Plays are basically meant to be

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the basic purpose of a play, a form of drama. Specifically, where or how plays are meant to be presented.

Step 2: Explain the concept Literature in English has three major genres: prose, poetry, and drama. Drama (plays) is different from the other two because it is written to be performed, not just read. Playwrights such as Wole Soyinka, J.P. Clark, and Ola Rotimi write dialogue, stage directions, and scenes so that actors can act them out before an audience. The traditional and primary venue for this is the stage (theatre).

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. presented on stage: Correct. A play is composed for stage performance, with actors, props, costumes, lighting, and an audience.
• B. presented in the aircraft: Not the purpose of a play. An aircraft is for transport.
• C. presented in an office: An office is a workplace, not a venue designed for drama.
• D. presented in the hospital: A hospital is for medical care, not for theatrical performance.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A: presented on stage.

Step 5: Exam tip Remember: Prose is read, poetry is recited or read, drama is performed. If a JAMB question asks about the nature of drama, think "stage, actors, audience." Also remember that elements of a play, such as plot, characters, dialogue, and stage directions, all serve performance.