ENGLISH
TOPICAL PAST PAPER QUESTIONS
ENGLISH PAPER 2 TOPICAL PAMPHLET
Papers: 2016 Paper 2, 2017 Paper 2, 2022 Paper 2, 2023 Paper 2, 2024 Paper 2, 2019 Paper 2
Topics: 0.1 NAMING | 0.2 CONVERSATION | 0.4 DESCRIPTIONS | 0.3 STORIES | 0.11 HANDWRITING
Total: 249 questions from 6 papers
📋 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. 0.2 CONVERSATION
80 questions — 90 marks — Years: 2016, 2022, 2023, 2024
Mulenga sent a copy of his will to his lawyer ........................................ safe keeping. (for, from, on, with)
for
from
on
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Prepositions are words that show relationships between nouns and other words. "For" is used to indicate purpose or reason.
Correct Answer: for
The preposition "for" is used to indicate purpose. When someone sends something "for safe keeping," it means the purpose is to keep it safe. The complete sentence reads: "Mulenga sent a copy of his will to his lawyer for safe keeping."
A. This knife is not as sharp as that one. B. That ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes a comparative sentence from negative form to positive form while maintaining the same meaning.
Answer: That knife is sharper than this one.
The original sentence compares two knives using "not as...as" structure. To transform it while keeping the same meaning, we use the comparative form "sharper than" and reverse the comparison.
The car is to be sold ........................................ auction. (in, on, of, with)
in
on
of
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Certain prepositions are paired with specific nouns in fixed expressions. "At auction" is the correct prepositional phrase.
Correct Answer: at
The correct preposition is "at" (though this option is not provided in the given choices, making this question problematic). The standard expression is "sold at auction." Among the given options, none are grammatically correct, but "at" would be the proper choice.
A. The Members of Parliament will make him President of the country. B. He will ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes an active voice sentence to passive voice while maintaining the same meaning and tense.
Answer: He will be made President of the country by the Members of Parliament.
In passive voice transformation, the object becomes the subject, the verb changes to "be + past participle," and the original subject becomes the agent introduced by "by."
Mr Mubita is a good teacher who takes great pride ........................................ his work. (about, in, of, on)
about
in
of
on
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrase "take pride in" is a fixed expression meaning to feel satisfaction or pleasure about something you have done or achieved.
Correct Answer: in
The correct preposition is "in." The expression "take pride in" means to feel satisfied and pleased about something. The complete sentence reads: "Mr Mubita is a good teacher who takes great pride in his work."
A. Unless it rains tomorrow, we shall hold an extraordinary staff meeting. B. If ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Unless" can be transformed to "if...not" while maintaining the same conditional meaning.
Answer: If it does not rain tomorrow, we shall hold an extraordinary staff meeting.
"Unless" means "if not," so we replace "unless it rains" with "if it does not rain" to maintain the same meaning.
I am not ........................................ liberty to tell you what happened at the bank. (at, in, under, with)
at
in
under
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "At liberty" is a fixed expression meaning free or allowed to do something. It indicates permission or freedom to act.
Correct Answer: at
The correct preposition is "at." The expression "at liberty" means free or allowed to do something. The complete sentence reads: "I am not at liberty to tell you what happened at the bank," meaning the speaker is not allowed or free to share that information.
A. The room is dilapidated but it is still used as a laboratory. B. No matter ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "No matter how" introduces a concessive clause that expresses the same meaning as "although" or "but."
Answer: No matter how dilapidated the room is, it is still used as a laboratory.
The transformation uses "no matter how" to show that despite the poor condition, the room continues to be used.
There was a lamp hanging ........................................ the baby's crib. (at, in, on, over)
at
in
on
over
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Prepositions of position show where something is located. "Over" indicates a position above something else.
Correct Answer: over
The correct preposition is "over." When something is hanging above another object, we use "over" to show this position. The complete sentence reads: "There was a lamp hanging over the baby's crib."
A. He has had his chickens stolen. B. His chickens ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transforms a causative structure "have something done" to a passive voice construction.
Answer: His chickens have been stolen.
The causative structure "has had his chickens stolen" becomes the passive "have been stolen" with the chickens as the subject.
The delegate was ........................................ himself with rage when he was mistaken for an intruder. (beside, against, besides, within)
beside
against
besides
within
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Beside oneself" is an idiomatic expression meaning extremely upset, angry, or emotional, often to the point of losing self-control.
Correct Answer: beside
The correct answer is "beside." The expression "beside oneself" means extremely angry or upset. The complete sentence reads: "The delegate was beside himself with rage when he was mistaken for an intruder."
A. Mumbi is less intelligent than any other member in the family. B. Mumbi is the ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes a comparative sentence expressing the lowest degree to a superlative form.
Answer: Mumbi is the least intelligent member in the family.
"Less intelligent than any other" is transformed to the superlative "least intelligent" to show the same meaning in superlative form.
The two men were found guilty ........................................ fraud. (at, in, of, with)
at
in
of
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: In legal contexts, we use "guilty of" to indicate what crime or wrongdoing someone has been found responsible for.
Correct Answer: of
The correct preposition is "of." In legal language, when someone is found guilty, we say they are "guilty of" a particular crime. The complete sentence reads: "The two men were found guilty of fraud."
A. There was very little salt in the bottle. B. There was scarcely .................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Very little" can be expressed using "scarcely any" to show the same meaning of almost nothing.
Answer: There was scarcely any salt in the bottle.
"Very little" and "scarcely any" both express that there was almost no salt present.
The news of her friend's suffering reduced her ........................................ tears. (in, to, at, with)
in
to
at
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Reduce to tears" is a fixed expression meaning to make someone cry or become very emotional.
Correct Answer: to
The correct preposition is "to." The expression "reduce to tears" means to make someone cry. The complete sentence reads: "The news of her friend's suffering reduced her to tears."
A. He is a very experienced goalkeeper. He cannot let down his team. B. He is so ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This combines two sentences using "so...that" to show cause and result relationship.
Answer: He is so experienced a goalkeeper that he cannot let down his team.
The structure "so + adjective + a/an + noun + that" combines the two sentences to show that his experience is the reason he cannot disappoint his team.
My father enjoys coffee ........................................ milk. (from, in, of, without)
from
in
of
without
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Without" is used to indicate the absence of something. It shows what is not included or present.
Correct Answer: without
The correct preposition is "without." This indicates that the father enjoys coffee that does not contain milk. The complete sentence reads: "My father enjoys coffee without milk."
A. Married couples must not by any means engage in Gender Based Violence. B. By no means ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "By no means" is an emphatic negative expression that requires inversion of subject and auxiliary verb.
Answer: By no means must married couples engage in Gender Based Violence.
When starting with "by no means," the sentence requires inversion, placing the auxiliary verb before the subject.
Criminals are usually punished in accordance ........................................ the law. (to, for, by, with)
to
for
by
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "In accordance with" is a fixed expression meaning following or agreeing with established rules, laws, or standards.
Correct Answer: with
The correct preposition is "with." The expression "in accordance with" means following or obeying something. The complete sentence reads: "Criminals are usually punished in accordance with the law."
A. Mr Jones is wealthy but he does not adequately support his family. B. Wealthy ...........................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation starts with an adjective and uses a concessive structure to show contrast.
Answer: Wealthy as Mr Jones is, he does not adequately support his family.
The structure "adjective + as + subject + verb" expresses the same contrasting meaning as "although he is wealthy."
The hunter sat down ........................................ the fire. (at, by, between, with)
at
by
between
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "By" indicates position near or close to something. It shows proximity without being exactly at the same location.
Correct Answer: by
The correct preposition is "by." When someone sits near something, we use "by" to indicate this close position. The complete sentence reads: "The hunter sat down by the fire."
Mwansa turned ........................................ her request. (down, on, up, with)
down
on
up
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Turn down" is a phrasal verb meaning to refuse or reject something, especially a request or offer.
Correct Answer: down
The correct answer is "down." The phrasal verb "turn down" means to refuse or reject something. The complete sentence reads: "Mwansa turned down her request."
Her new teacher's house was a few metres ........................................ from school. (down, away, across, over)
down
away
across
over
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Away from" is used to indicate distance from a particular place or point of reference.
Correct Answer: away
The correct answer is "away." When measuring distance from a location, we use "away from." The complete sentence reads: "Her new teacher's house was a few metres away from school."
Men think it is ........................................ their dignity to help around the house and watch the children. (below, beneath, beside, without)
below
beneath
beside
without
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Beneath one's dignity" is an expression meaning something is considered too lowly or undignified for someone to do.
