JAMB 2018 Literature in English · Question 31

Drama is the representation of a complete series of actions by means of _________

Options

  1. A.movement and gesture for the screen and audience
  2. B.speech, movement and gesture for the stage only
  3. C.speech, movement and gesture for the stage, screen and radio
  4. D.speech, gesture and movement for the screen and radio

Answer: C. speech, movement and gesture for the stage, screen and radio

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question The question asks for the definition of drama: how a complete series of actions (a plot) is represented, and through which media.

Explain the concept Drama is a literary form meant to be performed. It tells a story through characters who act it out. Its key tools are:

  • Speech (dialogue): what characters say.
  • Movement: how characters move and act on the performance space.
  • Gesture: body language and facial expressions that convey meaning.

Drama is not limited to the physical stage. It is also presented on screen (film and television) and on radio (radio drama, which relies on speech and sound).

Step-by-step solution

  1. Option A leaves out speech. Drama depends heavily on dialogue, so this is incomplete. ❌
  2. Option B includes speech, movement and gesture, but says "stage only". This is too narrow because drama also appears on screen and radio. ❌
  3. Option C includes speech, movement and gesture, and covers the stage, screen and radio, so it gives the full range of drama. ✅
  4. Option D has the right tools but leaves out the stage, the traditional home of drama. ❌

Answer: Option C, speech, movement and gesture for the stage, screen and radio.

Exam tip In definition questions, watch for restrictive words like "only". Drama definitions are usually broad, so an option with "only" is often a trap. Remember the formula: Speech + Movement + Gesture = Drama, and it can be shown on Stage, Screen and Radio.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.

Past questions © the examination body (JAMB/WAEC/NECO). DeeepSolve is not affiliated with them. Rights holders: see /copyright.