As a graduate of The University of Dar es Salaam and a Professional Teacher of English Language and Literature in English, Zabron Amon understands the importance of quality education and academic excellence. That's why he has taken it upon himself to help Tanzanian students and teachers improve their performance in English Language exams. In this blog post, Zabron will be solving the English Language paper from the 2012 National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) to aid in revision for candidates and teachers alike. By providing these resources for free, Zabron hopes to make a positive impact on the education system in Tanzania and ultimately help students achieve their academic goals.
Now Lets Solve
Solution Question 1 {a}
(i) C - rains had been the lowest that year in the living memory.
(ii) D - relief operation was late and most urban areas were inaccessible.
(iii) D - nomads in Sahel area.
(iv) C - efforts of international agencies, governments, and regional authorities.
Solution Question 1 {b}
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S/N
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AGENT
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THE WAY THEY DESTROY THE ENVIRONMENT
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1
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Man
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(i)
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Overgrazing, which leads to soil erosion,
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(ii)
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by cutting down trees,
which leads to deforestation and desertification
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2
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The goat
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(i)
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Eating plants' leaves,
stems, and roots, which leads to the destruction of vegetation and
desertification.
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The Mobile Phone introduces itself as a modern device that can communicate with anyone and send text messages without speaking. It has parents who are landlines and grandparents who were the first types of telephones. The family name, Telephone, comes from two old Greek words meaning "far away voice." Landline phones use wires and an electrical current to transmit voice vibrations, while mobile phones use radio signals. The Mobile Phone plans to marry and have Video Phone offspring.
(a) Vendor: A vendor is a person who sells goods, often in a public place like a market or street corner. They acquire their goods from wholesalers and retailers and sell them to the public for a profit. The activities of a vendor include sourcing goods to sell, setting up their selling area, displaying goods, negotiating prices, making sales, and managing their finances.
(b) Tour guide: A tour guide is a person who leads groups of tourists on trips or visits to various locations. They provide information and commentary about the sites visited, answer questions, and ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group. The activities of a tour guide include planning and organizing tours, researching and preparing information about the sites to be visited, leading the tour, managing the group's itinerary, arranging transportation, and providing customer service.
(c) Cyclist: A cyclist is a person who rides a bicycle for recreation, sport, or transportation. The activities of a cyclist include maintaining and repairing their bicycle, planning routes, riding their bicycle for exercise or transportation, participating in cycling events, and following road safety rules.
(d) Foreman: A foreman is a person who supervises and manages a team of workers on a job site or in a factory. Their responsibilities include organizing and delegating tasks, ensuring that work is completed on schedule and to a high standard, monitoring the safety and productivity of the workers, and communicating with management about progress and issues. The activities of a foreman include planning and coordinating work schedules, training and instructing workers, supervising work activities, inspecting work sites and products, and resolving conflicts among workers.
Solution Question 4
When I was at school a few years ago, I was the best student in my class. Whenever I was given a test, I scored full marks. When the best students were given an opportunity to participate in an essay writing competition, I won the prize. The teacher who was dealing with the essay writing competition was given a prize too.
(a) Musa and Rose are married.
(b) John and Musa are siblings or brothers.
(c) Rasi and Stela are cousins.
(d) Abdu, Amina, Rasi, and Hawa are grandchildren of Mr and Mrs Moshi.
(a) I am planning to come at 4:00p.m.
(b) Please do this work very carefully.
(c) One of our friends has left school.
(d) The students failed because they did not study hard.
(e) My friends are working very hard.
(f) There is much water in the ocean.
(g) Maya’s brother is studying at the university.
(h) We are planning to use the new syllabus.
Solution Question 7
(a) "I wish I could go to your school," said Ali, "and I would like to read stories too."
(b) Asha has finished reading the newspaper, hasn't she?
(c) One of the monkeys was torn into pieces by the lioness before it had climbed up the tree.
(d) The police constable wondered if they would be able to identify the thief.
C. Tanzania gained her independence in 1961 under the mono party system.
A. Arusha Declaration was initiated in order to set the rulling strategies after the
independence.
E. Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere the first president of Tanzania resigned in 1985.
