WASSCE 24 English Theory Section B

COMPREHENSION
You are advised to spend about 30 minutes on this section.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it
Alade was overjoyed. What had happened was very rare in the history of the institution. He was brilliant and did well in his studies but he was not the overall best in the college; at least, he knew about three of his coursemates whose grade points had been exceptional. Yet, here he was, being favoured above those students. He could not believe his luck.
But it was no dream at all! On that Monday morning, his head of department summoned him, and this was quite unusual. He was full of trepidation as he went to see the head of department who looked at Alade solemnly and enquired about his parents and his studies. “They are fine and my studies are going on quite well, sir”.
“Well, I’m happy to hear that”, replied the head of department. He proceeded, “I have been directed to inform you that you have been selected to attend an exchange programme which offers opportunities for participants to work together in solving shared problems that endanger the future of the youth. You will be leaving with other students from various institutions in a week’s time. Do you have a passport?”
“Yes, sir, I do”, Alade confirmed.
“Very well. Then get ready to leave for a six-month programme in Britain.”
Alade received the news with a mixture of joy and surprise; he was virtually floating on air. In no time, the news spread round the college and gave him instant popularity. Those who liked him (his friends) were happy; others were envious that they had been ignored. They thought that such a prestigious award should have been given to more qualified students, since Alade was certainly not the overall best in his class.
Alade began his preparation in earnest. He had a number of things to discard – his furniture, electronic gadgets and the old car. There would be no place to keep all these as he would have to give up his accommodation as well. After all, he would be able to procure better ones by the time he returned home.
His coursemates, including the grudging ones, held a send-off party and wished him well. On the day of his departure, Alade had the greatest shock of his life. He got to the airport only to find out that he could not travel with the others. His institution did not send his transcript as requested and his offer had ben given to another person. How would Alade face his coursemates after bidding them farewell?