The JAMB syllabus for English 2026/2027 is an official academic document designed to guide candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. It outlines the scope, depth, and content areas that candidates are expected to study in preparation for the examination.
This syllabus serves as an authoritative framework that ensures uniformity in preparation and assessment across all candidates nationwide. It reflects the standards approved by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board for evaluating proficiency in English language usage.
The JAMB syllabus for English 2026/2027 is particularly relevant because English Language is a compulsory subject for all UTME candidates irrespective of their intended course of study. Mastery of the syllabus content directly influences candidates’ overall UTME performance and admission prospects.
Candidates are expected to use the English JAMB syllabus as a comprehensive study guide rather than relying on assumptions or incomplete materials. Proper engagement with the syllabus promotes focused reading and systematic coverage of examinable topics.
The UTME syllabus for English provides clarity on learning objectives, competencies, and expected outcomes. It also assists teachers, tutors, and educational institutions in aligning instructional methods with JAMB examination standards.
Purpose of the JAMB Syllabus for English
The primary purpose of the JAMB syllabus for English 2026/2027 is to define the content boundaries of the UTME English examination. It ensures that candidates are assessed fairly based on clearly stated topics and objectives.
Additionally, the syllabus is designed to evaluate candidates’ competence in comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and oral forms of English. It emphasizes effective communication skills required for academic and professional success.
General UTME Objectives for English
The UTME syllabus for English aims to test candidates’ ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English. It also assesses their understanding of literary texts and functional language use.
Furthermore, the syllabus seeks to measure candidates’ capacity to interpret passages, identify grammatical structures, and apply correct usage in various contexts. These objectives align with national educational standards and tertiary institution requirements.
Overview of the Syllabus Structure
The English JAMB syllabus is structured into major thematic areas that reflect the core components of the English language. These include comprehension, summary writing, lexis and structure, oral forms, and literature-related passages.
Each topic is broken down into sub-topics with clearly defined learning objectives and expected UTME competencies. This structured approach enables candidates to prepare systematically and track their progress effectively.
Before attempting the examination, candidates are advised to study the syllabus holistically and understand how each topic contributes to overall language proficiency. The structure also supports balanced preparation across all examinable areas.
Detailed JAMB Syllabus for English 2026/2027 (Table Format)
| Topic | Sub-Topics | Key Learning Objectives | Expected UTME Competencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comprehension and Summary | Passage comprehension, factual questions, inferential questions | Develop ability to understand written texts and extract relevant information | Correctly answer comprehension questions and summarize passages accurately |
| Lexis and Structure | Synonyms, antonyms, word usage, sentence patterns | Enhance vocabulary and grammatical accuracy | Identify correct words and grammatical forms in context |
| Grammar | Parts of speech, tenses, concord, clauses | Understand and apply rules of English grammar | Demonstrate grammatical correctness in objective questions |
| Oral Forms | Stress, intonation, vowel sounds, consonant sounds | Recognize correct pronunciation and sound patterns | Identify appropriate oral forms in spoken English |
| Figures of Speech | Metaphor, simile, personification, irony | Understand literary and rhetorical devices | Correctly interpret and identify figures of speech |
| Sentence Interpretation | Meaning of sentences, implied meanings | Develop interpretative reading skills | Choose correct interpretations of given sentences |
| Registers | Formal, informal, technical, occupational registers | Understand language use in different contexts | Identify appropriate registers for specific situations |
| Literature-in-English | Prose, poetry, drama passages | Appreciate literary texts and themes | Answer questions based on literary understanding |
| Summary Writing | Identification of main ideas, paraphrasing | Develop concise writing skills | Select correct summaries from given options |
| Vocabulary Development | Word formation, idiomatic expressions | Expand functional vocabulary | Use words accurately in context |
Recommended Textbooks and Study Materials
Candidates preparing with the JAMB syllabus for English 2026/2027 are advised to consult standard English language textbooks approved for secondary school education in Nigeria. Comprehensive grammar texts, comprehension practice books, and JAMB past questions are essential study materials.
In addition, candidates should regularly read newspapers, novels, and academic articles to improve vocabulary and comprehension skills. Audio-visual resources may also be used to enhance understanding of oral forms and pronunciation.
A thorough understanding of the UTME syllabus for English is crucial for success in the examination. Candidates who study systematically according to the syllabus are better positioned to perform excellently and meet admission requirements.
