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WASSCE Ghana study materials
WASSCE Ghana study resources

WASSCE Ghana practice questions

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Question 1WASSCE School (SC)

In the WASSCE School (SC) syllabus for Ghana, which core subject is compulsory for every candidate regardless of their programme of study?

  1. Core Mathematics Correct answer.
  2. Graphic Design
  3. Literature in English
  4. Elective Biology

Explanation

Core Mathematics is one of the four core subjects that every WASSCE candidate in Ghana must sit, alongside English Language, Integrated Science and Social Studies. Elective and optional subjects depend on the candidate's programme and choices.

Question 2WASSCE School (SC)

A WASSCE candidate's final grade in a core subject is reported on a nine-point scale. Which grade band represents the highest level of achievement?

  1. Grade 6
  2. Grade 1 Correct answer.
  3. Grade 9
  4. Grade 4

Explanation

WASSCE grades run from 1 (highest) to 9 (lowest), so Grade 1 is the top band. Grade 9 indicates the weakest performance and does not count as a credit pass.

Question 3WASSCE School (SC)

For admission purposes, Ghanaian universities generally treat a WASSCE subject as a credit pass when the candidate obtains which grade or better?

  1. Grade 5
  2. Grade 7
  3. Grade 8
  4. Grade 6 Correct answer.

Explanation

A credit pass is conventionally Grade 6 or better (grades 1 to 6). Grades 7, 8 and 9 fall below credit standard for most tertiary admission decisions.

Question 4WASSCE School (SC)

Which body is responsible for conducting the WASSCE for school candidates in Ghana and issuing the resulting certificates?

  1. The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission
  2. The Ghana Education Service
  3. The National Teaching Council
  4. The West African Examinations Council Correct answer.

Explanation

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) sets, administers and certifies the WASSCE across its member countries, including Ghana. The other bodies handle school administration, teacher licensing and tertiary regulation respectively.

Question 5WASSCE School (SC)

In the WASSCE structure, what does the abbreviation 'SC' signify when attached to the examination title?

  1. Subject Combination
  2. Science Curriculum
  3. Senior Certificate
  4. School Candidates Correct answer.

Explanation

'SC' stands for School Candidates, distinguishing candidates who sit the examination through a recognised school from private candidates. Private candidates sit a separate version of the examination.

Question 6WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate registers for eight subjects but fails to sit one paper without a valid reason. How does WAEC normally treat the absent subject on the result slip?

  1. It is replaced by the candidate's best elective grade
  2. It is awarded an automatic Grade 6
  3. It is recorded as absent and no grade is issued Correct answer.
  4. It is deleted so the slip shows only seven subjects

Explanation

When a candidate does not sit a paper, the subject is recorded as absent and no grade is awarded for it. WAEC does not invent grades or substitute results from other subjects.

Question 7WASSCE School (SC)

Which of the following best describes the purpose of the practical paper in a WASSCE science subject such as Chemistry?

  1. To measure candidates' speed at copying experimental notes
  2. To test candidates' ability to recall definitions from the syllabus
  3. To assess hands-on laboratory skills and the recording of observations Correct answer.
  4. To replace the theory paper for weaker candidates

Explanation

Practical papers assess manipulative laboratory skills, accurate observation and the recording and interpretation of experimental data. They complement, rather than replace, the theory paper.

Question 8WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is unsure how many elective subjects to offer. Under the standard WASSCE school programme in Ghana, what is the typical minimum number of elective subjects required?

  1. Three electives Correct answer.
  2. Five electives
  3. One elective
  4. Two electives

Explanation

Candidates normally offer the four core subjects plus a minimum of three electives drawn from their programme area. This combination supports tertiary admission requirements.

Question 9WASSCE School (SC)

In WASSCE English Language, which paper component typically requires candidates to write an essay and a letter or article for a specified audience?

  1. The practical paper
  2. Paper 2 (essay writing) Correct answer.
  3. Paper 3 (orals)
  4. Paper 1 (objective)

Explanation

Paper 2 of English Language is the essay/continuous writing paper, where candidates compose extended pieces such as letters, articles and arguments. Objective items appear in Paper 1 and oral work in the orals component.

Question 10WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate's continuous assessment score contributes to the final WASSCE subject grade in some subjects. What is the main purpose of including this school-based score?

