As candidates get ready for the 2023 BECE English Language paper, it is important that they take careful consideration of the following Essay type questions and work towards them.
BECE English Language Paper
In preparing for these essays, it is recommended that candidates pay close attention to the following:
1. Mastering the Features of Various Essay Types
a. Formal Letters: Letters to persons in high positions e.g., Members of Parliament, Owners of Companies, and Philanthropists. This also includes a letter to the editor of a newspaper or magazine.
Features of Formal Letters for BECE Candidates
Formal letters are an important form of written communication that BECE candidates should be familiar with. Here are the key features of formal letters that candidates should know:
- Sender’s Address
- Date
- Receiver’s Address
- Formal Salutation
- Title of the Letter
- Introduction
- Body Paragraphs
- Formal Tone
- Proper Language and Grammar
- Formal Closing
- Signature and Name
2. Argumentative Essays
Here are five argumentative essay questions that BECE candidates can consider:
- Should students be required to wear school uniforms?
- Is social media beneficial or harmful to teenagers?
- Should junk food be banned in schools?
- Should mobile phones be allowed in classrooms?
- Is homework necessary for students’ academic success?
Writing Effective Argumentative Essays
To excel in argumentative essays, candidates should:
- Provide background information and a clear thesis statement in the introduction.
- Acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints with logical reasoning and evidence.
- Organize their essays logically, using persuasive language and appropriate transition words.
- Strive for a balanced presentation by considering different perspectives.
- Summarize main points and restate the thesis in the conclusion.
- Edit and proofread for clarity and coherence.
3. Speech Writing
Here are five speech essay questions that BECE candidates can consider:
- Write a Speech on “How students can contribute to creating a clean environment.”
- Write a speech to be delivered at a community durbar on “The significance of community service (Communal Labour) and how it can benefit both individuals and communities.”
- Write a Speech to be delivered at your school’s graduation on “Challenges JHS 3 candidates face when preparing for the BECE.”
- Write a Speech to be read at the inauguration of your School’s ICT lab on the theme “The impact of technology on society.” (Including positive and negative effects on communication, education, and employment)
- Write a speech to be delivered at the Human Rights Programme on “Types and Dangers of abuse suffered by girls in our society.”
- Write a Speech you will deliver at the upcoming youth summit on the theme “Dangers of Boy-Girl Relationships.”
Tips for Delivering Impactful Speeches
To deliver impactful speeches, candidates must:
- Begin with a clear and centered title in capital letters.
- Provide background information and a compelling introduction with the right vocative.
- Acknowledge opposing views and counter them with logical reasoning and evidence.
- Organize their speeches coherently, using persuasive language and appropriate transitions.
- Strive for a balanced presentation by considering different aspects of the topic.
- Summarize main points and restate the key message in the conclusion.
- Allocate time for editing and proofreading to ensure a polished and effective presentation.
By focusing on these essay areas and mastering the key features of each type, BECE candidates can enhance their chances of excelling in the English Language paper.