PLU411C-PRINCIPLES OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE USE- 2ND OPP- DEC 2025 :: NUST past examination papers between 2021 and 2025

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PLU411C-PRINCIPLES OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE USE- 2ND OPP- DEC 2025

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PLU411C-PRINCIPLES OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE USE- 2ND OPP- DEC 2025

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t!I

nAm I BIA unlVERSITY

OF SCIEnCE Ano TECHn OLOGY

FACULTY OF COMMERCE, HUMAN SCIENCES AND EDUCATION

HAROLD PUPKEWITZ GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

QUALIFICATION:

QUALIFICATION CODE: VARIOUS

COURSE CODE: PLU411C

VARIOUS COURSES

LEVEL: 5

COURSE NAME: PRINCIPLES OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE

USE

SESSION:

NOVEMBER 2025

PAPER:

THEORY AND PRACTICE

DURATION:

MODE:

3 HOURS

CATS 1

MARKS:

100

SECOND OPPORTUNITY EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPER

EXAMINER

Dr T. MUSHAANDJA

MODERATOR MR CALEB GWASIRA

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Answer ALL the questions.

2. Write clearly and neatly.

3. Number the answers clearly.

THIS EXAMINATION PAPER CONSISTS OF 12 PAGES (Including this cover page)

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SECTION A: READING COMPREHENSION

[30 marks]

Read the following passage carefully and then answer all the questions below, based on the

passage.

Corruption and Delayed Justice: The Silent Erosion of Democracy

1. Corruption is often described as a disease that slowly destroys the social, political, and

moral fabric of a nation. It weakens institutions, diverts resources, and undermines

trust in public life. When combined with the problem of delayed justice, it becomes

particularly destructive. The phrase "justice delayed is justice denied" is not merely a

legal cliche; it reflects the painful reality in many societies where corruption cases

linger for years without resolution.

2. One of the most corrosive aspects of delayed justice is the perception it creates among

ordinary citizens. Courts are expected to act as guardians of fairness and equality

before the law. When high-profile corruption trials drag on endlessly, people begin to

believe that the judiciary is biased in favour of the wealthy or politically connected.

This sense of unfairness is far more damaging than any single corrupt act because it

erodes public confidence in democracy itself. Citizens ask: if the courts can not hold

powerful figures accountable, who will?

3. Examples of this phenomenon are visible across continents . In South Africa, repeated

commissions of inquiry into government scandals have revealed extensive evidence of

corruption, yet many cases remain unresolved. In India, corruption trials involving

senior politicians and business elites often take decades to conclude, if they conclude

at all. Brazil, too, has seen major anti-corruption operations stall as powerful figures

exploit legal loopholes. In all these cases, justice is not only delayed but also appears

selective, fuelling anger and despair among the public.

4. The economic consequences of corruption and judicial delay are equally troubling.

Public resources meant for essential services such as healthcare, education, and

infrastructure are stolen or mismanaged, leaving communities deprived. When courts

fail to punish offenders swiftly, those resources are never recovered, and development

stalls. Investors also hesitate to commit money to countries where corruption cases

remain unresolved, fearing unpredictability and unfair competition. A sluggish justice

system therefore discourages both domestic and international investment, hampering

economic growth.

5. There is also a deeper social cost. When corruption is rarely punished, it begins to

appear normal. Children grow up watching news headlines of scandals without

convictions. Young professionals learn that success often depends on connections

rather than merit. Over time, societies risk accepting dishonesty as part of daily life.

This culture of impunity is perhaps the greatest danger of delayed justice: it breeds

cynicism and diminishes hope for reform.

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6. Nevertheless, examples of progress provide some encouragement. Rwanda and

Singapore have introduced specialised anti-corruption courts to fast-track sensitive

cases. By concluding trials within months rather than decades, these courts

demonstrate that efficiency and fairness are possible. Such reforms send a clear

message: corruption will not be tolerated, regardless of the offender's influence.

