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Grade 8 English questions and answers

345 English questions for Grade 8, grouped by topic. Every question is free to read, and each topic page shows worked marking schemes.

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  1. Question 1

    1 mark

    "Climate change poses an existential threat to coastal communities worldwide. Rising sea levels, extreme weather, and ocean acidification demand urgent action."

    The main idea is:

    A. Sea levels are rising slowly

    B. Coastal communities are beautiful

    C. Climate change threatens coastal communities and needs urgent response

    D. Weather patterns are changing

    (1 mark)

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  2. Question 2

    1 mark

    "The Kenyan constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to every citizen. These include the right to education, healthcare, and a clean environment."

    The main idea is:

    A. Kenya has a constitution

    B. Healthcare is important

    C. Citizens have rights to education

    D. The constitution protects citizens' fundamental rights

    (1 mark)

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  3. Question 3

    1 mark

    "Always wear a helmet when cycling. It could save your life."

    The author's purpose is to:

    A. advise on safety

    B. describe cycling

    C. sell helmets

    D. entertain

    (1 mark)

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  4. Question 4

    1 mark

    "Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are the key to a sustainable future."

    The author's purpose is to:

    A. argue for renewable energy

    B. describe the sun

    C. tell a story

    D. entertain

    (1 mark)

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  5. Question 5

    1 mark

    "The detective noticed scratch marks on the window frame and muddy footprints leading to the safe."

    We can infer that:

    A. The safe was open

    B. Someone broke in through the window

    C. The detective was dirty

    D. It was raining inside

    (1 mark)

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  6. Question 6

    1 mark

    "Maize production in Uasin Gishu County dropped by 40% due to erratic rainfall."

    The drop in production was caused by:

    A. pests

    B. low prices

    C. unpredictable rainfall

    D. poor seeds

    (1 mark)

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  7. Question 7

    1 mark

    "The headteacher's memo read: All teachers must submit term reports by Friday."

    This memo is:

    A. a request

    B. a directive/instruction

    C. a complaint

    D. a suggestion

    (1 mark)

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  8. Question 8

    1 mark

    Which word has the stress on the first syllable?

    A. REfuse (noun)

    B. beLOW

    C. reFUSE (verb)

    D. aGREE

    (1 mark)

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  9. Question 9

    1 mark

    Which word has the stress on the second syllable?

    A. phoTOgraphy

    B. TAble

    C. PHOtograph

    D. BEAUtiful

    (1 mark)

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  10. Question 10

    1 mark

    The word "record" has different stress when used as a noun vs. verb. As a NOUN it is:

    A. reCORD

    B. RECORD

    C. REcord

    D. recORD

    (1 mark)

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  11. Question 11

    1 mark

    Which pair of words rhyme?

    A. heard / beard

    B. cough / rough

    C. blood / flood

    D. height / weight

    (1 mark)

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  12. Question 12

    1 mark

    Which pair of words rhyme?

    A. pour / sour

    B. gone / bone

    C. love / dove

    D. said / paid

    (1 mark)

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  13. Question 13

    1 mark

    Which pair of words rhyme?

    A. hear / pear

    B. great / treat

    C. plough / cough

    D. break / steak

    (1 mark)

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  14. Question 14

    1 mark

    "Is that your final answer?" uses:

    A. flat intonation

    B. rising intonation

    C. no intonation

    D. falling intonation

    (1 mark)

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  15. Question 15

    1 mark

    "What a beautiful day!" uses:

    A. falling intonation

    B. flat intonation

    C. rising-falling

    D. rising intonation

    (1 mark)

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  16. Question 16

    1 mark

    In polite conversation, interrupting someone is:

    A. acceptable if done politely

    B. always acceptable

    C. required

    D. never acceptable

    (1 mark)

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  17. Question 17

    1 mark

    When giving a speech, you should:

    A. speak very fast

    B. whisper

    C. avoid eye contact

    D. maintain eye contact and speak clearly

    (1 mark)

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  18. Question 18

    1 mark

    _______ Indian Ocean borders Kenya to the east.

    A. A

    B. An

    C. The

    D. No article

    (1 mark)

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  19. Question 19

    1 mark

    She is _______ European tourist.