  1. To allow teachers to adjust grades after the examination
  2. To reflect performance across the whole course, not just the final examination Correct answer.
  3. To reward candidates for good handwriting
  4. To replace the final examination entirely

Explanation

School-based continuous assessment captures performance over the course of study and is combined with the examination score. This gives a fuller picture of a candidate's achievement than a single final paper.

Question 11WASSCE School (SC)

Which statement correctly distinguishes a core subject from an elective subject in the WASSCE school programme?

  1. Core subjects are examined orally while electives are written
  2. Core subjects are optional while electives are compulsory
  3. Core subjects carry no grades while electives are graded
  4. Core subjects are compulsory for all candidates while electives depend on programme choice Correct answer.

Explanation

Core subjects must be taken by every candidate, whereas electives are selected according to the candidate's programme and career goals. Both types are graded and examined in the same general format.

Question 12WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate wishes to appeal a WASSCE result. Which course of action is consistent with standard WAEC procedure?

  1. Apply to WAEC for a review or remarking of the script within the stipulated period Correct answer.
  2. Request a new examination paper to be set privately
  3. Ask the school head to rewrite the grade on the slip
  4. Wait for the next examination cycle and ignore the result

Explanation

Result queries are handled through a formal application to WAEC for review or remarking, made within the published deadline and usually through the school. Grades cannot be altered informally by a school.

Question 13WASSCE School (SC)

In a WASSCE Mathematics objective paper, a candidate who gives two answers to a single multiple-choice item should expect which outcome?

  1. Both answers are marked and the higher score is awarded
  2. The item is referred to a second examiner for a decision
  3. The candidate is awarded half a mark
  4. The item is marked as wrong because only one option is permitted Correct answer.

Explanation

Objective items allow exactly one response, so multiple markings on one item are treated as an invalid response and score nothing. There is no partial credit for objective questions.

Question 14WASSCE School (SC)

Which skill is primarily assessed by the 'interpretation' questions in a WASSCE Social Studies paper that present a short passage of data?

  1. Copying the passage accurately
  2. Drawing conclusions from given information Correct answer.
  3. Reciting definitions of key terms
  4. Memorising dates of historical events

Explanation

Interpretation items require candidates to read given information, such as data or a short passage, and draw reasoned conclusions from it. This tests comprehension and analysis rather than mere recall.

Question 15WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate studying Elective Mathematics must also sit which core subject that directly supports quantitative reasoning?

  1. Core Mathematics Correct answer.
  2. Social Studies
  3. Integrated Science
  4. English Language

Explanation

Core Mathematics is compulsory for all candidates and underpins the quantitative skills used in Elective Mathematics. Integrated Science, Social Studies and English are also core but do not serve that specific quantitative support role.

Question 16WASSCE School (SC)

Which grading outcome on a WASSCE result slip most likely prevents a candidate from meeting the minimum entry requirement for a Ghanaian university programme?

  1. Grade 6 in all core subjects
  2. Grade 3 in all core subjects
  3. Grade 8 in a core subject required for the programme Correct answer.
  4. Grade 2 in an elective subject

Explanation

A Grade 8 falls below the credit threshold of Grade 6, so it fails to satisfy the subject requirement. Grades 2, 3 and 6 all meet or exceed credit standard.

Question 17WASSCE School (SC)

In the context of the WASSCE school examination, what is the main function of the syllabus issued for each subject?

  1. To record the candidate's continuous assessment marks
  2. To specify the fees payable by each candidate
  3. To define the content and skills that candidates are expected to study Correct answer.
  4. To list the exact questions that will appear in the paper

Explanation

The subject syllabus sets out the topics, objectives and skills that the examination is designed to assess. It guides teaching and revision but does not disclose the actual questions.

Question 18WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate writes a WASSCE English Language essay that is well organised but contains many spelling and grammatical errors. Which assessment criterion is most directly affected?

  1. Originality of ideas
  2. Relevance of content
  3. Mechanical accuracy Correct answer.
  4. Depth of argument

Explanation

Mechanical accuracy covers spelling, punctuation and grammar, so frequent errors in these areas lower that score. Organisation and content are judged under separate criteria.

Question 19WASSCE School (SC)

Which of the following is the most appropriate reason for a candidate to review past WASSCE-style questions during revision?