7. Technology, too, offers opportunities for improvement. Digital systems for filing and

tracking cases reduce opportunities for manipulation. Publishing court schedules and

streaming high-profile trials make proceedings more transparent. These measures

ensure that the public can monitor justice in action and hold officials accountable. In

some countries, mobile applications allow citizens to report bribery anonymously,

further strengthening oversight.

8. However, technology and legal reforms alone are not enough. A genuine fight against

corruption requires political will, courageous judges, and a vigilant civil society.

Whistle-blowers must be protected, journalists must be free to investigate, and

citizens must refuse to participate in corrupt practices. Small acts of integrity, such as

refusing to pay a bribe or insisting on fair treatment, collectively create an environment

where corruption is harder to sustain.

9. Ultimately, the battle against corruption and delayed justice is about more than laws

and courts; it is about values. Democracies are not only measured by their

constitutions but also by the daily conduct of their citizens and leaders. If corruption

is met with silence, if justice is indefinitely postponed, then democracy itself begins to

hollow out. But if societies demand accountability, celebrate honesty, and insist on

efficiency in justice, the promise of democracy can be renewed.

10. The choice is stark: tolerate corruption and delayed justice until trust collapses

completely, or confront them with determination and courage. The future of

democracy depends on which path is taken.

Text adaptedfrom Transparency International Reports (2024) and The Guardian {2024)

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1.1 What does the phrase "justice delayed is justice denied" in Paragraph 1 mean in the

context of corruption cases?

{2)

1.2 Identify two reasons why delayed justice weakens democracy.

{2)

1.3 Explain one economic consequence of corruption-related delays.

(2)

1.4 What social message is sent when corruption cases remain unresolved for years?

(2)

1.5 Mention two solutions to corruption-related delays discussed in the passage.

(4)

1.6 Are the following statements True or False, according to the Passage?

(3)

A. Justice delayed creates the perception that courts favour powerful people.

8. South Africa is the only country experiencing long corruption trials.

C. Technology can help make trials more transparent.

1.7 Quote a phrase from paragraph 5 that shows how corruption becomes normalised . (2)

1.8 According to the passage, what role must ordinary citizens play in the fight against

corruption?

(3)

1.9 What do the following pronouns in bold refer to?

(6)

1.9.1 this (paragraph 2)

1.9.2 they (paragraph 3)

1.9.3 these (paragraph 6)

1.10 Match each ofthe words in Column A below with its correct meaning in Column 8. Write

down only the number of the question and the correct letter of your choice, e.g. 1.10.1- B (4)

Column A

1.10.1 corrosive (para . 2)

1.10.2 impunity (para . 5)

1.10.3 vigilant (para. 8)

1.10.4 cynicism (para. 5)

Column B

A. watchful and alert

8. freedom from punishment or consequences

C. damaging or gradually destructive

D. belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest

E. making things happen on time

F. taking matters into own hands

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SECTION B: GRAMMAR

[30 marks]

Read the following passage carefully and answer all the questions below.

The First Year in Business School: Challenges and Opportunities

1. The first year in business school is often regarded as a decisive stage in a student's

academic and professional development. Unlike general undergraduate study,

business programmes are designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical

application. Students are introduced to the language of commerce, the principles of

management, and the demands of global markets. For many, it is the first time they

encounter subjects such as economics, accounting, business law, and organisational

behaviour in a structured manner. This year therefore acts as a bridge between

secondary education and the corporate world, offering both opportunities and

challenges that shape one's academic journey and career ambitions.

2. One of the greatest challenges for first-year business students is adapting to the

intensity of academic expectations. Business schools require independent learning,

critical thinking, and the ability to apply theory to real-world case studies. Lecturers

often assign large volumes of reading from textbooks, journal articles, and business

reports. Students are also expected to analyse case studies, simulate business

decisions, and present findings in both written and oral form. This shift from passive

learning to active engagement can be overwhelming at first. Yet those who master

these skills early gain not only academic confidence but also competencies valued in

professional life.