    A. a

    B. an

    C. no article

    D. the

    (1 mark)

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  20. Question 20

    1 mark

    _______ honesty is the best policy.

    A. The

    B. No article

    C. A

    D. An

    (1 mark)

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  21. Question 21

    1 mark

    _______ she was tired, she continued working.

    A. Because

    B. So

    C. Although

    D. Since

    (1 mark)

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  22. Question 22

    1 mark

    He failed the exam _______ he did not study.

    A. because

    B. unless

    C. but

    D. although

    (1 mark)

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  23. Question 23

    1 mark

    You will not pass _______ you study hard.

    A. unless

    B. if

    C. because

    D. although

    (1 mark)

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  24. Question 24

    1 mark

    "Reducing plastic use is crucial for ocean conservation."

    The author's purpose is to:

    A. narrate

    B. inform and persuade

    C. describe

    D. entertain

    (1 mark)

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  25. Question 25

    1 mark

    Which word has the stress on the first syllable?

    A. DEsert (noun)

    B. beLIEVE

    C. deSERT (verb)

    D. comPLETE

    (1 mark)

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  26. Question 26

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a composition ending: '...I realised that honesty truly is the best policy.'

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  27. Question 27

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a composition on: 'The role of technology in modern education.'

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  28. Question 28

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a formal letter to the editor of a newspaper expressing your views on environmental pollution in your area.

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  29. Question 29

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a descriptive essay about a market day in your town.

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  30. Question 30

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a narrative composition beginning: 'The news hit me like a thunderbolt...'

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  31. Question 31

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a letter to your pen pal in another country describing the culture and traditions of your community.

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  32. Question 32

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a composition about: 'The challenges facing young people in Kenya today.'

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Marking guide: Content, Organisation, Language, Mechanics

  33. Question 33

    15 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a descriptive essay about: 'A memorable ceremony I attended.'

    (15 marks)

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  34. Question 34

    5 marks

    Read the following oral narrative and answer the questions.

    Hyena was invited to two feasts on the same day — one to the east and one to the west. Unable to decide, he tied two ropes to his waist and sent his friends to pull him in both directions. The ropes pulled tighter and tighter until Hyena was torn in two. That is why, they say, the hyena has such a thin waist.

    (a) Classify this narrative. (1 mark)

    (b) What is the moral lesson? (2 marks)

    (c) Identify one character trait of Hyena. (2 marks)

    (5 marks)

    Marking scheme

    (a) This is an etiological/origin story — it explains why the hyena has a thin waist.

    (b) Greed and indecisiveness lead to destruction. One should be content with what is available rather than trying to have everything.

    (c) Hyena is greedy — he wants to attend both feasts instead of choosing one. He is also indecisive — he cannot make up his mind.

  35. Question 35

    5 marks

    Read the following oral narrative.

    Hare once challenged Tortoise to a race. Hare was so confident of winning that he stopped to rest under a tree. While he slept, Tortoise passed him and crossed the finish line first. The animals cheered for Tortoise.

    (a) What is the trickster element in this story? (2 marks)

    (b) Identify features of oral literature in this narrative. (3 marks)

    (5 marks)

    Marking scheme

    (a) Unlike typical trickster tales, the expected trickster (Hare) is outwitted. The story subverts expectations — the slow Tortoise wins through perseverance.

    (b) Features include: (1) Animal characters with human qualities (personification), (2) A moral lesson (perseverance beats overconfidence), (3) Simple, linear plot typical of oral tales.

  36. Question 36

    8 marks

    Read the play excerpt and answer.

    MR. OCHIENG: (sternly) The school fees must be paid by Friday.

    AKINYI: (pleading) Please, sir. My father lost his job last month. Could we get an extension?

    MR. OCHIENG: (softening) I understand, Akinyi. Bring your parent for a meeting.