Correct Answer: beneath
The correct answer is "beneath." The expression "beneath one's dignity" means something is considered too undignified or lowly for someone to do. The complete sentence reads: "Men think it is beneath their dignity to help around the house and watch the children."
........................................ then, he had treated her with total respect. (By, From, Since, Up)
By
From
Since
Up
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Up until then" or "Until then" indicates that something continued from the past up to a specific point in time.
Correct Answer: Up
The correct answer is "Up." The expression "Up then" (meaning "Up until then") indicates that something continued from the past until that specific moment. The complete sentence reads: "Up then, he had treated her with total respect."
The prisoners escaped ........................................ jail. (for, from, near, under)
for
from
near
under
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Escape from" indicates moving away or getting out of a place, especially one where you were confined or trapped.
Correct Answer: from
The correct preposition is "from." When someone escapes, they get away from a place. The complete sentence reads: "The prisoners escaped from jail."
Everything ........................................ him was masculine. (about, at, on, with)
about
at
on
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "About" is used to indicate concerning or relating to someone or something, especially when describing characteristics or qualities.
Correct Answer: about
The correct preposition is "about." When describing characteristics or qualities that relate to a person, we use "about." The complete sentence reads: "Everything about him was masculine."
He is ........................................ a job. (after, at, from, under)
after
at
from
under
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "After" in this context means seeking, looking for, or pursuing something that you want to obtain.
Correct Answer: after
The correct preposition is "after." When someone is seeking or looking for employment, we say they are "after a job." The complete sentence reads: "He is after a job."
Mr Sinonge shared his wealth ........................................ his four children. (at, between, among, with)
at
between
among
with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Among" is used when distributing or dividing something between three or more people or things.
Correct Answer: among
The correct preposition is "among." When something is shared between more than two people (in this case, four children), we use "among." The complete sentence reads: "Mr Sinonge shared his wealth among his four children."
Silence fell ........................................ the couple and then he spoke. (among, before, between, under)
among
before
between
under
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Between" is used when referring to the space or relationship involving two people or things.
Correct Answer: between
The correct preposition is "between." When referring to two people (a couple), we use "between." The complete sentence reads: "Silence fell between the couple and then he spoke."
All the contractors should conform ... laid down specifications.
A by
B in
C to
D with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The verb "conform" requires the preposition "to" when followed by an object. This is a fixed collocation in English.
Correct Answer: C to
The correct phrase is "conform to" something. Contractors must conform to (follow or comply with) the laid down specifications. The other prepositions do not form correct collocations with "conform".
A Monde was happy to visit Samfya Beach and see Lake Bangweulu. B Monde enjoyed …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform "was happy to" into "enjoyed" while maintaining the same meaning. "Enjoyed" is followed by a gerund (verb + ing).
Answer: B Monde enjoyed visiting Samfya Beach and seeing Lake Bangweulu.
The transformation changes "was happy to visit" to "enjoyed visiting" and "see" becomes "seeing" to maintain parallel structure with gerunds after "enjoyed".
It is about time we … rehabilitating the school.
A began
B begin
C begun
D should begin
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrase "It is about time" is followed by a past tense verb, even though it refers to present or future action. This is a subjunctive construction.
Correct Answer: A began
After "It is about time", we use the past tense form of the verb. "It is about time we began rehabilitating the school" is the correct construction, expressing that the action should start now.
A We should meet again on Saturday to finalise the programme. B The idea is …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform the suggestion "We should meet" into "The idea is that we should meet" to express the same meaning using a different structure.
Answer: B The idea is that we should meet again on Saturday to finalise the programme.
The transformation changes the direct suggestion into a statement about an idea, maintaining the same meaning and all the original details.
Nowhere else in Africa … seen such an uprising.
A did I
B have I
C I had
D I have
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When a sentence begins with a negative adverb like "nowhere", the subject and auxiliary verb are inverted (reversed in order).
Correct Answer: B have I
The sentence uses present perfect tense with inversion. "Nowhere else in Africa have I seen such an uprising" follows the correct word order after the negative adverb "nowhere".
A My sister is getting married. She is studying medicine in Russia. B My sister …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Combine two separate sentences about the same person using a relative pronoun (who) to create one complex sentence.
Answer: B My sister, who is studying medicine in Russia, is getting married.
The two sentences are combined using the relative pronoun "who" with the less important information (studying medicine) placed as a non-defining relative clause between commas.
The government has taken austerity measures with a view … improving the economy.
A for
B in
C of
D to
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrase "with a view to" is a fixed expression meaning "with the intention of" or "for the purpose of".
Correct Answer: D to
The correct phrase is "with a view to improving the economy". This means the government took measures with the intention of improving the economy.
A The farmer was picking tomatoes and preparing them for the market. B The tomatoes …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform from active voice to passive voice by making the object (tomatoes) the subject and using "were being" + past participle for continuous past passive.
Answer: B The tomatoes were being picked and prepared for the market by the farmer.
The active sentence becomes passive: "tomatoes" becomes the subject, "were being" shows continuous past passive, and "by the farmer" identifies who performed the actions.
She does not obey her husband, … does she care for her parents.
A and
B but
C either
D nor
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When connecting two negative statements, we use "nor" to maintain the negative meaning throughout the sentence.
Correct Answer: D nor
"Nor" is used to connect two negative ideas. The sentence means she doesn't obey her husband and she also doesn't care for her parents. "Nor" correctly maintains the negative meaning in both parts.
A Gogo was very old but she managed to travel by bus. B Old …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Use inversion starting with "Old as/though" to emphasize the contrast between her age and her ability to travel.
Answer: B Old as/though Gogo was, she managed to travel by bus.
This inversion structure emphasizes the contrast: despite being very old, Gogo still managed to travel. "Old as she was" puts emphasis on the surprising nature of her achievement.
If we … sufficient funds, we would have bought science text books.
A had
B had had
C have
D have had
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This is a third conditional sentence expressing a past unreal condition. It requires past perfect in the "if" clause and "would have" + past participle in the main clause.
Correct Answer: B had had
The sentence is third conditional: "If we had had sufficient funds, we would have bought science text books." The past perfect "had had" shows this was an unreal past condition.
A Zenzele did not resist peer pressure. As a result, she committed a crime. B Had …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform into a third conditional with inversion. "Had she resisted" replaces "If she had resisted" to show the unreal past condition.
Answer: B Had Zenzele resisted peer pressure, she would not have committed a crime.
This uses conditional inversion: "Had she resisted" means "If she had resisted". The sentence shows what would have happened in the opposite situation.
The chairperson waited for the laughter to die … before he spoke.
A down
B off
C out
D up
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Die down" is a phrasal verb meaning to gradually become quieter or less intense, commonly used with sounds like laughter.
Correct Answer: A down
"Die down" means to gradually become quieter or fade away. The chairperson waited for the laughter to die down (become quieter) before speaking.
"Lusungu, collect the balls this afternoon and give them to the sports captain tomorrow," said Mr Banda. B Mr Banda told …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform direct speech into reported speech by changing the verb tense, pronouns, and time expressions while maintaining the command structure.
Answer: B Mr Banda told Lusungu to collect the balls that afternoon and give them to the sports captain the following day.
Direct commands become "told someone to do something". Time changes: "this afternoon" becomes "that afternoon", "tomorrow" becomes "the following day".
Having … the National Anthem, we went back to class.
A sang
B sing
C singing
D sung
Model Answer:
Key Concept: After "having" in a perfect participle construction, we use the past participle form of the verb to show completed action.
Correct Answer: D sung
"Having sung" uses the past participle after "having" to show the action was completed before going back to class. This is a perfect participle construction.
A I will buy you ice cream but first eat nshima. B Provided …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Provided" introduces a condition, similar to "if". Transform the sentence to show that eating nshima is the condition for getting ice cream.
Answer: B Provided you eat nshima first, I will buy you ice cream.
"Provided" means "on the condition that" or "if". The condition (eating nshima) comes first, followed by the result (buying ice cream).
You should all be committed … working hard.
A at
B for
C in
D to
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The adjective "committed" is followed by the preposition "to" when expressing dedication or obligation to something.
Correct Answer: D to
"Committed to" is the correct collocation. "You should all be committed to working hard" means you should be dedicated to working hard.
A Mary was jogging very early in the morning when a gang of thugs attacked her. B Jogging …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Use a present participle to start the sentence, showing the action that was happening when something else occurred.
