Preparing for your WAEC Government examination requires careful planning and the right study resources.
One essential tool you need is the WAEC Government syllabus.
This syllabus outlines the aims, objectives, and topics you should cover to excel in the exam.
In this blog post, we will break down the syllabus into easily understandable sections, giving you a clear roadmap for your exam preparation.
Aims and Objectives:
The Government syllabus aims to assess your ability to:
(a) Define the concepts of Government and demonstrate an understanding of its principles, institutions, and processes.
(b) Recognize your role as an informed citizen and understand your contributions to national development.
(c) Evaluate the successes, failures, and challenges faced by governments in West Africa.
(d) Analyze the constitutional developments and processes of colonial and post-independent governments.
(e) Appreciate the role of your country as a member of the international community.
Scheme of the Examination:
The Government examination consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2, which you must both take. Here’s a breakdown of each paper:
Paper 1: This paper comprises fifty multiple-choice objective questions drawn from the entire syllabus. You will have one hour to answer all the questions, and it carries a total of 40 marks.
Paper 2: This is a two-hour essay-type test consisting of two sections, A and B.
Section A:
Elements of Government: This section will present five questions, and you are required to answer any two.
It covers topics such as the meaning and scope of Government, basic concepts and principles of Government, constitutions, organs of Government (Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary), state structure, characteristics of Government, citizenship, political parties and party systems, pressure groups, public opinion, mass media, and the electoral system.
Section B:
Political and Constitutional Developments in West Africa and International Relations:
This section contains sets of questions specific to each member country. You are to answer two questions from the set related to your country.
The topics covered include pre-colonial political systems, colonial administration, nationalism, constitutional development, major political parties, military rule, federal/unitary systems of government, foreign policies, and international organizations.
Recommended Textbooks:
To enhance your understanding and preparation for the Government examination, here is a list of recommended textbooks:
- Adu Boahen, A. – “Ghana Evolution and Change in the 19th and 20th Centuries”
- Hodgkin T. – “African Political Parties”
- Addae P. G. – “Senior Secondary School Government Bks. 1&2”
- Echiefu S. M. – “Modern Government”
- Dare and Oyewole – “A Textbook of Government for Senior Secondary School”
- Oyediran and Co. – “Government for Senior Secondary School”
- Francis Adigwe – “Essentials of Government”
- Prah Isaac – “Government for Senior Secondary School”
Conclusion
The Government syllabus provided by WAEC is a valuable resource for your exam preparation.
By following the syllabus, you can focus on the essential topics and concepts that will be tested.
Make sure to allocate enough time to study each section and use the recommended textbooks to deepen your understanding.
With thorough preparation and the right resources, you will be well-equipped to excel in your WAEC Government examination. Good luck!