    AKINYI: (relieved) Thank you, sir. God bless you.

    (a) How does Mr. Ochieng's attitude change? (2 marks)

    (b) What theme is brought out in this excerpt? (2 marks)

    (c) Identify the dramatic device used in the brackets. Explain its purpose. (2 marks)

    (d) What does the dialogue reveal about Akinyi's character? (2 marks)

    (8 marks)

    Marking scheme

    (a) He changes from stern/strict to understanding/sympathetic after hearing about Akinyi's family situation. This is shown in the stage directions (sternly → softening).

    (b) Compassion/empathy — Mr. Ochieng shows understanding towards Akinyi's family's financial difficulties and offers a solution (meeting with parent).

    (c) Stage directions — they indicate how lines should be delivered (tone, emotion, action). They help the reader/audience understand the characters' feelings.

    (d) Akinyi is respectful, brave, and resourceful — she politely explains her situation and asks for help despite the difficult circumstances.

  37. Question 37

    15 marks

    Based on your class novella, answer the following.

    (a) Describe the main character and how they change throughout the story. (4 marks)

    (b) Explain the main conflict and how it is resolved. (3 marks)

    (c) Discuss one theme in the novella and how it is relevant to your society. (3 marks)

    (d) How does the setting influence the events of the story? (3 marks)

    (e) Identify and discuss the use of any one literary device in the novella. (2 marks)

    (15 marks)

    Marking scheme

    (a) Describe initial traits, the events that cause change, and the final state of the character. Support with evidence from the text.

    (b) Identify the type of conflict (internal/external), describe the key events, and explain the resolution.

    (c) State the theme, show how it develops in the novella, and connect it to real life.

    (d) Describe the setting and show specific ways it shapes characters' decisions and plot events.

    (e) Examples: irony, foreshadowing, flashback, symbolism. Give a specific instance and explain its effect.

  38. Question 38

    1 mark

    "The ozone layer protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Human activities such as the use of aerosol sprays have damaged this layer, leading to increased rates of skin cancer."

    What is the author's purpose?

    A. To inform and warn about damage to the ozone layer

    B. To entertain with a science fiction story

    C. To persuade people to use more sprays

    D. To describe skin cancer treatment

    (1 mark)

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  39. Question 39

    1 mark

    "Despite the challenges of starting a business, the young entrepreneur persevered. Within three years, her small shop had grown into a thriving enterprise."

    The main idea of this passage is:

    A. Shops always become enterprises.

    B. Starting a business is impossible.

    C. Young people should not start businesses.

    D. Perseverance leads to success in business.

    (1 mark)

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  40. Question 40

    1 mark

    In the word "controversy", British English stresses:

    A. con-tro-VER-sy

    B. con-TRO-ver-sy

    C. CON-tro-ver-sy

    D. con-tro-ver-SY

    (1 mark)

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  41. Question 41

    1 mark

    Which of the following is an example of assonance?

    A. The big dog ran fast.

    B. Hear the clear fear near here.

    C. Big bad bear bit the baby.

    D. Peter Piper picked peppers.

    (1 mark)

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  42. Question 42

    1 mark

    Rising intonation in English typically signals:

    A. a definitive statement

    B. a yes/no question or uncertainty

    C. a command

    D. the end of a speech

    (1 mark)

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  43. Question 43

    1 mark

    An appropriate way to politely interrupt a speaker is:

    A. Shout to get their attention.

    B. Just start talking over them.

    C. Walk out of the room.

    D. Say 'Excuse me, may I add something?'

    (1 mark)

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  44. Question 44

    20 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write an argumentative essay: 'Technology has done more harm than good to society.' Argue for or against this statement.

    (20 marks)

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  45. Question 45

    20 marks

    Write a composition on the following topic:

    Write a formal letter to the County Education Director requesting improved facilities at your school.

    (20 marks)

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  46. Question 46

    10 marks

    Write a descriptive essay about a busy city market.