Answer: B Jogging very early in the morning, Mary was attacked by a gang of thugs.
The participle "jogging" shows what Mary was doing when she was attacked. The sentence is also transformed from active to passive voice ("was attacked by").
My uncle did not mind … for me.
A wait
B waiting
C to wait
D to waiting
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The verb "mind" is always followed by a gerund (verb + ing), never by an infinitive.
Correct Answer: B waiting
After "mind", we use the gerund form. "My uncle did not mind waiting for me" is correct. The verb "mind" always takes a gerund, not an infinitive.
A As the aeroplane ascended higher and higher, my fear also increased. B The …
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform the sentence to show the relationship between two increasing actions using "the more... the more" structure.
Answer: B The higher the aeroplane ascended, the more my fear increased.
This uses the comparative structure "the + comparative... the + comparative" to show that as one thing increases, another also increases proportionally.
In order for us to do a good job, we should … all the available options.
A exhume
B explore
C implore
D inquire
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests vocabulary choice. We need a verb that means to examine or investigate options thoroughly.
Correct Answer: B explore
"Explore" means to examine or investigate thoroughly. To do a good job, we should explore (examine carefully) all available options. "Exhume" means dig up, "implore" means beg, and "inquire" means ask questions.
When I saw her at the market, she was … a black suit.
A putting on
B dressing on
C dressing
D dressed in
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Dressed in" describes the state of wearing particular clothing, while "putting on" describes the action of getting dressed.
Correct Answer: D dressed in
"Dressed in" describes what someone is wearing. "She was dressed in a black suit" means she was wearing a black suit. "Putting on" would describe the action of getting dressed, not the state of being dressed.
By and …, the workshop was fruitful.
A behold
B bye
C large
D so
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "By and large" is a fixed idiom meaning "generally" or "on the whole".
Correct Answer: C large
"By and large" is a common idiom meaning "generally" or "overall". The sentence means that generally speaking, the workshop was fruitful (successful and productive).
Before her departure for greener pastures, Thandi remembered to bid farewell to her … and kin.
A kids
B kith
C neighbours
D relatives
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Kith and kin" is a traditional idiom meaning friends and relatives or all one's acquaintances and family members.
Correct Answer: B kith
"Kith and kin" is a fixed expression meaning friends and relatives. "Kith" refers to friends and acquaintances, while "kin" refers to family members. Together they mean all the people close to you.
The criminal was apprehended after the police had been tipped …
A about
B at
C for
D off
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Tipped off" is a phrasal verb meaning to receive secret information or a warning about something.
Correct Answer: D off
"Tipped off" means to receive secret information. The police were tipped off (given secret information) about the criminal, which led to his apprehension (arrest).
The children tremble with fear when the elephants …
A bleat
B roar
C squawk
D trumpet
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Different animals make different sounds. Each animal has a specific verb to describe the sound it makes.
Correct Answer: D trumpet
Elephants "trumpet" - they make a loud trumpeting sound through their trunks. Sheep "bleat", lions "roar", and birds "squawk". The loud trumpeting sound of elephants would make children tremble with fear.
Mulimona ran down a … of stairs to meet her mother.
A stack
B set
C flight
D cluster
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Flight of stairs" is the correct collective noun for a series of steps between floors or landings.
Correct Answer: C flight
"Flight of stairs" is the standard expression for a set of steps. Mulimona ran down a flight of stairs. "Stack" is for objects piled up, "set" is for collections of items, and "cluster" is for groups of similar things.
Mr Mushiba bought his house through an …
A urgent
B urgency
C auditor
D agent
Model Answer:
Key Concept: An agent is a person who acts on behalf of others, especially in business transactions like buying and selling property.
Correct Answer: D agent
A real estate "agent" is a person who helps people buy and sell houses. Mr Mushiba bought his house through an agent (estate agent). "Urgent" and "urgency" relate to time pressure, while "auditor" examines financial records.
The audience has been sitting … two hours.
A for
B in
C since
D with
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "For" is used with periods of time to show duration, while "since" is used with specific points in time to show when something started.
Correct Answer: A for
"For" is used with duration of time. "The audience has been sitting for two hours" shows they have been sitting continuously for a period of two hours. "Since" would be used with a specific time like "since 2 o'clock".
Chibwe managed to locate his uncle's house … Katimamulilo Road.
A along
B by
C in
D on
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "On" is the correct preposition to use with roads and streets when indicating location.
Correct Answer: D on
We use "on" with roads and streets. "The house is on Katimamulilo Road" is correct. "Along" suggests movement beside something, "by" means near, and "in" is used with areas or enclosed spaces.
A. He borrowed a plate from Fridah. B. Fridah ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes from active voice (he borrowed) to passive voice, making Fridah the subject. The focus shifts from who borrowed to who lent.
Answer: Fridah lent him a plate.
The transformation changes the sentence from the borrower's perspective to the lender's perspective. Since he borrowed from Fridah, it means Fridah lent to him.
A. Even if Mabvuto played very well, he failed to score a goal. B. No matter ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes "Even if" (conditional concession) to "No matter" (emphatic concession), maintaining the same meaning of contrast between good performance and failure to score.
Answer: No matter how well Mabvuto played, he failed to score a goal.
Both structures show that despite good performance, the result was unsuccessful. "No matter how" emphasizes that the degree of good play didn't affect the outcome.
A. She said that she would meet all the concerned parties that day. B. She said, "............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes reported speech (indirect) to direct speech, requiring changes in pronouns, tense, and time references while maintaining the original meaning.
Answer: She said, "I will meet all the concerned parties today."
When converting from reported to direct speech: "she" becomes "I", "would" becomes "will", and "that day" becomes "today".
A. As soon as they brought the issue to my attention, they left. B. Scarcely ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses "Scarcely...when" structure to show two actions happening almost simultaneously, requiring inversion after "scarcely" and past perfect tense.
Answer: Scarcely had they brought the issue to my attention when they left.
The "scarcely...when" structure emphasizes how quickly one action followed another, using past perfect for the first action and simple past for the second, with subject-verb inversion after "scarcely".
A. We can only access the health post when the bridge is repaired. B. Not until ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses "Not until" to emphasize the condition that must be met first, requiring inversion in the main clause structure.
Answer: Not until the bridge is repaired can we access the health post.
The "not until" structure emphasizes the prerequisite condition, requiring inversion (can we) in the main clause while keeping the subordinate clause normal.
A. Our anxiety increased as we waited outside the courtroom. B. The longer ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses the "the + comparative...the + comparative" structure to show how one thing increases in proportion to another.
Answer: The longer we waited outside the courtroom, the more anxious we became.
This structure shows proportional relationship - as waiting time increased, anxiety increased correspondingly, using comparative forms in both clauses.
A. As Leo was alighting from the taxi, a bus hit him. B. Alighting ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes a time clause with "as" to a participle construction, making the sentence more concise while maintaining the simultaneous timing of actions.
Answer: Alighting from the taxi, Leo was hit by a bus.
The participle "alighting" shows the action happening when the main action occurred, converting the sentence to passive voice for better flow.
A. You should settle the outstanding debts now. B. It is high time ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "It is high time" is used to express that something should have been done already and is urgently needed now, followed by past tense despite referring to present necessity.
Answer: It is high time you settled the outstanding debts.
The expression "it is high time" is followed by past tense (settled) even though it refers to present necessity, emphasizing urgency and that action is overdue.
A. Both Mwape and Chalwe do not know their rights. B. Neither ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes "both...do not" (positive verb with negative meaning) to "neither...nor" structure, which is a more direct way of expressing double negation.
Answer: Neither Mwape nor Chalwe knows their rights.
When using "neither...nor", the verb agrees with the subject closest to it, but since both are singular, we use "knows". The negative meaning is built into "neither...nor" so no additional negation is needed.
A. I was surprised that the criminal escaped from prison. B. That ............................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation moves the object clause to the beginning for emphasis, using "that" to introduce the surprising fact while maintaining the same meaning.
Answer: That the criminal escaped from prison surprised me.
Moving the "that" clause to the front emphasizes what was surprising, changing the personal construction "I was surprised" to the impersonal construction with "that" clause as subject.
2. 0.11 HANDWRITING
41 questions — 70 marks — Years: 2019
Complete the following cloze passage by supplying the missing words. Only one word must be filled in each blank space. Internet dating continues (1) ... grow in popularity worldwide.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Cloze passages test your understanding of grammar, vocabulary and context. Read the sentence carefully to understand what type of word is needed.
Answer: to
The phrase "continues to grow" is a common English construction where "to" introduces an infinitive verb form.
