JAMB Syllabus For Literature In English 2025/2026

Preparing for the JAMB Literature in English examination requires candidates to have a clear understanding of the syllabus, as it guides what to study and how to approach the exam.

This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the JAMB Literature in English syllabus for the 2025/2026 session, along with tips to maximize your preparation.

What Is the JAMB Literature in English Syllabus?

The JAMB Literature in English syllabus is a detailed outline designed to help candidates prepare effectively for the examination.

It highlights the specific topics, literary genres, prescribed texts, and objectives of the Literature in English paper.

This syllabus serves as a roadmap for candidates aiming to achieve a high score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Why the JAMB Syllabus Is Important

Focus on Relevant Topics: It eliminates the guesswork by specifying what to study.
Guides Study Plans: The syllabus helps you create a structured study routine.
Familiarity with Exam Structure: It outlines the topics and skills JAMB expects you to master.

JAMB Literature in English Syllabus 2025/2026

The syllabus is divided into three key sections, focusing on Drama, Prose, and Poetry. Here’s a breakdown of each section:

1. Drama

Drama is a key part of the JAMB Literature syllabus. Candidates are expected to:

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Understand different types of drama, such as tragedy, comedy, melodrama, and tragicomedy.
Analyze dramatic techniques like soliloquy, aside, flashback, and dialogue.
Study the prescribed drama texts, including their themes, plots, characters, and socio-political contexts.

Key Topics:

Types of drama: Tragedy, comedy, tragicomedy.
Dramatic techniques: Characterization, acts/scenes, costume, music, and décor.
Socio-political contexts in drama.

2. Prose

This section focuses on narrative works, including fiction and non-fiction. Candidates must:

Differentiate between forms of prose, such as novels, novellas, short stories, and autobiographies.
Analyze narrative techniques, including point of view, characterization, and language use.
Study prescribed prose texts for their themes, plots, and socio-political relevance.

Key Topics:

Types of prose: Fiction (novel, short story) and non-fiction (autobiography, memoir).
Narrative techniques: First-person and omniscient points of view.
Analysis of socio-political themes in prose.

3. Poetry

Poetry tests your ability to interpret and appreciate literary expressions. Candidates are required to:

Identify different forms of poetry, such as sonnets, odes, and elegies.
Understand poetic devices like imagery, sound, diction, and persona.
Analyze the themes, styles, and socio-political relevance of prescribed poems.

Key Topics:

Types of poetry: Ballads, sonnets, odes, and blank verse.
Poetic devices: Imagery, diction, and rhythm.
Appreciation of poetic works.

Prescribed Texts for JAMB Literature in English 2025/2026

JAMB provides a list of prescribed texts that candidates must study for the exam. These texts span across African and non-African literature, covering themes of culture, politics, history, and human experience. Ensure you read and understand these texts as they will form the basis of most questions.

Examples of Prescribed Texts

Drama: “Othello” by William Shakespeare, “The Lion and the Jewel” by Wole Soyinka.
Prose: “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe, “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.
Poetry: Selected African and non-African poems provided in the syllabus.

JAMB Syllabus for Literature in English 2025/2026

What Is the JAMB Literature in English Syllabus?

Why the JAMB Syllabus Is Important

JAMB Literature in English Syllabus 2025/2026

1. Drama

2. Prose

3. Poetry

Prescribed Texts for JAMB Literature in English 2025/2026

Examples of Prescribed Texts

JAMB Syllabus for All Subjects