Introduction:
Article writing is a common component of the WAEC English Language examination. It assesses your ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively on topical issues. Mastering this skill is essential for achieving a high score in the essay section.
Key Concepts:
1. Understanding Article Writing:
An article is a piece of writing intended for publication in newspapers, magazines, or journals. It aims to inform, persuade, or entertain a specific audience on a particular topic.
2. Structure of an Article:
- Title: Centered at the top of the page. It should be concise, relevant, and captivating. Capitalize the first letter of each major word.
- Introduction: Begin with a hook to grab the reader’s attention, such as a rhetorical question, a startling fact, or a brief anecdote. Clearly state the purpose of the article.
- Body: Develop your points in logical paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, supported by examples or evidence. Ensure coherence and cohesion between paragraphs.
- Conclusion: Summarize the main points and restate the significance of the topic. End with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement.
- Byline: Write your full name at the end of the article. If required, include your designation or affiliation (e.g., Student, XYZ Secondary School).
3. Language and Style:
- Use formal language appropriate for the target audience.
- Maintain clarity and conciseness.
- Employ persuasive techniques where necessary, such as rhetorical questions, statistics, and expert opinions.
- Avoid colloquialisms and slang.
4. Common Topics for WAEC Article Writing:
- The impact of drug abuse among youth.
- Solutions to the high cost of living.
- The importance of education in national development.
- The role of sports in fostering unity.
- The menace of fake drugs in society.
- The need to revive moral values among the youth.
Study Tips:
- Practice Regularly: Write articles on various topics to enhance your writing skills.
- Read Widely: Analyze articles in newspapers and magazines to understand different writing styles and techniques.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions to make your writing more engaging.
- Seek Feedback: Have teachers or peers review your articles and provide constructive criticism.
Conclusion:
Mastering article writing is crucial for excelling in the WAEC English Language examination. By understanding the structure, practicing regularly, and refining your language skills, you can effectively convey your ideas and achieve a high score.
Past WAEC questions on article writing are available below for you to study with.
Article Questions
1. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper on the growing incidence of drug abuse among the youth, stating the causes and suggesting ways it can be curbed.
2. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper on the high cost of living, suggesting at least three ways in which the government of your country can tackle the problem.
3. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper, discussing two major problems facing your country and suggesting ways of solving them.
4. Some core values in your society have been eroded by modernization. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper on the need to revive these values for a better society.
5. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper on the topic: The importance of national sports festivals.
6. Write an article suitable for publication in your school magazine on the need to inculcate good moral values in the youth.
7. Write an article for publication in a national newspaper on the importance of education in national developments.
8. Write an article suitable for publication in vour school magazine on the dangers of keeping bad company in school.
9. Write an article suitable for publication in your school magazine on the effects of drug abuse.
10. Write an article for publication in a national newspaper on the topic: Vocational Training is the answer to unemployment.
11. Write an article suitable for publication in a national newspaper on the topic: The importance of Promoting Good Reading Habits in Students.
12. Several articles have been published on the alarming rate of indiscipline among the youth of your country. Write your contribution.
13. The National Scholarship Secretariat is organizing an essay competition on the topic: The menace of fake drugs in the society. Write your entry. 14. Write an article suitable for publication in your school magazine on the need to revive the activities of clubs and societies in schools.