B. He was succeeded by Ally Hassan Mwinyi.
D. When Ally Hassan Mwinyi was in power, he brought Tanzania into the multiparty system.
The correct sequence of these sentences is: C-A-E-B-D.
Solution Question 9
(i) E. Skirt is a garment hanging from the waist.
(ii) A. Sock is not a lightweight simple garment for the upper body.
(iii) F. Blouse is a garment worn on the upper part of the body, usually having sleeves and buttons.
(iv) H. T-shirt is a shirt-like garment worn on the upper part of the body.
(v) D. Gown is a loose wide outer garment.
Solution Question 10 a
Dear [Sister's Friend's Name],
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high
spirits. I am writing to extend a warm invitation to you to attend the birthday
dinner party of my nephew, [Nephew's Name]. The party will take place at our
home on [Date] at [Time].
As you know, [Nephew's Name] is turning [Age] this year, and
we would love to have you join us in celebrating this special occasion. We have
planned a fun-filled evening with delicious food, drinks, and entertainment.
Please RSVP by [RSVP Date] to confirm your attendance. We
would appreciate it if you could let us know of any dietary requirements or
allergies you may have.
Looking forward to seeing you at the party!
Warm regards,
[Your
Name]
Excuse 1:
Hi, this is Sarah. I'm afraid I won't be able to make it to
[Nephew's Name]'s birthday party. I have an important work meeting that
evening. Please pass on my best wishes to the birthday boy and his family.
Thanks, and have a great party!
Excuse 2:
Hi, this is David. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend
[Nephew's Name]'s birthday party as I have to travel out of town on that day.
I'm really sorry to miss the celebrations. Please give my regards to your
nephew and family. Hope to catch up soon!
Excuse 3:
Hello, this is Lisa. I regret to inform you that I won't be
able to attend [Nephew's Name]'s birthday party due to a family emergency.
Please extend my apologies to your nephew and family. Wishing him a very happy
birthday and sending lots of love and hugs from me.
Solution Question 10 b
Education is the foundation of development for any nation. It equips individuals with knowledge and skills that enable them to make informed decisions, contribute to society, and live fulfilling lives. The quality of education is largely dependent on the teaching and learning environment in schools. Unfortunately, some schools, like Mlima Kweli High School, do not provide conducive teaching and learning environments. In this essay, I will identify the most crucial aspects that the school administration needs to consider to improve the teaching and learning environment.
Firstly, the school administration should focus on creating a safe and secure environment for students and teachers. Safety is paramount in any learning environment, and students cannot learn effectively in an environment where they feel threatened or insecure. The administration can ensure safety by installing security cameras, hiring security personnel, and ensuring that the school perimeter is well secured.
Secondly, the school administration should ensure that the physical infrastructure of the school is in good condition. This includes classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other facilities that are essential for teaching and learning. The classrooms should be spacious, well-ventilated, and well-lit to create a comfortable learning environment. The laboratories should have modern equipment to enable students to conduct experiments effectively.
Thirdly, the school administration should ensure that teachers are well-trained and motivated to teach. Well-trained teachers have the knowledge and skills to deliver quality education to students. The administration can provide teachers with professional development opportunities, such as workshops and seminars, to improve their teaching skills. Motivated teachers are passionate about teaching and are more likely to create a positive learning environment for their students.
Fourthly, the school administration should ensure that there are adequate learning resources for students. This includes textbooks, reference materials, and digital resources that students can use to supplement their learning. The library should be well-stocked with books and other reading materials that are relevant to the curriculum.
In conclusion, the teaching and learning environment is crucial for quality education. The school administration should prioritize creating a safe and secure environment, ensuring that the physical infrastructure is in good condition, providing well-trained and motivated teachers, and ensuring that there are adequate learning resources for students. By considering these crucial aspects, Mlima Kweli High School can improve the teaching and learning environment and provide quality education to its students.
Solution Question 10 c
Zabron
Amon
P.O.Box
0
Dar
es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel:
0746966336
Email:
zabron.amon@outlook.com
Date:
May 12, 2023
[General Manager's Name]
Karume Kenge Company L.T.D.
