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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Waec Marking Scheme For English: What To Expect (2025/2026 Guide)
English Language is one of the compulsory subjects in WAEC, and a good grade can make or break your admission chances. But here’s the truth most students don’t know:
You don’t have to write “perfect English” — you just need to write according to WAEC’s marking scheme.
Understanding how WAEC marks English will help you:
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Avoid costly mistakes
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Focus on what matters
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Score higher with less stress
This guide covers WAEC English Language marking scheme for 2025/2026, including how each section is graded and what examiners expect from your answers.
WAEC English Language Paper Format
WAEC English is divided into three major papers:
| Paper | Type | Content | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Objective | 60 multiple choice questions | 60 marks |
| Paper 2 | Essay & Comprehension | Essay writing, letter, comprehension, summary | 100 marks |
| Paper 3 | Oral English (Listening Test) | Phonetics, intonation, stress, consonant/vowel sounds | 30 marks |
Paper 1 – Objective Questions (60 marks)
This section tests grammar, vocabulary, idioms, synonyms, antonyms, and lexis & structure.
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Each question carries 1 mark
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There are 60 questions in total
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No workings needed
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Best approach: Practice past questions to master common patterns
Paper 2 – Essay & Comprehension (100 marks)
This is the most important section and also the most misunderstood.
Section A: Essay Writing (50 Marks)
You are required to write only one essay (letter, article, speech, story, or debate). Here’s the mark breakdown:
| Essay Element | Marks Awarded |
|---|---|
| Content (quality & relevance) | 10 marks |
| Organization (paragraphs, flow) | 10 marks |
| Expression (grammar, spelling, vocabulary) | 20 marks |
| Mechanical Accuracy (punctuation, tense) | 10 marks |
Tip: Use clear paragraphs, avoid slangs, and answer the question directly.
Section B: Comprehension (20 Marks)
You're given a passage with 5 questions.
| Comprehension Element | Marks |
|---|---|
| Each correct answer | 4 marks (×5 = 20) |
| Accurate interpretation | Use your own words |
| Bonus: Avoid lifting lines directly from the passage ❌ |
Section C: Summary Writing (30 Marks)
You will summarize a long passage in your own words. Usually divided into two parts: Content and Expression.
| Criteria | Marks |
|---|---|
| 5 Key points (Content) | 2 marks each = 10 |
| Grammar and clarity (Expression) | 2 marks each = 10 |
| Use of own words (Paraphrasing) | 10 marks |
| Total | 30 marks |
Tip: Don’t copy from the passage. Rewrite the ideas briefly and clearly.
Paper 3 – Oral English (30 Marks)
This tests your listening skills and knowledge of spoken English.
| Focus Areas | What It Tests |
|---|---|
| Vowel & Consonant Sounds | Sound identification |
| Rhymes and Odd Sounds | Pick the word that doesn’t match |
| Stress Patterns | Primary stress in words |
| Intonation | Rising/falling tone recognition |
You will listen to an audio clip and answer questions based on it. Practice with audio resources beforehand.
WAEC English Grading Guide
| Grade | Score (%) | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 75 – 100 | Excellent |
| B2 | 70 – 74 | Very Good |
| B3 | 65 – 69 | Good |
| C4 – C6 | 50 – 64 | Credit Pass |
| D7 – E8 | 40 – 49 | Pass |
| F9 | Below 40 | Fail |
Top Tips to Score High in WAEC English
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Master essay formats (formal/informal letters, speeches, articles)
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Use paragraphs and link them logically
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Build your vocabulary – especially for comprehension
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Avoid lifting in summary – always paraphrase
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Practice oral English using apps and past recordings
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Answer all objective questions — no negative marking
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Work on grammar and punctuation – they carry marks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I get full marks in essay writing?
Yes, if your content is rich, well-structured, and grammatically sound.
Q: Will I be penalized for spelling mistakes?
Yes. Spelling and punctuation affect your Mechanical Accuracy marks.
Q: Is lifting allowed in summary writing?
No. You must summarize in your own words to earn full marks.
Q: Can I choose any essay topic I want?
No. WAEC provides a list. Choose one and follow its format strictly.
Q: What if I miss the Oral English test?
You’ll lose 30 marks. That may significantly affect your grade.
Final Thoughts
WAEC doesn’t just test your ability to write English — it tests how well you follow instructions, structure your answers, and express ideas clearly.
Master the marking scheme. Practice smart. Write with purpose.
With this knowledge, you can go into your WAEC English exam with confidence and come out with an A1 or B2.