  1. To predict the continuous assessment score
  2. To become familiar with the format and command words used in questions Correct answer.
  3. To memorise the exact wording of future papers
  4. To avoid studying the syllabus content

Explanation

Practising past-style questions builds familiarity with paper format, timing and the command words that indicate what an answer must do. It supports syllabus study rather than replacing it.

Question 20WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate sits the WASSCE in a subject with both a theory paper and a practical paper. How are the two components normally combined in the final grade?

  1. Only the theory score counts
  2. The scores are weighted and combined into a single subject grade Correct answer.
  3. Only the higher of the two scores counts
  4. The practical score is reported separately and never combined

Explanation

Where a subject has more than one paper, the component scores are weighted according to the marking scheme and aggregated into one subject grade. Both components therefore matter to the final result.

Question 21WASSCE School (SC)

Which statement best explains why WASSCE candidates are advised to read the instructions on the front of each question paper before starting?

  1. The instructions identify the examiner who set the paper
  2. The instructions list the candidate's continuous assessment marks
  3. The instructions state the number of questions to answer and the time allowed Correct answer.
  4. The instructions reveal the answers to the objective questions

Explanation

Front-page instructions specify how many questions to attempt, any compulsory sections and the time allowed, so ignoring them can cost marks. They never disclose answers or personal assessment data.

Question 22WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate's result slip shows grades for all registered subjects. Which interpretation of the slip is most accurate?

  1. It lists only the subjects the candidate passed
  2. It predicts the candidate's university placement
  3. It records the grade obtained in each subject entered, whether passed or failed Correct answer.
  4. It shows the candidate's rank among all candidates nationally

Explanation

The result slip reports the grade achieved in every subject entered, including weak grades, so it is a complete record of performance. It does not rank candidates or guarantee placement.

Question 23WASSCE School (SC)

In WASSCE Integrated Science, questions that ask candidates to 'explain why' a phenomenon occurs are testing which level of response?

  1. Reasoned understanding of cause and effect Correct answer.
  2. Speed of calculation
  3. Simple recall of a definition
  4. Accurate copying of a diagram

Explanation

'Explain why' items require candidates to give reasons linking cause and effect, demonstrating understanding rather than mere recall. A bare definition would not satisfy the command word.

Question 24WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is registered for a subject but discovers on the examination day that the subject clashes with another paper. What is the standard expectation under WAEC arrangements?

  1. The candidate should sit only the paper with the higher marks
  2. The candidate should abandon one paper without informing anyone
  3. The candidate should ask a friend to sit one of the papers
  4. The candidate should sit both papers according to the timetable adjustments arranged by the examination body Correct answer.

Explanation

Where timetable clashes occur, the examination body arranges adjustments so the candidate can sit all affected papers. Candidates must never delegate a paper or silently abandon one.

Question 25WASSCE School (SC)

Which factor most strongly explains why a candidate with strong subject knowledge may still perform poorly in a WASSCE paper with a tight time limit?

  1. Failure to register for the subject
  2. Insufficient knowledge of the syllabus
  3. Poor time management during the paper Correct answer.
  4. Lack of a school uniform

Explanation

Even well-prepared candidates can lose marks if they spend too long on early questions and fail to attempt later ones. Time management is therefore a distinct performance factor from subject knowledge.

Question 26WASSCE School (SC)

Under the standard WASSCE school programme in Ghana, which set of subjects is compulsory for every candidate?

  1. Core English, Core Mathematics, Integrated Science and Social Studies Correct answer.
  2. Core Mathematics, Social Studies, Biology and Chemistry
  3. Core English, Core Mathematics, Elective Mathematics and Physics
  4. Core English, Integrated Science, Economics and Government

Explanation

The WASSCE school programme requires all candidates to offer the four core subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Integrated Science and Social Studies. Elective subjects are chosen according to the candidate's programme of study. Elective Mathematics, Physics, Economics, Biology and similar subjects belong to particular programmes, not to the compulsory core.

Question 27WASSCE School (SC)

A WASSCE candidate is told that a subject has three papers: Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3. In most WAEC science subjects, what does Paper 1 usually consist of?

  1. A three-hour essay paper
  2. An objective test of multiple-choice items Correct answer.
  3. A practical or project assessment
  4. An oral examination conducted by an external examiner

Explanation

In WAEC's numbering convention, Paper 1 is generally the objective paper made up of multiple-choice questions answered on a separate answer sheet. Paper 2 is normally the written/essay paper, and Paper 3 is commonly the practical or alternative-to-practical component in science subjects. Oral work appears in language subjects rather than as Paper 1 of science subjects.