[Address]
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Dear [General Manager's Name],
I am writing to
request your permission for a brief absence from work. As an employee of Karume
Kenge Company L.T.D., I understand that it is my responsibility to maintain the
highest level of professionalism and dedication to my work. However, I have
received an invitation to attend a family wedding in [name of the town], which
will require me to take a few days off from work.
I assure you
that I will make every effort to ensure that my work is completed on time
before I leave. I will also make sure that my colleagues are fully briefed on
my work so that they can continue with the project in my absence. I understand
that this absence will have an impact on the team, and I apologize for any
inconvenience caused.
The wedding is
scheduled to take place from [starting date] to [ending date], and I request
your approval for these dates off from work. I assure you that I will return to
work immediately after the wedding and that I will make up for any work that I
miss during my absence.
Thank you for
considering my request, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
Sincerely
Zabron Amon
Solution Question 10 dDear Editor,
I am writing to draw your attention towards the appalling condition of roads in my village, Mwanza. The roads in our village are in a deplorable state and are causing severe inconvenience to the residents.
The roads are filled with potholes, which make it difficult for vehicles to traverse the roads, particularly during the rainy season. In addition, the dust emanating from the unpaved roads causes respiratory problems, particularly among children and the elderly.
The poor condition of the roads also affects the economy of the village. The transportation of goods is hampered due to the poor state of the roads, resulting in increased costs and delayed delivery times. This, in turn, affects the livelihoods of the people who depend on such economic activities.
Despite several complaints to the local authorities, no action has been taken to repair the roads. The villagers have resorted to filling up the potholes themselves with gravel, but this is a temporary solution and does not solve the underlying problem.
Therefore, I appeal to the concerned authorities to take immediate action and repair the roads in Mwanza. The residents of the village deserve better infrastructure, and it is the responsibility of the authorities to provide them with the same.
Yours sincerely,
Jane Kibakaya
12 Mwanza Street
Mwanza, Tanzania.
Poetry has been used for centuries as a means to express political and social messages. The following points explain how the poem "Lost Beauty" by Sekou Toure proves that poems have their own part to play in the struggle to create a new man:
The poem highlights the struggle of black people to find representation and acceptance in a white-dominated society. It shows that black people want to be seen and heard, and they want to celebrate their unique beauty.
The speaker's desire for a "black beauty queen" shows that he wants to challenge the prevailing beauty standards that prioritize whiteness. He wants to empower black women and celebrate their beauty, rather than conforming to the ideals of white beauty.
The line "Black is beautiful!" is a powerful declaration of pride and self-love. It is a call to arms for black people to embrace their identity and reject the white supremacist standards that have been imposed on them.
The poem highlights the importance of representation in the media and public discourse. The speaker wants to see more black faces and voices in positions of power and influence.
The poem challenges the idea that blackness is inferior or ugly. The speaker celebrates the physical features of black women, such as their "ebony thighs and huge hips" and "bare breasts bouncing." He sees these features as symbols of "vigor and energy," rather than something to be ashamed of.
The poem emphasizes the need for solidarity among black people. The speaker sings "the inbred tune of our people" and shouts in "a black tongue," but he is frustrated that only white people seem to be listening. He longs for a black sister to hear him and join him in his struggle.
The poem shows that racism is not just an external force, but also an internalized one. The speaker is frustrated that he cannot see "anything black" and realizes that he himself is not black either. This internalized racism is a barrier to creating a new man, one who is proud of his blackness and committed to fighting against white supremacy.
The poem demonstrates the power of language and poetry to express complex ideas and emotions. The speaker uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey his message and stir his audience to action.
Finally, the poem shows that art can be a powerful tool for social change. It can challenge dominant narratives, spark conversations, and inspire people to fight for justice and equality. By celebrating blackness and rejecting white beauty standards, "Lost Beauty" contributes to the struggle to create a new man, one who is free from the shackles of racism and oppression.
