The teacher sent the boy out of the class for his impertinence

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the word nearest in meaning to "impertinence" as used in the sentence: The teacher sent the boy out of the class for his impertinence.

Step 2: Explain the concept "Impertinence" (noun) means disrespectful or rude behaviour, especially towards someone who deserves respect, such as a teacher or an elder. The adjective is "impertinent", meaning cheeky, insolent or rude.

Don't confuse it with "irrelevance". Some dictionaries list "not pertinent" (not relevant) as another meaning of "impertinent". In this sentence, though, a boy sent out of class for his impertinence is being punished for his attitude, so the meaning is rudeness.

Step 3: Solve by checking each option

• A. timidity means shyness or fearfulness. A timid boy would not be sent out for it, so this is wrong.
• B. indifference means a lack of interest or concern. This is not the same as being disrespectful, so it is wrong.
• C. rudeness means disrespectful, bad-mannered behaviour. This fits perfectly. ✔
• D. cheating means dishonesty in an exam or game. This is a different kind of offence, so it is wrong.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. rudeness.

Step 5: Exam tip Link impertinent with "impolite", since both start with im- and both describe bad manners. Also remember its synonyms: insolence, cheekiness, disrespect, impudence. These words appear often in WASSCE and JAMB vocabulary questions.