A Education uplifts people out of poverty. B People ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Transform active voice to passive voice by making the object the subject and using the appropriate form of "be" plus past participle.
Answer: People are uplifted out of poverty by education.
The active sentence "Education uplifts people" becomes passive by making "people" the subject and using "are uplifted by education".
Internet romances may blossom quickly, but they often wither when reality sets (2) ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This is a phrasal verb that means "when reality begins" or "when the real situation becomes clear".
Answer: in
The phrasal verb "sets in" means to begin or become established, especially when referring to difficult situations or weather conditions.
A The magazine contains a lot of irrelevant information. The secretary must edit it. B Containing ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Use a participle phrase to combine two sentences, with the participle describing the condition that requires action.
Answer: Containing a lot of irrelevant information, the magazine must be edited by the secretary.
The present participle "containing" introduces the reason why the magazine needs editing.
There is a greater cause (3) ... concern than mere disappointment.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The preposition "for" is used with "cause" to show what something is a reason for.
Answer: for
"Cause for concern" is a fixed expression meaning a reason to be worried about something.
A A boy child and a girl child are future leaders. B A boy child, as well ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrase "as well as" is used to add information, similar to "and" but with different structure.
Answer: A boy child, as well as a girl child, is a future leader.
"As well as" connects the two subjects, with the verb agreeing with the first subject "boy child" (singular).
Dating in this fashion may put you in serious danger: whether physically, emotionally (4) ... spiritually.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When listing three or more items, we use "or" to show alternatives, especially after "whether".
Answer: or
The sentence lists three types of danger using "whether...or...or" construction to show different possibilities.
A Blood consists of red cells, white cells, platelets and plasma. B Blood comprises ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Comprises" means "consists of" or "is made up of" and takes direct objects without prepositions.
Answer: Blood comprises red cells, white cells, platelets and plasma.
"Comprises" is used instead of "consists of" but means the same thing - it shows what parts make up the whole.
How can something that looks so innocent and safe, a computer terminal right in your own home, actually (5) ... a danger to you?
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The sentence asks how something can "be" a danger, using the verb "be" to show existence or state.
Answer: be
After "actually" we need the verb "be" to complete the question "How can something actually be a danger?"
A Criminals little realise that breaking the law retards development. B Little ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When "little" begins a sentence for emphasis, it requires subject-verb inversion like a question.
Answer: Little do criminals realise that breaking the law retards development.
Starting with "Little" requires inversion: "Little do criminals realise" instead of "Criminals little realise".
And what dangers does this present to those who are looking (6) ... romance?
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrasal verb "looking for" means searching for or trying to find something.
Answer: for
"Looking for romance" means searching for romantic relationships online.
A If people play a variety of sports, they will be healthy. B Unless ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Unless" means "if not" and requires changing the positive condition to negative.
Answer: Unless people play a variety of sports, they will not be healthy.
"Unless" replaces "if" but changes the logic: if playing sports leads to health, then not playing sports leads to poor health.
One parent was alarmed to learn (7) ... a large proportion of children disobey parental rules against visiting dangerous websites.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The word "that" introduces a noun clause explaining what the parent learned.
Answer: that
After "learn" we use "that" to introduce the information that was learned - "that a large proportion of children disobey..."
A Most people marry in order to have a family. B Most people marry with a view ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "With a view to" means "with the intention of" and is followed by a gerund (verb + -ing).
Answer: Most people marry with a view to having a family.
"With a view to having" replaces "in order to have" and expresses the same purpose or intention.
When youths use the internet to meet new people, they can be in far more danger (8) ... they realise.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When making comparisons with "more...than", we use "than" to introduce the comparison.
Answer: than
The sentence compares the actual danger with what they realize, using "more danger than they realise".
A We were happy to visit many places of interest and buy some souvenirs. B We enjoyed ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Enjoyed" is followed by gerunds (verb + -ing) and expresses the same positive feeling as "were happy to".
Answer: We enjoyed visiting many places of interest and buying some souvenirs.
"Enjoyed visiting" and "enjoyed buying" replace "were happy to visit" and "were happy to buy".
Indeed, there have been reports of adult sexual predators who pretend to (9) ... youths as they prowl the internet seeking to prey on young ones.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The verb "be" is used here because predators pretend to be young people, not pretend to do something.
Answer: be
Predators "pretend to be youths" means they act as if they are young people to deceive others.
A There is an adage that states that "Health is wealth". B Rewrite the whole sentence and add a question tag.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Question tags use the opposite form of the main verb. If the statement is positive, the tag is negative.
Answer: There is an adage that states that "Health is wealth", isn't there?
Since the main clause uses "There is" (positive), the question tag is "isn't there?" (negative).
According to one study, one-in-five children who use the internet have (10) ... solicited for sex.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The present perfect passive voice uses "been" with past participles to show completed actions.
Answer: been
"Have been solicited" is the present perfect passive form, showing that children were approached inappropriately.
A The police officer said, "Human rights are not absolute." B The police officer said that ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Convert direct speech to indirect speech by removing quotation marks, adding "that", and adjusting tense and pronouns as needed.
Answer: The police officer said that human rights are not absolute.
Direct speech becomes indirect by using "that" and removing the quotation marks. The present tense stays the same because it states a general truth.
One newspaper also stated that one-in-thirty-three children between ages ten and seventeen were 'aggressively stalked' (11) ... computer conversations.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The preposition "through" shows the method or means by which something happens.
Answer: through
Children were stalked "through computer conversations" means the stalking happened via online chats.
Some young people have found, to their surprise, that the 'youth' with (12) ... they shared a budding romance over the internet was actually an adult prison mate.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The relative pronoun "whom" is used for people when it follows a preposition like "with".
Answer: whom
"With whom they shared" is the correct relative pronoun construction when referring to a person after a preposition.
Some young people have found, to their surprise, that the 'youth' with whom they shared a budding romance over the internet was actually (13) ... adult prison mate.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The indefinite article "an" is used before words beginning with vowel sounds.
Answer: an
We use "an" before "adult" because "adult" begins with a vowel sound.
Other young (14) ... have unwittingly become involved with sexual predators.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The context requires a plural noun that refers to young people in general.
Answer: people
"Other young people" continues the discussion about youth who have been victimized online.
Eventually, they seek to meet in person in order to carry (15) ... their perverted desires.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrasal verb "carry out" means to perform or execute something, especially plans or intentions.
Answer: out
"Carry out their desires" means to fulfill or act upon their harmful intentions.
Wicked people do hide what they are in (16) ... to find victims on the internet.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The phrase "in order to" expresses purpose - why something is done.
Answer: order
"In order to find victims" explains the purpose of hiding their true identity.
When you talk with someone in person, you may learn something from his facial expression and the tone of his (17) ...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The context discusses communication cues you get from face-to-face conversation.
Answer: voice
"The tone of his voice" refers to how someone sounds when speaking, which gives clues about their personality and intentions.
A common practice (18) ... those seeking romance on the internet is to exaggerate or invent good traits and to minimise or conceal serious faults.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The preposition "among" is used to refer to something that occurs within a group of people.
Answer: among
"A common practice among those seeking romance" means this behavior is widespread within that group of people.
Internet dating can be bad (19) ... people get deceived.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The word "because" introduces a reason or cause for why something is bad.
Answer: because
Internet dating can be bad "because people get deceived" explains the reason why it can be harmful.
To warn others, many people have reported painful experiences of (20) ... misled by internet dates.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The passive voice uses "being" with past participles to show that someone was affected by an action.
Answer: being
"Experiences of being misled" uses the gerund form of the passive voice to describe what happened to these people.
3. 0.1 NAMING
80 questions — 80 marks — Years: 2016, 2017, 2024
The production of maize in Zambia soared from 700 000 metric tonnes to 900 000 metric tonnes. Select the word closest in meaning to 'soared'.
A Flew
B Grew
C Reduced
D Roared
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The word 'soared' in this context means to increase rapidly or dramatically, like a bird flying high into the sky.
Correct Answer: B Grew
When we say production 'soared', we mean it increased quickly and significantly. Since the maize production went from 700,000 to 900,000 metric tonnes, it grew substantially. Option A (Flew) is the literal meaning of soar but doesn't fit the context. Option C (Reduced) is the opposite of what happened. Option D (Roared) means to make a loud sound.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: The teacher and her learners are working hard toward the attainment of good results. B: The teacher, in collaboration with ................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes the structure from 'and' (showing equal partnership) to 'in collaboration with' (showing one main subject working together with others).