Items to Consider in the Criticism of a Poem
Poetry is a unique form of literature that is characterized by strong imagination, emotion, significant and appropriate language. In the criticism of any literary work, including poetry, it is essential to consider two elements: content and form. These two elements are further divided into sub-elements that help in analyzing the poem's different aspects. The following are the eight items that should be considered in the criticism of a poem:
Content: Theme
Theme refers to the central idea or message that the poet wants to communicate through their work. Every poem has various themes such as exploitation, classes, poverty, oppression, selfishness, colonialism, among others. The presence of these themes gives us room to comment on whether the poet has succeeded in portraying the societal evils or not.
Content: Message
The message refers to what we have learned from the poem. It is essential to judge whether the poet has succeeded in conveying the message to the readers or not. Failure to do so means that the poet has failed to teach the readers effectively.
Form: Type of Poem
The type of poem refers to the poem's appearance and whether it has been composed following its rules or not. If the poem has been composed without following its rules, it is referred to as a free verse/open/modern poem. If the poem has been composed following its rules, it is referred to as a traditional/closed/rhythmical poem.
Form: Structure (Form) of Poem
The structure of the poem refers to the number of stanzas and verses in the poem. It is essential to describe the number of stanzas and verses composed in each stanza. The presence of rhymes in the poem should also be analyzed.
Form: Language Use/Diction
The language used in the poem is critical in analyzing the poem's effectiveness. It is advisable to comment on whether the language used is simple or difficult. Additionally, if the poem has been composed in two different languages, it is essential to comment on the effect on the readers.
Form: Literary Devices
The presence of literary devices such as figures of speech, symbols, and imagery in the poem should be analyzed.
Type of Poetry
The type of poetry used in the poem should be analyzed. There are three main types of poetry: lyric, narrative, and dramatic poetry. However, there are other types that come from these three types.
Tone of the Poet
The tone of the poet refers to their attitude towards the poem. The poet's attitude depends on the nature of the poem, whether it talks about good or bad things in society. It can be angry, sad, or happy.
Mood of the Persona
The mood of the persona refers to their attitude towards the poem. The persona's attitude depends on the nature of the poem, whether it talks about good or bad things in their society. It can be angry, sad, or happy.
Relevance of the Poem
The relevance of the poem should be analyzed. It is essential to consider whether all the things written in the poem are present in society or not. If they are present, the poem is relevant to society, and if they are not, the poem is not relevant to society.
In conclusion, these eight items provide a framework for analyzing a poem effectively. It is essential to consider each item and analyze its various aspects to understand the poem's different elements fully. By doing so, one can develop a well-rounded and comprehensive critique of the poem.
The play "Three Suitors: One Husband" is a comedic portrayal of a young girl, Juliette, who finds herself at the mercy of male leaders who are determined to control her future. One of the central themes of the play is the abuse of power by male leaders who use their positions of authority to try and win the love of Juliette. Throughout the play, we see several instances where male leaders abuse their power, causing harm to Juliette and others around her.
One of the most prominent examples of the abuse of power in the play is the way Juliette's father, Atangana, treats his daughter. Despite Juliette's objections, Atangana insists on marrying her off to a man she has never met, simply because it is tradition. When Juliette protests and refuses to go along with the plan, Atangana threatens her and tells her that it has already been decided, and she has no say in the matter. This kind of behavior is an abuse of power, as Atangana is using his authority as a father to force Juliette into a situation she does not want to be in.
Similarly, the other male leaders in the play, including Ndi, Mbia, and the headman Mbarga, also abuse their power by trying to force Juliette into marriage against her will. They all see her as a prize to be won, and they are willing to use their positions of authority to try and win her over. Ndi and Mbia, the first two suitors, both offer large sums of money to Juliette's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. This is an abuse of power, as they are using their wealth and status to try and win Juliette's love, rather than allowing her to choose her own husband.
Mbarga, the headman of the village, also abuses his power by using his position to try and manipulate the situation. He suggests using a witchdoctor to try and find out who stole the money from Ndi and Mbia, even though he knows that the witchdoctor is a fraud. He then suggests finding a wealthy man in the city to marry Juliette, simply because he believes that this will be the easiest way to solve the problem, rather than taking into account Juliette's feelings or desires.
