GRAMMAR

1. 1989 Q3
(a) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after each. Do
not change the meaning.
(ii) He was absent from work for three days without permission. He
wrote a rude letter to the manager
(Rewrite as one sentence: Not only....)
(iii) It was really …. to see him so drunk and unaware of what wa
happening around him
(Insert the correct word: sympathetic, pathetic)

(iv) What has been said about his supernatural powers is …..........
(Insert the correct word: incredulous, incredible)

(v) We had not gone far from our school. It started raining heavily.
(Rewrite as one sentence using hardly)

(vi) It was agreed that the teaching staff talk about discipline at the next
meeting.
(Rewrite using discuss)

(vii) 'We have to set out early tomorrow if we are serious about getting
back the same day,' one member suggested.
(Rewrite in indirect speech)

(viii) The cost f running that hospital would be beyond our means.
Begin; we would not..........

(ix) He is plump. He runs very fast

(Rewrite as one sentence beginning: Despite...... :

(x) There are no girls prepared to take the next week's test. Similarly,
there are no boys who are ready for the test.
(Rewrite as one sentence beginning: Neither..........)

(xi) Our parents like brown bread better than white bread.
(Rewrite using prefer)

(xii) He received a letter from his aging grandfather but he did not write
back. (Rewrite using reply)

(xiii) In spite of the bad weather they decided to go for a walk as planned.
(Rewrite using although)

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b) Each of the following sentences has two meanings. Explain clearly the two
different meanings in each sentence.
(i) The Manager was anxious to please his customers as his staff
(ii) Papa Musa knows that for all his boasting, his son does not play soccer
very well.

(iii) The eggs were stamped with the date they were laid by the farmer

c) Fill each blank space with the correct form of the word in brackets
Okwach was …......... (i) (rage) by the director when he …............... (ii) (malice)
accused him of laxity. “How could this be?” he asked himself. It was true that ever
since Okwach joined the company, he had been working with a lot of ….... (iii)
(devote). His recent promotion on merit had even made some of his colleagues ….(iv)
Envy) of him. He decided to go and talk to his head of department and he was …... (v)
(hoped that the director would soon learn the truth. (5marks).

d) Rewrite the following sentences using one word to replace the words in italics.
(i) The telephone rang without stopping
(ii) All of the perishable foods were placed in the place where they would
remain fresh.
(iii) There was plenty of paper, pens and pencils in the bookshop.
(iv) The man who fells trees injured himself and had to be rushed to hospital.
(v) The people who were listening to the preacher broke into a song (5marks)

e) After each of the following statements, add the correct speech tag.
E.g. He is the only applicant for the job, isn't he?
(i) You are not really going to give up teaching.....?
(ii) We will lave very early I the morning.?
(iii) This bag is heavy.....?
(iv) He could not drive the car...../ (4 marks)

f) Fill in each of the following blank spaces with the correct preposition.
(i) The man died …............... of malaria.
(ii) Ojwang' and I agreed to met …..........the cafe on Friday evening.
(iii) The accident victim writhed ….. terrible pain in the ambulance as we rushed
him to hospital.
(iv) 'My son,' Johns' father said, 'I will buy you a bicycle when you come ….. age.'
(v) Children from rich families are not always taken to school ….. car.
(vi) The shop-steward took it ….. himself to see the managing director about the
worker's grievances.
(vii) He tried to speak at the rally but his opponents broke …. the meting (4marks)

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g) For each of the following sentences, replace the word in italics or words with a
phrasal verb which begins with the word in brackets to convey the same meaning.
Example: surprisingly, Ali has been appointed to replace the manager who is
retiring in public interest (take)
Answer: Surprisingly, Ali has been appointed to take over the manager who is
retiring in public interest.

(i) The Chairman kept postponing the meeting because most of the members were
not available. (putting)
(ii) A good student constantly revises his work in preparation for the examination
(goes)
(iv) Atieno is usually so smartly dressed that she is easy to notice in the midst of
other girls (stands)
(v) Peter was such an ambitious young man that his friends were amazed when he
firmly refused to accept the new position. (turned).

2. 1990 Q3

(a) Complete the answers to each of the following questions by using the passive
form as shown in the example given below
Example: Which football team won the World Cup in 1986 (Argentina)
Ans: The world Cup was won by Argentina in 1986.

(i) Which great Zulu warrior developed the Assegai? (Shaka)

ans: the Assegai.....
(ii) What type of birds can you find in Lake Nakuru? 9Flamingoes)
Ans: Flamingos …..
(iii) When did the first man climb Mt. Everest? (1953)
Ans: Mt. Everest ….....
(iv) Who has developed the philosophy of peace, love and unity (President Moi)
Ans: the philosophy of peace, love and unity …..
(v) Which country will host the next World Cup football competition (Italy)
ans: The next world cup football competition.......

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(b) Complete the following passage by using the correct preposition for each of
the blank space
Visiting a game park is an interesting experience. From the moment you arrive
(i) …....... the park gate to the moment you leave, you can never predict what
you may see. It is not always easy to spot lions or cheetahs as they can be
hidden (ii) ….. the tall grass. (iii) …...all the animals, perhaps the antelopes
are most common although some species are rare. Hopefully, now that the
sale of ivory is being restricted, elephants will be saved (iv) …...extinction.
However, it is still very important to educate our young people (v) …... the
importance of our natural heritage.

(c) You are a reporter for a newspaper who is interviewing a well-known writer
about his books. Write down in reported speech the conversation that takes
place below.
Interview
Reporter: What kind of themes do you write on?
Writer: Most of my stories are concerned with problems of poverty and crime
in urban areas.
Reporter: How do you get the materials for your stories?
Writer: I simply observe what actually goes on in the street, the market and
places of entertainment.
Reporter: When are you leaving Kenya?
Writer: I will be traveling to Mauritius tomorrow
Now complete the report below
(i) I asked him ….................................................
(ii) he replied …...................................................
(iii) Then inquired …..........................................
(iv) He explained …...........................................
(v) Finally I asked him ….................................
(vi) He stated …..................................................

(d) Supply the word which means the same as the underlined phrases in the
following sentences. (4 marks)
(i) I didn't know he was unable to use his limbs properly.
Ans: …....................
(ii) These workers jobs may be put at risk if you purchase this machine
Ans........................................
(iii) The man who describes a match on radio explained why the goal was
disallowed.
Ans: …........................................
(iv) How dare you speak to me like that, 'he said in a hurt and annoyed
manner
Ans: …...............................

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(e) Rewrite the sentences given below, using an “if” construction in each case. Do
not change the meaning.
Example: He eats too much; that's why he is overweight
Ans: If he did not eat so much, he would not be overweight.

(i) Mutisya does not read books, that is why he is poor in spelling.
(ii) He had not paid the rent, that's why he was evicted.
(iii) They don't have any matches; that they can't light a fire.
(iv) One team had no time to practice; that's why they lost
(v) You may get home before I do; so don't wait up for me
(f) Complete the passage below by inserting the correct word or words from the
list given after the passage (5 marks)
In general I do not enjoy large towns. (i) ….................. I think that Mombasa is quite
an enjoyable place. (ii) …........... I enjoy the warm relaxed atmosphere of the coast
and the variety of cultural influences. (iii) …................ there are the ancient
buildings of Fort Jesus and the old town which are always worth a visit. There are
also a large variety of places of entertainment in town. (iv) …................. I never feel
bored when I stay in Mombasa. (v) ….............................. I look forward to going
there as a break from the dullness of everyday life.

LIST: In fact, furthermore, To begin with, However, Consequently.

(g) Complete the sentences below by writing out the correct form of the verb given
in brackets in each case
(i) In my youth, whenever I did anything wrong my father always …........ me
(beat)
(ii) had I been soiled, I do not think I …....... what I did at school (achieve).
(iii) When I entered university, I …............. it very challenging (find)
(iv) When I finish my studies, I hope I …..... a job (get)
(v) At the moment, I …........... a research paper on oral traditions in my area
(write)

(h) Use the correct phrase verb form of “put” in each of the sentences below
Example: I cannot put up with bad behavior any longer.
(i) He just could not put his ideas ….......... to the other members o the committee.
(ii) Please do not feel put …....... if I do not invite you to my party.
(iii) They decided to put ….......... the date of the wedding until the bride-to-be had
completed her studies
(iv) The rebellion was quickly put …........ by security officer.
(v) I decided to put …............. for an extra week's leave at Christmas.

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3. 1991 Q3

(a) Complete the story passage below using either 'a little', a few', or 'few'
(5 marks)
The other day my next-door neighbour came around to see if she could borrow
(i) …....... sugar. I told her I did not have any left, but I offered her a jar of honey as I
had quite (ii) …...... of them stored in my kitchen. She complained that it was hard to
find sugar and (iii) …........... Shopkeepers could be relied on these days to stock it. I
felt her attitude was unfair, and pointed out that there was (iv) …......... evidence to
suggest that the retailers were to blame. I also reminded her that such shortages did
not last long and in (v) ….......... days everything would be back to normal.

(b) Complete the sentences blow with a noun formed from the adjective given in
bracket at the end of each sentence.
Example: As the fight went on, the boxer's …......... faded (strong)
The answer is strength.
(i) The new comer enjoyed the laughter and …......... of the wedding party (gay)
(ii) I came to rely on the old man and his years of accumulated ….......... (wise)
(iii) Although they knew the exact length of the building, they were not quite
certain of its ….......... (broad)
(iv) Unlike so many girls blessed with good looks, Jacinta did not show any sign
of ….......(vain)
(v) Although he suffered from polio, he bore his …............ with great courage
(Afflicted)

(c) Use the correct polite form 'could,' 'would,' 'may,' or 'might,' to complete the
blank spaces in the following conversation.
“Excuse me, Mr. Okech, but (i) …........... ….you mind lending me your pen?” asked
the young clerk. I don't mind,' said the deputy manager, 'but (ii) …............. you make
sure I get it back this time. By the way (iii) …............... you have taken my ruler the
other day and not returned it? I do apologize, Mr. Okech, but I (iv) …............
like to point out that the company has never provided me with basic stationery,'
replied the clerk. '(v) …............ I point out that you are supposed to fill a
requisition form for such items, Mr.Salim,' retorted Mr. Oketch stiffly.

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(d) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after each. Do
not change the meaning.

(i) Being lost on Mt. Kenya for four days was the one really bad experience in my
life.
Rewrite using the superlative form 'worst.' …...................................

(ii) It must have annoyed the robber to find you had no money. Rewrite the
sentence beginning: The robber …............
(iii) The farmer's bull was strong and healthy. The judges unanimously awarded it
first prize in the show.
Rewrite as one sentence using 'so' ….............. 'that'

(iv) 'Muriuki left for Moshi yesterday,' the secretary told her, 'and will not be back
till next week'
Rewrite in reported speech.

(v) even if you don't like it, I shall still stand for chairman in the club elections.
Rewrite beginning with: Whether ….....

(e) Use a relative pronoun 'who', 'which,' 'whose', or 'that to combine the following
sentences. Use only one relative pronoun in each sentence and do not leave out
any details from the original sentences. (5marks)
(i) The young man was arrested for drunken driving. He was jailed for three
months
ii) Geoffrey wrote a book. It was a best seller. He left the country recently for a
tour of Europe
iii) Mr. Chacha's company won the tender. It is the largest transport firm in East
Africa.
iv) Nobody knows the identity of the intruder. He broke into the warehouse last
Tuesday.
v) The floods caused havoc. They destroyed most of the crops. Fortunately they
did not damage the new bridge.

(f) Complete the following sentences with the most suitable word or words from the
choices given after each sentence (5 Marks)

i) Njoroge is really................................. because he can make furniture, repair

electric gadgets and service cars.
(a) Volatile
(b) Versatile
(c) Virtuous
ii) Police think that only one person was involved in the theft, and they believe
the most likely .................................is Muema.
(a) Defendant

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 (b) Accomplice
(c) Culprit
iii) The referee.................................the player after he hand brutally fouled the
goal keeper.
(a) Sent away
(b) Sent in
(c) Sent off

iv) Akinyi is reputable because she always does her work.................................

(a) conscientiously
(b) Conssciously
(c)Cautiously

v) The lack of support did not .................................the prime minister who stuck
by her original policy.
(a) Defer
(b) Deter
(c) Distract

(g) Rewrite the following sentences replacing the underlined word or words with a
phrasal verb beginning with 'give .................................' Make sure you use the correct
form of the verb in each case. (5 marks)
Example: When his ammunition finished, the soldier realized he would have to surrender.
Answer: When his ammunition finished, the soldier realized he would have to give in.
(ii) I don't need this old coat so I think I will just let someone have it.
(iii) Having failed to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro five times, Dennis dread not to continue with the
attempt.
(iv) His supplies of food and water were exhausted long before the end of the expedition
(v) He tried to disguise himself as a beggar but his soft, clean hands betrayed him.
(vi) When they learned that the radio they had bought was stolen property, they decide to
restore it to the original owner.

(h) Complete the following short paragraphs by inserting the most appropriate words
from list given after the passage, in the spaces provided (5 marks)
My friends Chirchir used to sit next to me in class(i).................................the teacher was
writing on the blackboard, we would often pass notes to each other. One day, however she
caught us doing this (ii).................................we knew we were in trouble. To our surprise, she
did not beat us (iii) .................................we realized we deserved it. Instead she told us that
(iv).................................we were fond of writing, we would both have to produce a poem by
the following day. That evening we both managed to write on (v) .................................having
never attempted poetry before!

And, yet, when, while, despite, then, since, although, thus, so.

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4. 1992 Q 3
(a) Complete the following paragraph with the correct form of the verbs
given in brackets (5 marks)
The battle between medicine and disease (i).................................(gone on) for
many centuries. Just when it seems that we (ii) .................................(gain)
control over most infections, another threat to mankind arrives on the scene. In
the early part of this century, small pox and cholera (iii).................................
(affect) many parts of the world. By the end of the 20th century, several
thousand people (iv).................................(die) from the new scourge of AIDS.
Thus our societies cannot afford to become complacent and further research
(v) .................................(need) to overcome the various illnesses around us.

(b) Fill the gaps in the following dialogue with the appropriate word from the
choices given after the dialogue
Keino: Goodness me, I have never seen such a fierce (i).................................of
people in town. Are they trying to catch a thief?
Ojwang: No it's just that a new (ii) .................................of music cassettes is
being sold that shows at an incredibly low price.
Keino: Can people really be so fanatical about music? They are behaving like
(iii).................................of football supporters.
Ojwang: well, the truth is that good cassettes are expensive these days I had to
part with a huge (iv) .................................of money for the latest album from
Zaire.
Keino: I must say I'd rather listen to the songs on the radio than join that mad
scamble. They resemble a (v) ................................. of buffaloes stampeding from
marauding lion.
(i) A. Assembly B. Mob C. queue
(ii) A. Batch B. box C. bunch
(iii) A. team B. Collection C.crowd
(iv) A. pile B. Sum C. wad
(v) A. group B. flock C. herd

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 (c) Look at the sketch Map given below, then compete the directions that follow
It by inserting the most appropriate word in the spaces provided (5 marks)

DIRECTIONS
If you want to get to the post office from any house, it's quite simple really. First of all
go straight (i) .................................the street until you come to the main road. Turn left
(ii) ................................. and go (iii) .................................the bank. Walk as far as the
police station then cross over the main road, and take the first turning
(iv) .................................right. If you walk down the street, you'll soon spot the post
office (v) .................................to the library.

(d) In the following conversation, the answers to the questions are all mixed up. Match
the correct answer to the appropriate question by filling in the letter of the answer
against the number of the question. The first one has been filled in as an example.
(5 marks)
(I) Where have you been all this time?
A. Yes, I did
(II) Did you get married after all?
B. No, I joined another one.
(III)Are you still with the same company?
C. I've been travelling abroad
(IV)What is your brother doing now?
D. I'm sorry, I have another appointment
(V) When are you coming to see me again?
E. He's joined the university.
(VI)Can you have lunch with me, tomorrow?
F. I don't know really
ANSWERS
i) C
(ii) .................................
(iii) .................................
(iv) .................................
(v) .................................
(vi) .................................

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(e)Write down the correct form of adjective in the brackets in each of the following
sentences (5 marks)

(I) I think that Ngugi is the .................................(fast) runner in the continent.

(II) It appears that sorghum will be .................................(suitable) for this area than maize.
(III)This district had the .................................(few) road accidents last year in the whole
country.
(IV)Using calculator is .................................(efficient) than working everything out on a
piece of paper.
(V) Sometimes the truth is .................................(strange) than fiction.

(f) Complete each of the following sentences with a suitable clause (5 marks)

e.g. If he comes tomorrow, ................................. I will ask him to stay.

(I) If she had listened more carefully, .................................

(II) Unless you have paid the bill by Friday, .................................
(III)If Githinji worked harder, .................................
(IV)Nobody would have been hurt if .................................
(V) Should there be no sign of the bus tomorrow .................................

(g) Replace each of the underlined verbs in the following report, with the most suitable
word from the list given below the report. Use each word only once.

Ata recent meeting of the Wafumba Cooperative society, it was said

(i) .................................that the chairman should resign. Amid boos and angry shouts, one
of the members, Mr. Mwavita, Said (ii) .................................that he was not going to stand
idle while the society collapsed. However the chairman said (iii) .................................he
was not going to step down until he had said (iv) ................................. why the society had
financial problems. Mr. Mwavita said (v) .................................that the members knew
very well why the society was in difficulties.
LIST: retorted, asserted,suggested, declared, explained.
(h) Combine each of the following pairs of sentences into one sentence using “too” or
“enough” (5 marks)
e.g. He is too fat. He can't get through that door
Ans. He is too fat to get through that door.
He is strong. He can carry it.
ANS. He is strong enough to carry it.

(I) Our school bus is very wide. It won't get through the main gate.
(II) The ladder wasn't very long. It didn't reach the window.
(III)I was very tired. I couldn't walk any further.
(IV)She is very mature. She can make her own decisions.
(V) The fire isn't very hot. It won't boil the water.

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5. 1993 Q 3
(a) Complete the second sentences in each of the following items with
must/mustn't/need/needn't or have/don't have according to the meaning
applied.
Example: “the football coach says the match is cancelled”
“Fine, then we needn't train tomorrow.
i) “ I understand that this area is dangerous at night”
“If that's so, then we .................................stay later than 6:15 a.m”

ii) “Is it compulsory to attend the meeting on Saturday”

“No, boss told me that we .................................to if we have other
commitments.”

iii) “ Please lend me your copy of the concubine tonight”

“I'm sorry, I can't because I .................................to revise it myself for the test
on Monday”

iv) “I thought we had to buy all the books on this list,”

“No, the principal told me that we .................................spend all the money at
once if we .................................wish to.”

v) “Can you let me finish this painting on Friday:”

“I am afraid I can't because I .................................to get it o the art gallery on
Thursday which is the closing date.”

(b) Combine the following pairs of sentences by using the words given in brackets at
the end of each pair

(I) i was a young boy on my father's farm, I used to help him milk the cows (when)
(II) Jillo always seems to be smiling. I see him often. (whenever)
(III)He parked beside an old lorry. Then he walked slowly across to the bank. (after)
(IV)That day I fought with Barnabas. I never set eyes on him again (since)
(V) The detective was reading a newspaper. At the same time he was keeping an eye on the
shop entrance(while)

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(c ) Complete the gaps in the following paragraph by writing in the most appropriate
word from the choices given in each case.

Adan gazed across the shimmering expanse of desert, but he could not see any sign of his
camels. His cousin Hussein had taken them out to graze last Thursday but since that time,
there has been no contact with him. Adam sat down slowly besides a dry riverbed in the
shade of an old palm. The nearest water hole was only a day's journey away, and Hussein
must have ................................at the oasis on Friday morning. He made up his mind quickly.
He would ask Farah to................................him his racing camel, and would set off early the
next morning before the sun become too hot to allow for fast riding. At this time of the year,
the Chalbi desert was not the most hospitals of places. (6 marks)

(d) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions after each. Do not
change the meaning.
(i) Ojinda was unable to persuade his mother to have her home. His uncle could't
persuade her either.
(Rewrite as one sentence beginning with neither) (1 mark)

(ii) Entering the dark cave without a torch would have been extremely foolish.
(Rewrite beginning with 'it....”) (1 mark)

(iii) The Coach was not allowed to select the team: That's why they lost.
(Rewrite beginning 'If the coach....”)

