WAEC (WASSCE) Literature in English Past Questions and Answers (2026)

Answer: A

The correct answer is A. language, as all forms of literature utilize language as a medium for expression and communication of ideas, emotions, and narratives. Option B, chorus, is specific to certain forms like plays and is not universal. Option C, action, may be present in narratives but is not a defining characteristic of all literature. Option D, narrator, is relevant primarily in prose and poetry but does not apply to all literary forms, such as some forms of drama.

Answer: D

The correct answer is D: poetry, drama, prose because these are the three primary forms of literature recognized in literary studies. Option A includes tragedy and comedy, which are sub-genres of drama, not major forms. Option B lists poetry and drama correctly but includes folktales, which is a narrative form rather than a major literary genre. Option C includes drama and prose fiction but incorrectly lists lyric, which is a type of poetry, not a standalone major form.

Answer: A

Beauty in poetry is primarily derived from expression and rhythm, as these elements contribute to the emotional and aesthetic experience of the reader. Expression allows poets to convey feelings and ideas effectively, while rhythm enhances the musical quality of the poem. Option B (length and theme) is incorrect because while theme is important, the length does not inherently contribute to beauty. Option C (vowels and consonants) is too narrow, as it overlooks the broader aspects of expression and rhythm. Option D (mood and verse form) is partially correct, but mood is a result of expression, and verse form is just one aspect of rhythm.

Answer: D

The extract describes the earth as if it has human qualities, such as being 'tired' and capable of 'moving,' which is a clear example of personification. This figure of speech attributes human characteristics to non-human entities. The other options do not fit: oxymoron refers to a combination of contradictory terms, metaphor is a direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as,' and simile is a comparison using 'like' or 'as.' None of these are present in the extract.

Answer: A

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Answer: A

The extract conveys imagery that evokes feelings of destruction, which is supported by specific language and descriptions present in the text. Option B (merriment) and Option C (happiness) suggest positive emotions that contradict the imagery of destruction. Option D (admiration) also does not align with the negative connotations associated with destruction, making A the only suitable choice.

Answer: B

The correct answer is B. 'Things Fall Apart' is a novel by Chinua Achebe, while the other options (A, C, and D) are titles of short stories or essays. This makes B the odd one out as it is a full-length novel, whereas the others are shorter works. A is a short story, C is a narrative about Stanley and Mutesa, and D is a collection of poems. Therefore, B is distinct in form and length.

Answer: A

'Fly' and 'High' contains the same vowel sound /ai/ 'Hills' and 'Beyond' contains the same vowel sound /i/

Answer: D

The correct answer is D, a panegyric, which specifically refers to a formal public speech or published text in praise of someone or something. Option A, a lyric, refers to a type of poetry expressing personal emotions, not necessarily praise. Option B, an ode, is a type of lyrical poem that often praises a subject but is more specific and structured than a panegyric. Option C, an elegy, is a mournful poem typically lamenting the loss of someone, which does not fit the definition of praising.

Answer: C

The correct answer is C: character, action, setting. These are fundamental elements of drama that define the structure and narrative of a play. Option A includes 'episode,' which is not a primary element of drama. Option B mentions 'chorus,' which is not a basic element but rather a device used in some plays. Option D includes 'monologue,' which is a form of dialogue but not a core element of drama itself.

Answer: D

The correct answer is D. Diction refers to the choice of words and style of expression an author uses to convey their thoughts. Option A, idiomatic language, refers to expressions that are specific to a language and may not translate directly. Option B, setting, pertains to the time and place in which a story occurs, not word choice. Option C, figure of speech, involves rhetorical devices like metaphors and similes, which are specific types of diction but do not encompass the overall word choice.

Answer: B

The correct answer is B. mood, as it refers to the emotional state or atmosphere that the poet conveys through their work. Option A, style, pertains to the way a poet expresses their thoughts, not their emotional state. Option C, setting, refers to the time and place of the poem, which does not directly relate to the poet's state of mind. Option D, theme, is the underlying message or main idea of the poem, which is separate from the poet's emotional condition.