    Use vivid sensory details: sights, sounds, smells, and feel.

    (10 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Well-structured paragraphs with varied sentence structures and rich sensory language.

  47. Question 47

    10 marks

    Write a narrative essay about a time when you had to make a difficult decision.

    Include: the situation, the options you considered, your decision, and what you learned.

    (10 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Clear narrative structure, personal voice, reflective conclusion.

  48. Question 48

    1 mark

    In African oral literature, trickster figures like Hare or Tortoise usually represent:

    A. intelligence and cunning over brute force

    B. physical strength

    C. spiritual power

    D. wealth and status

    (1 mark)

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  49. Question 49

    1 mark

    An origin story typically explains:

    A. why a natural phenomenon or custom began

    B. a historical war

    C. a romantic relationship

    D. how to perform a ritual

    (1 mark)

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  50. Question 50

    6 marks

    Retell ONE oral narrative (trickster tale, origin story, or moral tale) that you know.

    (a) What type of oral narrative is it? (1 mark)

    (b) Summarize the story in 3-4 sentences. (3 marks)

    (c) What lesson does the story teach? (2 marks)

    (6 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Credit correct type identification, coherent summary, and clearly stated moral lesson.

  51. Question 51

    1 mark

    "She sells seashells by the seashore." This line is an example of:

    A. rhyme

    B. onomatopoeia

    C. assonance

    D. alliteration

    (1 mark)

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  52. Question 52

    1 mark

    Enjambment in poetry refers to:

    A. a poem with no rhyme

    B. repetition of the first word of each line

    C. a stanza with four lines

    D. a line that continues to the next without a pause

    (1 mark)

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  53. Question 53

    1 mark

    An "aside" in drama is when:

    A. a character speaks to the audience, not heard by other characters

    B. the director speaks to the audience

    C. actors exit the stage

    D. the scene changes

    (1 mark)

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  54. Question 54

    1 mark

    Dramatic irony occurs when:

    A. the audience knows something a character does not

    B. two characters disagree

    C. the play has a sad ending

    D. a character speaks too much

    (1 mark)

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  55. Question 55

    8 marks

    From the play you have studied:

    (a) Identify the protagonist and describe their main character trait. (3 marks)

    (b) Describe a key conflict in the play. (3 marks)

    (c) How is the conflict resolved? (2 marks)

    (8 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Credit named protagonist, specific trait with textual evidence, clearly described conflict, and resolution.

  56. Question 56

    10 marks

    From the novel/novella you have read:

    (a) Describe the opening scene and its significance. (3 marks)

    (b) Identify and discuss a major theme with evidence. (4 marks)

    (c) Evaluate whether the ending is satisfying. Give reasons. (3 marks)

    (10 marks)

    Marking scheme

    Award marks for relevant specific details, clear theme analysis, and reasoned evaluation of ending.

  57. Question 57

    1 mark

    The rising action in a story is:

    A. the events that build tension toward the climax

    B. the introduction of characters

    C. the resolution

    D. the beginning of the story

    (1 mark)

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  58. Question 58

    1 mark

    Which reading strategy do you use to find a specific date in a long article?

    A. Summarising

    B. Close reading

    C. Scanning

    D. Skimming

    (1 mark)

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  59. Question 59

    1 mark

    Choose the correct conjunction: "She is clever _______ hardworking."

    A. but

    B. as well as

    C. or

    D. yet

    (1 mark)

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  60. Question 60

    1 mark

    The climax of a story is:

    A. the highest point of tension in the plot

    B. the final scene

    C. the introduction of characters

    D. the opening scene

    (1 mark)

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  61. Question 61

    1 mark

    The resolution in a story is:

    A. a flashback

    B. when the main conflict is solved

    C. the introduction of the villain

    D. the highest point of conflict

    (1 mark)

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  62. Question 62

    1 mark

    A foil character in literature is:

    A. a character who contrasts with the protagonist

    B. a minor character

    C. the main character

    D. the antagonist

    (1 mark)

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