld them. His workshop, tucked away in a narrow alley, was filled with the scent of freshly cut wood.
One day, a wealthy businessman named Mr. Ade approached Chijioke with a unique request. He wanted an ornate wooden chair for his prestigious office, a masterpiece that would reflect his status. Eager to showcase his talent, Chijioke accepted the commission with enthusiasm.
Weeks passed, and the workshop echoed with the rhythmic sound of Chijioke’s tools. He meticulously carved and shaped the wood, pouring his heart into the creation of the grand chair. As the deadline approached, Chijioke faced unforeseen challenges. The wood he had chosen began to splinter, and his chisels seemed dull and uncooperative.
Frustrated by the setbacks, Chijioke’s patience wore thin. He cursed his tools, blaming them for the imperfections in his work. The chair, once a symbol of elegance, now bore the marks of his frustration. Mr. Ade, upon inspecting the final product, was disappointed. The flaws were evident, and the chair fell short of his expectations.
Chijioke, feeling the weight of failure, grumbled about the inferior quality of his tools. Mr. Ade, however, was unimpressed by the excuses. He calmly remarked, “A bad workman blames his tools.” Chijioke, initially taken aback, realized the truth in those words.
Reflecting on his journey, Chijioke understood that blaming his tools was a way of deflecting responsibility. Instead of acknowledging the shortcomings in his craftsmanship, he had chosen to find a convenient scapegoat. Determined to redeem himself, Chijioke requested another chance to prove his skill.
Mr. Ade, seeing sincerity in Chijioke’s eyes, granted him another opportunity. This time, Chijioke approached his work with newfound humility. He invested in high-quality wood and sharpened his tools diligently. The workshop echoed with a renewed sense of purpose as he crafted a chair that surpassed even his previous aspirations.
When Mr. Ade saw the second creation, he was astounded. The craftsmanship was impeccable, and the chair exuded a regal aura. Chijioke had learned a valuable lesson which is, that true mastery lies not only in skill but also in taking responsibility for one’s work. As he proudly presented the chair to Mr. Ade, Chijioke couldn’t help but smile, knowing that he had overcome the temptation to blame his tools.
*NECO GCE ENGLISH ESSAY*
*SECTION A*
*NUMBER TWO*
(2)
*Title: a Man is More Useful to Society than a Woman*
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed audience, and fellow debaters, today I stand before you to challenge the age-old notion that a man is more useful to society than a woman. This argument is not only discriminatory but also fails to recognize the countless contributions and potential of women. In today’s world, it is crucial to acknowledge and value the skills, talents, and unique perspectives that both men and women bring to the table. Therefore, I will present arguments against the motion and highlight the importance of recognizing the equal value of both genders in society.
One of the most common arguments put forth in favor of the motion is that men are more useful to society because they dominate certain professions, particularly those that are financially lucrative. However, this argument neglects the significant economic contributions women have made and continue to make. Over the years, women have broken through numerous barriers to excel in various fields, from entrepreneurship and finance to STEM and politics. The global economy thrives on diversity, and excluding women means missing out on their innovative ideas and unique perspectives. By creating opportunities and supporting the advancement of women, society benefits from a broader range of talents, skills, and ideas, ultimately leading to greater economic growth and prosperity.
Another important aspect of society is social progress, and women play a vital role in this domain. Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of social movements, advocating for equality, human rights, and justice. Their contributions to the civil rights movement, the suffrage movement, and the fight for gender equality cannot be overlooked. Their dedication, passion, and empathy have led to significant advancements in society, shaping more inclusive and compassionate communities. By dismissing the value of women in society, we risk slowing down progress in important areas such as gender equality, education, and social justice.
Recognizing the value of women is not limited to their professional contributions; it extends to their roles within the family and community as well. Women have historically been the primary caregivers, nurturing and shaping the next generation. Their emotional intelligence, compassion, and multitasking skills are invaluable in maintaining strong and healthy families. Additionally, women often take on significant roles in community organizations, volunteering, and advocating for social causes. Their ability to connect with others, build relationships, and mobilize communities is crucial to the well-being and development of society as a whole. By acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of women in these areas, we strengthen the fabric of our communities and foster a more inclusive and cohesive society.
In conclusion, the notion that a man is more useful to society than a woman is deeply flawed and perpetuates gender inequality. Women have proven time and again that they possess unique skills and talents that are essential for societal progress. It is time we recognize the equal value of both genders and embrace the diverse contributions they bring to the table. Let us strive for a society that is inclusive, equal, and truly values the potential of all individuals, regardless of their gender.
[12/16, 6:40 AM] Olive: *NECO GCE ENGLISH LANGUAGE*
*SECTION C*
*SUMMARY*
(6a)
-Through social media, young people can share information and develop themselves.
-Social media helps young people to easily learn at their own pace and time, and at their comfort zones
-it enhance creativity and helps young people showcase their artistic works
(6b)
-Social media has made it less likely for young people to visit their loved once in distant places depriving them of the love and affection that goes with it
-Young people spend vast time on their gadgets rather than much more meaningful things
-Young people use social media as a tool for rumor mongering ams chaos
*NECO GCE ENGLISH LANGUAGE*
*SECTION B*
*COMPREHENSION*
(5a)
The writers withdrawal was as a result of inability to his school fees
(5b)
He was asked to pay three terms fee because it was a name for external candidate to do so
(5c)
The writers refused to pay the “understanding fee” because he saw examination malpractice as a crime and immoral act.