Answer: The teacher, in collaboration with her learners, is working hard toward the attainment of good results.
The phrase 'in collaboration with' means working together with someone, which has the same meaning as the original sentence using 'and'. Note that the verb changes from 'are' to 'is' because now 'the teacher' is the main subject.
The wisdom that we have was passed on to us by our ancestors. Select the word closest in meaning to 'ancestors'.
A Forefathers
B Historians
C Predecessors
D Successors
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Ancestors are the people who came before us in our family line, our great-grandparents, great-great-grandparents, and so on.
Correct Answer: A Forefathers
Ancestors refers to our forefathers - the people in our family who lived before us and from whom we descended. Option B (Historians) are people who study history. Option C (Predecessors) can mean people who came before in a job or position. Option D (Successors) means people who come after, which is the opposite of ancestors.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: This woman's patience is surprising. B: This woman ................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes from describing a quality (patience) to describing the person who has that quality (patient).
Answer: This woman is surprisingly patient.
The original sentence talks about the woman's patience being surprising. The transformed sentence says the woman is surprisingly patient, which means the same thing but focuses on the woman rather than her quality.
Most people don't know that many millionaires are tight-fisted. Select the word closest in meaning to 'tight-fisted'.
A Generous
B Industrious
C Miserly
D Modest
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Someone who is tight-fisted holds their money tightly and is unwilling to spend it, even when they have plenty.
Correct Answer: C Miserly
Tight-fisted means unwilling to spend money, being very careful with money to the point of being stingy. This is the same as being miserly. Option A (Generous) is the opposite - being willing to give freely. Option B (Industrious) means hardworking. Option D (Modest) means humble or not showing off.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: It was reported that she had died of cerebral malaria. B: She was ......................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This changes from passive voice with 'it was reported that' to passive voice focusing directly on the subject 'she was reported to'.
Answer: She was reported to have died of cerebral malaria.
Both sentences convey that someone reported her death, but sentence B makes 'she' the subject of the passive construction rather than using the impersonal 'it was reported that'.
Although she was poor, she had ample fund to cover tuition fees for her two sons. Select the word closest in meaning to 'ample'.
A Superb
B Sufficient
C Sample
D Luxious
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Ample means having enough of something, or even more than enough - having a good amount that is adequate for the purpose.
Correct Answer: B Sufficient
Ample means having enough or more than enough of something. In this case, she had sufficient funds to pay for her sons' education. Option A (Superb) means excellent. Option C (Sample) means a small portion used as an example. Option D (Luxious) is not a correct word - the correct word would be 'luxurious' meaning very comfortable and expensive.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: You will manage to find him next Thursday. B: Not until ...................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'Not until' is used for emphasis to show that something will only happen at a specific time and not before then.
Answer: Not until next Thursday will you manage to find him.
The original sentence states when you will find him. The transformed sentence emphasizes that it will only be on Thursday and not before, using the inverted word order required after 'Not until'.
All living things have attributes that are peculiar to them. Select the word closest in meaning to 'attributes'.
A Cells
B Flaws
C Traits
D Viruses
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Attributes are the characteristics or qualities that something possesses - the features that make it what it is.
Correct Answer: C Traits
Attributes are characteristics or qualities that belong to something or someone. Traits are characteristics or features, making this the correct synonym. Option A (Cells) are basic units of life. Option B (Flaws) are defects or weaknesses. Option D (Viruses) are microscopic infectious agents.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: "I am not responsible for this loss in any way," said the goalkeeper. B: The goalkeeper said that ..........................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transforms direct speech into indirect (reported) speech, changing pronouns and removing quotation marks.
Answer: The goalkeeper said that he was not responsible for that loss in any way.
In reported speech, 'I' changes to 'he', 'this' changes to 'that', and the quotation marks are removed. The meaning remains the same - the goalkeeper denied responsibility.
The Head teacher rebuked the typist for the numerous mistakes that she had made in the document. Select the word closest in meaning to 'rebuked'.
A Insulted
B Praised
C Retorted
D Scolded
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To rebuke means to criticize someone sharply for doing something wrong, usually in a formal or authoritative way.
Correct Answer: D Scolded
To rebuke means to criticize or reprimand someone for their mistakes or wrong behavior. This is the same as scolding someone. Option A (Insulted) means to offend someone deliberately. Option B (Praised) means to express approval, which is the opposite. Option C (Retorted) means to reply quickly and sharply.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: You will emerge victorious provided you remain focused. B: Unless .......................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'Provided' states a positive condition, while 'unless' states a negative condition - they express the same logical relationship but from opposite angles.
Answer: Unless you remain focused, you will not emerge victorious.
'Provided you remain focused' means the same as 'unless you remain focused' but the latter requires a negative consequence. Both sentences say that focusing is necessary for victory.
General workers are also referred to as "blue collar workers". Select the phrase closest in meaning to 'referred to'.
A Applied to
B Concerned with
C Regarded as
D Related to
Model Answer:
Key Concept: When we say something is 'referred to as' something else, we mean it is called by that name or considered to be that thing.
Correct Answer: C Regarded as
When something is 'referred to as' something else, it means it is considered or regarded as that thing. General workers are regarded as or considered to be blue collar workers. Option A (Applied to) means to put something to use. Option B (Concerned with) means to be about or related to. Option D (Related to) means connected to.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: Let us meet and discuss this issue. B: It is high time .............................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'It is high time' is used to suggest that something should happen now because it is already overdue or very necessary.
Answer: It is high time we met and discussed this issue.
'Let us meet' is a suggestion to meet now. 'It is high time we met' suggests that meeting is overdue and should happen immediately. Note that 'high time' is followed by a past tense verb.
The Supreme Court reversed the decision of the High Court. Select the word closest in meaning to 'reversed'.
A Opposed
B Overturned
C Returned
D Revised
Model Answer:
Key Concept: In legal terms, to reverse a decision means to cancel it completely and make the opposite decision.
Correct Answer: B Overturned
In legal context, to reverse a decision means to completely cancel or overturn it, making it no longer valid. Option A (Opposed) means to disagree with but doesn't necessarily change it. Option C (Returned) means to send back. Option D (Revised) means to make changes but not necessarily cancel completely.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: One should be courageous and determined to succeed in politics. B: It takes .....................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'It takes' is used to describe what qualities or things are required or necessary to achieve something.
Answer: It takes courage and determination to succeed in politics.
Both sentences say that courage and determination are necessary for political success. 'One should be' suggests what a person needs to have, while 'it takes' states what is required.
Victor and I handled the problem with ease. Select the phrase closest in meaning to 'handled'.
A Dealt in
B Dealt with
C Help up
D operated on
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To handle a problem means to manage it or take care of it successfully.
Correct Answer: B Dealt with
To handle a problem means to manage it or take care of it, which is the same as dealing with it. Option A (Dealt in) means to trade or sell something. Option C (Help up) means to assist someone to stand or get up. Option D (operated on) means to perform surgery.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: Immediately Andy won the race, he fainted. B: No sooner had ...........................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'No sooner had' is used to show that one action happened immediately after another, requiring inverted word order and past perfect tense.
Answer: No sooner had Andy won the race than he fainted.
Both sentences show that Andy fainted immediately after winning. 'No sooner had...than' is a formal way to express immediate sequence, using past perfect tense and inversion.
Samuel Matete set a world record time in the 400-metre hurdles in the 1996 Olympic Games. Select the word closest in meaning to 'set'.
A Established
B Found
C Promised
D Proposed
Model Answer:
Key Concept: In the context of records, to 'set' means to create or establish a new record that becomes the standard to beat.
Correct Answer: A Established
To set a record means to establish or create a new record. Samuel Matete established a new world record time. Option B (Found) means to discover something that was lost. Option C (Promised) means to give assurance. Option D (Proposed) means to suggest or put forward an idea.
Complete Sentence B to make it similar in meaning to Sentence A. A: Although Betty is very tall, she is not good at long jump. B: In spite of ..................................................................................................
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Both 'although' and 'in spite of' show contrast, but 'although' is followed by a clause while 'in spite of' is followed by a noun phrase.
Answer: In spite of being very tall, Betty is not good at long jump.
Both sentences contrast Betty's height with her poor performance in long jump. 'Although' introduces a clause, while 'in spite of' introduces a noun phrase or gerund.
She achieved only a glimmer of what she had hoped to do. Select the word closest in meaning to 'achieved'.
A Reached
B Fetched
C Attempted
D Accomplished
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To achieve means to successfully complete or accomplish something, to reach a goal through effort.
