Reading Comprehension Strategies
Comprehension is the ability to read, understand, and interpret a passage. WAEC examinations always include a comprehension passage with questions.
Approach to Comprehension
- Read the questions first — know what you are looking for
- Read the passage carefully — at least twice
- Locate answers in the passage — underline key sentences
- Answer in your own words — paraphrase, do not copy unless asked for a quote
- Check your answer makes grammatical sense
Summary Writing
A summary condenses the main points of a passage into a shorter piece of writing, using your own words.
Steps for Summary Writing
- Read the passage and identify the topic
- Identify the main points (usually one per paragraph)
- Rewrite these points briefly in your own words
- Write in a single continuous paragraph unless told otherwise
- Use reported speech / third person — "The passage states that…"
Common Summary Mistakes
- Copying sentences word-for-word (lifting)
- Including minor details or examples
- Exceeding the specified word count
- Including your own opinions
Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, solid minerals, and fertile agricultural land. However, over-dependence on oil revenue has led to neglect of agriculture and other sectors. Experts argue that diversifying the economy — by investing in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, and manufacturing — would create more jobs, reduce poverty, and ensure sustainable growth. Education and technology are also seen as critical pillars for future development.
Practice: Write a 60-word summary of the passage above.