Use Of English 2016 Jamb Examination

The expression something fishy is an idiomatic phrase used to suggest suspicion or the feeling that something is secretly happening. In the context of the novel, Nene observes the behaviour and interactions between Jimi and Efua and senses that their relationship goes beyond ordinary friendship. The phrase does not suggest fear, annoyance, or uncertainty about decisions already made, but rather a growing suspicion based on perceived closeness and hidden emotional involvement. The author uses this expression to highlight the role of gossip, intuition, and emotional rivalry among students, which is a recurring theme in the novel’s depiction of adolescent life.

Seyi Lawal is portrayed as a responsible and committed student leader who takes his duties seriously. As the head boy, he performs his responsibilities with dedication and pride, showing enthusiasm for leadership rather than avoidance or resentment. His character is not defined by academic dislike, social flirtation, or laziness, but by a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to the smooth running of school affairs. Through this portrayal, the author emphasises positive leadership qualities expected of student prefects in a school environment.

The novel goes beyond the immediate setting of Forcados High School to reflect broader issues affecting society. Through the experiences of students and staff, the author addresses themes such as broken homes, abuse, moral conflict, peer pressure, leadership challenges, and social injustice. These issues mirror real problems within the larger society and show how they affect young people. The work is therefore not limited to environmental descriptions, isolated emotions, or specific organisational activities, but serves as a commentary on wider societal problems.

Efua’s behaviour towards boys is shaped by a traumatic personal experience rather than moral teaching or abstract principles. Her past encounter with her stepfather leaves her emotionally scarred and deeply distrustful of male intentions. This background explains her defensive and sometimes hostile attitude, which serves as a psychological shield against perceived danger. The author uses Efua’s experience to expose the damaging effects of abuse and how such trauma can influence a victim’s relationships and outlook on life.

Jimi’s popularity and recognition within the school are linked to his artistic talent rather than family background or official position. His paintings earn him admiration and set him apart from other students, making him well known among both peers and teachers. The author highlights this talent to show how creativity can shape identity and social status in a school environment. Jimi’s prominence therefore stems from his skill in art, which becomes a defining feature of his character in the novel.

To 'bear the brunt' of something means to endure the worst part or the main force of a negative impact or difficult situation. In the context of an examination, if someone bore the brunt, it implies they suffered the most severe consequences or faced the harshest results of that event. Therefore, suggesting that Mr Rufus failed woefully aligns with the idiomatic meaning of facing the full, unpleasant force of the examination results. The other options, such as excelling or being excited, contradict the negative connotation associated with the phrase 'bearing the brunt'.

The idiom 'well off' is a common English expression used to describe someone's economic status. Specifically, it means to be wealthy, rich, or at the very least, in a comfortable financial position. When we say someone is 'well off nowadays', we are indicating that their current circumstances involve having plenty of money or being financially secure. It does not refer to their physical health (being well), their level of fame (being well known), or their mental state (focus). Thus, describing the friend as 'financially sound' is the most accurate interpretation of the phrase.

The expression 'yeoman's service' (or yeoman service) refers to performing very useful, efficient, and hardworking service, often in a loyal and reliable manner. Historically, a yeoman was a dedicated attendant or a hard-working farmer, and the idiom evolved to signify high-quality, steadfast work. When applied to an army officer's service to the nation, it conveys that his contributions were substantial, loyal, and exemplary. Therefore, saying he was 'very loyal to the nation' best captures the spirit of providing reliable and dedicated service that is characteristic of this idiom.

The phrase 'in the thick of' something means to be right in the middle of it, especially where the activity is most intense or where a situation is most complex. If someone is in the thick of a situation, they are not merely observing from the sidelines; they are at the very centre of the action. This implies a high degree of involvement, often suddenly or involuntarily. Consequently, the idea that he 'found himself deeply involved' accurately reflects the state of being at the heart of the intense activity or conflict described by the idiom.

To 'come to blows' is an idiom that means to start fighting physically after a disagreement or argument. The 'blows' in the phrase refer to punches or physical strikes. When two people like Olu and Ado are described as being 'about to come to blows', it signifies that their conflict has escalated to the point where physical violence is imminent. It moves beyond a mere verbal disagreement or a failure to agree, indicating that they are literally on the verge of hitting one another. This makes the description of them being 'about to hit each other' the correct interpretation.