Question 28WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is told that continuous assessment scores will be added to the WASSCE subject score. Which statement best describes the purpose of this arrangement?

  1. It rewards work done during the course as part of the final subject grade Correct answer.
  2. It is used only when a candidate fails the written paper
  3. It replaces the need to sit the written examination papers
  4. It is recorded on the result slip but never added to the final grade

Explanation

Continuous assessment captures marks earned through class exercises, tests and projects during the course, and a portion is combined with the examination score. Its purpose is to give credit for sustained work rather than relying on a single end-of-course examination. It does not replace the written papers, nor is it merely recorded without effect.

Question 29WASSCE School (SC)

In WASSCE English Language, a candidate is asked to write a formal letter to the headmaster of a school. Which feature is most essential to this task?

  1. Writing the letter in the third person throughout
  2. Omitting the salutation to save time
  3. Appropriate formal register and conventional letter layout Correct answer.
  4. Use of slang to make the letter lively

Explanation

The formal letter task in WASSCE English Language is assessed on register, format and organisation. Candidates must use polite, formal language and observe the conventional layout, including address, salutation and closing. Slang and omission of the salutation would be penalised as inappropriate form, and third-person narration is not a requirement of a formal letter.

Question 30WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate's WASSCE result slip shows grade F9 in a subject. What does this grade indicate?

  1. The candidate achieved a distinction in the subject
  2. The candidate was absent from the examination
  3. The candidate's result has been withheld pending investigation
  4. The candidate did not reach the minimum standard required for a pass Correct answer.

Explanation

In the WAEC grading scale, F9 is the lowest grade and indicates failure to reach the pass standard in that subject. Distinctions are shown by grades A1 to B3, and absence is recorded differently from a failing grade. Withheld results are also shown separately, so F9 is simply a fail.

Question 31WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate preparing for WASSCE Government is advised to study the official syllabus closely. Which use of the syllabus is most directly helpful?

  1. Checking which topics and objectives can appear on the paper Correct answer.
  2. Learning the marking scheme for each question
  3. Finding the exact questions to be set
  4. Determining the candidate's final grade in advance

Explanation

The syllabus sets out the topics and learning objectives for a subject and therefore indicates the scope of what may be examined. It does not contain the actual questions, the marking scheme, or any information that determines grades in advance. Candidates use it to plan coverage of the syllabus rather than to predict specific items.

Question 32WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is unsure whether to offer Literature in English as a fourth elective. Which consideration is most relevant under the school programme?

  1. Whether the subject has no examination paper
  2. Whether the subject is taught by the youngest teacher
  3. Whether the subject has the shortest syllabus
  4. Whether the subject fits the candidate's programme and career goals Correct answer.

Explanation

Elective choices should match the candidate's programme of study and intended career or tertiary path. The length of a syllabus, the teacher's age or the presence of an examination paper are not valid criteria. Every registered elective is examined, so the absence of a paper is never an option.

Question 33WASSCE School (SC)

During a WASSCE Biology practical, a candidate is asked to record observations of a specimen and draw a labelled diagram. Which skill is mainly being assessed?

  1. Memorisation of textbook definitions
  2. Practical observation and accurate recording Correct answer.
  3. Ability to recite classification lists
  4. Speed in writing essays

Explanation

Practical papers in science subjects assess the candidate's ability to observe specimens, record findings accurately and present labelled diagrams. Recall of definitions or classification lists belongs to theory papers, and essay speed is not the focus of a practical. The task tests hands-on observation and reporting.

Question 34WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate writes a WASSCE Mathematics essay answer and reaches the correct final answer but shows no working. Why is this usually risky?

  1. Only the first line of an answer is marked
  2. Final answers are never marked in essay papers
  3. Method marks are awarded for correct steps, so working earns credit Correct answer.
  4. The examiner ignores answers without a diagram

Explanation

In essay papers, marks are allocated to method as well as to the final answer, so a bare answer can lose method marks even when correct. Final answers are certainly marked, and there is no rule that only the first line is read. Diagrams help in some questions but their absence does not invalidate an otherwise complete solution.