Correct Answer: D Accomplished
To achieve means to accomplish or successfully complete something. She accomplished only a small part of what she wanted to do. Option A (Reached) means to arrive at. Option B (Fetched) means to go and bring back. Option C (Attempted) means to try, but doesn't imply success.
We did our best to overcome the challenge caused by the power outages. Select the word closest in meaning to 'overcome'.
A Defeat
B Get to know
C Ignore
D Understand
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To overcome means to successfully deal with and conquer a problem or difficulty.
Correct Answer: A Defeat
To overcome a challenge means to defeat it or conquer it successfully. They tried to defeat the challenge caused by power outages. Option B (Get to know) means to become familiar with. Option C (Ignore) means to pay no attention to. Option D (Understand) means to comprehend.
This is authentic leather. Select the word closest in meaning to 'authentic'.
A Expensive
B Famous
C Genuine
D Well-known
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Authentic means real and genuine, not fake or artificial - it is exactly what it claims to be.
Correct Answer: C Genuine
Authentic means genuine or real, not fake or imitation. Authentic leather is genuine leather, not synthetic or artificial leather. Option A (Expensive) refers to cost. Option B (Famous) means well-known. Option D (Well-known) also means famous or recognized.
We replaced delicate exotic trees with sturdy local trees. Select the word closest in meaning to 'sturdy'.
A Heavy
B Straight
C Strong
D Tall
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Sturdy means physically strong and well-built, able to withstand pressure or harsh conditions without breaking.
Correct Answer: C Strong
Sturdy means strong and well-built, able to withstand difficult conditions. The contrast is between delicate trees (fragile) and sturdy trees (strong). Option A (Heavy) refers to weight. Option B (Straight) refers to shape. Option D (Tall) refers to height.
We are optimistic that human ingenuity would find ways to overcome food shortages. Select the word closest in meaning to 'ingenuity'.
A Cleverness
B Curiosity
C Findings
D Inventions
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Ingenuity refers to the quality of being clever and creative in solving problems or finding new ways to do things.
Correct Answer: A Cleverness
Ingenuity means cleverness and creativity in solving problems or inventing new solutions. Human cleverness will help find ways to solve food shortages. Option B (Curiosity) means being interested in learning. Option C (Findings) means discoveries or results. Option D (Inventions) are things created, but ingenuity is the quality that creates them.
The notorious criminal kicked the bucket. Select the phrase closest in meaning to 'kicked the bucket'.
A Died
B Escaped
C Hit the bucket
D Stole the bucket
Model Answer:
Key Concept: 'Kicked the bucket' is an idiom, which means it has a meaning completely different from the literal words - it's a casual way of saying someone died.
Correct Answer: A Died
'Kicked the bucket' is an idiom meaning to die. It's a casual or informal way of saying someone passed away. Option B (Escaped) means to get away. Options C and D are literal interpretations of the phrase, but idioms don't have literal meanings.
A number of schools have mushroomed in recent years. Select the phrase closest in meaning to 'mushroomed'.
A Decreased slowly
B Developed slowly
C Developed steadily
D Increased quickly
Model Answer:
Key Concept: The word 'mushroomed' comes from how mushrooms grow - they appear and spread very quickly, so it means to increase rapidly.
Correct Answer: D Increased quickly
When something has 'mushroomed', it means it has increased or grown very quickly, like mushrooms that seem to appear overnight. Many schools have appeared rapidly in recent years. Options A and B suggest slow growth. Option C suggests steady but not necessarily quick growth.
It was forecast that there would be a severe drought. Select the word closest in meaning to 'forecast'.
A Deduced
B Imagined
C Observed
D Predicted
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To forecast means to predict what will happen in the future based on current information and evidence.
Correct Answer: D Predicted
To forecast means to predict or say what will happen in the future based on current evidence. Weather forecasters predicted there would be severe drought. Option A (Deduced) means to conclude from evidence. Option B (Imagined) means to think of something not real. Option C (Observed) means to watch or notice.
The hostilities between the two countries heightened in 1989. Select the word closest in meaning to 'heightened'.
A Escalated
B Started
C Stopped
D Was resolved
Model Answer:
Key Concept: To heighten means to increase in intensity or become more severe - like making something higher or stronger.
Correct Answer: A Escalated
Heightened means increased or became more intense. The hostilities escalated or became worse in 1989. Option B (Started) means began. Option C (Stopped) means ended. Option D (Was resolved) means was solved or settled.
She had adequate food to feed the visitors. Select the word closest in meaning to 'adequate'.
A A few
B A little
C Few
D Little
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Adequate means sufficient or enough for what is needed - having the right amount, not too little but not necessarily a lot.
Correct Answer: B A little
Adequate means sufficient or enough for the purpose. Since food is uncountable, we use 'a little' rather than 'few' (which is for countable things). She had a little food, meaning enough to feed the visitors. Option A (A few) is for countable nouns. Options C and D (Few/Little) without 'a' suggest not enough.
The match did not start on time as one of the match officials arrived late. (turned on, turned over, turned out, turned up)
turned on
turned over
turned out
turned up
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Phrasal verbs are combinations of verbs with prepositions or adverbs that create new meanings. "Arrived late" means someone came to a place later than expected.
Correct Answer: turned up
"Turned up" is a phrasal verb meaning "arrived" or "appeared". The other options have different meanings: "turned on" means to switch on, "turned over" means to flip or rotate, and "turned out" means how something resulted or ended.
The pool is deeper here than at the far end. Complete: At the far end...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes a comparative sentence to show the opposite comparison while maintaining the same meaning.
Answer: At the far end the pool is not as deep as here.
Alternative acceptable answers: "At the far end the pool is shallower than here" or "At the far end the pool is less deep than here". The key is to maintain the meaning that the far end has less depth than "here".
This bag is made of artificial leather. (modern, synthetic, new, natural)
modern
synthetic
new
natural
Model Answer:
Key Concept: Synonyms are words with similar meanings. "Artificial" refers to something made by humans rather than occurring naturally.
Correct Answer: synthetic
"Synthetic" means artificially made or manufactured, which is the closest meaning to "artificial". The other options don't match: "modern" refers to current times, "new" means recently made, and "natural" is actually the opposite of artificial.
"Give this receipt to your teacher tomorrow, Mumba!" shouted Mr Banda. Complete: Mr Banda commanded...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes direct speech (dialogue in quotation marks) into reported speech, using an appropriate reporting verb.
Answer: Mr Banda commanded Mumba to give the receipt to his teacher the following day.
Key changes: "commanded" fits the forceful tone of "shouted", "tomorrow" becomes "the following day", and the direct command becomes an infinitive structure "to give".
Due to the drought, the power supply was irregular. (slow, impatient, prolific, erratic)
slow
impatient
prolific
erratic
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Irregular" describes something that doesn't follow a regular pattern or happens unpredictably.
Correct Answer: erratic
"Erratic" means unpredictable, inconsistent, or irregular in pattern, which perfectly matches "irregular". The other options have different meanings: "slow" refers to speed, "impatient" describes someone who can't wait, and "prolific" means producing abundantly.
You will not qualify to enter college until you are sixteen. Complete: Not until...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses inversion after "not until" - the auxiliary verb comes before the subject to create emphasis.
Answer: Not until you are sixteen will you qualify to enter college.
The structure "Not until + condition + auxiliary verb + subject + main verb" creates an emphatic sentence with the same meaning as the original.
The Headteacher asked the prefects to give him their candid opinion about the mischief maker. (solid, frank, firm, real)
solid
frank
firm
real
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Candid" means honest, direct, and truthful without hiding anything or being diplomatic.
Correct Answer: frank
"Frank" means honest and direct in speech, which is the closest meaning to "candid". Both words describe speaking truthfully without holding back. The other options don't match: "solid" refers to physical state or reliability, "firm" means strong or determined, and "real" means genuine or actual.
Although the storm was heavy, the little girl walked to school. Complete: In spite of...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes "although + clause" to "in spite of + noun phrase" while maintaining the contrast meaning.
Answer: In spite of the heavy storm, the little girl walked to school.
"In spite of" requires a noun phrase, so "the storm was heavy" becomes "the heavy storm". The meaning of contrast remains the same.
The United States of America provides an apt example of an affluent country. (industrialised, democratic, wealthy, capitalist)
industrialised
democratic
wealthy
capitalist
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Affluent" describes having a lot of money, resources, or material possessions - being rich or prosperous.