(5d)
The cancellation of the entire result of the center was the result of mass cheating
(5e)
“All hell broke loose!” Means chaos and confusion
(5f)
(i) School administration
(ii) examination administration
(5g)
(i) Adjectival clause of time
(ii) modifies the verb “insisted”
(5h)
(i) Top-notch – quality
(ii) Exorbitant – expensive
(iii) Pre-condition – requirement
(iv) Obnoxious – abominable
(v) Fabulous – unbelievable
(vi) Nefarious – criminal
[12/16, 7:02 AM] Olive: SECTION A
CONTINUOUS WRITING
1. write a story that end with the expression: a bad workman blame his tools.
Levi was known as the best carpenter in his small town. His exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail made him the go-to person for any woodwork project. However, one day his perfect reputation was put to the test.
Levi was commissioned to build a beautiful cabinet for the town’s new library. He was excited about the project and poured all of his knowledge and skills into designing and constructing the cabinet. His work involved intricate carving, precise measurements, and meticulous joinery. The result was a stunning piece of furniture that garnered praise from everyone who saw it.
However, as the years went by, Levi’s once sharp tools began to wear down. His chisels became dull, his saw blades lost their edge, and his measuring tools started to show signs of wear and tear. Although Levi was aware of this, he kept postponing the task of sharpening or replacing his tools. He thought he could manage with what he had, and the decline of his tools slowly started to affect his work.
As Levi continued to take on projects, he started to notice that his finished pieces were not up to his usual standard. There were uneven cuts, and the joinery wasn’t as precise as it used to be. At first, he didn’t think much of it, blaming it on a lack of focus or tiredness. But as the problems persisted, Levi started to feel frustrated and dissatisfied with his work.
One day, a close friend stopped by his workshop and pointed out the decline in Levi’s work. Levi started to defend himself, blaming the wood for being difficult to work with and the weather for affecting the drying process. But his friend listened patiently and reminded him of the old saying, “A bad workman blames his tools.”
At first, Levi was defensive. He believed that his friend didn’t understand the struggles he had been facing. However, after some reflection, Levi realized that he had been using the excuse of his tools to cover up his own complacency. He had been avoiding the vital task of maintaining and replacing his tools, and it had started to impact his work.
From that day on, Levi made a commitment to take better care of his tools. He sharpened his chisels, replaced the worn-out saw blades, and invested in new measuring devices. The difference was remarkable. His work improved, and his finished pieces once again showcased the top-notch quality he was known for.
As time went by, Levi’s reputation as a master carpenter was restored. He never forgot the lesson he had learned: a bad workman blames his tools. It was a reminder that true craftsmanship depends not only on skill and talent, but also on the ability to take responsibility for the tools of the trade.
[12/16, 7:15 AM] Olive: *NECO GCE ENGLISH LANGUAGE*
*PART II*
*SECTION A*
*NUMBER 3*
*A Call to Action for Internally Displaced Persons*
In the shadows of our bustling cities and towns, a silent crisis unfolds— the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). These individuals have been uprooted from their homes, often fleeing conflict, natural disasters, or other life-threatening situations. Their struggles are profound, yet their stories remain largely unheard. It is imperative that we shed light on the challenges faced by IDPs and, more importantly, explore tangible solutions to rehabilitate and rebuild their shattered lives.
The Invisible Crisis
Behind the headlines that dominate our news cycles, IDPs endure hardship, displacement, and uncertainty. Many have lost their homes, livelihoods, and even loved ones in the process. Forced to seek refuge in crowded camps or unfamiliar urban areas, they grapple with the trauma of displacement while facing inadequate living conditions, limited access to education, and insufficient healthcare.
Empathy in Action
Rehabilitating IDPs requires a comprehensive approach that addresses their multifaceted needs. Empathy must be the driving force behind our efforts, recognizing the humanity of those who have faced unthinkable challenges. Here are key areas that demand our attention:
i. *Basic Needs and Shelter:* – Prioritize the provision of safe and adequate shelter for IDPs, ensuring that their basic needs for food, clean water, and sanitation are met.
– Collaborate with humanitarian organizations to establish well-equipped and sustainable refugee camps, fostering an environment conducive to physical and mental well-being.
ii. *Education and Skill Development:* – Implement programs that facilitate access to education for displaced children, recognizing the transformative power of learning in breaking the cycle of poverty.
iii. *Healthcare Services:* – Establish healthcare facilities within IDP settlements, providing essential medical services and mental health support to address the trauma experienced by individuals and families.
– Collaborate with healthcare professionals and NGOs to ensure ongoing health monitoring and intervention.
*A COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY*
Rehabilitating IDPs is not a task for governments alone; it requires a collective effort from civil society, businesses, and individuals alike. By fostering empathy, advocating for policy reform, and actively participating in rehabilitation initiatives, we can contribute to rebuilding the lives of those who have lost so much.
In a world often divided by differences, our shared humanity calls us to extend a helping hand to those in need. It is time to amplify the voices of the displaced, turning empathy into action and rebuilding shattered lives into hopeful futures.