(iv) “How well do you know this city?” asked the policeman.
(Rewrite in reported speech)

(e ) Complete the blank spaces of the following paragraph by inserting the correct form
of word given after each space (6 marks)
The other day Njuguna had a long argument with Barasa on merits of popular literature.
Barasa felt upset by the ................................of such literature as he saw it. Njuguna on the
other hand, claimed that the last thing a person wanted to read for relaxation was so-called
literary masterpieces. In his opinion, Kenya needed quality popular writers of the same
stature as Sidney Sheldon, Danielle Steel, Paul Scold and the like. Barasa retorted by
claiming that so far attempts by local writers had been merely poor................................of
such well-known authors. He added that Kenyan writers had still to tap the rich potential of
oral literature as a ................................for popular story telling.
Njuguna suggested that Barasa should visit a few bookshops and see for himself the large
variety of children stories based on popular legends that were now published locally. He
claimed that if children learnt to be responsive to stories they could enjoy and understand at
early age they would be better equipped to handle any type of reading later, including
'masterpieces'

13
(f)In the following interview between a radio reporter and a successful Kenyan athlete,
only the answers to the reporter questions are given.
Complete the interview by writing the questions for each answer.
The first one is done for your example.
 Radio Reporter – in the studio today we have Kenya's new queen Lydia Lelei.
Welcome Lydia and I hope you won't mind if I ask you a few questions about your
career so far.
 Reporter:....
 Lydia: I first run at my local primary school I was 8 years old.
 Reporter:...
 My potential as a runner was first recognized by chesire who then coached the Rift
Valley junior team.
 Reporter:...
 Lydia : My first big success came when I won junior women's 200 metres at Kasarani
national championships
 Reporter:...
 Lydia: I decided to stick on sports spirit because I realized the most Kenyans had
succeeded only at long distance events.
 Reporter:...
 Lydia: The best moment of my career so far has been winning the gold medals for 100
meters at the last Olympics.

(g) In the following paragraph select the most appropriate idea connector from the two
choices given after each blank space, and write it in the spaces.
There are several reasons why cities have a lot of social unrest.
(i)................................Housing conditions are often very cramped leading to domestic
tensions and fight. (ii)................................the problems of unemployment lead to strain both
on the individual and family set up. (iii) ................................the frequent lack of real
community centre deprives people of the companionship of smaller towns and villages
adding to the stress. (iv) ................................its reality that most of us will end up in the cities
and we must learn to accept the strains. (v)................................we really have no choice if we
are to live a full, healthy life. (vi)................................it's our responsibility to ensure that we
develop natural friendships that will help to cushion the harshest aspects of city life.

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5. 1994 Q3
(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences without changing the meaning of
the original sentence beginning as directed. (5 marks)
i) Onyango regretted renting the house in that estate.
Begin: Onyango wished................................

ii) If Mrs. Mwambao had read the instructions properly................................

(complete with the correct form of ................. not spoil the machine)

iii) He does not feel like sitting for the test today.
Begin: He would rather................................

iv) Jane will not be forgiven if she does not tell the truth.
Begin: Unless................................

v) This milk smells awful. I think it's gone sour.

(rewrite as one sentence using ................................”as though”)

(b) Complete each of the following sentences by using the correct form of the word
in brackets (5marks)
(I) we usually write our ................................in the evenings (compose)
(II) The man was arrested because his neighbour made a
malicious................................ against him (allege)
(III)It is unclear whether or not ................................is determined by heredity
(person)
(IV)When we are happy, we reveal our ................................nature (please)
(V) Her argument was obviously ................................(error)

(c ) Use one word to replace the words underlined in each of the following sentences
(5 marks)
(I) There are problems we have never got down to tackling.
(II) The head teacher promised to look into our complaints
(III)Why do people always look down on anything foreign?
(IV)They all handed in the work at the end of the lesson.
(V) He got over the problem by leaving the baby with someone else.

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(d) Complete the following passage by filling each blank space with the most
appropriate word. (5 marks)

Almost everyone, in the course (i)................................a single day, expresses a number of

opinions. Sometimes the opinion is (ii)................................trivial that it dies without
comment as soon as it has been uttered. More often, (iii)................................ the speaker
volunteers reasons to (iv) ................................his opinion, since most people wish to have
their opinions thought valid. Or, if the speaker does not give reasons for his views, his friends
may ask him (v)................................he believes as he does.

(e) Rearrange the following clauses to tell a continuous story. Use the appropriate
punctuation marks. (7 marks)
(I) The psychiatrist asked him what his problem was.
(II) “well, doctor, I don't rally know what's wrong with me:
(III)one day a man went to see a psychiatrist
(IV)and the patient explained,
(V) “My main problem is, I always forget what I've said as soon as I've said it”
(VI)“How long I've what trouble ?” replied the patient.
(vii) “I see, “ said the Doctor

6. 1995 (Q3)
(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given.
Do not change the meaning of the sentences (5 marks)

(i) I have never heard a more ridiculous story

(Rewrite beginning: That is……..)

(ii) She was given a reward she did not expect

(Rewrite beginning: A reward……..)

(iii) Ali is always top of his class. He is not arrogant.

(Combine into one sentence using “in spite of”)

(iv) Jane came to work late .She was rude to the matron
(Rewrite as one sentence beginning: Not only…..)

(v) It is not necessary to finish the work today

(Rewrite beginning: You do not……)

16
(b) Fill in the blank spaces using the correct form of the word in brackets given
at the end of each sentence
(i) We had thought that the …. Would be more generous (donation)
(ii) A lot of our school buildings are being ……….(modern)
(iii) Has Maradona always been ………. ? (fame)
(iv) Although she was very wealthy, she dressed very ………… (expensive)
(v) Our ……………..was greatly hindered by flat tyre (mobile)

(c) Rewrite the following sentences, replace the underlined phrase with ONE
word in each case
(i) It was unbelievable that Mary had walked out on him.
(ii) The people travelling in the bus refused to pay inflated fares.
(iii) The lawyers treated the people who needed her services politely.
(iv) He had invited those who did not agree with him to the party
(v) The residents are afraid of those who break into their houses and steal

(d) Complete the following sentences using whichever of the following is

appropriate. Still, Yet, Anymore, Already (8marks)
(i) Kori does NOT live in Kericho ………He’s moved to Kisumu
(ii) The children have not gone to bed ……….. They are …… watching
television
(iii) Joyce …….here? N she has …..left
(iv) Thank you for all your help. I won’t trouble you.
(v) Tom had eaten well but he was ………..hungry
(vi) Have you finished your homework………..or are you …….working on
it? I have ……finished it.

(e) Fill each blank space in the following sentences with the correct preposition
(5marks)
(i) Meet me …… the entrance to the supermarket……. Uhuru Highway
(ii) I have applied for a job……..the Kenya Commercial Bank…Nairobi.
(iii) Sometimes it is quicker to go……..foot than ………bus
(iv) Sign your name …………dotted line ………..the bottom of the page.
(v) There is something exciting ……football. Throughout Kenya, football
matches are played ……capacity crowds.

17
 (f) Combine each of the following pair of sentences using either OF WHICH OR
OF WHOM.
(i) She got four books for her birthday. She has read three of them before.
(ii) Only two boys came to the shop. Neither of them bought anything.
(iii) He had a lot to say about his new car. None of it interested me very
much
(iv) There were some noisy people in the audience. One of them kept
interrupting the speaker
(v) She made all kind of suggestion. I could not understand most of them.

7. 1996 Q3
(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given
after each. Do not change the meaning (5 marks)
(i) Kiingi gives a present to each of his friends during Christmas
(Begin: Each……..)
(ii) It began to drizzle as soon as Njeri entered the house
(Begin: Hardly ……..)
(iii) We don’t like being ignored…..?
(Add the appropriate question tag)
(iv) “I am going to buy a tractor” the farmer told the manger, “because the
price is affordable” (Rewrite in indirect speech)
(v) Chirchir has a daughter who is eighteen years old
(Begin: Chirchir has an………….)

(b) Complete each of the following sentences with the correct form of the word
in brackets (5 marks)
(i) The action confirmed the …..(child) of his behavior
(ii) The ……..(acquire) of a college diploma was an important goal in her life.
(iii) It is unwise to appear for an interview ……….. (appropriate) dressed.
(iv) Since they arrived latest they got the ……………..(little ) share.
(v) The ……….(manage) staff received a salary increase.

c) In each of the following rewrite the sentence, replace the underlined words
with one word.
(i) Buses,car,lorries, and ‘matatus’ jammed the streets
(ii) The noisy ,disorderly crowd frog matched the suspect to the police station
(iii) The rising value of the shilling has made imported goods cheaper.
(iv) People enjoy hearing unsubstantial stories about others.
(v) He was accused of having no fixed place of residence

18
 d) Fill each of the following blanks with the correct preposition (5 marks)
Akinyi had not decided whether or not to reply …..Weere’s letter. She had been
warned against associating …….him. Since no convincing reason was given, she
wanted to make …..her own mind rather yield to pressure……..others as rule, she
never based her actions …..hearsay.

e) Replace the underlined words in each of the following sentences with the
appropriate phrasal verb (5marks)
Example: She persuaded him to complete his homework.
Answer: She prevailed on him to complete his homework

(i) Stella cannot be trusted because she keeps breaking her promises
(ii) The old man died quietly last night.
(iii) We felt completely disappointed by John’s performance.
(iv) Why are you so angry?
(v) Juma always visits during meals

f) Select from the words in brackets the one which completes the sentence
correctly (5marks)
(i) If we work hard the task will be completed in a few ……(weeks, weeks’)
time
(ii) He had been …….. ( lying, laying ) on the sofa all day.
(iii) She dreaded……….. (Loosing, losing) the opportunity.
(iv) Jane was the …………..(smartest, smarter) of the two sisters.
(v) Do you at times pass by ……. (Stationery, stationary) store?

8. 1997 Q3
(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions
given. Do not change the meaning (5 marks)
(i) Johanna told the teacher that he had been absent the previous week
because he had fallen sick.
(Rewrite using Direct Speech)

(ii) They rang the bell at 8.00am

(Rewrite beginning: The bell was …….)

(iii) The rain was very heavy. All the roads became flooded
(Rewrite as one sentence using ‘see…that’)

(iv) As soon as all the teams arrived, the contest began.

(Rewrite beginning: Hardly …..)

19
 (v) The books were expensive. They contained the information they
were looking for. They bought them.
Rewrite as one sentence without using ‘and’)

(b) Complete each of the following sentences by selecting the correct

alternative from the words given at the end of each (5 marks)
(i) Our school will move to a new ……. Next year (cite, site)
(ii) Have you ……permission from your parents? (sought, sort)
(iii) The ……. store in our town is well-stocked (stationary, stationery)
(iv) Chepkorir is the ……..of the two sisters, (tallest, taller)
(v) Neither the doctor nor the nurse ……arrived (have, has)

c) Fill the blank space with the correct form of verb given in the passage below
(4 marks)
As Katunge …….. (lie) on her bed that morning it……… (occur) to her that
she would soon be eighteen, an adult. She would soon be eighteen, an adult.
She had sat for her examination paper day before and a sense of excitement
overwhelmed her. She looked at her watch……( wind ) it and got up. Her little
brother then …….(burst) into the room and interrupted her train of thought.

d) The following sentences are in the wrong order. Write them out in the correct
sequence so that they form a meaningful paragraph (6marks)

(i) Do we have the means to support families of five children or more, bearing in
mind the escalating cost of food, housing and schooling?
(ii) The real issue is , in fact the question of available resources in the country and
in our homes
(iii) Whether a large family is more desirable culturally than a smaller family is not
the main argument now.
(iv) Unless positive measures are taken albeit sensitive, there is bound to be a
dramatic rise in famine, poverty and crime by the beginning of the next
century.
(v) If the answer is in the negative, then it is surely the responsibility of our
society to educate the youth on family planning issues
(vi) The issue of what size of the family one should have has often been raised.

20
e) Complete the following telephone conversation. 5 marks

Jim : Hello. Is that sunset college?

Operator : ……………..
Jim : Yes, may I speak to Janet? My name is Jim
Operator : Just a moment
Janet : …………………
Jim : Hello, Janet I’m calling to find out how you are.
Janet : I’m very pleased to hear that. My father gave me some money
to bring to you. He said you had requested some.
Janet : ………
Jim : Only five hundred shillings. You know he doesn’t have much.
I will bring it to you tomorrow afternoon.
Janet : ……………………..
Jim : Bye Janet

f) Use the correct expression of the word given to complete each of the following
sentences. Use the correct tense

Example: When his friends betrayed him, he felt……..(let) . Answer: let down

(i) Although he has never won a model, he has not ….(give) trying.
(ii) Peter is very imaginative, he will …..(come) with a convincing reason.
(iii) The new student have now ……(get) their homesickness
(iv) He ………(step) from his position to go into private practice.
(v) Her business …..(go) because of mismanagement.

21
9. 1998 Q3
(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given.
Do not change the meaning (5 marks)

(i) The student cleaned all the classrooms early in the morning.
(Begin: All the classrooms……)
(ii) The man was wealthy. He would not share his wealth with his children.
(Combine the two into one sentence beginning: Although…..)
(iii) Hassan did not complain. He did not report to the police.
(Begin: Hassan neither……..)
(iv) ‘There’s a little food left for you in the kitchen,’ William’s mother told
him.
(Rewrite indirect speech)
(v) She never came late to school last year.
(Begin: Not once…….)

(b) Complete each of the following sentences using the correct form of the word
in bracket (5 marks)

(i) The ……… clerks completed the work in two months (register)
(ii) The visitor was not offered …….at the hostel (accommodate)
(iii) The guest speaker was not well received on …… at the school (arrive)
(iv) The driver nearly caused a …..accident when the car rammed into a bus
(fate)
(v) She was ….. elected chairperson. (unanimous

(c) Select the more appropriate word from those given in brackets to complete
each of the following sentences (5marks)
(i) Mwikali is very beautiful; she is tall and ….. (slim, skinny)
(ii) The car that collided head on with a trailer was completely ……(spoilt,
wrecked)
(iii) When she learnt of her friend’s success, she was very (happy, amused)
(iv) He knew he had won the contest and he waited the trophy…..(anxiously,
eagerly)
(v) The excited ….. (group, mob ) killed the suspect.

(d) Replace the underlined word in each of the sentence below with an
appropriate Phrasal verb
(i) Anyango despises her step sister because she is illiterate
(ii) I could not tolerate him because of his recent misconduct in school.
(iii) The doctor remarked that the little girl resembled her father
(iv) The meeting was postponed
(v) Grace removed her shoes

22
(e) Each of the following sentences has an error. Identify the error and rewrite
the sentences correctly (5 marks)
(i) The new building had its roof blown off.
(ii) He hanged his trousers in the sun
(iii) When he disappeared , john was putting on black shoes
(iv) The water pipe that burst last week has been repaired
(v) My family has stayed in Lamu since 1960

(f) Fill each of the blank space in the following passage with a suitable
preposition/conduction/adverb (5 marks)

The EL Nino weather phenomenon, named (i)…….. the Christ child, is not a
theory (ii)….. a recognizable and recurrent climatological event, only a few
months (iii) ……few Kenyans had ever heard of it. However, the name now (iv)
…… everybody’s lips. In East Africa the Eel Nino has been responsible (v) ……
widespread flooding epidemics and destruction of road network.

23
10. 1999 Q3

(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given. Do
not change the meaning.
(i) I wouldn’t have come all this way in vain if you had mentioned this to me
yesterday.
(Begin: Had…….)

(ii) The man promised to take ravage on the people who had him arrested on false
charges
(Use ‘avenge’)

(iii) Only after much persuasion did the patient agree to go for counseling.
(Begin: It took…..)

(iv) Because he is the mayor of the town Hlestakov considered it his duty to
conduct visitor around town.
(Begin: Being…..)

(v) The booking agent informed travelers that tickets once booked cannot be
cancelled for whatever reason.
(Begin : The booking agent informed the travellers that under…..)

(b) Punctuate the following passage in the space provided below (5 marks)
A lady with a bad rash visited a dermatologist it was the type of condition that
had been present for some time have you been treated for this rah before
inquired the doctor yes by my pharmacist and what sort of foolish advice did
he give you asked the doctor oh he told me to come and see you.

(c) Fill each blank space in the following passage with the most appropriate words
(5 marks)
Although most of us believe that we communicate almost (i)……. With
words, research has (ii) ……that nonverbal communication is at least as
important. Gestures and tone (iii)…… voice are important cues in determining
others’ response to us. Individuals who are not aware (iv) ……conveyed
nonverbally are in a social disadvantage. In fact people (v) ….. fail to ‘read’
such messages tend to be unpopular.

(d) Replace each of the following underlined expression in the following sentence
with one word. Write the word above the underlined expression (5 marks)
(i) After working hard for three months they came up with a new formula.
(ii) The wall carved in after the blast.
(iii) Mary waited for him for three hours but he did not show up.
(iv) Jim assumed that the problem had been ironed out
(v) They had been friends for so long that when they fell out their husbands were
shocked.

24
 (e) The following sentences are in the wrong order. Write them out in the correct
sequence so that they form a meaningful paragraph beginning with sentence
(i) There are no such things as socialism without work
(ii) This is wrong
(iii) It may involve individuals, acting alone or in cohorts, who are bent on
accumulating wealth for their personal use at the expense of the other
who do the work
(iv) Similarly, an individual who can work and is provided by the society
with the means of work-but does not do so, is equally wrong
(v) A society which fails to give its individuals the means to work or
having given the means to work, prevents from getting a fair share of
the product of their own sweat and toil, needs putting right.
(vi) He or she has no right to expect anything from the society because he
or she contributes nothing to society.

(f) The idioms in the following sentences are wrong stated. Rewrite each sentence
with the correct form of the idiom
(i) She put all her bananas in one basket
(ii) When he was caught the thief spilled the maize.
(iii) Our class master is as proud as an eagle
(iv) The building is as old as rock
(v) Changing individual laws before we change the constitution is putting
the cart before the ox
11. 2000 Q3

(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given.
Do not change the meaning.
(i) I will go only if he asks me to go.
(Rewrite using the word unless)

(ii) The fans were disappointed by the players

(Begin: The player…….)

(iii) The students were advised to consider the consequences of their behaviour by
the visitor
(Rewrite in direct speech)

(iv) The headteacher spoke for over one hour. She did not addresss important
issues (Combine into one sentence using the word however)
vi) i don’t want any more tea, thank you
(Begin: I would rather……)

25
 (b) Construct two sentences using each of the following words. In the first sentence
use the words as a VERB, and in the second, as a NOUN (6 marks)

Examples: bottle They want to bottle the juice (verb)

He broke the red bottle (noun)
(i) Man
(ii) Drive
(iii) Mistake

(c) Fill in the blank space in each of the following sentences with the most
appropriate words (5 marks)
(i) The nurse refused to….. the result of the medical examination
(ii) Ruth enjoyed a warm relationship …..her neighbors.
(iii) He…… at the stranger in amazement
(iv) They left the room…. because they did not want to wake the baby
(v) We did not know …. To blame for our problems.

