JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023: Check the Recommended Textbooks

Are you looking for the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023? Here we have provided the complete syllabus for the JAMB Literature in English 2023.

by Alaguvelan M

Updated May 26, 2023

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JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023: Check the Recommended Textbooks
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JAMB

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a Nigerian examination board responsible for conducting entrance exams into tertiary-level institutions. The board conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for prospective undergraduates seeking admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

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JAMB was established in 1978, and over the years it has undergone several changes, particularly in the conduct of the UTME. The exam is taken annually by hundreds of thousands of candidates, and it covers subjects such as English, Mathematics, and General Knowledge. Additionally, candidates can choose to take other subjects such as Economics, Biology, and Chemistry, depending on their field of study.

To register for JAMB UTME, candidates must have completed their secondary education and obtained credit passes in relevant subjects. The registration process involves purchasing a JAMB e-PIN, which allows candidates to create a profile, choose their subjects, and select a preferred exam center.

In recent years, JAMB has introduced several innovations to improve the integrity and credibility of the UTME. This includes the use of biometric verification, CBT (Computer-Based Testing) mode of exams, and the introduction of mock exams for candidates to practice and familiarize themselves with the exam system.

JAMB plays a key role in the admission process for Nigerian tertiary-level institutions, and its exam results are a major determinant of which candidates are admitted into various schools and programs.

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JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023

DRAMA

1. Types:

  • Tragedy
  • Comedy
  • Tragicomedy
  • Melodrama
  • Farce
  • Opera etc.

2. Dramatic Techniques

  • Characterization
  • Dialogue
  • Flashback
  • Mime
  • Costume
  • Music/Dance
  • Decor/scenery
  • Acts/Scenes
  • Soliloquy/aside
  • Lighting etc.

3. Interpretation of the Prescribed Texts

  • Theme
  • Plot
  • Socio-political context
  • Setting

Objectives:

Candidates should be able to:

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  • Identify the various types of drama;
  • Analyze the contents of the various types of drama;
  • Compare and contrast the features of different dramatic types;
  • Demonstrate adequate knowledge of dramatic techniques used in each prescribed text;
  • Differentiate between styles of selected playwrights;
  • Determine the theme of any prescribed text;
  • Identify the plot of the play;
  • Apply the lessons of the play to everyday living
  • Identify the spatial and temporal setting of the play.

PROSE

1. Types:

  •  Fiction
    – Novel
    – Novella/Novelette
    – Short story
  • Non-fiction
    – Biography
    – Autobiography
    – Memoir
  • Faction: a combination of fact and fiction

2. Narrative Techniques/Devices:

  • Point of view
    – Omniscent/Third Person
    – First Person
  • Characterization
    – Round, flat, foil, hero, antihero, etc
  • Language
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3. Textual Analysis

  • Theme
  • Plot
  • Setting (Temporal/Spatial)
  • Socio-political context

Objectives: 

Candidates should be able to:

  • Differentiate between types of prose;
  • Identify the category that each prescribed text belongs to;
  • Analyze the components of each type of prose;
  • Identify the narrative techniques used in each of the prescribed texts;
  • Determine an author’s narrative style;
  • Distinguish between one type of character from another;
  • Determine the thematic pre-occupation of the author of the prescribed text;
  • Indicate the plot of the novel; identify the temporal and spatial setting of the novel.
  • Identify the temporal and spatial setting of the novel
  • Relate the prescribed text to real-life situations.
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POETRY

1. Types:

  • Sonnet
  • Ode
  • Lyrics
  • Elegy
  • Ballad
  • Panegyric
  • Epic
  • Blank Verse, etc.

2. Poetic devices

  • Structure
  • Imagery
  • Sound(Rhyme/Rhythm, repetition, pun, onomatopoeia, etc.)
  • Diction
  • Persona

3. Appreciation

  • Thematic preoccupation
  • Socio-political relevance
  • Style.
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Objectives:

Candidates should be able to:

  • Identify different types of poetry;
  • Compare and contrast the features of different poetic types:
  • Determine the devices used by various poets;
  • Show how poetic devices are used for aesthetic effect in each poem;
  • Deduce the poet’s preoccupation from the poem;
  • Appraise poetry as an art with moral values;
  • Apply the lessons from the poem to real-life situations.

GENERAL LITERARY PRINCIPLES

  • Literary terms:
    foreshadowing, suspense, theatre, monologue, dialogue, soliloquy, symbolism, protagonist, antagonist, figures of speech, satire, stream of consciousness, synecdoche, metonymy, etc, in addition to those listed above under the different genres.