Question 35WASSCE School (SC)

A WASSCE candidate is advised to manage time by allocating minutes to each section of a paper. Which benefit does this practice most directly provide?

  1. Guaranteeing full marks in every section
  2. Removing the need to read instructions
  3. Ensuring all sections receive attention within the time allowed Correct answer.
  4. Allowing the candidate to skip difficult questions entirely

Explanation

Time allocation helps a candidate cover every required section before the paper ends, reducing the risk of leaving questions unattempted. It cannot guarantee full marks, nor does it remove the need to read instructions carefully. Skipping difficult questions may sometimes be a strategy, but it is not the direct purpose of allocating time.

Question 36WASSCE School (SC)

In a WASSCE Integrated Science paper, a question asks a candidate to suggest why a metal rod expands when heated. Which type of thinking is mainly required?

  1. Explaining a phenomenon using scientific principles Correct answer.
  2. Copying a diagram from the question
  3. Performing a numerical calculation
  4. Recalling a single definition

Explanation

A 'suggest why' question requires the candidate to apply scientific principles, such as particle behaviour, to explain an observed phenomenon. It is not a simple definition recall, a computation, or a copying task. The examiner looks for reasoning that links the observation to a principle.

Question 37WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is registered for WASSCE Chemistry but realises on the day of the practical that the venue has changed. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Leave the centre and sit the paper another day
  2. Write the paper in any nearby classroom without informing anyone
  3. Report to the examination officer or supervisor for guidance Correct answer.
  4. Wait for a friend to confirm the venue before acting

Explanation

Examination officers and supervisors are responsible for directing candidates to the correct venue and handling such situations on the day. Leaving the centre or writing in an unauthorised room could invalidate the candidate's paper. Waiting for a friend wastes time and does not resolve the problem officially.

Question 38WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate answers a WASSCE Social Studies question by describing a community problem and proposing two solutions. Which level of response is being demonstrated?

  1. Guessing without supporting ideas
  2. Pure recall of a definition
  3. Application of knowledge to a real social issue Correct answer.
  4. Rote repetition of a textbook passage

Explanation

Describing a problem and proposing solutions shows the candidate applying knowledge to a real situation, which is higher than mere recall. Rote repetition or guessing would not involve reasoned proposals. The response demonstrates understanding and practical application of Social Studies concepts.

Question 39WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate's WASSCE result slip lists a subject with the entry 'ABS'. What does this entry most likely mean?

  1. The candidate was absent for that paper Correct answer.
  2. The candidate's grade is pending appeal
  3. The candidate obtained a distinction
  4. The candidate's script was lost

Explanation

'ABS' on a WAEC result slip indicates that the candidate was absent from the examination in that subject. It is not a distinction, a lost script or a pending appeal, each of which would be recorded differently. Absence normally means no grade is awarded for that subject.

Question 40WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate sitting WASSCE Elective Mathematics is also advised to take Core Mathematics seriously. What is the main reason?

  1. Core Mathematics replaces Elective Mathematics in the final result
  2. Elective Mathematics cannot be passed without Core Mathematics
  3. Core Mathematics is compulsory and its grade affects entry requirements Correct answer.
  4. Elective Mathematics marks are added to Core Mathematics marks

Explanation

Core Mathematics is a compulsory subject whose grade is commonly required for tertiary admission, so it matters independently of any elective. The marks of the two subjects are not combined, and one does not replace the other. A candidate can pass one without the other, but both grades count separately.

Question 41WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate finds that an essay question in WASSCE English Language offers a choice of five topics and requires only one. What is the best approach?

  1. Begin writing immediately without choosing carefully
  2. Combine two topics into a single essay
  3. Write short answers to all five topics
  4. Choose one topic and plan it briefly before writing Correct answer.

Explanation

When a choice is offered, the candidate should select the topic they can handle best and spend a short time planning structure and content. Writing on all five or combining topics would not satisfy the requirement and would waste time. Starting without choosing carefully often leads to a poorly organised essay.

Question 42WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is confused about the difference between a WAEC centre number and an index number. Which statement is correct?

  1. The index number identifies the school, while the centre number identifies the candidate
  2. The centre number identifies the school or centre, while the index number identifies the candidate Correct answer.
  3. Both numbers are the same for every candidate in the country
  4. Neither number appears on the candidate's documents

Explanation

The centre number identifies the examination centre or school where the candidate sits, while the index number is unique to each candidate. They are not the same, and their roles are not reversed. Both appear on the candidate's documents, including the result slip.