Correct Answer: wealthy
"Wealthy" means having a lot of money or valuable possessions, which is exactly what "affluent" means. The other options describe different characteristics: "industrialised" refers to having many industries, "democratic" refers to a political system, and "capitalist" refers to an economic system.
You can scream as much as you can but she will not hear you. Complete: However...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses "however" to show contrast, combining the ideas while emphasizing the contrast between the effort and the result.
Answer: However much you scream, she will not hear you.
"However much" replaces "as much as you can" to show that regardless of the degree of screaming, the result will be the same.
Industrial towns are usually polluted by smoke. (filled, contained, oxidised, contaminated)
filled
contained
oxidised
contaminated
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Polluted" means made dirty or harmful by adding unwanted substances to the environment.
Correct Answer: contaminated
"Contaminated" means made impure or harmful by adding unwanted substances, which perfectly matches "polluted". Both words describe something being made dirty or dangerous. The other options don't fit: "filled" just means made full, "contained" means held within limits, and "oxidised" refers to a chemical reaction.
The book was so good that it was published right away. Complete: So...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation uses inversion after "so + adjective" for emphasis, requiring auxiliary verb inversion.
Answer: So good was the book that it was published right away.
The structure "So + adjective + auxiliary verb + subject" creates an emphatic sentence with inversion while maintaining the cause-and-effect relationship.
The President accommodated a diversity of ideas. (complicity, uniformity, variety, consistent)
complicity
uniformity
variety
consistent
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Diversity" means having many different types or kinds of something - a range of different things.
Correct Answer: variety
"Variety" means a range of different things or types, which is exactly what "diversity" means. Both words describe having many different kinds of something. The other options are opposites or unrelated: "uniformity" means sameness, "complicity" means involvement in wrongdoing, and "consistent" means staying the same.
Mary had just left the room when the baby started crying. Complete: Scarcely...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Scarcely...when" is used to show that one event happened immediately after another, requiring inversion after "scarcely".
Answer: Scarcely had Mary left the room when the baby started crying.
The structure uses "Scarcely + auxiliary verb + subject + past participle + when" to show the immediate sequence of events.
The outfit was suitable for the weather. (specific, typical, characteristic, appropriate)
specific
typical
characteristic
appropriate
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Suitable" means right or fitting for a particular purpose, situation, or condition.
Correct Answer: appropriate
"Appropriate" means suitable or proper for a particular situation, which perfectly matches "suitable". Both words describe something being right or fitting for the circumstances. The other options have different meanings: "specific" means particular or exact, "typical" means usual or normal, and "characteristic" means typical of a person or thing.
The goods were stolen because the building was not secured. Complete: The goods...security.
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes the focus from the cause (lack of security) to the result (theft due to lack of security).
Answer: The goods were stolen due to lack of security.
Alternative: "The goods were stolen because of inadequate security." The transformation maintains the causal relationship while ending with "security" as required.
She by chance found the missing ring. (came to, came round, came up, came across)
came to
came round
came up
came across
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "By chance found" means to discover something unexpectedly or accidentally while not specifically looking for it.
Correct Answer: came across
"Came across" is a phrasal verb meaning to find or discover something by chance or accident, which matches "by chance found". The other options have different meanings: "came to" means regained consciousness, "came round" means visited or recovered consciousness, and "came up" means arose or approached.
While Monde was picking mushrooms in the bush, a snake bit her. Complete: Picking mushrooms...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes a time clause with "while" into a participle phrase, making the sentence more concise.
Answer: Picking mushrooms in the bush, Monde was bitten by a snake.
The present participle "picking" replaces "while...was picking" and the active voice changes to passive voice to maintain proper sentence structure.
An old friend of mine called at my office yesterday. (visited, telephoned, shouted at, returned to)
visited
telephoned
shouted at
returned to
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Called at" means to visit a place briefly, usually for a specific purpose like a business or social visit.
Correct Answer: visited
"Visited" means went to see someone at a particular place, which is what "called at" means in this context. When someone "calls at" your office, they visit you there. The other options don't fit: "telephoned" would be "called on the phone", "shouted at" means yelled, and "returned to" means went back.
The children were roasting cassava and giving it to their parents. Complete: Cassava...
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This transformation changes the sentence from active voice to passive voice, making "cassava" the subject instead of "the children".
Answer: Cassava was being roasted by the children and given to their parents.
The passive form uses "was being roasted" (past continuous passive) to show the ongoing action, maintaining both actions in the original sentence.
I was asked to record the interview verbatim. (verbally, word for word, in writing, orally)
verbally
word for word
in writing
orally
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Verbatim" means using exactly the same words that were spoken or written, without changing anything.
Correct Answer: word for word
"Word for word" means exactly as spoken or written without any changes, which is precisely what "verbatim" means. Both terms indicate that nothing should be altered or paraphrased. The other options refer to methods of communication: "verbally" and "orally" mean spoken, while "in writing" means written down.
We should not always back up our friends in what they say. (support, oppose, disappoint, accept)
support
oppose
disappoint
accept
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Back up" means to support, defend, or give assistance to someone, especially when they are in difficulty or being challenged.
Correct Answer: support
"Support" means to help, encourage, or defend someone, which is exactly what "back up" means in this context. When you back up a friend, you support their position or defend them. The other options have different meanings: "oppose" means to resist, "disappoint" means to let someone down, and "accept" means to agree with or receive.
All members agreed to a tentative proposal of raising the membership fee. (timely, final, provisional, initial)
timely
final
provisional
initial
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Tentative" means not certain or final, done as a trial or subject to change based on further consideration.
Correct Answer: provisional
"Provisional" means temporary or subject to change, which matches "tentative". Both words describe something that is not final and may be modified later. The other options don't match: "timely" means at the right time, "final" is the opposite of tentative, and "initial" means first or beginning.
Some people have only superficial knowledge of things. (deep, shallow, little, superfluous)
deep
shallow
little
superfluous
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Superficial" means existing or occurring only on the surface, not thorough or deep in understanding.
Correct Answer: shallow
"Shallow" means not deep or lacking depth, which perfectly describes "superficial" knowledge. Both words indicate something that doesn't go beyond the surface level. The other options don't fit: "deep" is the opposite, "little" refers to quantity, and "superfluous" means unnecessary or excessive.
The plan fell out because few members supported it. (failed, succeeded, collapsed, dropped)
failed
succeeded
collapsed
dropped
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Fell out" in this context means that something didn't work out or wasn't successful due to lack of support or other problems.
Correct Answer: failed
"Failed" means did not succeed or did not work, which is what "fell out" means in this context. The plan fell out (failed) because it lacked support. The other options don't fit: "succeeded" is the opposite, "collapsed" implies a physical breakdown, and "dropped" means abandoned rather than failed due to circumstances.
The police came across a cadaver near the post office. (carcass, corpse, criminal, suspect)
carcass
corpse
criminal
suspect
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Cadaver" is a formal or medical term for a dead human body, often used in medical or legal contexts.
Correct Answer: corpse
"Corpse" means a dead human body, which is exactly what "cadaver" means. Both are terms for deceased humans. The other options don't match: "carcass" refers to a dead animal body, while "criminal" and "suspect" refer to living people involved in crimes.
Carbon dioxide extinguishes fire. (puts off, puts out, switches off, switches out)
puts off
puts out
switches off
switches out
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Extinguishes" means to stop a fire from burning by removing heat, oxygen, or fuel that keeps it going.
Correct Answer: puts out
"Puts out" means to stop a fire from burning, which is exactly what "extinguishes" means. Both terms describe stopping a fire. The other options have different meanings: "puts off" means postpones, while "switches off" and "switches out" are used for electrical devices, not fires.
She has been unwell for a long time and her health has deteriorated. (decreased, failed, worsened, declined)
decreased
failed
worsened
declined
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Deteriorated" means became worse in condition, quality, or state over time, especially regarding health or physical condition.
Correct Answer: worsened
"Worsened" means became worse or more severe, which is exactly what "deteriorated" means when referring to health. Both words describe a decline in condition. The other options are related but not as precise: "decreased" refers to quantity, "failed" implies complete breakdown, and "declined" is close but "worsened" is more specific to health conditions.
Water is a therapy. (need, want, healer, liquid)
need
want
healer
liquid
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Therapy" refers to treatment or healing process used to help cure illness or improve health and well-being.
Correct Answer: healer
"Healer" refers to something that helps cure or restore health, which matches "therapy". Both words relate to healing and treatment. The other options don't match: "need" refers to requirement, "want" refers to desire, and "liquid" describes physical state rather than healing properties.
