The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) which is conducted by WAEC has different subject combinations and literature is one of them. To Write the exam successfully different literature texts should be studied and covered from SS1-SS3 class, this constitutes the WASSCE literature-in-English syllabus.
The current syllabus which has been in use since 2021 will end in 2025 and WAEC has released a new list of exam focus literature-in-English for 2026-2030. This guide opens up the new list of exam focus texts for literature-in-English and the new syllabus will be effective from 2026 after the current syllabus ends.
Exam Focus Literature-in-English 2026-2030
Shakespearean Text: Antony and Cleopatra
African Prose
- Pede Hollist: So the Path Does not Die
- Elma Shaw: Redemption Road
Non-African Prose
- Harper Lee: To Kill A Mocking Bird
- Susanne Bellefeuille: Path of Lucas: The Journey He Endured
African Drama
- Bosede Ademilua- Afolayan: Once Upon An Elephant
- Efua Sutherland: The Marriage of Anansewa
Non-African Drama
- J. D. Priestly: An Inspector Calls
- Robert Bolt: A Man For All Seasons
African Poetry
- Gabriel Okara: Once Upon a Time
- Elizabeth L. A. Kamara: New Tongue
- Wole Soyinka: Night
- Niyi Osundare: Not my Business
- S.O.H. Afriyie–Vidza: Hearty Garlands
- Syl Cheney-Coker: The Breast of The Sea
Non-African Poetry
- Lord Byron: She Walks in Beauty
- Geoffrey Chaucer: The Nun’s Priest’s Tale (shortened)
- Seamus Heaney: Digging
- Maya Angelou: Still I Rise
- Fleur Adcock: The Telephone Call
- Wilfred Wilson Gipson: The Stone
Conclusion
WAEC often go the extra mile to prepare ahead of time the necessary requirements needed for a successful academic journey through senior secondary school to be specific, by releasing relevant information needed by students, parents and educators ahead of time.
The same is the case of this new syllabus for literature-in-English effective from 2026-2030 which was released in 2023 to prepare the minds of students ahead.
These texts not only prepare students for exams but also deepen their appreciation for literature. These texts offer valuable lessons and insights that will stay with students long after exams.
Whether you are a parent, teacher or student this article will serve as a guide in the years ahead as regarding literature.
FAQs
How often is the list of literature texts updated?
Literature texts for WASSCE is updated every five years so as to go through different literary work around the world and also keep the curriculum relevant and current.
Where can I find the official list of literature texts for 2026-2030?
You can find the full list on the WAEC official website and also through official announcements.
Are there any changes in the format of the literature examination for 2026-2030?
There has been no official change in the format of the literature examination, but you can keep visiting the official website for more and current information.
Can additional texts be included in the curriculum?
Although, the prescribed texts are mandatory for the WASSCE and are the ones recognized by WAEC, teachers may choose to introduce additional texts for the benefit and learning of the students.
What genres are included in the 2026-2030 list?
The 2026-2030 list includes different genres such as novels, plays, and poetry, ensuring a well-rounded exposure to different literary forms and styles.
Are the texts the same across all West African countries?
Yes, the prescribed literature texts for the WASSCE are the same in all countries that participate in WASSCE.
How can I get copies of the prescribed texts?
You can get the prescribed literature texts from bookshops, online retailers, and even school libraries (if made available). It is advisable to get the editions specified by WAEC to ensure consistency in content.