Overall, the play "Three Suitors: One Husband" is a powerful commentary on the abuse of power by male leaders. The male characters in the play use their positions of authority to try and win the love of Juliette, even though this goes against her wishes and desires. This is a common theme in many societies, where men in positions of power often abuse their authority to control women's lives. It is important for us to recognize and speak out against this kind of behavior, and to work towards a society where all individuals are free to make their own choices and decisions, without fear of coercion or manipulation.
Male leaders are often entrusted with power and responsibility to guide and serve their communities. However, in some instances, they abuse this power by using it to win love. The Lion and the Jewel by Wole Soyinka provides an excellent example of this phenomenon. The following are five points that illustrate how some male leaders abuse the power entrusted to them by using it to win love:
The abuse of power is evident in the behavior of Lakunle, a schoolteacher, who criticizes Sidi for carrying water on her head and dressing immodestly. He also desires to marry Sidi but refuses to pay her bride price, claiming that it is offensive. Lakunle's behavior reveals his desire to control and dominate Sidi.
Baroka, the Bale of the village, uses his power to manipulate and control Sidi's feelings. He feigns impotence and proposes to Sidi through his eldest wife, Sadiku, in an attempt to win her love. Baroka's behavior is a clear indication of how male leaders abuse their power to win love.
Sidi's sudden realization of her beauty and rejection of Lakunle's proposal is a reflection of how male leaders use their power to influence the desires and perceptions of others. Lakunle's failure to win Sidi's love makes him feel inadequate, which highlights the extent of the power that male leaders wield.
The mimed dance performance in which Baroka joins to tell the story of The Stranger's previous visit to the village shows how male leaders use their power to showcase their talents and prowess. The performance is an attempt by Baroka to impress Sidi and win her love.
Sadiku's celebration of Baroka's impotence highlights how male leaders use their power to control the narrative and manipulate others' perceptions. Sadiku's glee at Baroka's impotence reveals her desire to undermine his power and control over her and other wives.
In conclusion, The Lion and the Jewel by Wole Soyinka illustrates how male leaders abuse the power entrusted to them by using it to win love. The behavior of Lakunle, Baroka, Sadiku, and Sidi reveals the extent of this abuse and its impact on individuals and communities. It is, therefore, crucial for societies to hold their leaders accountable and prevent the abuse of power to ensure that leaders serve the greater good rather than their personal desires.
The novel "Unanswered Cries" by Osman Conteh explores the themes of gender inequality, female genital mutilation (FGM), and the struggle for personal agency. These themes are relevant in Tanzania today, as the country continues to grapple with gender-based violence and FGM practices. This essay will analyze these themes and their relevance in Tanzania today, providing specific examples to support this argument.
Gender inequality is a significant issue in Tanzania, where women are often subjected to discrimination, marginalization, and violence. The protagonist of "Unanswered Cries," Olabisi, faces discrimination and violence from her mother and other women in her community because she questions the practice of FGM. Olabisi's mother insists that she must be circumcised to become a "responsible mother" and earn respect in the community. When Olabisi questions how a girl can be circumcised, her mother slaps her and accuses her of sleeping with boys. This scene highlights the pervasive belief that women's worth is tied to their sexuality and the notion that women's bodies must be controlled to maintain their purity.
This belief is reinforced in the scene where Olabisi fights Salay and Rugiatu. When Olabisi tears the girls' pants to see if they have been circumcised, Salay hits her with a rock, and they fall down unconscious. Olabisi's mother blames her for the incident, and Ya Posseh, the leader of the bondo camp, demands that Olabisi undergo FGM to atone for her sins. The novel shows how women in positions of power often enforce patriarchal norms, perpetuating the cycle of violence against women. In Tanzania, FGM is still practiced in some communities, despite being illegal since 1998. The practice is deeply entrenched in traditional beliefs about gender and sexuality, and women who resist the practice face discrimination and violence.
The struggle for personal agency is another theme in "Unanswered Cries." Olabisi rebels against the traditional gender roles and expectations imposed on her by her mother and other women in her community. She questions the practice of FGM and refuses to be circumcised. When Ya Posseh and her daughters try to force her to undergo FGM, Olabisi fights back and manages to overpower them. She then runs away and eventually ends up in Freetown, where she seeks refuge with Ade Jones.
