WAEC Ghana Language Syllabus 2024/2025

WAEC Ghana Language is a compulsory subject for every student in Ghana and for you to pass with flying colours you need to have areas of concentration and that is what WAEC has made possible and we re making it easier for you by giving you the detailed breakdown of the syllabus.

The Ghanaian Language syllabus helps students learn how to communicate effectively, understand their culture, and fit well into their communities. It aims to evaluate students’ communication skills, cultural appreciation, and their ability to contribute positively to Ghana’s progress.

Objectives of the Syllabus

The primary goals of the Ghanaian Language syllabus are twofold: to enhance students’ critical thinking skills and equip them to address challenges in society. The syllabus covers various aspects including Phonology (study of sound patterns), Reading Comprehension, Writing, Literature, and the customs and institutions of different Ghanaian ethnic groups and their languages.

Assessment Objectives

Language Skills Assessment

1. Communication Skills:

• Evaluate how well students can organize and present ideas clearly.
• Assess their ability to select relevant information from readings for specific purposes.
• Measure their capacity to express thoughts and feelings effectively.
• Identify their understanding of implied meanings and attitudes in texts.
• Recognize patterns in the sounds and structures of the language.

Literature Skills Assessment

1. Understanding Literature:

• Evaluate students’ comprehension of literary texts, including themes, characters, and authorial intentions.
• Assess their appreciation of how language is used to create effects like mood, tone, and imagery.
• Measure their ability to respond personally and thoughtfully to literature.

Examination Structure

The examination is divided into two main papers, each assessing different aspects of language and literature.

Paper 1: Language Skill Development (3 hours, 120 marks)

This paper consists of four sections:

Section A: Composition (40 marks)

• Candidates choose one of four essay topics and write a 450-500 word essay.
• Topics may include narrative, descriptive, argumentative, or letter writing styles.
• Essays are expected to reflect understanding of Ghanaian customs and institutions.

Section B: Translation (20 marks)

• Translate a 150-200 word English passage into the chosen Ghanaian language.
• Topics for translation include narratives, descriptions, explanations, speeches, and instructions.

Section C: Comprehension (20 marks)

• Answer ten questions based on a 300-350 word prose or verse passage.
• Questions cover content understanding, vocabulary, figures of speech, inference, and summary skills.

Section D: Language Structure (40 marks)

• This section assesses knowledge of phonology (sound patterns) and syntax (sentence structure).
• Detailed syllabus for this section is provided separately.

Paper 2: Literature and Cultural Studies (2½ hours, 80 marks)

This paper is divided into two sections:

Section A: Oral Literature and Customs (20 marks)

• Candidates choose and answer one question from topics such as marriage customs, traditional rites, proverbs, folktales, and historical narratives.
• This section assesses knowledge and analysis of oral traditions and cultural practices.

Section B: Written Literature (60 marks)

Divided into three parts:

Part I: Prose (20 marks)

• Study one prescribed book over three years and answer a question based on it.

Part II: Drama (20 marks)

• Study another prescribed book over three years and answer a question based on it.

Part III: Poetry (20 marks)

• Study a third prescribed book over three years and answer a question based on it.

Detailed Ghana Language Syllabus

I. Phonology

1. Vowels

• Understanding vowel length, nasalization, assimilation, elision, diphthongs, vowel sequences, and vowel harmony.

2. Consonants

• Study of consonant assimilation, mutation, consonant gemination (where applicable), and secondary articulations like labialization and palatalization.

3. Tone

• Analysis of tone levels, carriers, tonal structures (intonation), and the lexical and grammatical use of tones.

4. Syllable

• Types and structure of syllables.

II. Syntax

1. Sentences

• Types, functions, and structures of sentences.

2. Clauses

• Types, functions, and structures of clauses.

3. Phrases

• Types, functions, and structures of phrases.

III. Language Structure

1. Word Classes

• Study of nouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives, pronouns, conjunctions, postpositions, determiners, particles, and auxiliaries.

2. Word Formation

• Processes and rules for forming new words.

3. Direct/Indirect Speech

• Techniques for reporting speech directly or indirectly.

4. Agreement (Concord)

• Rules governing grammatical agreement between words.

Allocation of Marks

Paper 1

• Section A: Essay – 40 marks
• Section B: Translation – 20 marks
• Section C: Comprehension – 20 marks
• Section D: Language Structure
• Phonology – 20 marks
• Syntax – 40 marks

Total for Paper 1: 120 marks

Paper 2

• Section A: Oral Literature/Customs & Institutions – 20 marks
• Section B: Written Literature/Literary Appreciation
• Part I (Prose) – 20 marks
• Part II (Drama) – 20 marks
• Part III (Poetry) – 20 marks

Total for Paper 2: 80 marks

Overall Total (Paper 1 & 2): 200 marks

Make sure to use this time table well as your examination questions will be coming out from them and also share this to your school mates and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is phonology in Ghanaian language studies?

Phonology in Ghanaian language studies focuses on understanding how sounds (like vowels and consonants) are used in the language. It includes learning about tones, vowel patterns, and how sounds change in different contexts.

Why is syntax important in learning Ghanaian languages?

Syntax helps us understand how words are combined to form sentences and phrases in Ghanaian languages. It teaches us the rules for constructing meaningful sentences and expressing ideas correctly.

What are word classes in Ghanaian languages?

Word classes categorize words based on their roles and functions in sentences. They include nouns (names of things), verbs (actions or states), adjectives (describing words), and more. Understanding word classes helps in using the language accurately.

Why study oral and written literature in Ghanaian languages?

Studying oral traditions and written literature in Ghanaian languages preserves cultural heritage and teaches us about customs, values, and beliefs. It promotes appreciation for Ghanaian literature and enriches our understanding of the language’s richness.

Conclusion

The Ghanaian Language syllabus is structured to not only teach language skills but also to deepen students’ understanding of their cultural heritage and literary traditions. By emphasizing both practical communication and cultural appreciation, the syllabus prepares students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large.

With full concentration we believe you can pass your WAEC examination with flying colour and if you have any question about this topic, don’t forget to use the comment section and we would be here to assist you.

We also have other reading aids here like the past questions and timetables which will help you keep track of your progress as you prepare to write your exam.