Question 43WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate's WASSCE result shows grade B2 in Economics. Which statement best describes this outcome?

  1. It is a strong pass in the upper band of the grading scale Correct answer.
  2. It indicates absence from the paper
  3. It is a fail grade requiring a resit
  4. It indicates that the result has been cancelled

Explanation

In the WAEC nine-point scale, B2 is a very good grade in the upper band, just below A1. A fail would be shown as F9, absence as ABS, and cancellation would be indicated separately. B2 therefore represents a strong pass.

Question 44WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate revising for WASSCE Physics works through past questions and marks each wrong answer with the reason. Which revision benefit is most direct?

  1. Removing the need to practise calculations
  2. Reducing the number of topics in the syllabus
  3. Identifying specific weak areas to target for further study Correct answer.
  4. Guaranteeing that the same questions will reappear

Explanation

Reviewing errors with reasons helps the candidate diagnose which concepts are weak and focus revision accordingly. It does not guarantee that identical questions will reappear, reduce the syllabus content, or remove the need to practise calculations. The value lies in targeted improvement.

Question 45WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is told that a WASSCE subject has an 'alternative to practical' paper. What does this arrangement most likely involve?

  1. A written paper assessing practical skills without laboratory apparatus Correct answer.
  2. An oral test of laboratory safety rules
  3. A project submitted after the results are released
  4. A practical conducted only by teachers for continuous assessment

Explanation

An alternative to practical paper is a written examination that tests practical skills and reasoning, often used where laboratory facilities are limited. It is not a teacher-only assessment, an oral test, or a post-results project. Candidates answer questions on experimental design, observation and interpretation in written form.

Question 46WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is unsure how marks are distributed across a WASSCE objective paper and an essay paper in the same subject. What is the most reliable source of this information?

  1. Rumours circulating on social media
  2. A friend's guess based on last year's paper
  3. The candidate's own estimate of difficulty
  4. The subject syllabus and the instructions on the question papers Correct answer.

Explanation

The syllabus and the printed instructions on each question paper state the number of questions and the marks or time allowed. Guesses, personal estimates and social media rumours are unreliable. Candidates should rely on official documents issued for the subject.

Question 47WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate answers a WASSCE Geography question that asks them to compare two climatic regions. Which approach is most likely to earn full credit?

  1. Giving a single sentence naming both regions
  2. Listing only the features of one region
  3. Stating similarities and differences with supporting examples Correct answer.
  4. Describing one region in detail and ignoring the other

Explanation

A comparison question requires the candidate to address both regions and to state similarities and differences with supporting detail. Listing only one region or ignoring the other does not fulfil the comparison. A single sentence naming both regions lacks the detail needed for credit.

Question 48WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate notices that a WASSCE question paper has a section marked 'compulsory' and another marked 'answer any two'. What should the candidate do?

  1. Choose the shorter section and ignore the other
  2. Answer all questions in both sections
  3. Answer only the compulsory section and skip the rest
  4. Answer all compulsory questions and the required number from the choice section Correct answer.

Explanation

Instructions specify that compulsory questions must all be answered, while the choice section requires a stated number of questions. Skipping the choice section or answering all of it would breach the instructions. Ignoring one section would reduce the marks available.

Question 49WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate with strong subject knowledge performs poorly in a WASSCE paper because they misread the command words. Which command word requires the candidate to give reasons?

  1. List
  2. Name
  3. State
  4. Explain Correct answer.

Explanation

'Explain' requires the candidate to give reasons or show how or why something occurs, going beyond a bare statement. 'State', 'list' and 'name' call for brief factual answers without reasons. Misreading such command words is a common cause of lost marks.

Question 50WASSCE School (SC)

A candidate is told that a WASSCE subject result may be 'withheld'. Which situation most likely explains a withheld result?

  1. The candidate sat all papers as registered
  2. An unresolved examination irregularity or malpractice investigation Correct answer.
  3. The candidate obtained a distinction
  4. The candidate's school is in a rural area

Explanation

Results are typically withheld when there is an unresolved issue such as suspected examination malpractice or an irregularity under investigation. A distinction, full attendance, or the location of the school would not cause a result to be withheld. Withholding allows the examination body to complete its inquiries.