Olabisi's struggle for personal agency is an inspiration for Tanzanian women who resist patriarchal norms and seek to assert their rights. Women in Tanzania have been fighting for their rights for decades, organizing protests, and advocating for policy change. For example, in 2016, Tanzanian women's rights activists launched a campaign to end FGM in the country. The campaign involved community education and sensitization, engaging traditional leaders and religious leaders, and working with law enforcement to enforce the law against FGM.
In conclusion, "Unanswered Cries" highlights the themes of gender inequality, FGM, and the struggle for personal agency. These themes are relevant in Tanzania today, where women continue to face discrimination and violence. The novel provides a poignant reminder that women must continue to fight for their rights and resist patriarchal norms to achieve gender equality. Tanzania has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and ending FGM, but there is still much work to be done. Women's rights activists must continue to advocate for policy change, engage communities, and promote education and sensitization to end gender-based violence and discrimination in Tanzania.
Themes in "The Interview" relevant in Tanzania today
Patrick M Ngugi's novel "The Interview" explores various themes that are relevant to contemporary society in Tanzania. The novel delves into issues of poverty, social inequality, corruption, violence, and ethnic discrimination. This essay will analyze these themes and highlight their relevance in Tanzania, drawing specific examples from the novel.
One of the central themes of the novel is poverty. Joe, the protagonist, is portrayed as a young man who is struggling to make ends meet. He cannot get a job or go to college because he cannot afford to pay his school fees. This situation is common in Tanzania, where poverty levels are high, and many young people cannot access education due to financial constraints. In Tanzania, according to the World Bank, the poverty rate is around 26.4%. This means that more than a quarter of the population lives below the poverty line, which makes it difficult for young people to access education and employment opportunities.
Another theme that is relevant in Tanzania today is social inequality. Joe's inability to pay his school fees is a result of his disadvantaged background, having lost his parents in ethnic cleansing. In Tanzania, social inequality is a significant challenge, with disparities existing between urban and rural areas and between different ethnic groups. For example, according to the UNDP's Human Development Report for Tanzania, the poverty rate is highest among the rural population, with over 80% living below the poverty line. Additionally, ethnic and tribal differences have often led to conflicts, as seen in the clashes between the Maasai and the Barabaig in recent years.
Corruption is another theme that is relevant in Tanzania today. In the novel, the headline "ELEPHANT GROUP TAKES OVER NAIROBI BOTTLERS" highlights the issue of corruption and how it can affect the economy and people's livelihoods. In Tanzania, corruption has been a significant challenge, affecting all sectors of society, including government, business, and civil society. Corruption undermines social and economic development, and it creates an environment that is conducive to other criminal activities such as money laundering, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.
Violence is also a theme that is relevant in Tanzania today. The novel depicts the brutal killings of Joe's parents and other people during ethnic cleansing. In Tanzania, violence is a pervasive issue, particularly in regions that are prone to conflicts between different ethnic groups. For example, in the past, there have been clashes between the Sukuma and the Datooga, the Chaga and the Pare, and the Kurya and the Luo. These conflicts often lead to loss of life, displacement of people, and destruction of property.
Finally, ethnic discrimination is another theme that is relevant in Tanzania today. In the novel, Joe's background as a victim of ethnic cleansing illustrates how discrimination based on ethnicity can have devastating effects on people's lives. In Tanzania, ethnic discrimination is a challenge, particularly in regions where different ethnic groups live in close proximity. Discrimination based on ethnicity is a violation of human rights and has been shown to fuel conflict and violence.
In conclusion, "The Interview" by Patrick M Ngugi explores various themes that are relevant in contemporary society in Tanzania. The novel highlights issues such as poverty, social inequality, corruption, violence, and ethnic discrimination, which continue to affect many Tanzanians today. The examples drawn from the novel demonstrate how these themes can have devastating effects on people's lives and how they need to be addressed urgently. Therefore, policymakers in Tanzania need to address these issues to ensure that all Tanzanians have equal opportunities to live a dignified life.