(d) Each of the following sentences is repetitious. Rewrite the sentences removing
the repetition. (5 marks)
(i) Kaka cannot be able to complete this exercise
(ii) Please repeat again what you have said
(iii) He hit a tree as he reversed back the car
(iv) How many people ascended up the mountain
(v) Komen can run more faster than johnstone

(e) Use the correct form of words in brackets to complete each of the following
sentences (5 marks)
(i) Owino did not know that tree had….. (Strike) his house
(ii) Nobody expected the company to make….. (Lose)
(iii) The three …..(Passerby) were arrested
(iv) She has spent a lot of time ….(beautiful) her compound
(vi) People liked him because he was gentle and…. (child)

f) Each of the following sentences has two possible meanings. Rewrite the sentences
showing the different meaning for each (4 marks)
i. Juma likes reading more than Pamela
ii. Visiting friends can be annoying

26
12. 2001 Q3
(a) Complete the following sentences by adding the correct question tag
(i) You are going to stay with us tonight…….
(ii) The workers have threatened to go on strike
(iii) They don’t wake up at six oclock

(b) Fill in the blank spaces using an appropriate connector chosen from those given
in brackets
i. Be self-reliant; …..draw some pictures and sell them to earn some money for a
living . (similarly again, for example)

ii. …….. I would like to say that chickens are easier to keep than turkey. (in
conclusion, as a result, as well)

iii. She was very tired,……….she did not bother to cook for herself (but, thus,
nevertheless)

iv. The pictures on the wall were beautiful,…. They were poorly framed.
(indeed, moreover,however)

v. The room was dark; …………. We could not work well. (however
consequently, nevertheless)

(c) Complete each of the following sentences using the correct phrasal verb formed
from the word given in brackets (4 marks)

i. That crime is very serious; he will never….it (get)

ii. Their persistence made him …. And he accomplished them to the theatre
(give)
iii. The two fighting boys …. Each other like wild cats (went)
iv. She encouraged them to …. After their quarrel (make

(d)Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given. Do not

change the meaning
i. I am not afraid of his strange ways
Begin: Despite…..)
ii. If you work hard now you will pass your examination (use ‘unless)
iii. These books belong to the daughters of our teacher (Begin: these are….)
iv. These books belong to the daughter of our teacher (Begin : these are)
v. Eli does not attend evening classes. His brother do not attend evening classes
either
vi. The residents saw the burglar enter the house (Rewrite in the passive voice)

27
(e)Rewrite the following passage in the space provided inserting the appropriate
punctuation.

They went and exchanged the shoes for climbing boots the teacher paid the balance
they both went back to their friends Okemgu said thank you sir for what you have
done I will never forget this.

(f)Rewrite the following sentences using either the comparative or superlative degree
as instructed. Make only the necessary changes. Do not change the meaning

i. Kenya is the most developed country in East Africa (comparative)

ii. Thika and Machakos are cool. Nyeri is even cooler (superlative)
iii. Miriam is not as cleaver as Rita (comperative)
iv. Nakuru was once cleaner than any other town in the country (superlative)
v. The country has experienced a bad drought recently

(g) Replace each of the underlined groups of words in the following sentences with
one word that can be used instead. (3 marks)

1. Musa was escorted to the airport by sister ,brother, cousin and grandparents
2. Most people enjoy eating beef, mutton,venison, fish and chicken.
3. We lost our bags and suitcases at the bus station

28
13. 2002 Q3

a) Rewrite each word of the following sentences according to the instructions given
after each of the following
(i) All the students of Bidiii Secondary school passed the examination
(Begin. Not a…..)

(ii) The teacher was not surprised that Mwende wrote the winning poem
( Begin : That mwende…

(iii) The man was very hungry. He swallowed the food without chewing
it.(join into one sentence that begins; so )

iv) The board is interviewing the applicant

(Rewrite ending with…..by the board)
(vi) Her daughters were not very clever.They worked hard and passed the

examination.(Join into one sentence using the words: ‘in spite of,’)

(b) Complete each of the following sentences using the correct form of the word in
brackets. (5marks)
(i) All the students were …………. Sorry, (true)
(ii) Aren’t hyenas known for their ……………..?
(iii) The doctors are ………….. people about AIDS. (sensitive)
(iv) People who treat others kindly are said to be …………… (grace)
(v) Who among you was ……………? (choose)

(c) Complete each of the following sentences by filling in the blank space with the
correct preposition
(i) The application letter should be accompanied ………… the relevant
documents
(ii) My uncle deals ……………. Second-hand clothes.
(iii) The brave little girl was compared ……….. a lioness.
(iv) Even in this age of computers, many people still correspond …….. letters.
(v) Nafula mistook Wambua ……… her sister

29
(d) Complete each blank space in the sentences below with the best alternative from
the following: some, a few, little, any, few (5 marks)
(i) Although the fire was very fierce ………… items were salvaged from the
burning shop
(ii) Since the politician is very unpopular ……. People listen to him
(iii) If there are …………… presents for me, I would like to open them now.
(iv) Have ……………. Tea, please
(vi) As the drought worsened, our cow produced ……………. Milk.

(e) For each of the following words, provide another word that has an identical
punctuation 5 marks
(i) Breath ……………………
(ii) Flour ………………………
(iii) Queue ………………………
(iv) Heir ………………………..
(vi) Won ………………………..

(f) The following sentences are clumsy. Write an improved version of each one
them.
(i) Once cooked, I can enjoy and dish.

(ii) Running as hard as possible, my breath was hard to catch.

(iii) The potatoes were in a paper bag which we ate hungrily

(iv) I enjoy reading, acting and to farm.

(vi) To clearly think at all times was her goal

30
14. 2003 Q3

(a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions

given after each. Do not change the meaning (5 marks)
(i) The players and the coach did not appear on the pitch
Rewrite beginning: Neither …..)

(ii) She forbids the boys to throw stones.

(Rewrite in the past tense)

(iii) Kanja would have won the race if he had done enough practice.
(Rewrite beginning: Had………..)

(iv) Miss Kerubo will definitely pass the test, …………?

Insert a question tag)
(v) They were so exhausted that they could not stay awake.
Rewrite using “too”)

(b) Complete the following sentences using the appropriate form of the word in
brackets (5 marks)
(i) Sunset can be an ………………. Sight. (awe)
(ii) A problem that has no answer is ………. (solve)
(iii) We learnt a great deal from the speech: it was very ……. (inform)
(iv) It’s against our culture to treat older people ………….. (respect)
(vi) …………… and accuracy are important qualities in a piece of writing. (clear)

(c) Complete each of the following sentences by filling in the blank space with the
correct preposition. (5 marks)
(i) They plan to build a new bridge ……………. the river.
(ii) She worked hard ……………… the lunch break.
(iii) When the twins stand ………….. each other, you cannot tell who is who.
(iv) To get a general impression of a book, you should read quickly …….. it.
(vi) He arrived at the venue accompanied …………… his son.

(d) For each of the words below, construct two sentences to convey two different
meaning (5 marks)
(i) Saw (i) …………………………………………………………..
(ii) ………………………………………………………….
(ii) Lead (i) ……………………………………………………….
(ii) ………………………………………………………
(iii) Fast (i) ………………………………………………………..
(ii) ………………………………………………………...
(iv) Peer (i) …………………………………………………………
(ii) ………………………………………………………..
(v) Race (i) ………………………………………………………….
(ii) ………………………………………………………….

31
(e) Identify the spelling mistakes in the following passage and then rewrite the
words correctly. Underline the mistakes identified and write the correction
above the word misspelt.
On his twelveth birthday, Ekuam received an expensive gift from his uncle. Although
his uncle was a very rich man, Ekuam was a little surprised because he did not expect
him to spend so much money on him. He was very excited and was definitely going to
have a lot of fun. He thanked his uncle and promised to work hard in school and to be
well-behaved. Eukuam’s parents were also very grateful.

(f) Identify and underline the word that is pronounced differently in each of the
following sets (5 marks)
(i) Sew Sue Sow
(ii) hair air heir
(iii) hard Heard herd
(iv) fort forty fought
(v) cause coarse course

15. 2004

a) Rewrite each of the following sentences according to the instructions given after
each.Do not change the meaning (5 marks)
i) The dog attacked Mandilla,but only because he provoked it.
(Begin: If….)
ii) I think we are being followed by somebody.
(Rewrite in the active voice)

iii) Mrs. Kemunto will be our chief guest during the drama festival.
(Insert a question tag)

iv) It is a pity I couldn’t go out with you.

(Begin: I….)

v) As soon as the football match began,the fans started dancing.

(Begin: No sooner….)

b) Complete each of the following sentences with the correct form of the word in
brackets. (5 marks)

i) The ……………(direct) effort resulted in the team losing the game.

ii) Susan wore a …………(beauty) made dress.
iii) Abdu ………………(seek) his father’s advice about a job last year.
iv) My grandfathee has many ……………….(descend)
v) (Account)………….. is a basic condition in the use of public funds.

32
c) For each of the following sentences replace the underlined phrasal verb with a
word that has the same meaning

i) I wished to meet him after classes yesterday but he didn’t show up

ii) I have been at the police station.Our house was broken into last night.
iii) Everybody knows how good you are.There is no need to show off.
iv) After a hard day’s work,I sat on an easy chair and dozed off.

d) Construct two sentences to convey two different meanings of each of the

following words
i) Desert I
II

ii) Sow I
II

iii) Row I
II

iv) Wind I
II

v) Bow I
II

e) Complete the gaps in the following sentences correctly by using one word.
(5 marks)
i) Each of their children……………..been to a university recently
ii) Neither the teacher nor the student……………..to blame.
iii) The new set of books…………………….delivered yesterday.
iv) The objectives of the new rule,as I was told,………made the workers
furious.
v) Of the twins,Huria is the………….

f) Give another word which is pronounced the same as the word given (5 marks)

i) Gnaw
ii) Boar
iii) Groan
iv) Toe
v) Pail

33
16. 2006 P2

a) Fill in the blank spaces in the following sentences with the most
appropriate word(s) (3 marks)

i) If we had gone to bed early last night, we………………..rested enough.

ii) If I…………… the recruiting officer, I would not take bribes.
iii) Every one of the students now……….a role to play in keeping the school
compound clean

b) Rewrite the following sentences to remove gender bias. (3 marks)

i)A professor should give his student opportunities to develop their skills
ii) My sister was appointed chairman of the Water Project Committee
iii)The firemen took a long time to arrive at the scene of the accident.

c) Fill in the blanks with the correct alternative from the choices given (3 marks)
i) Who……..a fire outside my house? (Light/lighted/Lit)
ii) Since the introduction of community policing in our estates…………………..of
theft have reduced. (incidence /incident/incidents)
iii) an elephant looks after…..calf (it’s/its)

d) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instruction given after

each. Do not change the meaning. (6 marks)
i) The choir entertained the visitors (beginning: the visitors……………)

ii) If we do not keep environment clean, the health officer will close our café
(Rewrite using “unless”)

iii) That patient could not stand without support. She also could not sit straight.
Rewrite as one sentence using: “neither ….nor”)

iv) The school team would not have won the game if it had not been for the captain’s
quick action. (begin: Had…..)

v) Jomo Kenyatta the first president of Kenya was a great orator (Punctuate the
sentence)

vi) We learn from the legend that Mc Katilili was a powerful leader
(Begin: the legend…)

34
17. 2007 P2

(a) use the correct form of the word given in brackets to fill in the gap in
each sentence (3 marks)
(i) The …………………. Of the right of expression is a violation of human rights
(deny)
(ii) Saving the child from the burning house was a ………. Act (hero)
(iii) They were asked to ……….. the alarm (active)

(b) Rewrite the following sentence as instructed

(i) We can control the spread of HIV/ AIDS by educating the public
(Begin: the spread of …………)

(ii) The man was arrested. His cattle destroyed the maize in the school farm
(Rewrite as one sentences)

(iii) Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa.

(Rewrite using “higher” instead of highest”)

(c) Use the correct form of the verb given in brackets

(i) Measles……………………… not common among adults. (be)
(ii) Every morning, either the puppy or the kitten………. For me at the door.
(wait)
(iii) The ministry of health has ………. An extensive inoculation programme for
children under five years. (Begin)

(d) Complete each of the following sentences in the most suitable way
(i) If you really loved Kenya, you ………. Buy Kenyan products more
(ii) I would have cleaned the toilet if the detergent ……….. available
(iii) Hardly had she left the house …………… the guests arrived

(e) Choose the most appropriate conjunction from those given below to fill in the
gap.
(When, what, while, which, who)
(i) She wouldn’t tell me ……………. I wanted
(ii) He walks to work everyday, ……………. Keeps him healthy
(iii) ………….. they waited as the secretary’s office, the suspect left by a back
door.

35
18. 2008 Q4
a) Complete each of the following sentences by filling in the blank space with
the correct form of the word in brackets

i) The two……(sister-in-law) hugged during the wedding ceremony.

ii) His speech was good but it was slightly marred by his poor………
(pronounce) of words.
iii) She had……………..(run) for five kilometres before the others
caught up with her.
iv) It was………..(doubt) a superb performance.
v) We wanted the option that would give us the………(little) trouble.

b) Rewrite each of the following sentences as instructed. Do not change the

meaning. (5 marks)
i) I did not know that there was trouble ahead.
Begin:Little…………………………………..

ii) She is very tall.

Begin:How

iii) It was very unlikely that our national team would lose the match.
(Rewrite using the word “likelihood”.)

iv) Come with me.(Rewrite adding a question tag.)

v) Wanjiku said to Onyango,”I will join you in a few minutes.”

(Rewrite in indirect speech.)

36
19. 2009 P2

(a) Identify, underline and correct the four words that have been mis-spelt in the
paragraph below. (4 marks)
We didn’t give him the priviledge of representing us on the District
Environmental Committee because he has a tendency of disagreeing with
everyone. He embraces himself by pretending to be so knowledgeable.

(b) Rewrite the following sentences as instructed. (3 marks)

(i) She realized that she had made such a serious blunder.
(Rewrite using “what”)

(ii) Just in case you change your mind, call this number.
(Begin: Should ….)

(iii) I don’t know either of them. (End ….. to me)

(c) Fill in the blank spaces with the correct preposition. (4 marks)

(i) Nyawira, get ……………….. the wet wall immediately!

(ii) My sisters and I will share this piece of land ……………….. ourselves
(iii) We wondered if there was need ………………. Such equipment.
(iv) Mwela dipped the bucket ………………….the well

(d) Use the correct form of the nouns given in brackets. (4 marks)

(i) These …………..……… (student) phones were confiscated.

(ii) There are many ……………………… (hero) who fought for our independence.
(iii) How many ……………………….. (editor-in-chief) were invited?
(iv) This must be your ………………………….(father-in-law) car.

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20. 2010 P2

(a) Rewrite the following sentences in Direct Speech. (2 marks)

(i) The tourist exclaimed that Kenya was a beautiful country.
(ii) Halima told James to go where she was.

(b) Rewrite each sentence below to make it communicate more sensibly. (2 marks)
(i) They left the field full of sweat.
(ii) Powerful and comfortable, the buyer really liked the car.

(c) Fill in the blank spaces with an appropriate pronoun. (3 marks)

(i) The children and ..................... ought to leave immediately if we want to arrive
there before dark.

(ii) The organisers have invited Mwamburi and ..................... but I don't intend to
go.

(iii) Since she obtained the highest grade, the school should give the award to no one
else but………………

(d) Fill in the blank spaces -with the correct form of the verb in brackets, (3 marks)
(i) A flock of birds ..................... (fly) away from this lake every week.
(ii) I wondered why they had ..................... (sing) that particular song.
(iii) The ball must have been ..................... (hit) too hard.

(e) Rewrite each of the following sentences as instructed. (3 marks)

(i) It is amazing that the couple takes care of so many
orphans. (Begin: That......)

(ii) What we need in Kenya is patriotism.

(End: .......... in Kenya.)

(iii) My students don't drink. My students don't smoke.

(Join into one sentence using 'neither ....)

(f) Fill in each blank space with the appropriate word. (2 marks)

(i) I stopped the child from chewing a ..................... of grass.

(ii) The doctor told her to take the ..................... of medicine according to the prescription.

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21. 2011 Q4
a) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after
each.
i) Aisha asked Tom to return her the following day.
(Rewrite in direct speech)

ii) The teacher asked them where they had been the previous Friday.
(Rewrite in direct speech)

iii) It is a pleasant surprise to meet you again after all these years.

(Rewrite beginning: What………)

b) Complete the sentences below with the correct form of the verb.

i) Each of the boys………………given a present.

ii) Either Joyce or her daughters………coming

c) Briefly explain the difference between the following pairs of sentences

I i) They collected all the money they needed.
ii) They needed all the money they collected.

II i) Four of those students were admitted to the university.

ii) Those four students were admitted to the university.

d) For each of the following sentences, provide the appropriate noun formed
from the word ‘break’ to fill the blank space
Example- The story of the…………………….of prisoners from the maximum
security prison was carried by all the dailies

Answer- Breakout
i) Scientists have been working hard to find a cure for HIV-AIDS
without a major……………………………

ii) The…………………of their friendship was caused by

unfaithfulness

iii) The business has operated for quite some time but is yet to reach
the …………………….point

e) For each of the following sentences,use the correct form of the word in
brackets to fill in the blank space
i) Once the sun has……………,i cannot sleep any more.(rise)
ii) How long have you………………here?(dwell)
iii) It is advisable that we………forgive those who wrong us.
(condition)

39
22. 2012 Q4

Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions give after each
(3 marks)
(i) Esther said Patricia had stolen her dress
(Begin : Esther accused..)

(ii) This kind of dance fascinates the youth more than it does adults
(Begin : The youth…..

(iii) There are very few students in the classroom

(Use ….any… )

(b) Fill in each blank space using the correct form of the word in brackets. (3 marks)
(i).......................... We (regular) visit our grandparents in the village.
(ii)..........................................................The company has been in for twenty years,
(exist)
(iii).................................................................................................................The man
agreed to accompany her to the market after a lot of....................................
(persuade)

(c) Appropriately punctuate the following sentences to indicate parenthesis. (2 marks)

(i) When we meet next and I am not sure when a lot of things will have changed.
(ii) Any information that you have including minor details should be submitted to
the office.

(d) Complete each of the following sentences using the correct phrasal verb formed from
the
word given in brackets. (3 marks)
(i)....................................The bomb at around midnight, (go)
(ii)......................................You have to to her what to do. (spell)
(iii).....................................Mwangi has the lights because he wants to sleep,
(turn)

(e) Fill in each of the blank spaces with an appropriate word. (4 marks)
(i)......................................................A short story revolves a main character.
(ii).........................................................The teacher was grateful the students' input.
(iii).....................................He has been leave since last week.

40
 (iv) Her life was riddled contradictions.

23. 2013 Q4 P2

(a) Rewrite
the following sentences according to the instructions after each.
(4 marks)
(i) It was difficult but we completed the task. (Begin: Difficult...)
(ii) He said that he had not insulted me. (Use: 'denied' ...)
(iii) 1 will not at any cost support your evil plans.
(Begin: At no cost...)
(iv) She is renovating her house so that she may sell it.
(Rewrite using: 'with a view'...)

(b) Explain the difference in meaning of each of the following pairs of

sentences.
(2 marks)
(i) I. Even I attended the ceremony.
II. I even attended the ceremony.
(ii) 1. Bring an umbrella if it rains.
II. Bring an umbrella in case it rains.

(c) Replace
each of the underlined words with a phrasal verb. (3 marks)
(i) The meeting was postponed to a later date............................................................
(ii) After consultations the man agreed to assume the role of manager.
(iii)The number of smokers has decreased because of the cancer awareness
campaign.

(d) Fill in each of the blank spaces with the appropriate form of the word in
brackets. (3 marks)
i. The chairman expressed doubts about the……………….of showing the film
on children's television, (suit)
ii. We could not understand him. His actions were completely............................
(explain).
iii. Wearing a mask, he was totally................................................(recognize)

(e) Fill in each of the blank spaces with the appropriate form of the word in
brackets. (3
marks)

41
 (i) If they had worked hard, they...................................................the
examination, (pass)
(ii)...................................................If the athlete had maintained the pace,
she.....................................(overtake)
(iii)..................................................Unless the ambulance arrives in time, his
life .............................................
(save)

24. 2014 Q4 P2

(a) Rewrite the following sentences as instructed. (4 marks)

(i) T would gladly have helped them were it not for the shortage of
funds at the time. (Begin: But...)
(ii) What we need are such ideas. (Begin:. It is ...)
(iii) The Board of Governors has been looking into the matter. (End: ... Board
of Governors.)
(iv) "How often do you come here?" Mathenge asked his friend.
(Rewrite in indirect speech ...)

(b) Rewrite the following sentences, correcting the error in each. (5 marks)
(i) Most people prefer playing football than hockey.
(ii) Emachar is the most highest paid employee in this company.
(iii) I demand to know what is this.
(iv) The fact that you cannot be able to do it does not mean it is impossible,
(v) "My names are John Kamau Mwangi," the little boy murmured.