  • Literary principles
    i. Direct imitation in play;
    ii. Versification in drama and poetry;
    iii. Narration of people’s experiences;
    iv. Achievement of aesthetic value, etc.

  • Relationship between literary terms and principles.

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Objectives:

Candidates should be able to:

  • Identify literary terms in drama, prose, and poetry;
  • Identify the general principles of Literature;
  • Differentiate between literary terms and principles;
  • Use literary terms appropriately.

LITERARY APPRECIATION

Topics/Contents/Notes:

  • Unseen passages/extracts from Drama, Prose, and Poetry.
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Objectives:

Candidates should be able to:

  • Determine literary devices used in a given passage/extract;
  • Provide a meaningful inter-pretation of the given passage/extract;
  • Relate the extract to true life experiences.

Click here to know about the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023 official site. If You want any other further details to click the provided link and check it.

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JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023 Recommended Text Books

The JAMB examination is known for its high level of competitiveness. To ensure your preparedness, it is crucial to begin your preparations early, allowing ample time to cover the syllabus thoroughly.

Engaging in practice tests is highly recommended. Numerous online resources and bookstore materials offer practice tests specifically designed to familiarize you with the exam format and question types.

Consider joining a study group consisting of friends or classmates. Collaborative studying can provide mutual support, motivation, and help you maintain focus throughout the preparation period.

Prioritize getting sufficient sleep the night before the exam. A restful night's sleep will promote alertness and mental clarity on the day of the examination.

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While the JAMB exam poses challenges, passing is certainly attainable. By incorporating these tips into your study routine, you can enhance your chances of achieving success. 

Recommended Text Books

1. ANTHOLOGIES

Gbemisola, A. (2005)Naked Soles, Ibadan: Kraft

Hayward, J. (ed.) (1968) The Penguin Book of English Verse, London: Penguin

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Johnson, R. et al (eds.) (1996) New Poetry from Africa, Ibadan: UP Plc

Kermode, F. et al (1964) Oxford Anthology of English Literature, Vol. II, London: OUP

Nwoga D. (ed.) (1967) West African Verse, London: Longman

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Senanu, K. E. and Vincent, T. (eds.) (1993) A Selection of African Poetry, Lagos: Longman

Soyinka, W. (ed.) (1987) Poems of Black Africa, Ibadan: Heinemann

2. CRITICAL TEXTS

Abrams, M. H. (1981) A Glossary of Literary Terms, (4th Edition) New York, Holt Rinehalt and Winston

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Emeaba, O. E. (1982) A Dictionary of Literature, Aba: Inteks Press

Murphy, M. J. (1972) Understanding Unseen, An Introduction to English Poetry and English Novel for Overseas Students, George Allen and Unwin Ltd.

How to Use JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023?

To use the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023, candidates should start by downloading the syllabus from the JAMB website or any other reliable source. The syllabus contains the list of topics and subtopics that will be covered in the exam, as well as recommended textbooks and authors for each topic.

Candidates should carefully study each topic according to the syllabus and use the recommended textbooks and authors to prepare for the exam. The syllabus is organized into different themes such as Drama, Poetry, Prose, and more, with specific topics under each theme. It is important to cover all the topics under each theme to ensure comprehensive preparation for the exam.

In addition to studying the syllabus and recommended textbooks, candidates should also practice with past questions and take advantage of any mock exams provided by JAMB or other organizations. This will help them become familiar with the format and structure of the exam, as well as identify areas where they need to improve their knowledge and understanding.

The JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023 is crucial for any candidate seeking to excel in the JAMB UTME exam. With careful study and practice, candidates can boost their chances of obtaining a high score and gaining admission into their desired tertiary-level institution

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Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023 - FAQs

1. What is the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023?

It is a document that outlines the topics and subtopics to be covered in the Literature in English section of the JAMB UTME exam in 2023.

2. Which themes are covered in the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023?

The syllabus covers different themes such as Drama, Poetry, Prose, and more.

3. What are some of the recommended textbooks for the Literature in English section of the JAMB UTME exam?

Some of the recommended textbooks include "African Prose" by D. O. Fagunwa, "Lonely Days" by Bayo Adebowale, and "The Lion and the Jewel" by Wole Soyinka.

4. How should candidates use the JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2023 to prepare for the exam?

Candidates should carefully study each topic according to the syllabus, use the recommended textbooks and authors, practice with past questions, and take advantage of any mock exams provided.

5. How can candidates ensure comprehensive preparation for the Literature in English section of the JAMB UTME exam?

Candidates should cover all the topics and subtopics under each theme in the syllabus and use the recommended textbooks and authors.

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