Do you wish to study for the upcoming literature examination, but you are unsure of what topics to read and what is been expected from you by the examiners?
NABTEB has published its syllabus for Literature in English, which is to give candidates a clearer picture of the examination structure. To prepare for the examination, you need to use the NABTEB Syllabus for Literature in English, which is an added advantage to candidates who want to ace the Literature in English examination.
You do not need to fret about the study material or resources. We have provided you with information about the NABTEB Syllabus for Literature in English. With you, you will have a wide knowledge of the NABTEB Literature in English, the aims, objectives, topics, and sections of the exam.
Outline of NABTEB Syllabus for Literature in English
Here is a clear, organized table summarizing the NABTEB Literature‑in‑English syllabus (harmonized with WAEC & NECO 2025):
| Component | Content / Objectives | Set Texts (2021–2025) | Assessment Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comprehension & Literary Appreciation | • Understand literary terms, identify figurative language, imagery, and style.<br>• Analyze unseen prose and poetry passages.<br>• Show creative writing skills. | – | Paper I: 50‑item objective test covering general literary principles, literary techniques, unseen passages, plus drama/poetry contextual questions. |
| African & Non‑African Prose | • Understand plot, character, themes, narrative techniques, and cultural context. | African: Second Class Citizen (Emecheta); Unexpected Joy at Dawn (Agyei‑Agyiri). Non‑African: Wuthering Heights (Brontë); Invisible Man (Ellison). | Paper II / III: Contextual/objective and essay questions—prose essays require deep critical analysis. |
| African & Non‑African Drama | • Understand genre conventions, dramatic techniques, characterization, and themes. | African: Let Me Die Alone (Kargbo); The Lion and the Jewel (Soyinka). Non‑African: Look Back in Anger (Osborne); Fences (Wilson). Plus, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream for contextual questions. | Paper II: Objective/contextual and essay questions on drama. |
| African & Non‑African Poetry | • Appreciate poetic forms and themes; identify devices and cultural influences. | African: Black Woman (Senghor); The Leader and the Led (Osundare); The Grieved Lands (Neto); plus works by Sesay, Wosomu, and Chibuike. Non‑African: The Good‑Morrow (Donne); Caged Bird (Angelou); The Journey of the Magi (T.S. Eliot); Do Not Go Gentle (Thomas); Binsey Poplars (Hopkins); Bat (Lawrence). | Paper II / III: Contextual/objective and essay questions on poetry. |
NABTEB Literature in English Papers Breakdown
- Paper I (Objective-April to June):
50 questions on general literary principles, unseen texts, and contextual items (drama/poetry) - Paper II (Drama & Poetry Essays):
Section A: African drama & poetry; Section B: Non‑African drama & poetry. Essays and context-based questions. - Paper III (Prose Essays):
Essays based on African and non‑African prose texts, requiring thorough thematic and stylistic discussion.
Recommended NABTEB Literature in English Textbooks
Here are some recommended textbooks and anthologies commonly used to support NABTEB Literature-in-English studies (aligned with WAEC/NECO):
- A Section of African Poetry, introduced and annotated by K.E. Senanu and T. Vincent (Longman). This provides annotated selections of key African poems and insightful commentary.
- The Penguin Book of English Verse, edited by John Hayward. A classic anthology covering a wide range of English poetry, ideal for thematic and stylistic exploration.
- An Introduction to the African Novel by Eustace Palmer (HEB). Offers critical perspectives on African prose—excellent for understanding context, form, and interpretation.
- Culture, Tradition and Society in the West African Novel by E.N. Obiechina (Cambridge). A scholarly, culturally grounded analysis of African storytelling, character, and setting.
- The Pelican Guide to English Literature by Boris Ford (7 volumes). A comprehensive critical reference that covers British literary history, style, and criticism.
- The Eye of the Earth by Niyi Osundare (Heinemann Frontline). A collection of contemporary African poems, showcasing style, social themes, and poetic techniques in modern verse.
- Introduction to Literature by Ben Omonode (University of Benin Press). A foundational textbook guiding students through genre types, literary devices, and critical analysis strategies.
In addition to these specific titles, many teachers recommend:
- Other anthologies, especially those containing NABTEB poetry selections.
- Critical texts that explore literary theory and technique which are essential for essay writing and exam success.
We hope this article has been of great help to you. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
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