(c) Use the correct form of the word in brackets in the sentences that follow.
(4 marks)
(i) Each category of verbs (behave) in a different way.
(ii) I wonder why the bell is being (ring) this early,
(iii) I could not remember the (define) of the word,
(iv) The (enormous) of the crisis was shocking.

(d) Rewrite the sentences below, replacing the underlined idiomatic expression with
words of similar meaning, (2 marks)
(i) There are some who will try to rock the boat during the meeting.
(ii) Can we stop flogging a dead horse and instead move on to something more
useful?

25. 2015 Q4 P2

(a) Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after

42
 each. Do not change the meaning. (4 marks)

(i) It was not necessary for you to leave that early.

(Begin: you need…)

(ii) Is it that difficult to understand what the speaker is saying? (replace

the underlined word with an appropriate phrasal verb.)

(iii) She won the admiration of the judges and was awarded the coveted trophy.
(Begin: Not only…)
(iv) I will give you the money if you tell me the truth.
(Begin: only if…)

(b) Choose the correct pronoun for each gap from among the following:
him, I, me, his, she, hers (3 marks)

(i) The principal has summoned all the students except you and …..
(ii) Although Joseph and I disagreed over the matter, I am still a friend of ……
(iii) ……….and I were the only ones who completed the race.

(c) Fill in the blank space with the correct alternative from the given choices. (3
marks)

(i) The bodyguard stands……..the president in public meetings. (besides/beside)

(ii) The childless couple……..a child. (adapted/adopted)
(iii) Many workers did not realize that the strike would lead to…….problems.
(this/these)

(d) Fill in the blank spaces with the correct form of the word in brackets. (3 marks)

(i) A nurse ought to be …… (respond) to the needs of the patients.

(ii) The substance will …… (solid) if exposed to the cold for a few minutes
(iii) Such negative ….. (utter) may put you in a serious trouble

(e) Rewrite the following sentences putting the word in brackets in most
appropriate position. (2 marks)

(i) The tourist have been stopping here every month (briefly)
(ii) I have wondered where the treasure is hidden. (often)

43
 FUCTIONAL SKILLS
1. 2006 Q1 P1

You are the chairperson of your school’s Wildlife Conservation Association

(WICA). Your group has just come back from a visit to a national park in a
neighbouring country.
Write a report to the patron of WICA about the trip. In your report indicate
what you accomplished, the problems you experienced and what cautionary
measures you would take during trips. (10 marks)

2. 2007 Q1 P1
You are the chairperson of the creative Writing Club in your school. The club
would like assistance in publishing the winning entry in a recent competition.
Write a letter to a publisher asking them to consider the book for publication.
Remember to write through the head teacher.
In your letter, include the following
 The title of the book and name of author
 A brief description of what the book is about
 Why it is important for the book to be published.

3. 2008 Q1 P1

You are secretary of the drama club in your school. The chairperson has
asked you send out a notice of the second meeting to plan the staging of
shake spear’s play, The Merchant of Venice. During the meeting, you will
need to appoint the director of the play, set up a date for selecting the cast,
discuss the budget for the play, and the dates of rehearsals and the final
performance. (20 marks)
a) Write the notice of this meeting which you would send to the members
of the drama club.
b) Write the agenda that you would attach to the notice.

4. 2009 Q1 P1

You are waiting to join college after your KCSE examination. While
reading a newspaper, you see an advertisement of volunteer worker at
children’s home. Write a letter of inquiry to the manager. Express your

44
 interest and inquire if they will pay any allowances and whether they can
provide accommodation. Remember to quote the reference number of
the advertisement (20 marks)

5. 2010 Q1 P1
You are the Chairperson of the Environmental Club which has just been
newly introduced in your school. There is going to be an official launching
of the club. Write a brief speech that you will deliver at the launch. Your speech
should include the following: introduction, club officials, the objectives (aims)
of the club, the activities to be carried out, conditions for membership,
enrolment and any other relevant information.
(20 marks)
6. 2012 Q1 P1

Read the advertisement below and answer the questions that follow:

The Electorate Commission is currently seeking to recruit 800 clerical officers,

who will work closely with the commission for two months to register voters in
preparation for election. The clerks will be expected to prepare a voters register.
Applicants must be:

- Citizens of Kenya - In Possession of a KCSE grade C- and above

- 18 years and above - Computer literate
- In possession of a national - Able to work with little or no supervision
- Fluent in English and Kiswahili

Interested candidates are required to send their application to the following

address so as to reach the Commission by 30th November 2015. the Chief
Executive Officer, Electoral Commission, Po. O. Box 679439-010 NAIROBI

(a) Write an application letter in response to the advertisement. (10 marks)

(b) Write an accompanying Curriculum Vitae (CV) (10 Marks)

7. 2013 Q1 P1
(a)Imagine that you are the caretaker of Fahari Children's Home in Bahati.
There is a heavy storm one evening. After the storm you discover that one
of the children is missing. The child is hearing impaired (deaf). Write a notice
appealing to the public for help to trace the child. There will be a handsome
reward for information that will help locate the child. (10 marks)

(b)Three clays later, you receive a telephone call from the local police station
Informing you that the child has been found. Write a thank you note to the
person who foundand brought the child to the police station, giving details of
how he/she will receive the reward. (10 marks)

8. 2014 Q1 P1

You have recently visited a schoolmate during the holidays and thoroughly
enjoyed yourself. Write a letter to the schoolmate, thanking him or her for

45
 the invitation. Describe the experiences that made your stay memorable (20 marks)

9. 2015 Q1 P1

You are the secretary of the Young Farmers Club in your school. The club has just
held its meeting. The patron of the club and eight of its ten members attended. The
deputy principal also attended. During the meeting the issue of starting a fish pond
was revisited. Members also discussed the following issues: club’s financial status,
members’ annual trip and sale of club’s farm produce.
Write down the minutes of the meeting. (20 marks)

CLOZE TEST
1. 2006 Q2 P1

Fill in each of the blank spaces in the passage below with the most appropriate word.
There was time when telecommunication 1………………Africa was nearly non-existent.
With the 2……………of one or two more developed nations, most African countries

3 …………… infrastructure and telephony was out of reach for 4………………. of the
population. But mobile telephony has 5……………. a lot of that and has demonstrated
Africa’s 6……………. to leap-frog older technologies with new ones more 7…………. to
the environment.

Telecommunication in Africa is growing 8………….. there is room for improvement and

development. A number of new networks 9………. coming up all over the continent and the
African telecommunication market is growing 10………. The driver of this growth? Mobile
telephony.

(Adapted from African Business, May 2004)

2. 2007 Q2 P1

Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word

Good conversationalists are not born that way. They 1 ……………………… their skills
through patience, preparation and practice 2…………………….. a long period of time.
Some people find it 3……………………. To talk than others, but do not confuse talk with
conservation that is, good conversation.

There are all kinds of conversations, 4 ………………………….. from poor to excellent.

Unfortunately, some of the worst conversations come from those who find it easiest to talk.
5………………………….the very ease with which some people talk make them
6……………………… to what they say and unaware that they may say
7……………………………… much.

46
It lies within the power of each one of us develop quality in our conversational ability.
However, one has to take some 8……………… you may need to force yourself to take part
in conversations, even though you have 9………………… to contribute at first. If you
cannot talk listen. If you cannot talk, listen. If you don’t understand, ask questions. Secondly,
enlarge your storehouse of knowledge every day. Never let a day go 10…………………
without learning something new: talk more with people; read; listen to the radio; watch
television; be more observant of everything and everybody around you; travel as much as
you can; start a hobby or two develop common interests with friends and classmates.

3. 2008 Q2 P 1

Fill each blank space in the following passage with the most appropriate word (10marks)
By far the 1__________________ obstacle to success, in my view, is poor understanding of
people. Most careers2__________________ working with other people. You can have great
academic intelligence 3________________ still lack social intelligence the ability to be
4_______________ good listener, to be sensitive 5______________others, to give and take
criticism well.

If people do not like you, they may help you fail. On the other hand, you can
get6_________with serious mistakes if you are socially intelligent. How are you when it comes
to working with people? Are you genuine and authentic, or do you 7________________put up a
front? Do you listen to 8___________or do you most of the talking? Do you expect everyone
else to conform to your wishes, your schedule, and your agenda, or do you look for ways to meet
people on their 9___________? If you haven’t learnt to get along with people, you will always
be fighting a battle to succeed. 10______________making people-skill a strength will always be
fighting a battle to succeed. 10___________making people –skills a strength will take you
farther than any other skill you develop.

4. 2009 Q2 P1

Read the passage and fill in each blank spaces with appropriate words. (10 marks)
If our skins were to be complainant in a court of law, they would 1.………us of committing
all manner of dermatological crimes 2.………..them. And they would have legitimate
grounds to do so.

They would, for instance, argue that some of us assault them with bleaching creams, all in an
3………..to make our complexions look much 4.……… They would produce exhibits of
ugly 5.……….left behind by hazardous substances.

In addition, some would recount how they usually 6.……..them to layers of irritating anti-
aging creams without consulting them. They would insist that we allow them to age 7

47
……….and gracefully. Moreover, there would be 8 ………..that would object to continually
being plastered with choking substances meant to eliminate non-existent pimples.

In closing, our skins would submit that they have suffered gross skin abuse in our hands 9
……… hope that the judge would find us 10.……… as charged.

5. 2010 P1

Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word. (10 marks)
I met Frank as soon as he was 1 ................... from the hospital. He felt 2 ................... to
be alive. His seat-belt had kept him from going 3 ................... the windscreen, and he
had only a 4 ................... cheek and some double-vision to indicate he 5 ...................
had a nearly fatal crash. In the weeks that followed, 6 ..................., I began to notice
strange after effects. Frank forgot to return phone calls. One afternoon, while writing out
payroll cheques for his staff, he repeatedly asked me the date. I watched as his pen froze
over the yellow cheque-book. He would 7 ................... flip the pages to check the spelling
of a colleague's name. At the piano, he played the same note over and over again, seemingly
8 ................... to proceed to the next. It 9 ................... be months before any of us were
willing to accept the painful 10 ................... that his music career was over.

6. 2011 P1

Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word. (10 marks)
As you think about the different aspects that go……1…… your persona, it is important to
………2……. Your best traits and recognize the ………3……. You may have been
taking for granted all ………4…….. .Doing this will provide a foundation a foundation of
confidence that serves as a ………5……. to connect.

……….6…….. your appearance is what makes people curious to get to know, your
presence is what makes them respond to you. Your presence is your energy, your spirit
and your aura. It includes……..7……. those qualities that help you bond with another
human being. It starts with eye contact and moves into your listening skills as the extent to
which you are engaged in a conversation. Some people are ………8…… there giving 100
percent; others give percent at ……….9……. because their minds are elsewhere.

Eye contact is an ……..10…… powerful tool. So long as you are making eye contact
while talking, the topic is not likely to matter much

7. 2012 Q2 P1

48
 Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word
(10 marks)
It is an indisputable fact that agriculture1 ….................. the backbone of the economy.
It is therefore 2...........................that we stop over-relying on the rain-fed agriculture.
Israel is a classic 3.................................... of a country that has reclaimed its deserts and
put them 4............................. use. Land which was 5.............................. 'useless' has
been turned around and 6.................................. useful. Egypt which solely depends on
7............................... River Nile is a leading exporter of fruits and cereals. For our country to
8............................. self-sufficiency in food production and to get a 9…....................... for
export, land should be utilised to the 10 …................ This is only possible with irrigation.

8. 2013 Q2 P1

Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word.

When people hurl you, should you lash out at them 1...............give them a piece of
your2......................................................................................................? There are those that
argue that 3............................................................................................ your emotions is
muchbetter than suppressing them. Perhaps the 4……………lies in between.
What most people would readily agree 5...............is the fact that it is 6............................
to run away from the cause of your hurt because 7...............is likely to breed
resentment.Imagine that your cube mate in the dormitory has 8..... damaged your reputation
by telling blatant lies about you. Instead of 9.................. him or her to settle the
matter,you move to the 10...........................................................cubicle. You may feel better
for some time, but what if theteacher puts the two of you in a discussion group?

9. 2014 Q2 P1

Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with an appropriate word. (10 marks)
An outline is an organized list of what you plan to write about. It is a sketch of what your
essay will ( I ) ............................................ like. It is also a guide which will keep you on
the right (2) ............................................ when you are writing your first draft, in
the (3) ............................................. stages, your outline should be a changing, working
outline; in (4) ............................................ final form, your outline should be a "table of contents"
of what you have "said" (5)............................................ your essay.

(6) ............................................. for instance, you were assigned to write an essay about
trees, you might choose to write about 'Trees used for fuel". In the planning of your paper,

49
you might decide to (7) ............................................ your topic into "Trees for
firewood" (8) ............................................ "Trees used for charcoal". You
might then (9) ............................................ divide your subtopics into the different
kinds of trees (10)............................................ for each purpose.

10. 2015 Q2 P1
Read the passage below and fill in each blank space with the most appropriate word.
(10 marks)

The positive way to react to disappointment is to use it as a (1)……………… for growth.

This is not easy, but it is the only way to deal with an (2)…………. aspect of life. Helen,
the woman who was not promoted, could have (3)…………. her disappointment by
looking at other (4)…………. For instance, if her boss did not recognize her talent and
hard work, (5)……………. she could transfer to another department or ask the boss how
she could improve her performance in order to be a candidate (6)……………..the next
promotion. Jamal the young man who did not (7)…………….into the collage of his
dreams, should look into other institutions of higher learning. Going to another college
may encourage him to be his (8)…………….man, step out of his brother’s shadow, and
realize that being turned (9)…………….by one college is not a final judgement on his
abilities or potential. Disappointments in life can make us bitter or better, (10)…………
we become victims or victors of choice.

Adapted from: College Writing Skills with Readings, Sixth Edition. Newyork:
Lisa Moore (2005) by Langan John.

50
 ORAL SKILLS/ORAL LITERATURE
1. 2006 Q3

Read the oral narrative below and then answer the questions that follow.
Nyasaye (God) wanted to put a stop to the rampages of death-death which claims the lives
of everyone
Young and old
Boys and girls
Men and women
Strangers and kinsmen;
Death which kills
The innocent and the guilty
Chiefs and their subjects
The healthy and the sick
The wise and the foolish.

So one day he sent a servant to earth with a message for all his people. “send me an offering
of fresh, untainted fat,” he ordered. “It should be as clean and sparkling as the moon.”
Hearing this, the people slaughtered a goat, removed its pure white fat, and placed it in a clay
dish overspread with fine fresh leaves.
Now they summoned Ngo’ngruok, also known as Haniafu the Chameleon, and ordered him
to take their offering to Nyasaye. They also fashioned a long pole that reached up to heaven
where Nyasaye dwells in his glory. This was the path Ng’ongruok would follow when
carrying their offering.
But Ng’onguruok accidentally soiled the fat with his clumsy feet, and on his arrival before
Nyasaye, presented a dirty and unsightly offering. Nyasaye was furious and rejected it,
shouting: “tell the people of earth that because of this insult they must continue to die, just as
their ancestors have done!”
Ng’ongruok descended from heaven delivered Nyasaye’s message, and returned the offering
to the people. Ever since then, alas death has continued to ravage human beings. For his
clumsiness, Ngo’ngruok was cursed by the people. Hence, he must always walk on all fours,
and his steps must be hesitant and slow. That is why you will always see him carrying one leg

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raised from the ground as he tries to decide exactly where to tread.
(Adapted from: keep my words by B. Onyange-gutu and A.A Roscoe)

(a) i) What would you do in order to capture the audience’s attention before
you begin to tell this story? (2 marks)
ii) Explain two ways in which you would make the narration of lines
20 to 23 of the story effective (4 marks)

iii) Mention two ways in which you would know that you audience in
this story is fully participating in the performance. (4 marks)
b) For each of the words below write another word that is pronounced in the
same way.
Heir…………………………………………………
Weather…………………………………………….
Base………………………………………………..
Mourning………………………………………….
You have lost your luggage on your way back to school. You decide to report the matter to
the nearest police station. Below is part of the conversation between you and the police
officer at the reporting desk. Fill in the other part. (Read through the conversation first before
writing your responses).
You:……………………………………………………… ………… (2 marks)
Police Office: (Interrupting) Easy. I am sorry about what happened but before you go into the
lost items, please give me your full name and address.
You:…………………………………………………………… ………… (2 marks)
Police Officer:That is good. Now go ahead and tell me what happened, without leaving out
any important details.
You:……………………………………………………………………………… (3 marks)
Police Officer:From which schools are the students who alighted before you? You see, it is
possible that your box was off loaded from the bus by mistake especially because another box
that nearly resembles yours was left behind.
You:……………………………………………………………………………… (2 marks)
Police Officer:Good. At least that is a starting point; we will get the box from the bus then go
to that school to make enquiries.
You:……………………………………………………………………………… (1 mark)

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2. 2007

(a) Read the story below and answer the questions that follow
Once upon a time, there lived a young woman who ran away from home to secretly
marry her warrior lover out in the wilderness. The warrior directed the young woman
to a place in the forest where he would meet her. He said to her, “When you get to a
fork along the path take the right path.” Then the warrior went ahead to await her
arrival in the forest.
The young woman took off, and when she got to the fork that the warrior had
mentioned, she followed the left path, forgetting which path the warrior had
instructed her to follow.
As the girl walked on, she came upon an ogre who said to her, “ hey, young
woman where are going? Do you have anything to say now that I’m going to eat
you?” the girl answered in song
Not here my dear
Let us go to the water hole
Where you can eat me
And have a drink
Oh my dear warrior, where was it?
And so it happened that this was very bushy country. The ogre led the young
woman on, and when they got to another spot, he said to her, “ I am now going to
eat you here.” The girl broke into song, urging him not to eat her.
They went further, and the young woman kept hoping that the warrior would hear
her voice. As they walked on, the ogre asked the young girl: “ shall I eat you hear”
The girl sang again
Not here my dear
Let us go to the water hole
Where you can eat me
And have a drink
Oh dear warrior, where was it?
But the warrior had still not heard her. When they got to a cave by a river, the ogre
collected branches and leaves on which to place the young woman’s flesh after he
had slaughtered her. When he brought one type of leaf, the girl objected to having
her flesh laid on ordinary leaves preferring the sweet- scented leaves of the
Matasia plant. The ogre brought another kind of leaf nut the girl also rejected it,
until eventually the sweet- smelling leaves of Matassia plant were brought. When
the ogre asked the girl whether those were the right type of leaves, she said: Yes,
these are the ones.” The ogre then laid the leaves down on the ground and lit a big
fire. All this while, the girl was continuously singing the same song.
Just when the ogre was about to jump on the young woman, the warrior suddenly
emerged from the bush. The young woman said to the ogre, “It is now your skinny

53
 flesh that will be laid on those leaves.” The warrior killed the ogre and placed him on
the bed of leaves and took the girl away. And that is the end of the story.
(Adopted from “a young woman and an ogre” in Oral Literature of the Maasai, by
Naomi Kipury. Nairobi: EAEP 1983)

(i) If you were performing this story, how would you say the words of the
warrior? (1 mark)
(ii) What could the warrior lover have done to improve on his giving of
directions (1 mark)
(iii) How would you deliver the first speech of the ogre? (2 marks)

(iv) The song is sung for both the ogre and the warrior lover. How
would you perform it to show this? (2 marks)
(v) As the story teller, how would you say the sentence: “just when
the ogre was about to jump on the young woman, the warrior
suddenly emerged from the bush.” (2 marks)
(vi) How do you think the audience would react when the warrior
lover arrivers? (1 mark)

(b) Identify and number any five pairs of words that are pronounced the same
Plane Mad Plain Mourn
Burrow cat Berry Mud
Bury You Bred cut
Pull Father Pool Ewe
Bread Moan Fool Farther
Further See Full Sea (5 marks)
(c) In the words given below, underline the part that should be stressed
(i) suc.cess
(ii) chal.lenge
(iii) ad.vice
(iv) ap.proach

(d) Suppose you were asked to make a speech at a friend’s graduation

party. What would you do to capture the audience attention? (4 marks)

(e) The following is a conversation between a father and his daughter.