Killing people is a heinous crime. (serious, bad, sad, heartless)
serious
bad
sad
heartless
Model Answer:
Key Concept: "Heinous" describes something extremely wicked, evil, or morally reprehensible - the worst kind of wrongdoing.
Correct Answer: serious
"Serious" is the closest match to "heinous" among the given options, as it describes something grave and important. While "heinous" is stronger (meaning extremely evil), "serious" captures the gravity of the crime. The other options are too weak: "bad" is too general, "sad" refers to emotion, and "heartless" describes lack of compassion rather than the severity of the act.
Chika could not study because her lamp was .............................. . (faulty, forte, forty)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This is a vocabulary question testing understanding of similar-sounding words. We need to choose the word that makes logical sense in the context of a lamp not working.
Answer: faulty
The correct answer is "faulty" because it means broken or not working properly. A faulty lamp would prevent someone from studying. "Forte" means a person's strong point or skill, and "forty" is a number - neither makes sense in this context about a broken lamp.
The .............................. has eight piglets. (soar, sore, sow)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests knowledge of homophones (words that sound similar but have different meanings). We need the word that refers to an animal that gives birth to piglets.
Answer: sow
The correct answer is "sow" because a sow is a female pig that gives birth to piglets. "Soar" means to fly high, and "sore" means painful - neither of these animals can have piglets.
Sadly, he has been .............................. in the crime. (extricated, implicated, instigated)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This vocabulary question requires understanding of words related to crime and involvement. The word "sadly" suggests something negative has happened to the person.
Answer: implicated
The correct answer is "implicated" which means to be involved or connected to a crime in a way that suggests guilt. "Extricated" means to be freed from a difficult situation (which would be good news, not sad), and "instigated" means to start or cause something.
Her .............................. contained a lot of money. (pace, pulse, purse)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests knowledge of objects that can contain money. We need to identify which of these similar-sounding words refers to something that holds money.
Answer: purse
The correct answer is "purse" because a purse is a small bag that women use to carry money and personal items. "Pace" refers to speed or rate of movement, and "pulse" refers to the heartbeat - neither can contain money.
She is a beautiful .............................. from Mali. (lad, lash, lass)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of gender-specific nouns. The pronoun "she" tells us we need a word that refers to a female person.
Answer: lass
The correct answer is "lass" which means a young woman or girl. Since the sentence uses "she," we need a feminine noun. "Lad" refers to a young man or boy, and "lash" refers to an eyelash or a whip stroke.
Nobody should .............................. on her feelings. (tramp, trample, trump)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of phrasal verbs and expressions about treating someone's emotions badly. We need a verb that means to treat feelings roughly or carelessly.
Answer: trample
The correct answer is "trample" because "trample on someone's feelings" is a common expression meaning to hurt someone emotionally or treat their feelings without care. "Tramp" is a homeless person or to walk heavily, and "trump" means to beat or surpass.
The Municipal Council has .............................. of all the litter. (disposed, exposed, imposed)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests phrasal verbs related to waste management. We need a word that describes what a council does to get rid of litter.
Answer: disposed
The correct answer is "disposed" because "dispose of" means to get rid of something, especially waste or unwanted items. This makes sense for a Municipal Council dealing with litter. "Exposed" means to reveal or uncover, and "imposed" means to force something on others.
The school has three hundred .............................. and ninety day scholars. (boarders, borders, boulders)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of school terminology. We need a word that describes a type of student that contrasts with "day scholars" (students who go home each day).
Answer: boarders
The correct answer is "boarders" because boarders are students who live at school, which contrasts with day scholars who go home daily. "Borders" refers to boundaries between countries, and "boulders" are large rocks - neither relates to types of students.
In some countries, smoking in public places is .............................. by law. (inscribed, prescribed, proscribed)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of legal terminology. We need a word that describes when something is forbidden or banned by law.
Answer: proscribed
The correct answer is "proscribed" which means forbidden or banned by law. "Inscribed" means written or engraved, and "prescribed" means recommended or ordered (usually for medicine) - neither means banned.
People came in .............................. to attend the inauguration ceremony. (drives, drones, droves)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of collective nouns and expressions about large groups of people. We need a word that describes many people coming together.
Answer: droves
The correct answer is "droves" because "in droves" means in large numbers or crowds. This fits the context of many people attending an inauguration ceremony. "Drives" refers to motivation or car trips, and "drones" are unmanned aircraft or male bees.
There is a .............................. in the constitution requiring one to pay an annual membership fee. (clause, close, cloze)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of legal and formal document terminology. We need a word that describes a specific section or provision in a constitution.
Answer: clause
The correct answer is "clause" because a clause is a specific section or provision in a legal document like a constitution. "Close" means near or to shut, and "cloze" is a type of language exercise where words are missing.
The hunter failed to shoot the .............................. because it disappeared into the thicket. (hair, hare, hay)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests homophones in the context of hunting. We need an animal that a hunter would try to shoot and that could disappear into bushes.
Answer: hare
The correct answer is "hare" because a hare is a rabbit-like animal that hunters shoot and that would run into thick bushes (thicket) to hide. "Hair" grows on heads and bodies, and "hay" is dried grass - neither can be hunted.
Termites .............................. their wings every summer. (shade, shady, shed)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of verbs related to animals losing parts of their bodies. We need a word that describes what termites do to their wings.
Answer: shed
The correct answer is "shed" because termites shed (lose or drop off) their wings during their reproductive cycle each summer. "Shade" means to block light or a dark area, and "shady" means suspicious or providing shade - neither describes what happens to wings.
She has a disability, so she is not .............................. for the competition. (eligible, illegible, legible)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of words related to qualification and ability to participate. We need a word that describes whether someone can take part in something.
Answer: eligible
The correct answer is "eligible" which means qualified or allowed to participate. The sentence suggests her disability prevents her from being able to compete. "Illegible" means cannot be read clearly, and "legible" means can be read clearly - both relate to writing, not competition participation.
A march by the cadets will .............................. the District Commissioner's speech. (precede, proceed, preside)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of verbs related to sequence and order of events. We need a word that describes the timing relationship between the march and the speech.
Answer: precede
The correct answer is "precede" which means to come before or happen earlier than something else. The march will happen before the speech. "Proceed" means to continue or go forward, and "preside" means to be in charge of a meeting or ceremony.
Supermarkets .............................. a lot of money through shoplifting. (loose, lose, loss)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests commonly confused words related to losing something. We need a verb that describes what happens to supermarkets' money when people steal.
Answer: lose
The correct answer is "lose" (verb) because supermarkets lose money when customers steal items through shoplifting. "Loose" means not tight or not firmly attached, and "loss" is a noun meaning the act of losing something.
The .............................. Department is responsible for people coming into the country. (Emigration, Immigration, Migration)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of terms related to movement of people across borders. We need the word that specifically refers to people entering a country.
Answer: Immigration
The correct answer is "Immigration" because immigration refers to people coming into a country to live permanently. "Emigration" refers to people leaving their country, and "Migration" is the general movement of people from one place to another.
A dance .............................. has been invited to the celebration. (troop, troupe, trouper)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of collective nouns for performers. We need a word that describes a group of dancers.
Answer: troupe
The correct answer is "troupe" because a troupe is a group of performers, especially dancers, singers, or actors. "Troop" refers to soldiers or scouts, and "trouper" refers to an individual member of a troupe or someone who perseveres despite difficulties.
The Drug Enforcement Commission has pledged to .............................. war on illegal cultivation of cannabis. (rage, stage, wage)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of phrasal expressions related to fighting or campaigning against something. We need a verb that combines with "war" to mean conducting a campaign.
Answer: wage
The correct answer is "wage" because "wage war" is a common expression meaning to conduct a campaign or fight against something. "Rage" means to be very angry, and "stage" means to organize or perform something - neither combines properly with "war" in this context.
Who is your next of .............................. ? (keen, kiln, kin)
Model Answer:
Key Concept: This question tests understanding of formal expressions related to family relationships. "Next of" requires a specific word to complete a legal/formal phrase.
Answer: kin
The correct answer is "kin" because "next of kin" is a formal expression meaning closest living relative. This is commonly used in legal and medical contexts. "Keen" means eager or sharp, and "kiln" is an oven for pottery - neither completes this formal expression.
4. 0.4 DESCRIPTIONS
12 questions — 60 marks — Years: 2016, 2023
5. 0.3 STORIES
36 questions — 122 marks — Years: 2017, 2022, 2024