Preparing for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) Mining examination requires a strategic approach.
One essential tool to guide your exam preparation is the WAEC Mining syllabus.
This syllabus outlines the aims, objectives, and topics you need to cover to excel in the exam.
In this blog post, we will break down the syllabus into easily understandable sections, providing you with a clear roadmap for your studies. Let’s dive in!
Aim and Objectives:
The WAEC Mining examination aims to evaluate your understanding of the basic principles and practices in the mining industry.
By studying this subject, you will develop a comprehensive knowledge of mining, foster entrepreneurial interest, and gain practical skills.
The objectives of the examination are as follows:
- Explain the basic concepts associated with mining.
- Acquire fundamental knowledge of rocks and minerals.
- Recognize the special properties and values of gems and precious minerals.
- Explain the methods of mineral extraction.
- Understand the mineral processing techniques to obtain useful products.
- Appreciate the importance of health, safety, and the environment in mining.
- Develop the necessary skills and business attitudes for a career in mining.
Field Work:
To enhance your practical understanding, field work is an integral part of the WAEC Mining examination.
Through excursions to mining industry sites such as coal mines, oil derricks, and petroleum refineries, you will gain hands-on experience.
This exposure will be assessed as part of your continuous assessment in school, accounting for 40% of your overall scores.
Examination Scheme:
The WAEC Mining examination consists of two papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, which are to be taken as a composite paper in one sitting.
Here’s the breakdown:
Paper 1: This section includes forty multiple-choice objective questions to be answered in 40 minutes, carrying a total of 40 marks.
Paper 2: Divided into two sections—Section A and Section B.
- Section A: Comprises 10 short structured questions covering the entire syllabus. You must answer all the questions in 40 minutes, accounting for 40 marks.
- Section B: Consists of five essay-type questions. You need to choose and answer any three questions within 1 hour and 25 minutes. This section carries 60 marks.
Mining Syllabus:
Now, let’s explore the key contents of the WAEC Mining syllabus and provide some simplified notes to help you grasp the concepts effectively.
(A) Introduction to Mining:
- Meaning and branches of mining
- Terminology used in mining
- Classification and importance of minerals
- Distribution of minerals in Nigeria
- History of mining
- Mining activities in Nigeria
- Importance of minerals to the economy
(B) Basic Geology:
- Definition of geology and its relationship to mining
- Structure of the Earth
- Abundance of elements in the Earth’s crust
- Economic mineral potentials of Nigeria
- Types of rocks (igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic)
- Rock-forming minerals and their properties
- Rock cycle and weathering
- Geological and mineral maps interpretation
(C) Stages of Development in Mining (Basic Concepts):
- Minerals markets and cartels
- Mine accounting and sources of finance
- Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007
- Mining titles acquisition
- Prospect and exploration techniques
- Feasibility study and financial analysis
- Mine development and mineral processing design
- Metal extraction processes
(D) Mining Methods:
- Classification of mining methods (surface and underground)
- Choice of mining methods and their justifications
- Surface mining methods (quarrying, open pit mining, alluvial mining)
- Underground mining methods (room-and-pillar, longwall, cut-and-fill, etc.)
- Prospecting and exploration techniques
- Feasibility study and financial analysis
(E) Introduction to Mineral Processing:
- Comminution and concentration processes
- Products of mineral processing
- Mineral processing operations and auxiliary processes
- Gemology and lapidary
- Gemstone processing techniques
- Gemstone identification and quality evaluation
- Marketing and prices of gemstones
(F) Health, Safety, and Environment:
- Health hazards in mining
- Safety requirements and measures
- Environmental impacts of mining
- Safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Common diseases associated with mining
- First aid and accident reporting
- National policies on mineral development and environmental protection
Facilities and Equipment:
To enhance your understanding and practical skills, certain facilities and equipment are recommended.
These include spring balances, fire extinguishers, geological and topographical maps, samples of rocks and minerals, and various testing apparatus.
Recommended Textbooks:
To supplement your studies, here are some suggested textbooks that cover the topics in the WAEC Mining syllabus:
- “Introduction to Mining” by E.O.A. Damisa
- “Rudiments of Mining Practice” by C.E. Gregory
- “Introduction to Mineral Processing” by E.O.A. Damisa and G.D.A. Tsaro
- “Introduction to Geology” by D.D. Davou
- “Minerals and Mining on the Jos Plateau” by S.J. Mallo and B.O. Nwude
Conclusion
Mastering the WAEC Mining syllabus is crucial for your exam preparation.
By understanding the aims, objectives, and topics outlined in the syllabus, you’ll have a clear direction for your studies.
Make use of the recommended textbooks and take advantage of field work opportunities to solidify your knowledge and practical skills.
With thorough preparation and dedication, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the WAEC Mining examination and pursue a successful career in the mining industry.