Identify eight shortcomings in the father’s listening skills (8 marks)

DAUGHTER: (shortly having arrived home from school) Good afternoon,

Daddy
FATHER: (Sitting complacently in the sofa, reading a newspaper. Looking
up…..) Good afternoon (Resumes reading)

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 DAUGHTER: (Holding out her school report form) Daddy, I’m excited. My teacher
said I was the best improved. I was………..
FATHER: Oh, you were? Me, I used to be number one. I was absolutely
unbeatable.
DAUGHTER: Chemistry has been a particular headache (now looking at the report
form which she thought her father would want to see), but this
time…….
FATHER: (Stretching his arms, looking preoccupied)
Chemistry for me was particular easy.
I never scored anything less than 90%
DAUGHTER: Dad, I was going to tell you that this time…….
FATHER: (Absent minded) by the way, where is your mum?
DAUGHTER: Mum is in the garden picking vegetables. But dad, you’re not listening
to my story. I was telling you about Chemistry
FATHER: You mean you have a story about chemistry? Chemistry is not about
stories. It is hard science.
DAUGHTER: It’s about my improvement……..
FATHER: (laughing) me, it wasn’t matter of improvement. I was always at the
top of the class
DAUGHTER: Daddy, I give up. You’re not listening
FATHER: ( looking surprised) Listening? I heard you: you were talking about
improvement in chemistry, weren’t you?
DAUGHTER: anyway, Dad. Thank you for paying attention. Enjoy your newspaper.
FATHER: Oh yes, I’m reading an interesting story about politics

3. 2008
Provide a word which sounds the same as each of the following (5 marks)
i) Male…………………………
ii) Queue………………………..
iii) Hire………………………….
iv) Blue………………………….
v) Ate………………………….
c) Consider the situation below and then answer the question that follows.

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 You are part of an audience that is listening to a speech. You look around and notice that
some people are looking at their watches, a few are yawning, and one or two are shifting in
their seats.
i) What would be the likely cause of such behaviour? (3 marks)
ii) What would you do to ensure you continue listening effectively? (3 marks)

d) Consider the following conversation between a seller and a buyer of chickens and then
answer the questions that follow.
BUYER: How are you this morning?
SELLER: I’m okay
BUYER: I’m looking for good chickens, but yours don’t look too good.
I’m going to have visitors, and this being the Christmas season, I really must give
them a feast.
SELLER: These are the right kind of chickens for your visitors. They’re healthy and well fed.
BUYER: On the contrary, they look underfed. Anyway, what is your price?
SELLER: It depends I charge more for cocks; they have more meat, you know (pointing at a red
cock). This one, for instance, goes for sh 400.00. as for the hens, I charge sh. 250.00
BUYER: You’re not serious! Much of the weight is a bundle of bones. I’m giving you sh. 150.
00 for each hen and sh. 300.00 for each cock. I’m buying three of each-three hens for
Sh. 450.00 and three cocks for sh. 900.00. this will give us a total of sh. 1,350.00.
SELLER: You know, I buy and sell. I don’t get them from my shamba.
Your figure doesn’t give me any profit at all.
BUYER: But you also know money is hard to come by, and especially during this Christmas
season. Give me a reasonable price, unless you prefer I go to another seller.
SELLER: Let me make it Sh. 225.00 for a hen and sh. 375.00 for a cock
BUYER: It looks like you’re not interested in selling your chickens
SELLER: No, I’m. why would I be here? My children’s fees come from this business.
BUYER: Okay, take sh. 175.00 for each hen and sh. 325.00 for each cock
SELLER: No, there would be no profit for me. You can do better than that
You can surely promote my small business. Give me Sh. 350.00 per cock and sh.
225.00 per hen. This would be sh. 675.00 for the three hens and sh. 1,050.00 for the
cocks.
BUYER: (During his mental arithmetic) That’s a total of sh. 1,725.00. Okay, at least I’ll be able
to feed may visitors. (Handing over the money) Here you are.

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SELLER: Thank you. (As the seller ties them together) You’re good customer. Please come
again. My name is Musimbi.
BUYER: And I’m Karani, See you then.
SEELER: See you.
i) What is the purpose of the greetings in this situation? (1 mark)
ii) Identify and explain the negotiation skills of the buyer. (3 marks)
iii) What does this business transaction reveal about the nature of negotiations?
(4 marks)

4. 2009

(a) Read the following oral chant and then answer the questions that follow.
Rain Making Litany
(Reciter) (Responders)
We overcome this wind We overcome
We desire the rain to fall, that it may be poured in showers
quickly Be poured
Ah! True rain, I adjure thee fall, if thou rainest, it is well It is well
A drizzling confusion Confusion
If it rains and our food ripens, it is well It is well
If the children rejoice ,I t is well It is well
If it rains, it is well, if our women rejoice, it is well It is well
If young men sing, it is well It is well
A drizzling confusion Confusion
If our grains ripens, it is well It is well
If our women rejoice, It is well
If the children rejoice It is well
If the young men sing It is well
If the aged rejoice It is well
An overflowing in the granary Overflowing
May our grain fill granaries May it fill
A torrent in flow A torrent
If the wind veers to the south, it is well It is well
If the rain veers to the south, it is well It is well

(i) Identify three aspects of oral performance that make this chant easy to remember.
(3 marks)
(ii) In what ways would this chant be made interesting to listen to. (3 marks)
(iii) What preparations do you think a narrator would make to ensure that the

57
 audience listens to and participates in the performance of the chant (4 marks)

(b) You are going to take part in a debate. Explain how you would deal with the
fear and anxiety associated with public speaking of this kind. (6 marks)

(c) Classily the words below according to the sound of the underlined ‘ch’ letter.
An example of each of the sound represented has been given. (3 marks)

bench chore chandelier

charisma parachute trachoma
chauvinism choral church
champagne charm chrysalis
/tf/ /f/ /k/
Church champagne trachoma

(d) The underlining indicates the stressed word in the sentences below. Briefly
explain what each sentence means (3 marks)

(i) I wrote the love poem for you.

(ii) I wrote the love poem for you.
(iii) I wrote the love poem for you

(e) Shouting and screaming from your class disrupted the other students during study time.
As the class monitor, you have been called by the teacher on duty to her office to give an
explanation.
Complete the conversation below by filling in the blank spaces
Teach You are the class monitor of form Two East aren’t you?
You: ........
Teacher: Why was your class shouting and screaming?
You: i not sure madam, the noise started at the back of the classroom

Teacher: ………………………………....................................... (1 mark)

You: You see madam I sit at the front of the classroom and by the time I turned to
look, the boys at the back were already on top of the desks and some were trying
to jump out of the window.
Teacher :………………………………......................................................... (1 mark )

You: I ran out, madam!

Teacher :………………………………............................................................

You I am sorry madam, but seemed like there was great danger in the middle of
the class. I had to run for my life.
Teacher: When the noise subsided, what did you find out?

You: ………………………………....................................... (1 mark)

Teacher : A Snake?

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 You : ……………………………….......................................... (1 mark)

Teacher: Whose toy snake was it?

You: ……………………………................................................... (1 mark)

Teach: You can go now, but i will need to know whose toy snake it was

You: ………………………………................................................. (1 mark)

7. 2010
(a) Read the passage below and then answer the question that follows.

It's a cold, misty December morning. You hear the sharp screeching of brakes followed by a
loud bang, then screams. You rush to the scene of the crash, where you find a car
overturned with a young woman and two small boys inside. The woman and one of the boys
climb from the wreckage unhurt; but the other boy is pinned between the dashboard and the
roof of the car, groaning in pain. Kru, kru, km, you scratch your scalp as you try to remember
your lessons in first aid.
(a) Identify any four instances of onomatopoeia in the passage. (4 marks)
(b) For each of the following five words, write another word that is pronounced the same.
(i) past ............................................................
(ii) aren't .........................................................
(iii) hole ............."...............................................
(iv)what..................................................
(v) male ........................................................... (5 marks)

(c) For each of the following letters, provide a word in which the letter is silent. (i)
(i)p....................................................................
(ii) b ....................................................................
(iii) 1 ....................................................................
(iv) n....................................................................

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 (v) t .................................................................... (5 marks)

(d) Your school choir is rehearsing a choral verse for the school's music festival. They are
making a presentation for the rest of the school so as to get some feedback.

Give four things that the listeners need to pay attention to and explain why. (8 marks)

8. 2012 Q3b-e P2

(b) Your former school has invited you as a guest speaker to give a talk on
discipline. At the end of the speech, the students comment that the talk
was well delivered. Suggest reasons why they commended so. (4 marks)
(c).Which expressions would you use in each of the following situations (4 marks)
(i) You are revising for the end of year examination at home.
Your neighbours are playing very loud music. You decide to
go over to their house to request them to reduce the volume of
their radio.
(ii) A friend of yours comes to your house to invite you to accompany him
or her to watch a film/video show. You are unable to accompany
him/her because you have not finished your chores in the house. You
decide to turn down the invitation.
(d) For each of the words given below,. Write down another word with a
similar pronunciation (4 marks)

(e) (i) You have been invited to a very important interview. Explain
briefly what you would need to do before the occasion to ensure that
you look presentable. (3 marks)

(ii) What else would you need to do before and during the interview
to ensure success (6 marks)

8. 2013 Q2 P2

Read the excerpt below and then answer the questions that follow.

PETER STOCK MANN: By the way, Hovstad was telling me he was going to print another
Of your articles.

DR. STOCKMANN: One of my articles?

PETER STOCKMANN: Yes, about the Baths. An article you apparently wrote during the
winter.

DR. STOCKMANN: Oh, that one! No I wouldn't want that to appear now.

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PETER STOCK MANN: Why not? I should have thought that this would be the most
opportune moment.
DR. STOCKMANN: Yes, very likely - under normal conditions,
(crosses the room.)

PETER STOCKMANN (following him with his eyes): Is there anything extraordinary about
the present conditions?

DR. STOCK M A NN (standing still): To tell you the truth, Peter, 1 can't tell you just at
this moment - at least not tonight. There may be much that is very
abnormal about the present conditions - and it is possible there
may be nothing extraordinary about them at all. It might very well
be just my imagination.

PETER STOCKMANN: I must say it all sounds most mysterious. Is there something going
on that 1 am not supposed to know? I should have imagined that I,
as Chairman of the governing body of the Baths...

DR. STOCKMANN: And 1 should have imagined that 1 ... Oh, come, don't let us fly off
the handle at one another, Peter

PETER STOCKMANN: Heaven forbid! I am not in the habit of flying off the handle, as
you call it. But I am entitled to request most emphatically that all
arrangements shall be made in a businesslike manner, through the
proper channels and shall be dealt with by the proper authorities. I
can allow no dubious or underhand methods.

DR. STOCKMANN: Have I ever at any time used dubious or underhand methods?

PETER STOCKMANN: You have an ingrained tendency to take things into your own hands,
at least; and, that is almost equally inadmissible in a well-ordered
community. The individual ought undoubtedly to subordinate
himself or herself to the community - or, to be more accurate, to
the authorities who have the care of the community's welfare.

DR. STOCKMANN: Very likely. But what the devil has all this got to do with me?

PETER STOCKMANN: That is exactly what you never seem to learn my dear Thomas.
But,mark my words, some day you will have to suffer for it –
sooner or later.

(a) Explain why the brothers, Peter and Thomas Stockmann, differ over the
timing of publication of the article mentioned in this excerpt. (2 marks)

(b) Give two reasons why Dr. Stockmann is reluctant to discuss the "present
conditions" of the Baths with the mayor. (2 marks)

61
 (c) Identify and illustrate three character traits of Peter Stockmann evident in
this excerpt. (6 marks)

(d) "What is it that Dr. Stockmann "never seems to learn" according to the
mayor? (2 marks)

(e) "I lave 1 ever at any time used dubious or underhand methods?"
(Rewrite in reported speech) (1 mark)

(f) Identify and explain three aspects of foregrounding the author uses in
this excerpt. (6 marks)

(g) Pick out a phrase in this excerpt that may suggest that Peter Stockmann
exaggerates or even falsely accuses Dr. Stockmann of insubordination.
Explain your answer.
(2 marks)

9. 2014 Q3 P1

Read the oral narrative below and then answer the questions that follow.
The Cowtail Swish
Once upon a time, there lived a much loved village chief. He loved hunting and would
share the meat with the entire village. One day, he went hunting as usual but didn't return.
His people became very worried. They searched and searched for him. As they searched, they
kepi singing his favourite song, hoping that he'd sing back in response. The song echoed
throughout the forest: Mother nature, mother nature You have enough for all Mother nature,
may my arrow find much meat Meat to feed all my people
After a long fruitless search, the chief was presumed dead. Shortly afterwards, his
wife gave birth to their seventh son. With his first breath, he asked, "What happened to my
father?"
"Have you ever seen anything like this?" the villagers whispered among themselves
in amazement.
"Never, ever!" was the soft reply all round. Immediately, the newborn's question
prompted his six older brothers to embark on another search for their father. It was with
sadness that they discovered that he'd been swallowed by a python. Luckily, each of them
was endowed with special talents and powers which they combined to restore their father's
life. The whole village danced and danced, the joyful pata pata of their feet resounding
throughout the village.

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 Now, a big, big problem arose; who among the sons would become heir one day and
receive the Cowtail swish which was the symbol of authority? Each of the six sons claimed
that it was his magical powers that had brought their father back from the land of the spirits.
Each claim sounded as valid and as potent as the next. In confusion, the villagers scratched
their heads like chickens scratching the ground.
"Well, our land has many rivers, each with its source. Likewise, the search that
eventually led to the restoration of my life had a source," the chief said in a tone of finality.
All the eyes of the villagers turned on the infant son. They remembered the proverb that
says: a man is only truly dead when he is not remembered.

(i) Illustrate any four features that show that this is an oral narrative. (4 marks)
(ii) Which gesture would you use while saying the words: "With "the entire
village" in the first paragraph? (1 mark)
(iii) Which is the main sound feature used in the song? (2 marks)
(iv) Identify an ideophone in the story. (1 mark)

(b) For every word in the sentence below, provide another that is identical in
pronunciation.
Aren't you here for eight days? (6 marks)

c) Which intonation would you use to say each of the underlined words? (5 marks)
Malusu: Omenda, what time is the meeting tomorrow?
Omenda: (Surprised) Tomorrow!
Malusu: You didn’t forget, did you?
Omenda: I’m afraid I did

Imagine that one afternoon you see one of your classmates sneak out of the school
compound and get into a waiting car. You decide to report the matter to the teacher on
duty. What three important details must you include in your oral report? (3 marks)

Fill in the gaps in the following conversation so that it flows naturally.

Mark: Martha, I would like to invite you to a football game at
Kasarani stadium tomorrow afternoon.
Martha: .................................................................................................... (1 mark)
Mark: Oh! Why is it that many girls are not football fans? Anyway, even
if you don't enjoy the game, you might enjoy my company.
Martha: ...,................,.................................................................................... (1 mark)

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 Mark: Thank you. That's nice of you to say. So, is it a deal then?
Martha: ............................................................................„........:..................(1 mark)
Mark: And what condition is that?
Martha: ................................................................................................ (3 mark)
Mark: But I don't like watching movies. .................................................................
......................................................................................................... (1 mark)
Martha: Boring? In that case.............-..................................................:....................,.
..................................................................-..........................-........... (1 mark)
Mark: Wait. Wait........................................................................... (1 mark)
Martha: I don't think you're being selfish; all the same, I accept your apology.
Mark: ........................................................................ I agree with your
suggestion.
A football game followed by a movie it shall be. (1 mark)
10. 2015 Q3 P1
(a) Study the passage below, which is about negotiation and conflict
resolution, and then answer the questions that follow.

One evening Linda was walking down a desolate, dangerous block lined with abandoned,
boarded-up buildings when suddenly out of nowhere, she was surrounded by three boys
about fourteen years old. One pulled out a knife with a four inch blade as they pressed
around her.

“Give me your purse! Now!” the boy with the knife hissed.

Though frightened, Linda had the presence of mind to take some deep breaths and reply
coolly, “I’m feeling a little uncomfortable. You know, guys, you’re a little on my space.
I’m wondering if you could step back a little.”

Linda studied the pavement – and, to her amazement, she saw them take a few steps back.
“Thank you,” she said. Then she continued, “Now I want to hear what you said to me, but
to tell you the truth, I’m a little nervous about that knife. I’m wondering if you could put
it away.”

After what seemed an eternity of silence and uncertainty, the knife went back into a
pocket.

Quietly reaching into her purse, Linda took out a 1,000/= shilling note, caught the eye of
the one with the knife, and asked, “who should I give it to?”

“Me,” he said.

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 Glancing at the other two, she asked if they agreed. One of the two nodded.

“Great.” She said, handling the leader the 1,000/= shilling note. “Now here is what is
going to happen. I’m going to stay right here while you walk away.”

With puzzled looks on their faces, the boys started to walk away, glancing over their
shoulders at Linda – and then they broke into a run. They were running from her.

(Adapted from Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman. London:

Bantam Books, 1999)

i. From the passage, it is evident that Linda has excellent negotiation skills. Identify
four of these skills. (4 marks)

ii. Why would we describe this encounter as a win-win situation? Explain your
answer. (3 marks)
iii. Describe the rhythm of the last paragraph of this passage. (2 marks)

11. 2015 Q3 P2
Read the oral narrative below and then answer the questions that follow:

The fox and the crow

A fox once saw a crow fly off with a piece of cheese in its beak and settle on a branch
of a tree.‘’That’s for me, asIam a fox, ’Mr. Fox, and he walked up to the foot of the
tree.

‘’Good day, MS. Crow, ’he cried. ’How well you are looking today: howglossy
yourfeathers; how bright your eye. I feel sure your voice must surpass that of other
birds, just as your figure does. Let me hear but song from you that as the queen of
Birds.’’

The crow lifted up her head and began to caw her best, but the moment she opened
her mouth the piece of cheese fell to the ground, only to be snapped up by Mr. fox, ‘’
that will do, ‘’ said he. ‘’ that was all I wanted. In exchange for your cheese I will give
you a piece of advice for the future-‘’do not trust flatterers!’’

(Adapted from Prentice Hall Literature,

Ed. Roger Babusci et al. ENGLEWOOD Cliffs,
New Jersey, 1991).

a) How would you classify this narrative? Explain your answer. (3marks)

b) Identify and illustrate ant two characters traits of the crow. (4marks)

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 c) What does the fox mean by ‘’that’s for me, as I am a fox’’? (2marks)

d) Identify and illustrate any three stylistic features in this story. (6marks)

e) Explain what this story reveals about human relationships. (4marks)

f) Explain the meaning of the word “caw’ as used in the story. (1marks)

POETRY
1. 2006 P1
Read the poem below and answer the question that follows.
Isatou died
When she was only five
And full of pride
Just before she new

5 How small a loss

It brought to such a few
Her mother wept
Half grateful
To be so early bereft.

10 And did not see the smile

As tender as the root
Of the emerging plant
Which sealed her eyes
The neighbours wailed

15 As they were paid to do

And thought how big a spread
Might be her wedding too
The father looked at her
Through marble eyes and said;

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20 “Who spilt the perfume
Mixed with morning dew?”

Lenrie Peters
(From: The Earth Is Ours. Edited by Ian Gordon)

i) Identify any two pairs of rhyming words in this poem. (2 marks)

ii) Which words would you stress in line 2 of this poem, and why? (2 marks)
iii) How would you say the last two lines of this poem? (2 marks)

2. 2006 P2

Read the poem below and answer the questions that follow:
Touch by Hugh Lewin
When I get out
I’m going to ask someone
To touch me
Very gently please
And slowly,
Touch me
I want
To learn again
How life feels

I’ve not been touched

For seven years
For seven years
I’ve been untouched
Out of touch
And I’ve learnt
To know now
The meaning of
Untouchable.
Untouchable-not quite
I can count the things
That have touched me

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 One: fists
At the beginning
Fierce mad fists
Beating beating
Till I remember
Screaming
Don’t touch me
Please don’t touch me

Two: paws
The first four years of paws
Every day
Patting paws, searching
Arms up, shoes off
Legs apart-
Probing paws, systematic
Heavy, indifferent
Probing away
All privacy.

