The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Literature in English syllabus for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is designed to evaluate candidates’ understanding of literary works, themes, and their ability to analyze and interpret various genres of literature. The syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including poetry, prose, drama, and literary appreciation. Understanding the structure of this syllabus will help candidates prepare effectively for the examination.

Overview of the JAMB 2025 Literature in English Syllabus

The JAMB Literature in English syllabus is divided into four main sections, each focusing on different aspects of literature:

1. Drama (African and Non-African)
2. Prose (African and Non-African)
3. Poetry (African and Non-African)
4. Literary Appreciation

Each section includes specific topics and objectives designed to enhance candidates’ knowledge of literature, their analytical skills, and their appreciation of literary works.

Section 1: Drama

The Drama section focuses on both African and non-African plays. Candidates are expected to study various dramatic works, understand their themes, characters, and dramatic techniques, and be able to analyze their overall impact.

Topics in Drama

1. African Drama:

• Study of selected African plays.
• Themes related to cultural heritage, social issues, colonialism, and post-colonial experiences.
• Analysis of dramatic techniques, plot structure, and characterization.

1. Non-African Drama:

• Study of selected plays from Western and other non-African cultures.
• Examination of universal themes, character development, and conflicts in non-African dramatic works.
• Analysis of language, setting, and dramatic styles used by the playwrights.

Objectives for Drama

• To analyze the content, themes, and techniques used in both African and non-African drama.
• To understand the role of characters, setting, and plot in advancing the narrative.
• To appreciate the cultural and social significance of drama in different societies.

Section 2: Prose

The Prose section encompasses both African and non-African novels and short stories. This section aims to develop candidates’ ability to interpret narrative texts, understand character motivations, and analyze themes and narrative techniques.

Topics in Prose

1. African Prose:

• Study of novels and short stories by African authors.
• Exploration of themes like identity, tradition vs. modernity, politics, and social change.
• Character analysis and narrative techniques used by African writers.

1. Non-African Prose:

• Study of novels and short stories from Western and other non-African cultures.
• Examination of themes related to individualism, morality, love, conflict, and other universal topics.
• Analysis of narrative style, plot development, and the role of the narrator.

Objectives for Prose

• To interpret and analyze the themes, characters, and techniques used in prose works.
• To appreciate the narrative styles and storytelling methods of different cultures.
• To develop a deeper understanding of the socio-political and cultural issues presented in prose literature.

Section 3: Poetry

This section covers African and non-African poetry. It aims to develop candidates’ ability to analyze poetic works, understand poetic devices, and interpret the messages conveyed through poems.

Topics in Poetry

1. African Poetry:

• Study of traditional and modern African poems.
• Analysis of themes such as love, nature, politics, oppression, and social justice.
• Understanding the use of imagery, symbolism, rhythm, and other poetic devices.

1. Non-African Poetry:

• Study of poems from Western and other non-African traditions.
• Examination of themes like life, death, beauty, despair, and human relationships.
• Analysis of structure, style, and the use of language in non-African poetry.

Objectives for Poetry

• To interpret and appreciate the messages conveyed through poetry.
• To analyze the use of poetic devices and their effects on the overall meaning of the poems.
• To understand how cultural and historical contexts influence the themes and styles of poetry.

Section 4: Literary Appreciation

The Literary Appreciation section focuses on developing candidates’ ability to analyze various literary forms critically. It includes understanding the technical aspects of literature, such as themes, tone, mood, and literary techniques.

Topics in Literary Appreciation

1. Techniques of Literary Analysis:

• Understanding and analyzing the themes, tone, mood, and diction in literary works.
• Identification of literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, irony, and satire.
• Critical evaluation of how these elements contribute to the overall impact of the literary text.

1. Forms of Literature:

• Distinguishing between the various genres of literature, including prose, poetry, and drama.
• Analysis of the structural components that define each literary form.
• Appreciation of the aesthetic qualities of different literary genres.

Objectives for Literary Appreciation

• To analyze and interpret the elements of different literary forms.
• To appreciate the use of language and literary devices in expressing themes and emotions.
• To understand the artistic and cultural significance of literature in society.

JAMB’s New Literature Texts for 2025 UTME

JAMB has introduced new literature texts for the 2025 UTME, which candidates are expected to study in detail. These texts cover drama, prose, and poetry from both African and non-African authors. Below is the list of the newly introduced literature texts:

Prose Texts

1. “Second-Class Citizen” by Buchi Emecheta
2. “Invisible Man” by Ralph Ellison
3. “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway

Drama Texts

1. “The Lion and the Jewel” by Wole Soyinka
2. “She Stoops to Conquer” by Oliver Goldsmith
3. “Look Back in Anger” by John Osborne

Poetry Texts

1. “Birago Diop’s Africa”
2. “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas
3. “The Panic of Growing Older” by Lenrie Peters

Recommended Texts for Literature in English

To help candidates prepare effectively for the JAMB Literature in English examination, here is a list of recommended texts that provide in-depth analysis and a broader understanding of literature:

1. “The African Poetry Book” by Chinua Achebe
2. “Collected Plays” by William Shakespeare
3. “Half of a Yellow Sun” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
4. “Anthology of African Poetry” edited by Wole Soyinka
5. “Contemporary Literary Criticism” by Carolyn Riley

These recommended texts will provide candidates with valuable insights into various aspects of literature, from narrative techniques to thematic analysis, enhancing their preparation for the exam.

The JAMB 2025 Literature in English syllabus provides a comprehensive guide for candidates to study drama, prose, poetry, and literary appreciation. Understanding the structure and content of this syllabus is crucial for candidates aiming to excel in the UTME examination. By focusing on the newly introduced texts and recommended readings, candidates will not only improve their analytical skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for literature in all its forms. Good luck to all candidates preparing for the 2025 UTME Literature in English!