NABTEB English Language Syllabus 2026/2027 [Download in PDF]

NABTEB English Language Syllabus 2026/2027: The National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) English Language Syllabus is now available online in PDF format for prospective candidates.

The Board has officially uploaded the syllabus to guide students preparing for NABTEB examinations. Carefully compiled by subject experts, the document is designed to help candidates understand the exam structure, expectations, and key areas of focus.

This comprehensive syllabus serves as a valuable preparation tool, equipping students with the knowledge needed to perform confidently in the English language examination.

. Aims

The English Language curriculum covers Grammar, Orals, comprehension and summary writing, Correspondence, Essay, and report writing. It is designed to help candidates communicate effectively in both written and spoken English, construct correct sentences, read with understanding, and accurately interpret and record technical information relevant to their trades.

The course also aims to develop candidates’ ability to express ideas clearly on current issues, recognize implied meanings and tones, and use acceptable pronunciation. Additionally, it serves as a foundation for post-secondary technical education.

2. Examination Scheme

Candidates will take three papers. Papers 001-1 (Objective Test) and 001-2 (Essay, Comprehension, and Summary) are taken together, lasting a total of 2 hours 45 minutes. Paper I is a 1-hour multiple-choice objective test (75 marks) with 100 questions based on 40 lexical and 60 structural items. Paper II lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and carries 100 marks.

Paper 001-3 (Orals) carries 25 marks and is assessed separately.

Click Here to Download NABTEB English Language Syllabus in PDF Form

NABTEB English Language Syllabus 2026/2027

Lexis and Vocabulary Areas

The lexical areas covered include topics such as:

1. Agriculture
2. Fisheries
3. Animal Husbandry
4. Religion
5. Family Life
6. Photography
7. Stock Exchange
8. Advertising
9. Sports
10. Entertainment
11. Insurance
12. Military
13. Health
14. Culture and Ceremonies
15. Science and Technology (e.g., Building, Plumbing, Auto Mechanics, etc.)
16. Travel and Tourism
17. Government Administration
18. Law and Social Order
19. Computer and Information Technology

Other lexical components include idiomatic expressions (meanings not deducible from individual words), figurative expressions, antonyms, synonyms, correct spellings, affixes, and modifiers.

Structures

Structures cover:

• Changes in word forms (number, tense, degree, etc.)
• Rules of grammar and sentence construction

Paper II: Essay Writing, Comprehension and Summary

Section 1: Essay Writing (45 minutes – 40 marks)

Candidates will answer one question out of four options. Essays should be 350–400 words unless otherwise stated. Marks are awarded for clarity, organization, correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Types of writing include:

• Narrative
• Descriptive
• Argumentative/Debate
• Expository
• Letter Writing
• Article
• Speech
• Creative Writing

Section 2: Comprehension (25 minutes – 20 marks)

Candidates will read a 350–400 word passage and answer questions testing:

• Direct understanding
• Punctuation
• Word classes
• Figures of speech (simile, metaphor, etc.)
• Word meaning in context
• Grammatical functions (phrases, clauses, direct/indirect speech)

Section 3: Summary (35 minutes – 30 marks)

A 400–500 word passage will be provided. Candidates must:

• Summarize relevant points clearly and concisely
• Avoid repetition, redundancy, and irrelevant details

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