I don’t want fists and paws

I want
To want to be touched
Again
And to touch.
I want to feel alive
Again
I want to say
When I get out
Here I am
Please touch me.
(From poets to the people, edit by Barry Feinberg)
a) Where do you think the personal is? Briefly explain your answer. (3 marks)
b) What do you think the persona means by “touch”? (3 marks)
c) Using two illustrations, describe the persona’s experience during the
seven years (4 marks)
d) What is the significance of the word” paws”? (2 marks)
e) Which device does the poet use to reinforce the theme? (2 marks)
f) Explain the meaning of the following words as they are used in the poem (2 marks)
Prodding
Indifferent (4 marks)
g) What does the poem reveal about human need? (4 marks)

3. 2007 P2

Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow
“Sympathy”

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 I know what the caged bird feels, alas!
When the sun is bright on the upland slopes;
When the wind stirs soft through the springing grass
And the river flows like a stream of glass
When the first bird sings and the first bud opes
And the faint perfume from its petals steals
I know what the caged bird feels!

I know why the caged bird beats his wing

Till its blood is red on the cruel bars
For he must fly back to his perch and cling
When he rather would be on the branch a swing
And a pain still throbs in the old, old scars
And they pulse again with a keener sting
I know why he beats his wings
I know why the caged bird sings, ah me
When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore
When he beats his bars and would be free
It is not a song of joy or glee
But a prayer that he sends from his hearts deep core
But a plea, that upward to heaven he flings
I know why the caged bird sings!
(Adapted from the poem by Paul Laurence Dunbar in America Negco Poetry,
edited by Arna Bontempts. New York: Hill and Waug, 1974

(a) Explain briefly what the poem is about (3 marks)

(b) What does the poet focus on in each of the three stanzas? Give
your answer in one form (6 marks)
(c) How would you describe the persona’s feelings towards the caged
bird? (4 marks)
(d) What can we infer about the persona’s own experiences? (3 marks)
(e) Identify a simile in the first stanza and explain why it is used (2 marks)
(f) Explain the meaning of the following lines
(i) And the faint perfume from its petals steals (1 mark)
(ii) And they pulse again with a keener sting (1 mark)
4. 2008

Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow.
“The Debt” by Paul Laurence Dunbar

This is the debt I play

Just for one riotous day,
Years of regret and grief,

69
 Sorrow without relief.

Put it I will to the end-

Until the grave, my friend,
Gives me a true release-
Gives me the clasp of peace.
Slight was the thing I bought,
Small was the debt I though,
Poor was the loan at best
God! But the interest!
(From American Negro Poetry, Edited by arna Bontemps)

(i) List at the pairs of rhyming words (3 marks)

(ii) Describe the tone of voice that would be appropriate in the reading
of this poem. (3 marks)
(iii) How does the punctuation in the second stanza influence your
reading of the poem? (3 marks)
(iv) How would you say the last are of the poem? (2 marks)

5. 2008 P2

Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow.
The splash
Under warm sunshine,
A pond of water rests, calm and serene.
The blue sky inhabits the middle of the pond,
And its sides reflect the greenery,
Spotted with the yellow and the red,
The red and the violet
The water, the sky, the vegetation,
Hand in hand convey harmony and peace.
Then comes the splash!
And a tremendous stirring surges:
Reflections distort,
Giving way to a rushing flow of triples
Ripples innumerable,
All fleeing from the wound.
Time elapses,
Ripples innumerable
All fleeing from the wound
Time elapses,
Ripples fade,
Reflections regain their shape,
And once again emerges the pond
Smooth and tranquil.
But the stone!
The stone will always cling to the bottom

70
 Yusuf O. Kassem

a) What do you think this poem is about? (3 marks)

b) What is implied by the use of color imagery (lines 4, 5, 6)? (4 marks)
c) Identify and explain two stylistic devices used in this poem other than
color imagery. (4 marks)
d) Describe the tone of this poem (3 marks)
e) Explain the meaning of the last two lines. (3 marks)

f) Explain the message of the following words as they are used in the poem: (3 marks)
Surges
Fade
Tranquil

6. 2010 P2
Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow.
"Song of the wagondriver". B.S. Johson
My first love was a ten-ton truck
They gave me when I started, And
though she played the bitch with
me I grieved when we were parted.
Since then I've had a dozen more,
The wound was quick to heal,
And now it's easier to say
I'm married to my wheel.
I've trunked it north, I've trunked it
south, On wagons good and bad,
But none was ever really like The
first I ever had.
The life is hard, the hours are long,
Sometimes I cease to feel,
But I go on, for it seems to me
I'm married to my wheel. . ;

Often I think of my home and

kids, Out on the road at night,
And think of taking a local job
Provided the money's right.

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 Two nights a week I see my
wife And eat a decent meal,
But otherwise, for all my life, •
I'm married to my wheel.
(From The Earth is Ours: Poems for Secondary Schools.
Selected by lan Gordon)
(a) Briefly explain what the poem is about. (2 marks)
(b) What is contradictory about the persona's relationship with his first truck?
(2 marks)
(c) The persona is facing a real dilemma. Which is it? (2 marks)
(d) Identify and illustrate any two literary devices that the poet uses. (4 marks)
(e) What makes the persona's job demanding? Give your answer in note form. (4
marks)
(f) Explain the meaning of the following lines:
(i) Sometime I cease to feel (2 marks)
(ii) Provided the money's right (2 marks)

(g) Explain the meaning of the words below as used in the poem.
(i) grieved ........................................................................... (1 mark)
(ii) trunked .......................................................................... (1 mark)

7. 2012 Q3a P2
(a) Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow:
If We Must Die – Claude McKay
If we must die – let it not be like dogs
Haunted and penned in an inglorious spot,
While round us bark the mad and hungry dogs,
Making their mock at our accursed lot,
If we must die – oh let us nobly die
So that our precious blood may not be shed
In vain; then even the monsters we defy
Shall be constrained to honour us though dead!
Oh kinsmen! We must meet the common foe;
Though far outnumbered, let us show us brave
And for their thousand blows deal one deathblow
What thought before us lies the open grave?
Like men we'll face the murderous, cowardly pack
Pressed to the wall, dying, but fighting back!

(i) Describe the rhyme scheme of this poem, (2 marks)

(ii) Which words would you stress in the last line of this poem and why?(3 marks)
(iii) Apart from rhyme, how else has the poet achieved rhythm?

8. 2012 Q3 P2
Read the poem below and answer the questions that follow.

72
 He is a jolly good boss
Sits behind a shiny mahogany desk,
Dreamy and contented like an over-fed python
That has just swallowed a bearded goat.

He is a good-natured fellow
Always patting the rumps of secretaries in tight skirts Which say: marry me if you dare
Laughs absent-mindedly and sinks back into dear oblivion He is an industrious head
Gets dog-tired early in the morning from signing a few papers
Whose contents he is mildly aware of
And leaves for lunch and for the day at 11.30 a.m.

He is a humorous chap
Jokes about how he is underpaid and over-worked to his juniors. Who laugh subserviently
to conceal their indignation And grudging envy.

He is a mighty generous comrade

Brags about his christ-heart.
Being a proud donor of a few bastards
To guileless girls under him,
And believes his is a God-sanctioned mission
That dates back to Abraham.

He is a jolly good boss,

A perfect paragon of leadership.

Kitche O. Magak.

(a) What is the message of this poem?

(b) Give evidence from the poem which indicates that the juniors are suffering quietly
(2 marks)
(c) Explain the image in the line
“Dreamy and contented like an overfed phython” (3 marks)
(d) Identify and comment on two aspects of irony in the poem (4 marks)
(e) Explain the meaning of the following as used in the poem :
(I) Oblivion………..
(II) Guiless…………..
(III) God sanctioned mission…………..
(f) Identify two instances of alliteration in the poem (2 marks)
(g) Why are the last two lines in the poem significant (2 marks)

9. 2013 Q3 P1
(a) Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow.

DAY SEVENTEEN

FEBRUARY 6, 2009

i find myself

73
 looking at Black men
with different eyes

thinking things like

Act right fool, don't you know
we got a Black president!

i take Barack's
success & failure
personally
somehow
i feel as if

i represent him
as much as he
does me
From Auction Block to Oval Office: 100 Poems in
100 Days of Obama's Presidency by Kahlil
Almustafa.
New York: MVMT Publishing, 2009.

i. Identify one instance of alliteration in this poem (1 mark)

ii. Give two examples of assonance in this poem. (2 mark)
iii. How would you perform the lines in italics? (4 marks)
iv. Pronouns such as "him" and "me" are usually not stressed. Explain
why you would stress them in the last stanza. (1 mark)

(b) Identify any five pairs of words that are pronounced the same from
the list below. (5 marks)
phloem mad
floors Haws
berry coarse
clause mud
course cause
close cloze
bold bald
floss flame
phlegm bury

(c) For each of the following words, underline the part that is stressed.
col.league
regis.ter (verb)
ap.proach (noun)
alarm (noun)
a.buse (noun) (5 marks)

(d) Your school has organized a farewell party for the form four students.

74
 You have been asked at short notice to move a vote of thanks. This
will take the form of an impromptu speech. List the elements of your
speech in the order in which they will appear. (6 marks)

(e) Read the dialogue below and then answer the questions that follow.
REHEMA: Good morning, Aisha.
AISHA: Good morning.
REHEMA: (frowning) You don't look happy... What's the matter?
AISHA: I have just received a call from home, and...
REHEMA: Ah, these fellows from home are always calling. My mother also
called me.
AISHA: Well, in my case, it is bad news. My brother...
REHEMA: As I was saying, my mother called me, and all she wanted to
tell me is that they're fine.(shaking her head absentmindedly)
AISHA: My brother was involved in a car accident. But you're not listening...
REHEMA: What did you say?
AISHA: (despairingly) I give up.

i. What kind of listener is Rehema? Illustrate your answer. (4 marks)

ii. What should Rehema do to improve her listening skills? (2 marks)

9. 2013 Q3 P1
Read the poem below and answer the questions that follow.

OUT-CAST

They met by accident

He proposed the idea
She gave her consent
All the way to the altar

The casualty was male

And his pigment was pale
Unlike his alleged sire
Who was black with ire

The recourse was legitimate

He disclaimed responsibility
So they had to separate
The boy remains illegitimate

Last month, not long ago

They both took their go
coincidentally by accident
No will, no estate
Nothing to inherit

The poor boy is hardly ten

75
 And knows no next-of-kin
He roams the streets of town
Like a wind-sown out-cast

G. Gathemia .
(From: Boundless Voices).
Edited by Arthur I. Luvai

(a) Briefly explain what the poem is about. (4 marks)

(b) Have I ever met any time used dubious or understand methods?” rewrite
in reported speech (1 mark)
(c) Identify and explain three aspects of foregrounding the author uses in
this excerpt. (6 marks)
(d) Pick out a phrase in this excerpt that may suggest that peter stockman
exaggerates or even falsely accuses Dr. stockman of insubordination.
Explain your answer. (2 marks)

10. 2014 Q3 P2

Read the song below and then answer the questions that follow.
Listen! Dear Bride
Oh my sister, listen! From this day,
you won't go dancing, From this day,
you won't go to the dance, From this
day, you won't go dancing, You'll
dance only on the path to the river.
My sister, will you listen? From this
day, you won't sit chatting, From this
day, you won't sit to chat, From this
day, you won't sit chatting, You'll only
chat on the path to the farm.
Daughter of my mother listen! From
this day, you won't enjoy teasing, From
this day, you won't enjoy to tease,
From this day, you won't enjoy teasing,
You'll only tease the baby on your lap.

Listen, my dear sister! You'll dance

only on the path to the river. You'll
chat only on the path to the farm.

76
You'll tease only the baby on your lap.
From this day, life will change.

Have you heard, daughter of my

mother? You will not go dancing,
dance today. You will not sit chatting,
chat today. You will not enjoy teasing,
tease today. From this day, life will
change.

(a) Who do you think are the singers of this song? Give reasons for your answer,(3 marks)

(b) Identify two features which qualify this text as a song. (4 marks)

(c) Briefly explain what the society's expectations of a married woman are,
according to this song. ' (3 marks)

(d) Give two purposes that this song can serve. (4 marks)

(e) How do you think a bride responds when this song is sung during a wedding?
(3 marks)

(f) What is the relationship between the fourth stanza and the stanzas that come
before it? (2 marks)

(g) Explain the effect of using the phrase "daughter of my mother" instead of
"my sister". (1 mark)

11. 2015 Q3b-d P1

b. Read the poem below and then answer the questions that follow:

Reprise

Geniuses of countless nations

Have told their love for generations
Till all their memorable phrases
Are common as goldenrod or daisies.
Their girls have glimmered like the moon,
Or shimmered like the moon,
Stood like lily, fled like fawn,
Now the sunset, now the dawn,
Here the princess in the tower
There the forbidden flower.

77
 Darling, when I look at you
Every aged phrase is new
And there are moments when it seems
I’ve married one of the Shakespeare’s dreams.

By Ogden Nash in Literature.

Boston: McDougal Littell, 2008.

i. Describe the rhyme scheme in this poem and say what it does. (4mks)

ii. Identify and illustrate any two instances of alliteration in the poem. (2mks)

iii. Explain how you would perform the last four lines. (3mks)

(c) Examine the sets of the words below and on the basis of the pronunciation
of the vowel sounds that have been highlighted, pick the odd one out.

i. Leopard iv. Neither

Jeopardy either
Deodorant neighbour

ii. Audience v. gone

Haunt tone
Loud bone

iii. Said vi. food

Paid fool
Laid book

(d) On your way home from school, you meet a lady who tells you that she
is new in the neighbourhood. She requests you to give her directions to
the nearest police station. How would you ensure that the directions you
give enable her to reach her destination? (6 marks)

78
 COMPREHENSION
1. 2006 P2

Read the passage below and then answer the questions that follow.
During the last couple of decades, the developing world has made enormous economic
progress. This can be seen most clearly in the rising trend of incomes and consumption: between
1965 and 1985 consumption per capita in the developing world went up by almost 70 percent.
Broader measures of well-being confirm this picture-life expectancy, child mortality, and educational
attainment have all improved markedly.
Against that background of achievement, it is all the more staggering-and all the more
shameful-that more than one billion people in the developing world are living in poverty. Progress in
raising average incomes however welcome, must not distract attention from this massive and
continuing burden of poverty.
The same is true of the broader measures of well-being. Life expectancy in Sub-Saharan
Africa is just 50 years, in Japan it is almost 80 more than 110 million children in the developing
world lack access even to primary education while in the developed world, anything less than
universal enrollment would rightly be regarded as unacceptable. The starkness of these contrasts
attests to the continuity toll of human deprivation.
It should be noted that even in the developing world, poverty levels differ from region to
region, country to country and even location to location within same country. For example, nearly
half of the world’s poor live in South Asia, a region that accounts for less than one third of the
world’s population. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for a smaller, but still highly disproportionate
share of global poverty- Within regions and countries, the poor are often concentrated in certain

79
places: in rural areas with high population densities. Often, the problems of poverty, population, and
the environment are intertwined; earlier patterns of development and pressure of rapidly expanding
populations mean that many of the poor live in areas of acute environmental degradation.
It is also true that the weight of poverty falls heavily on certain groups. Women in general are
disadvantaged. This is because in poor households, they often shoulder more of the workload than
men, are less educated, and have less access to remunerative activities. Children, too suffer
disproportionately, and the future quality of their lives is compromised by inadequate nutrition,
health care, and education. This is especially true quality of their lives is compromised by inadequate
nutrition, health care, and education. This is especially true for girls, for their primary school
enrolment rates are less than 50 percent in many African countries.
Obviously, reducing poverty is the fundamental objective of the economic development in
any country. It is estimated that in 1985, more than one billion people in the developing world lived
in absolute poverty. Clearly then, economic development has a long way to go. Knowledge about the
poor is essential if governments are to adopt sound development strategies and more effective
policies for attacking poverty. How many poor are there? Where do they live? What are their precise
economic circumstances? Answering these questions is the first step toward understanding the
impact of economic policies on the poor.
a) What evidence does the author give to show that incomes and consumption trends are rising
in the developing world? (2 marks)
b) How does the author feel about the progress made so far by the developing world? (2 marks)
c) Why does the author mention Japan? (1 mark)
d) What is odd about the poverty situation in South Asia? (2 marks)
e) Explain the relationship between poverty and a high population (3 marks)
f) Rewrite the following sentence in the singular
“They are also less educated, and have less access to remunerative activity” (1 mark)
g) Why is a girl doubly disadvantaged in a poor country? (3 marks)
h) In about 55 words, summaries, the main argument of the author (4 marks)
i) Explain the meaning of the following words as used in the passage (2 marks)
Staggering
Compromised
2. 2007 P2

Read the passage below and then answer the questions that follow
You may think that expecting food to change your life is too much to ask. But have you
considered that eating the right food at the right time will increase energy, help you
manage weight and ward off major illness?

80
Researchers have found that eating a meal with plenty of protein leaves you feeling more
satisfied for longer when compared to a meal loaded with low - quality carbohydrates.
Your body takes longer to digest protein, leading to a gradual increase in blood sugar.

The high protein breakfast will therefore carry you through the morning and more
importantly, through your tea break, many high carbohydrate meals are absorbed quickly
and send blood sugar on a roller coaster ride, taking your appetite with it and depleting
your energy.
Many foods contain antioxidants, but fruits and vegetables may be the richest source.
Behaving like chemical warriors, antioxidants neutralize molecules known as free radicals
before they damage arteries and body cells. This protects you from heart diseases, high blood
pressure, cancer and diabetes. You can now see why antioxidant foods should be consumed
in generous portions
Actually, forget pills – antioxidants work best when consumed in foods. In fact, nutritionists
recommend that we eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. It’s less daunting
than it sounds: a portion equals a piece of fruit, three tablespoons of cooked vegetables or a
glass of fresh juice.
And do you desire to relive yourself of some baggage? Calcium is the latest weight – loss
star to appear on the scene. Scientists stumbled on its magic by accident. From s study that
measured the blood pressure of obese people. It was discovered that those who took one
large tub of yoghurt a day in their diet lost an average of eleven pounds of body fat in one
year, even though they did not eat less.
A follow- up study found that people on a high calcium diet lost weight and fat than did
people on a low – calcium diet - and again, both consumed the same number of calories.
Researchers believe calcium encourages fat cells to stop “ getting father” instead, the cells
burn extra fat without you having to go anywhere near a gymnasium.
It probably sounds strange to say that you can eat more in order to lose weight.
Obviously, the question you should ask immediately is, “Eat more of what?” We are
talking about foods rich in fibre. They have what is referred to as low- energy density; that
translates to few calories relative to weight. This means that you can down a mountain
without fear of calories overload.
Fibre also aids weight loss because it’s filling. Most high - fibre foods take a lot of chewing,
triggering your body’s fullness sensors. Moreover, you absorb the food more slowly so you
feel full longer.
Will the wonders of food ever cease? Not if researchers in nutrition keep their pace. Let
them keep the good news flowing- such as the fact that we don’t have to starve ourselves to
lose weight and keep diseases at bay.
(Adapted from Reader’s Digest, January 2004

(a) From the information given in the first paragraph, how can you improve
your life? (1 mark)

81
 (b) In not more than 35 words, summarize the effects of eating carbohydrates
(4 marks)
(c) Explain how free radicals contribute to the occurrence of high blood
pressure and cancer (2 marks)
(d) In what two forms can antioxidants be consumed (2 marks)

(e) In fact, nutritionists recommend that we eat five portions of fruit and
vegetable a day.”
(f) What is the attitude of the author towards calcium as a weight – cutting
measure? (3 marks)
(g) According to the passage, how can you use up excess fat? (2 marks)

(h) Identify an instance of irony in the passage (2 marks)

(i) Explain the meaning of the following expressions as used in the passage (3 marks)
Daunting
Baggage
Down a mountain

3. 2008 P 2

For Africans living abroad, nothing is more irritating than the constant diet of negative news on
Africa. The only silver lining is that Africa is way down the list of news importance for the Western
media. Most of the time Africa is ignored but when it does make it into the newspapers, radio or TV,
then it is always portrayed as sinking in corruption, wars, famine and disease. If you set out to find a
positive story on Africa, you may have to wait until your grand children have grown old.
What is more unfortunate is that whereas the rest of the world is divided into nations, Africa is
lumped into one big sorry mass. A civil war in a tiny country in Africa elicits screaming headlines
such as “Africa returns to barbarity”. Civil wars in Europe are not European civil wars but civil ears
in Bosnia, Sebia and so on. No one bothers to mention that out of Africa’s 54 countries, only two
may be engaged in civil wars. That means 52 countries are peaceful. But the impression you get
from the Western media is that all of Africa is at war with itself.
The same goes for diseases, especially aids. Hardly does a week go by without the ‘experts’ from
the West predicting how Africa’s entire population will be wiped out in fifty years’ time. If all the
predictions made about the impact of Aids had been correct, most African countries would have been
entirely depopulated by now.
According to the Western media, Africa is corrupt . All of Africa, all the time. It is interesting to
note that in America, for example, only the executives of a given company are said to be corrupt
while all African leader are seen as being irredeemably corrupt.

