The NECO Literature in English exam tests students’ understanding and interpretation of literary works across prose, poetry, and drama. Candidates must analyze themes, plot, characterization, literary devices, and cultural relevance of texts. This syllabus outlines the structure, recommended texts, and tips to help candidates prepare effectively for the 2025 NECO exam.
NECO Literature in English Exam Structure (2025)
The exam consists of two major papers:
Paper 1: Objectives (50 marks)
- 50 multiple-choice questions.
- Covers general literary principles and knowledge of prescribed texts.
- Duration: 1 hour
Paper 2: Essay (100 marks)
- 4 sections: Drama, Poetry, Prose (Fiction), and Prose (Non-African).
- Students must answer 4 essay questions, choosing one from each section.
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Syllabus Coverage
1. General Literary Appreciation
- Figures of speech (simile, metaphor, irony, hyperbole, etc.)
- Literary terms (plot, theme, setting, mood, tone, point of view, etc.)
- Drama and prose techniques (dialogue, soliloquy, flashback, suspense)
- Forms of poetry (ode, sonnet, ballad, narrative, lyric, etc.)
2. African and Non-African Drama (2025–2027)
African Drama
- "Let Me Die Alone" by John K. Kargbo
Non-African Drama
- "Look Back in Anger" by John Osborne
3. African and Non-African Prose (2025–2027)
African Prose
- "The Blood of a Stranger" by Dele Charley
Non-African Prose
- "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison
4. Poetry (2025–2027)
African Poetry
- “The Leader and the Led” by Niyi Osundare
- “Ambush” by Gbemisola Adeoti
- “The Song of the Women of My Land” by Oumar Farouk Sesay
- “Piano and Drums” by Gabriel Okara
- “Vanity” by Birago Diop
- “Black Woman” by Leopold Senghor
Non-African Poetry
- “The Schoolboy” by William Blake
- “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas
- “The Pulley” by George Herbert
- “Birches” by Robert Frost
- “The Proud King” by William Morris
5. Unseen Prose & Poetry
- Candidates will also be tested on comprehension and appreciation of unseen prose and poetry passages.
- Emphasis will be on:
- Theme
- Mood/tone
- Structure
- Language/style
- Figures of speech
Exam Tips for NECO Literature in English 2025
- Read All Set Texts Thoroughly
Understand plot, themes, character development, and stylistic devices used. - Create Character Maps
Sketch key characters, their traits, relationships, and roles in the story. - Practice Past Questions
Use NECO past papers to familiarize yourself with question formats and timing. - Memorize Quotations
Learn short quotations and match them to characters and themes for essay support. - Use Study Guides
Supplement your reading with summary notes and chapter analyses. - Understand Literary Devices
Be able to identify and explain literary terms used in poems, novels, and plays.
FAQs – NECO Literature in English Syllabus (2025)
Q1: Are all candidates required to read the full set texts?
A: Yes. All candidates must study the prescribed texts thoroughly as questions will come from any part of them.
Q2: Will unseen texts be included in the exam?
A: Yes. The exam includes unseen prose and poetry passages to test literary appreciation skills.
Q3: Can I take summaries or notes into the exam hall?
A: No. Only approved writing materials are allowed in the exam hall. Prepare well beforehand.
Q4: Are the same texts used every year?
A: The NECO text list is valid from 2025–2027. The same texts will be examined during this period unless NECO makes an official change.
Conclusion
The 2025 NECO Literature in English syllabus challenges candidates to explore the richness of African and global literary traditions. Mastering the prescribed texts, literary techniques, and essay-writing strategies is essential for success. With discipline, consistent reading, and smart exam tactics, you can score high in this subject and boost your overall results.