82
The point being put across is that Africa is guilty unless proven innocent. Western journalists
assigned to cover Africa are in most cases the most junior and the least experienced in the
organization. They are given this version of a ‘Hopeless Continent’ for so long that when they land
in any African country, they immediately set out to confirm their prejudices. And you can always
find what you are looking for.
The situation is similar to the search for weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. In Africa, Western
journalists set out to find corruption, decay and mismanagement. And if they cannot find it, they will
invent it on the basis that “ it must be there somewhere”
The causes of this generalized negative view of Africa are complex. When you confront Western
journalists, they deny that their view of Africa is prejudiced. They are probably telling the truth
because they report what they see- but they see what they want to see. And what they want to see,
subconsciously is a version of backward, primitive and uncivilized Africa.
So, while we feel irritated and even angered by the Western media’s portrayal of Africa, we must
remember that many journalists cannot help but see Africa the way they programmed to do. The
only way this can change is if the programming is changed. But how do you go about doing so?
The first step is to create space for dialogue between the Western media and Africans. It is during
such discussions that Africans will be able to tell their side of the story. If this happens, then the
Western media will see Africa as we do –a glorious continent full of promise but going through a
rough time at present.
(Adapted from African Business, May 2004)

a) What is the likelihood of finding a positive story on Africa? (2 marks)

b) Why are Bosnia and Serbia mentioned? (3 marks)
c) Why is the word “experts” on the third paragraph put within quotation marks? (3 marks)
d) Rewrite the following sentence to begin: Had….
“If all the predictions made about the impact of Aids had been correct, most
African countries would have been entirely depopulated by now.” (1 mark)
e) According to the passage is Africa more corrupt that America? Explain
your answer. (3 marks)

f) Give two reasons why African stories are mainly assigned to the most junior and
inexperienced journalists (4 marks)
g) How can we tell that the author is an African? (2 marks)
h) Explain the meaning of the following expressions as used in the passage: (3 marks)
Silver lining
Sorry
Irredeemably

83
4. 2009 P2

Read the passage below and then answer the questions that follow.
In the eighteenth century, the field of science was virtually closed to women. In France, the
countess wrote a highly regarded book about Newtonian physical, built its very excellence
spoke against her. The manuscript was so good that it was widely assumed that it had been
written by the countess’s tutor rather than by the countess herself. Sadly enough, the tutor
Samuel Konig, did nothing to discourage the rumours about the book’s authorship. Instead,
he took full credit for the countess efforts. In England, the leading nation in science, the
situation was worse. Women were strictly prohibited from admission to scientific societies.
Indeed, the English denied women access to all forms of scientific study.

Italy, however, was something of an exception to the general European rule, and a number of
provincial scientific societies did admit women. It is perhaps not surprising then, that the one
woman who crashed the barriers erected against her gender was an Italian, Laura Bassi (1711
– 1778). Bassi actually became a respected scientific figure at a time when women were
generally thought to be too intellectually limited for the rigors of scientific study. By all
accounts, she thoroughly disapproved the sexist notion that women and the sciences were
opposed to one another.

Bassi was one of the lucky women of her era. Her father was an enlightened lawyer in
Bologna, Italy, who believed that women should be educated. Thus, young Laura was

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schooled by the family physician, Gaetano Tacconi. By the age of twenty she was familiar
with the scientific concepts of the times, particularly Newtonian physics. Because her father
encouraged her to display her erudition at social gatherings, Bassi’s reputation as a learned
woman grew. Tested by a group of professors and scholars gatherings, Bassi’s reputation as a
learned woman grew. Tested by a group of professors and scholars anxious to prove that a
woman could not possibly be so clever, Bassi astonished the skeptics with her intelligence,
learning and eloquence. Local scholars were so impressed that in 1731 they invited her to join
the Bologna Institute of sciences and to study for a degree at the University of Bologna. On
May 12, 1732, Bassi became only the second woman ever to gain an academic degree. A few
months later, she became the world’s first female professor.

But despite her breakthrough, those in charge of the University of Bologna had very rigid
ideas about what Bassi could or could not do as a professor. For example, she had no say over
her schedule. To the University’s leaders, she was an intriguing oddity. They might trot her
out for display to curious visiting scholars, but they would not let her lecture on a regular
basis. Nor, for that matter, could she pursue her own tusides or research. Still, Bassi was not
an easy woman to control, and to a degree, she managed to go her own way.

In 1749, to escape university restrictions, Bassi began offering private lessons in

experimental physics. She also began championing Newtonian physics at a time when it was
relatively unknown in Italy and she promoted Newton’s finding about gravity even in the face
of widespread intellectual resistance. In addit…, Bassi corresponded with the leading
physicist of the day. Thus she kept her country abreast of new scientistfic theories.

In 1776 when Bassi was sixty-five, the university acknowledged her contributions to
scientific thought by bestowing upon her an unheard of honour for a woman: She was
appointed chair of experimental physics, and her husband, the father of her eight children,
was appointed her assistant.

Contrary to expectation, Bassi’s achievements did not pave the way for other women. This is
because many of her male colleagues had been disturbed by her extraordinary progress and
were reluctant to let any other female follow in her footsteps. After Bassi’s death in 1778, it
took more than a century, and the arrival of Marie Curie, for another woman to find herself at
home in the male-dominated world of science.

Adapted from Reading for Results by Laraine Fleming (2008) New York: Houghton
Miffin

(a) Why was it widely assumed that the contess’s tutor had written the book
on Newtonian physics?

(b) In what way was France better than England in the treatment of women
interested in the sciences? (3 marks)
(c) Rewrite the following sentence using the word “surprisingly”. (1 mark)

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(d) According to the passage, what was a professor expected to do? (3 marks)
(e) For what selfish purpose did the university of Bologna use Bassi? (2 marks)
(f) What evidence is given to show that Bassi was difficult to control? (3 marks)
(g) Why do you think the author mentions the fact that Bassi had eight children? (3 marks)
(h) Explain the meaning of the following expressions as used in the passage. (3 marks)
Eruditing
To a degree
Find herself at home

5. 2010 P2

Read the passage below and then answer the questions that follow,

Moving to a new country can be an exciting, even exhilarating experience. In a new

environment, you somehow feel more alive: seeing new sights, eating new food, hearing the
foreign sounds of a new language, and feeling a different climate against your skin stimulate
your senses as never before. Soon, however, this sensory bombardment becomes sensory
overload. Suddenly, new experiences seem stressful rather than stimulating, and delight turns
into discomfort. This is the phenomenon known as culture shock. Culture shock is more than jet
lag or homesickness, and it affects nearly everyone who enters a new culture - tourists, business
travellers, diplomats and students alike. Although not everyone experiences culture shock in
exactly the same way, many experts agree that it has roughly five stages.

In the first stage, you are excited by your new environment. You experience some simple
difficulties such as trying to use the telephone or public transportation, but you consider these
small challenges that you can quickly overcome. Your feelings about the new culture are
positive, so you are eager to make contact with people and to try new foods.

Sooner or later, differences in behaviour and customs become more noticeable to you. This is
the second stage of culture shock. Because you do not know the social customs of the new
culture, you may find it difficult to make friends. For instance, you do not understand how to

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make "small talk," so it is hard to carry on a casual, get-acquainted conversation. One day in
the school cafeteria, you overhear a conversation. You understand all the words, but you do not
understand the meaning. Why is everyone laughing? Are they laughing at you or at some joke
that you did not understand? Also, you aren't always sure how to act while shopping. Is this
store self-service or should you wait for a clerk to assist you? If you buy a sweater in the wrong
size, can you exchange it? These are not minor challenges; they are major frustrations.

In the third stage, you no longer have positive feelings about the new culture. You feel that you
have made a mistake in coming here. Making friends hasn't been easy, so you begin to feel
lonely and isolated. Now you want to be with familiar people and eat familiar food. You begin
to spend most of your free time with students from your home country, and you eat in
restaurants that serve your native food. In fact, food becomes an obsession, and you spend a
lot of time planning, shopping for, and cooking food from home.

You know that you are in the fourth stage of culture shock when you have negative feelings
about almost everything. In this stage, you actively reject the new culture. You become critical,
suspicious, and irritable. You believe that people are unfriendly, that your landlord is trying to
cheat you, that your teachers do not like you, and that the food is making you sick. In fact,
you may actually develop stomach-aches, headaches, sleeplessness, lethargy, or other physical
symptoms.

Finally, you reach the fifth stage. As your language skills improve, you begin to have some
success in meeting people and in negotiating situations. You are able to exchange the sweater
that was too small, and you can successfully chat about the weather with a stranger on the
bus. Your self-confidence grows. After realizing that you cannot change your surroundings,
you begin to accept the differences and tolerate them.

For instance the food will never be as tasty as the food in your home country, but you are now
able to eat and sometimes even enjoy many dishes. You may not like the way some people in
your host country dress or behave in public, but you do not regard their clothes and behaviour
as wrong -just different.

In conclusion, nearly everyone moving to a new country feels some degree of culture shock.
Symptoms may vary, and not all people experience all five stages. Newcomers with a strong
support group may feel at home immediately in the new culture, while others may take
months to feel comfortable. Staying in touch with friends and family, keeping a positive
attitude, and, above all, learning the language as soon as possible are ways to overcome the
difficulties and frustrations of adapting to life in a new land.

From: Writing Academic English, Alice Oshima and Ann Hogue, Pearson Education,
Longman (2006)

(a) According to the passage, what is the meaning of culture shock? (2 marks)
(b) Identify any three factors that can cause culture shock. (3 marks)

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(c) What evidence does the author give to show "you understand all the words,
but you do not understand the meaning"? (2
marks)

(d) Give any three features that characterize a person in the worst state of culture shock.
(3 marks)
(e) In note form, give the difficulties experienced in the second stage of culture shock. (4 marks)
(f) Why is making friends helpful in overcoming culture shock? (2 marks)
(g) Explain the meaning of the following words as used in the passage: (3 marks)
alive
obsession
negotiating
(h) Staying in touch with friends and family, keeping a positive attitude, and, above all,
learning the language as soon as possible are ways to overcome the difficulties and
frustrations of adapting to life in a new land.

(Rewrite the sentence above without changing the meaning. Begin: You ....) (1 mark)

6. 2012 Q1 P2

Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow.

Some fifteen thousand years ago an artist drew on the walls of a cave in Spain a picture of his
Stone-Age neighbour robbing a bees' nest of its golden store. In the centuries that have since
gone by, no one has ever discovered or invented a purer and sweeter food than honey.

Because of its chief ingredient, Levulose, or "fruit sugar", honey is almost twice as sweet as
cane sugar. Table sugar, like salt, has but one taste. Every honey has its own. It would take an
epicure's lifetime to discover, sample and enjoy all the possible vintages that bees distil from
the thousands of species of nectar-bearing plants.

Honey is the purest of all foods. When properly ripened, its concentration of sugar is so high
that bacteria cannot live in it for more than an hour or two. It is said that in one of the royal
Egyptian tombs was found honey that was thirty-three hundred years old - darkened and
thickened by time, but pure honey still. No knavery can corrupt honey without detection. If
diluted with water, it ferments. Nor can the wax of the honeycomb, product of the bees' own
glands, be successfully imitated.

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This ancient and mysterious food is one of the wonders of the world, the product of an
intricate relation between bees; the high peak of insect evolution, and flowers, the loveliest
part of the green world. Nature has adapted the forms of flowers to entice bees, and the
bodies of bees to fit and pollinate the flowers and to use their pollen and nectar. Some ten
thousand species of flowers would be extinct but for the bees, and bees could not live without
the flowers.

The honey bee is the most faithful and provident of the flowers' lovers. While a butterfly or a
bird would move from flower to flower, a honey-bee is loyal to one sort of flower at a time.
So she brings to each bloom none but its specific pollen, and she makes but one kind of
honey at a time.

At the height of the nectar flow in late spring and early summer, bees literally kill themselves
with work. It is the destiny of every good worker to die flying, straggling to bring back one
last load to the hive. It takes about three hundred pounds of honey just to keep one colony
alive; thus to gather a surplus, so that you and I may have some, the hive's workers must fly
many million miles more.

Each drop of nectar is an ocean holding minerals, enzymes and foods. It contains traces of
iron, copper, manganese, potassium, sodium, phosphorous, proteins and vitamins. This
explains why many diabetics can tolerate honey but not table sugar, and why it helps babies
to retain calcium and so grow stronger limbs and better teeth.

Only certain plants with truly exquisite nectars produce a honey you would want to eat. Many
others yield nectar from which are made dark-coloured, strong flavoured honeys that bakers
and confectioners use in immense quantities. Tobacco companies buy millions of pounds of
low-grade honey a year for preserving, flavouring, moistening and mellowing tobacco.

Such honeys also go into lotions and cough medicines. For thousands of years connoisseurs
have been
buying their honey with Discrimination. The ancient Athenians got their most delicate honey
from Mt. Hymettis. It was famous because it came from a little wild flower called thyme.

Perfect as it is as a food, honey is more; it is a slow-formed, perfect drop upon a growing

tip of evolution. To take that drop upon the tongue is to partake of a sacrament with
nature.

(Adapted from New Horizons in English. A course for secondary schools,

Book 4 by Alice Kiai et al, E.A.E. Publishers.

(a) What amazing fact about honey do we learn from the first paragraph?
(2 marks)
(b) Why is the bees' nest described as "golden store"? (2 marks)

(c) Using information in the third paragraph, summarize the unique

89
 qualities of honey in not more than fifty words. (4 marks)

(d) In what ways are bees and flowers interdependent (3 marks)

(e) This ancient and mysterious food is one of the wonders of the world.
(Re-write adding a question tag) (1 mark)

(f) What is the writer's attitude towards the bee?

Give reasons from the passage to support your answer. (3 marks)

(g) Identify and explain the metaphor in the seventh paragraph. (3 marks)

(h) Explain the meaning of the following words as used in the passage.
Chief ……………………………………………… (1 mark)

Knavery. ……………………………………………… (1 mark)

7. 2013 Q1 P2

Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow. (20 marks)

To understand garbage, both industrial and domestic, you have to touch it, feel it and smell it.
You have to pick through hundreds of tons of it, counting and weighing all the daily
newspapers, the directories, the soiled diapers, the lipstick cylinders coated with grease, the
medicine vials still encasing brightly coloured pills, the forsaken toys, and cigarette butts.
You have to sort and weigh
the volume of all the organic matter, discards from thousands of plates: rice; ugali; fish heads
to which justice has hardly been done; rotting water melons bleeding from gaping holes; the
half
eaten bananas, mostly still within their peels, black and incomparably sweet in the embrace of
the final decay.

To understand garbage, you need thick gloves, a mask and a vibrant immune system.
However, the knowledge harvested from a dumpsite makes up for the grim working
conditions. To an archaeologist, ancient garbage pits are among the happiest finds. Every

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archaeologist dreams of discovering spectacular objects - but the bread and butter work of
archaeology involves the most common and routine kinds of discards.

Interestingly, much conventional wisdom about garbage and its disposal consists of myths
and assertions that turn out, upon investigation, to be misleading or dead wrong. For example,
plastics are assumed to constitute the highest quantity of waste matter. For the record, the
item most frequently encountered in a dumpsite is plain old paper. At one point, there was a
lot of talk about how technology, computers in particular, would bring about "paperless
office" -- a risky prediction, given the way things have turned out. Personal computers and
printers grace many offices and homes today. Consequently, where the creation of paper
waste is concerned, technology is proving to be a fertility drug rather than a contraceptive.

Concerning plastics, it is true that the number of plastic objects has been increasing over the
years. Nevertheless, the proportion of space they take up in a dumpsite has hardly changed.
The explanation appears to be the result of what is called "light-weighting" - making objects
in such a way that they retain all their functional characteristics but require the use of less
resin. These days, even the plastic in disposable diapers ensures that they enter the house very
light but leave it much heavier than ever before. The result is that many more plastic items
can be squeezed into a given volume.

Plastics are the Great Satan: gaudy, cheap, a convenient scapegoat for people who claim we
waste and consume too much. Although it is paper more than anything else that is filling up
the dumpsites, in its defense one frequently hears the claim that paper biodegrades while
plastic remains inert and will take up space until the end of time.

Not really

The reality is that the dynamics of a modern dumpsite are very nearly the opposite of what
most people think. Biologically and chemically, a dumpsite is much more static than we
commonly assume. For some kinds of garbage, biodegradation goes on for a while and then
slows down to a virtual standstill. For other kinds, biodegradation never gets underway at all.

[Adapted from "Five Major Myths about Garbage , and Why they Are Wrong" by
William Rathje and Cullen Murphy, appearing in The Presence of Others (1994).
New York: St Martins Press]

(a) From paragraph one, name two examples of industrial waste and two
examples of domestic waste. (1 mark)

(b) According to the passage, how does a banana change as it rots? (2 marks)

(c) Why do you think a vibrant immune system is said to be important in

understanding garbage? (2 marks)

(d) In the following sentence replace the underlined expression with one word. (1 mark)

91
 I however, the knowledge harvested from a dumpsite makes up for the
grim working conditions

(e) Why do you think the author puts the words "paperless office" in
quotation marks? (2 marks)

(f) Explain how technology has become a fertility drug rather than a
contraceptive. (3 marks)
(g) What can we inter about resin? (2 marks)

(h) In point form, summarize the reasons why the author feels paper waste
poses a greater danger to the environment than plastics. (4 marks)

Rough Copy

fair Copy

(i) Explain the meaning of each of the following expressions as used in the passage.
(3 marks)
bread and butler work
static;
gets underway

8. 2014 Q1 P2

Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow.
Developers' bulldozers have been levelling thousands of acres of rain forest every day
in recent years to make way for human habitation. As a result, one plant or animal species a
day is added to the list of those that have become extinct on this planet. This destruction must
stop. Rain forests must be protected because they offer the human race many irreplaceable
resources.
Rain forests are a special category of forests found only in the tropical regions of the
world, usually close to the equator. True to their name, rain averages 80 inches a year in these
forests. This rain, coupled with the warm tropical temperatures, creates dense lush vegetation.
Little light gets through to the ground, but on the canopy and immediately below on the trees.
plant and insect life abounds and is rich with benefits for humanity.
One major use of rain forests is biomedical. The plants and animals found there are a
source of many rare compounds used by pharmaceutical companies. It is the products of such
companies that sufferers of Parkinson's disease and certain mental conditions have to thank.
And the discoveries have just begun. Scientists say that rain forests contain over a thousand

92
plants that have great anticancer potential. To destroy life forms in these forests is to deprive
the human race of further medical advance.
Another reason for saving rain forests is the crucial role they play in maintaining the
global natural balance. Living organisms exist with each other, meaning that when one is
eliminated, another can over-multiply to the detriment of the environment. For example,
when developers clear forested areas to make way for "civilization", birds lose their nesting
sites and no longer eat the insects there. These insects flourish and attack farm crops. The
subsequent destruction oi agriculture causes a serious food shortage and as we know, a
hungry nation cannot develop.
Most important, rain forests must be protected because their trees regulate the planet's
oxygen supply. They help to balance atmospheric conditions by manufacturing oxygen and
absorbing carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide creates what is called the "greenhouse" effect, a
process that is responsible for global warming which in turn could lead to the sub-merging oi
coastal regions and islands. Can you imagine waking up one morning to the announcement
that Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu and Rusinga Islands are no more?
Also, rain forests regulate the climate. If they are destroyed, the greenhouse effect
could change rainfall patterns so that areas formally used for agriculture become deserts. We
may not be there yet, but are we not already contending with uncharacteristic long dry spells
that bring about famine?
In future, the pressure on rain forests will become worse, not better, given that the
human population keeps growing. The pessimist believes nothing can be done. The optimist,
on the other hand, strongly believes that people can work together to slow, even reverse, the
pace of destruction. Stand up to be counted.

(a) Referring to the first paragraph, say why the destruction of the rain forests
must be stopped. (2 marks)

(b) Why are the forests described in the passage called rain forests? (2 marks)

(c) Rewrite the following sentence beginning "So close ...."

The huge evergreen trees are so close together that their branches overlap
and form an enormous towering canopy. (1 mark)

(d) How will medical advance be affected by the destruction of rain forests? (3 marks)

(e) Explain why the author has put the word "civilization" between quotation
marks. (2 marks)
(f) In not more than 40 words, summarize the effects of the greenhouse effect.
(4 marks)
Rough copy
Fair copy

93
(g) What kind of pressure do you think the author is talking about in the last
paragraph? (2 marks)

(h) Explain the meaning of the following expressions as used in the passage:
(4 marks)
(i) deprive;
(ii) detriment;
(iii) contending with
(iv) Stand up to be counted.

9. 2015 Q1 P2

Read the passage below and then answer the questions that follow. (20 marks)

Most people believe that when someone is lying they smile more than usual, but research
shows the opposite is true-they smile less. The difficulty with lying is that the subconscious
mind acts automatically and independently of our verbal lie, so our body language gives us
away.

This is why people who rarely tell lies are usually caught, regardless of how convincing they
may sound. The moment they begin to lie, their body sends out nervous energy which
appears as a gesture that can contradict what was said.

Professional liars, have refined their body gestures to the point where it is difficult to ‘’serve
the lie, and people fall for it, hook, line, and sinker. They do it in one of the two ways. First
they practice what’’feel’’like the right gestures when they tell the lie, but this only works
when they have practiced telling a lot of lies over long periods of time. Second, they can

94
reduce the gesturing so that they don’t use any positive or negative gestures while lying, but
that’s also has to do.

Try this simple test-tell a deliberate lie to someone face –to-face and make a conscious effort
to suppress all body gestures. Even when your body gestures are consciously suppressed
numerous small micro-gestures will still be transmitted. These include facial muscular
twitching dilation and contraction of pupils, sweating, flushed cheeks, eye-blinking rate
increasing from blinks per minute to as many as 50blinks per minute, and many other micro-
signals that indicate deceit. Research using slow –motion cameras shows that these micro-
gestures can occur with a split second and it’s only people such as professional interviewers,
salespeople, and the very perceptive who can read them.

Its obvious then that to be able to lie successfully you need to have your body hidden or out
of sight. Police interrogation often involves placing ` the person on a chair in the open
placing him under these circumstances. Lying is easier if you’re sitting behind a desk where
your body is partially hidden, orif you’re peering over a fence, or from behind a closed door.
The best way to lie is over the telephone or in an email.

(Adapted from the Body language by Alan and Barbara Pease. London: Orion, 2004)

a) According to the passage, what is the connection between lying and smiling?
(2 marks)

b) According to the passage, how do professional liars manage to hide their deception?
(4 marks)
c) The passage suggests a simple test which involves telling a deliberate lie and
consciously suppressing all body gestures. What are the results? (2 marks)

d) Explain how police interrogators use their knowledge of how body

language relates to spoken language. (2 marks)

e) Make notes on the relationship between lying and our body languages as
revealed in the passage. (5 marks)

f) How can we tell that the authors of this passage do not approve of lying? (2marks)

g) The subconscious mind sends out nervous energy.

Rewriting beginning: nervous (1 mark)

h) Explain the meaning of each of the following as used in the passage.

i. Fall for it, hook, line and sinker ; (1mark)

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 ii. Perceptive. (1mark)

LITERACY APPRECIATION
1. 2009 P2

Read the story below and then answer the questions that follow:
Hare, the cleverest and funniest of animals, was once on good terms with Elephant and
Hippo. He knew very well that he was weaker than his mighty friends, yet oddly enough he
was always seeking ways of showing that he was, in fact much stronger than they.
While drinking at the lakeshore one day, he met Hippo, “How are you, brother, you big-for-
nothing brute?” he began. “I’ve been waiting a long time to prove how much stronger than
you I am. It’s time you recognized your betters and gave me the respect I deserve.”
“What!” Hippo retorted, unable to believe his ears, “do you really dare to address me like
that, you worthless little creature? Have you forgotten I’m the biggest and strongest of all the
water creatures?”
Hare’s reply was deliciously cool. “You may well be,” he said, “but I’m the strongest of all
animals, wherever they live; and from now on be sure you remember it. If you want to see
how weak you are, let’s meet here in three days’ time and try a little tug-of-war. I promise
you I’ll haul you clean out of the lake into the forest”. Such imprudence infuriated Hippo.

96
 “Stop this idle prattle” he retorted. “Go home and eat for a few years. You will need to
before you start dreaming of pulling me from the lake.”
And so they parted. Now as it happened, Hare , as yet, had no idea how he could outwit
Hippo. He spent the remainder of the day deep in thought. By late afternoon the rather
obvious idea of tying one end of the rope to a tree-trunk was taking root in his mind when
suddenly his friend Elephant appeared. His mind raced like the wind. “Hello, you long-eared
oaf!” he shoured. Why on earth do you keep swinging your snout like that?”
Elephant was no amused. He replied in rather hurt tones. “What’s wrong with you today,
Hare?” he asked. “Have you taken leave of your senses? You sound like someone who’s
never slept a night in his grandfather’s house. Have you forgotten how to respect you elders?”
Hare pretended that he had, “stump-footed fool!”he roared. Don’t talk such nonsense. It’s you
who should recognize your betters and one day I’ll teach you how.”
Elephant was growing weary. “Look, I’m busy today,” he said, “run along and find a child to
play with – someone like yourself.”
Hare pretended that he had. “Stump-footed fool” he roared. “Don’t talk such nonsense. It’s
you who should recognize your betters and one day I’ll teach you how.”
Elephant was growing weary. “look, I’m busy today,” he said, “run along and find a child to
play with – someone like yourself.”

Hare now pushed out his tiny chest, quite swollen with self-confidence. “All right” he
showed, I’ll offer you a challenge. Come here in three days and I’ll prove I’m stronger than
you by dragging that great canvass of yours out of the forest and into the lake. “And without
more ado, he turned on his heels and bounced off into the forest.
Three days later, Hare took the longest rope he could find and ran to the shore to find Hippo.
He gave his friend one end, saying, “Here, catch this and hold tight. Do nothing until you
hear a horn blowing: then pull as hard as you can. “Taking the rope, Hippo sank back
complacently into the water, his big eyes twinkling merrily on the surface of the lake. The
rope’s other end Hare carried to Elephant who, reliable and punctual as ever, was waiting in
the forest. Raising his voice to his huge friend, Hare shouted, “Hold this and stay put. Don’t
pull until you hear a horn blowing. Now I’m off to drag you into the lake.”
And away he sped, hiding himself in a clump of bushes where he enjoyed a clear view of
both animals. In the forest, Elephant waited patiently; in the lake Hippo smiled to himself,
convinced in his heart that it was all just a bad joke. Hare now blew his horn, and with a
crashing of trees and a wild cascading of water, the colossal beasts began their tug-of-war.
Hour upon hour the struggle went on, forest and shore echoing to the noise of their furious
grunting and trumpeting. At last seeing his friends reduced to complete exhaustion, Hare
again blew the horn and told them to stop.
Then quickly rolling in the dust, he ran down to the shore and addressed himself to Hippo.
“Brother,” he began, “I hope you now realize your mistake. You see, I’m not only clever but
remarkably strong as well. From now on perhaps you’ll respect me.” They shook hands and
parted, Hare leaving his friend to go to Elephant. “Well, you wouldn’t believe me,” he said,
speaking boldly to Elephant, “Now you’ve learnt your lesson. You may be as big as a

97
mountain, but basically you’re a weakling.” Puzzled and dumbfounded, Elephant shook his
head, and after reluctantly shaking hands, humbered away into the forest.
(From Keep My Words by Onyango-Ogutu and A.A. Roscoe) EAEP Ltd.

(a)From the first paragraph how can we tell that Hare was not contented with
his state. (2 marks)
(b)From the information in paragraph 5, explain what Hippo’s attitude towards
Hare is. (3 marks)
(c)Rewrite the following sentence in your own words:
“Now as it happened, Hare, as yet had no idea how he could outwit Hippo” (1 mark)

(d)In about forty word, summarize Elephant’s feelings about Hare. (6 marks)
(e)Both Hippo and Elephant do what Hare says. What does this prove? (3 marks)
(f)Explain the meaning of the following expressions as they are used in the story:
(i)Imprudence (1 mark)
(ii) taking root (1 mark)
(iii) lumbered (1 mark)

2. 2014 Q2 PP2

Read the excerpt below and then answer the questions that follow.
The day finally arrived and it was a day as full of beauty as the day in which Owuor
Kembo of Sakwa, in full battle regalia and a leopard skin loin piece had come to pay suit to
the great chief Odero Gogni of Yimbo for the hand of his daughter Akoko Obanda. Yet some
things were different. A stone's throw away was the church with its tall steeple bearing a
cross at the top - a symbol of the new and different way of life, yet in some ways reminiscent
of the reverence once paid to Were the god of the eye of the rising sun who had guided the
people. Further along was the school -the place of learning without which one was as a blind
man in a strange house. All round was evidence of the rule of the white people who were
good administrators but often unjust and unheeding to the pleas and aspirations of their black
subjects. Indeed in the Central Province and in Nairobi especially among the kikuyu, there
were rumours of mass uprising against the colonial powers.
Oloo the son of Sigu, otherwise known as Mark Anthony, arrived with his entourage of
six including his uncle, at mid-morning. Aware of the importance and the impact of presence
and carriage he arrived in his military fatigues, a colobus monkey headdress and a spear in
his hand. He was after all a soldier. It was an intriguing combination of the old and the new.

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Anyone else might have looked odd but Oloo looked dashing. His complexion was
deceptively light and it drew questioning glances from his hosts and hostesses. Had their
daughter decided to marry a ja-mwa- a foreigner? Apart from Akoko who must have left her
mother's womb with a board outlook, all of them were strictly parochial and marriage to
even a Luhya from across the border was considered a catastrophe. It was therefore a relief
when the suitors broke into pure Luo with the dialect of the middle region of Ramogi. Their
daughter was a prize, a beacon, a source of pride for the entire clan. They simply could not
bear giving her away to a stranger.
"Brothers, we greet you and bring you many greetings from the people of Seme. My
nephew, Oloo, son of my late brother Sigu, came to me and said: 'Father, I have found a girl
and I want to get married'. Now I am a reasonable man and I know the ways of Chik, so I
asked him: 'Son, one does not just find a girl in the air. One sends a jawan 'gyo to go and spy
a girl and find out her antecedents and character. Is she a thief or a witch? Is she lazy or
shiftless? Might there be consanguinity between you and her? Who is her mother and father?'
I tell you my brothers, that I was flabbergasted to hear that none of these things had ever
crossed his mind. He knew that her mother's name was Maria and her grandmother's name
was Akoko and that was all. You will therefore forgive us brothers because we do not know
you and you do not know us. We only came because we had faith in our son who has always
been a reasonable man. We therefore wish to introduce ourselves before we go on. I am Semo
Rakula of Seme, our village is near that strange rock - upon- a rock, Kit-Mikai. We are the
descendants of that great warrior, Nyagudi Kogambi. Oloo and these young men are my sons
and a nephew.
Oloo is a man of learning and what is more, a soldier who has fought for the white man in
distant lands. Now he is a clerk with a big Kambi (company) in Nakuru, where he gets a good
salary.

So should this suit be acceptable to all you need have no fear that your daughter will starve.
I tell you these things because there are things a jawan'gyo would have found out
for you. Thank you brothers". A pot of kongo was moved near him and he drew a long
refreshing draught. Some things never change - a spokesman always needs to irrigate his
throat.

i) What role had Akoko played in preparation for this day? (2 marks)
ii) What feelings does this day arouse in Akoko? Explain your answer. (3 marks)
iii) Why was Christianity not so strange after all in this community? (3 marks)
iv) How can we tell that the narrator has a positive attitude towards
v) schools? (2 marks)

vi) Make notes on what we learn about Oloo from this excerpt. (5 marks)
vii) What concerns should be addressed before a man and a woman are
allowed to marry? (3 marks)
viii) Why do you think Oloo's uncle says what he says in his speech? (3 marks)

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 ix) "Their daughter was a prize, a beacon, a source of pride for the entire clan".
(Rewrite the sentence beginning: Not only..). (1 mark)

x) Explain the meaning of the following expressions as they are used in the passage:
(i) unheeding;
(ii) intriguing
(iii) parochial

7. 2015 Q2 P2

Read the excerpt below and then answer the questions that follow.

There is a knocking at the door. The women don’t answer. Enter IRONSHIRTS. The
PEASANT WOMAN bows low:

CORPORAL: well, here she is. What did I tell you? What a nose I have I smelt her?

Lady, I have a question for you. Why did you run away? What did you think I would do to
you? I’ll bet it was something unchaste. Confess!

GRUSHA :( while the PEASANT WOMAN bows again and again): I’d left some milk on
the stove, and I suddenly remembered it.

CORPORAL: or maybe you imagined I looked at you unchastely? Like there could be
something between us? A carnal glances, know what I mean?

GRUSHA: I didn’t see it.

CORPORAL: but it’s possible huh? You admit that much. After all, I might be a pig.

I’ii is frank with you: I could think of all sorts of things if we were alone. (To
the PEASANT WOMAN :) shouldn’t you be busy in the yard? Feeding the hens?

PEASANT WOMAN: I had nothing to do with it. She left it on my doorstep, I swear it.

CORPORAL: suddenly seeing the CHILD and whistling): ah, so there’s a little something in
the crib! Blockhead, I smell a thousand piasters. Take the old girl outside and hold on to her.
It looks like I have a cross-examining to do. (The PEASANT WOMAN lets herself be led out
by the PRIVATE, without a word.) So, you’ve got the child I wanted from you! (He walks
towards the crib.)

GRUSHA: officer, he’s mine. He’s not the one you’re after.

CORPORAL: I’ll just take a look. (He bends over the crib.)

GRUSHA:looks round in despair.

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GRUSHA: looks he, mine! He’s mine!

CORPORAL: fine linen!

a) Briefly describe what happens before the events in this excerpt. (3marks)

b) Explain what the playwright achieves by using dirty humuor in this excerpt. (4marks)

c) Identify and describe the dramatic irony in this excerpt. (2marks)

d) What does this excerpt reveal about the character of the peasant woman? (4marks)

e) This excerpt shows that Grusha makes two mistakes which she later
corrects. What are the mistakes and how does she later correct them? (4marks)

f) Imagine you are the director and are selecting the cast for this scene, what
physical features would you look for in the corporal and Grusha? (4marks)

g) Rewrite the following in indirect speech:

‘’I didn’t see it’’ Grusha said. (1mark)

h) Describe what happens immediately after the events presented

in this excerpt. (3marks)

COMPULSORY COMPOSITIONS
1. 2006 P3

Imaginative composition (compulsory) (20 marks)

Either
a) Write a composition ending with the words: “It then dawned on
me that perhaps this is why I had been born.”
Or
b) Write a composition agreeing or disagreeing with the statement,
“A good name is better than riches.”

2. 2007 P3
Imaginative Composition (compulsory) (20 marks)
Either
(a) Write a composition beginning with the following sentence:

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 When I left home that bright Sunday afternoon, I did not realize
that the events of the next few days would completely change my life.
Or
(b) Write a story to illustrate the saying “Experience is the best teacher.”

3. 2008 P3
Creative Composition (compulsory) (20 marks)
Either
a) Write a composition illustrating the saying: “Honesty is the best policy”
Or
b) Write a story beginning:
I had never found myself in such a situation before..

4. 2009 P3
Imaginative Composition (compulsory) (20 marks)

Either
(a) Write a composition to illustrate the saying.
'Truth will always set you "free".
Or

(b) Write a story beginning:

The "birds had already started their morning songs, and here
I was wondering whether…..

5. 2010 P3
Imaginative Composition (compulsory) (20 marks)
Either
(a) Write a composition illustrating the fact that crime does not pay.
Or
(b) Write a composition explaining how young people can overcome tribalism in
Kenya.

6. 2011 P3
Imaginative Composition (Compulsory) (20 marks)
Either
(a) “Both boys and girls have equal rights to their parents’ inheritance”.
Write a composition, supporting or opposing this statement.
Or

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 (b) Imagine that a friend has invited you to an occasion. Initially you were
reluctant to attend but a sibling persuaded you to go and you really enjoyed
yourself. Describe what the occasion was and why you felt so fulfilled

7. 2012 P3
Imaginative Composition (Compulsory) (20 marks)
Either
(a) Write a story to illustrate the saying:
"People who live in glass houses should not throw stones."
Or
(b) Write a story ending with:
If I had a second chance, I would be wiser.

8. 2013 P3
Imaginative Composition (Compulsory) (20 marks)
Either

(a) Write a story to illustrate the saying:

A stitch in time saves time
Or
(b) Write a story ending with:
This is why I realised it is noble to have and keep friends

9. 2014 P3

Imaginative composition (Compulsory) (20 marks)

Either
(a)Write a story beginning with:
When we arrived at the crime scene, …
Or
(b) Write a story to illustrate the saying:
Charity begins at home.

10. 2015 Q1 P3

Imaginative composition ( Compulsory) (20 marks)

Either

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 a) Write a story to illustrate the saying:
“You reap what you sow”

Or

b) Write a composition explaining what should be done to reduce

indiscipline in schools.

SET BOOKS

1. The Compulsory Set Text

1. Bertolt Brecht, The Caucasian Chalk Circle

"Being a biological mother is only a first step: the real moral challenge
is to be motherly." Write an essay in response to this statement, referring
to the roles of Natella Abashwili and Grusha in The Caucasian Chalk Circle
(20 marks)

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 2. "If we fail to be contented with who we are and what we have, we could end
up
leading miserable lives." Drawing examples from the lives of Otieno Kembo
and Becky, write an essay illustrating the truth of this statement. (20 marks)

2. The Optional Set Texts

A. The short story

1. Ilieva Emilia and Waveney Olembo (Ed), When the Sun Goes Down
and Other Stories.
"Living with HIV and AIDS does not have to be a death sentence." With
reference to Goro wa Kamau's When the Sun Goes Down, write an essay to
illustrate the truth of this statement.

2. Emilia Ilieva and Waveney Olembo (Eds.), When the Sun Goes Down
and Other Stories from Africa and Beyond
Using illustrations from Kenani's short story, "The Retraction", write a
composition describing the steps we should take when our actions cause
others to suffer.

3. DRAMA
1. Francis Imbuga. Betrayal in the City
Using illustrations from Betrayal in the City, write an essay on
the effects of strikes.

2. Francis Imbuga, Betrayal in the City

Drawing examples from Francis Imbuga's Betrayal in the City, write
a composition on the role played by relatives in one's life.

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4. THE NOVEL

1. Witi IhimaEra, The Whale Rider

"Many societies have practices that discriminate against women."
Using examples from Witi Ihimaera's novel, The Whale Rider, write
an essay in support of this statement.

2. Witi Ihimaera, The Whale Rider

"Although we are most secure at home, visiting other countries deepens our
understanding of the world." Referring closely to the story of Rawiri, write an
essay in support of this statement.

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