3. Another challenge is navigating the competitive atmosphere. Business schools attract

ambitious individuals who aspire to leadership positions in finance, marketing,

entrepreneurship, or consultancy. The drive to excel can be motivating, but it may also

create pressure. Students often compare their performance with that of their peers,

leading to anxiety or self-doubt. On the positive side, competition encourages

resilience, resourcefulness, and a determination to distinguish oneself. Those who

view competition as collaboration often discover opportunities for teamwork,

networking, and long-term professional partnerships.

4. Financial responsibility also emerges as a critical issue. Tuition fees, textbooks, and

living expenses place a significant burden on many students. Business students, in

particular, may face additional costs linked to group projects, study trips, or

professional memberships. Poor financial planning can result in stress, which

inevitably affects academic performance. However, those who learn to budget,

prioritise spending, and explore part-time work develop financial literacy a skill

essential for anyone aspiring to manage organisations or investments. Some business

schools now integrate financial management workshops into their programmes,

recognising that money management is as vital for students as it is for executives.

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5. Beyond academics and finance, first-year business students also face challenges of

personal and professional identity. For many, business school is the first time they must

present themselves not only as learners but as future professionals . They are required

to develop communication skills, confidence in public speaking, and the ability to

negotiate or persuade . Business schools frequently organise networking events with

alumni and industry leaders, placing students in situations where professionalism and

etiquette are tested. Those who embrace these opportunities often gain mentors,

internships, or career insights that set them apart.

6. Wellbeing is another concern. The heavy workload, competitive culture, and pressure

to succeed can contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Business schools are

increasingly aware of these risks and now provide wellness programmes, peer

mentoring, and counselling services. The recognition that academic and professional

excellence must be balanced with personal health is becoming a defining feature of

modern higher education.

7. Nevertheless, the first year in business school is not solely about difficulties. It is also

a period of remarkable opportunity. Students gain access to internships, case

competitions, entrepreneurship labs, and innovation hubs. These platforms encourage

creativity and problem-solving while allowing students to apply theory in practice.

Business schools also foster global awareness, with exchange programmes and

collaborative projects that expose students to international perspectives. Such

experiences broaden horizons and prepare students for leadership in an

interconnected world.

8. In conclusion, the first year in business school is a balancing act. It brings academic

demands, financial responsibilities, and social pressures, yet it also offers unique

opportunities for growth, innovation, and career preparation. Those who approach it

with discipline, adaptability, and resilience will discover that the first year is not merely

a hurdle but the cornerstone of their academic and professional success.

Adaptedfrom : https://chat.openai.com/

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1. The following words were taken from paragraph 1. Scrutinize them and Identify their parts

of speech.

(5)

1.1 decisive

1.2 commerce

1.3 corporate

1.4 bridge

1.5 ambitions

2. Articles form part of the parts of speech in English. Write a sentence in which you use all

the words that constitute the articles and underline them. Each article must only be used

once.

(3)

3. What tense is the sentence in bold and underlined in paragraph 27

(1)

Sentence: Business schools require independent learning, critical thinking, and the ability to

apply theory.

4. Write the sentence in question 3 in the following tenses:

(6)

4.1 Future simple

4.2 Past continuous

4.3 Present perfect

5. Write the following sentence in the following forms:

(4)

Sentence: Business schools are increasingly aware of the importance of student well -being.

5.1 Question form

5.2 Negative form

6. Subject-Verb Agreement

First, identify and write down the subject and the verb in the following sentence. Then indicate

whether the subject and the verb in the following sentence agree or disagree.

(3)

6.1 Sentence: The costs of tuition, textbooks, and study trips were difficult to manage.

Subject:

Verb :

Agree or Disagree:

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7. Sentence Structures

Write down the types of sentence structure (simple, compound, complex, or compound-

complex) in the sentences below:

(8)

7.1 Business schools attract ambitious individuals who aspire to leadership positions.

7.2 The heavy workload can cause stress, but wellness programmes are now available.

7.3 Students gain access to case competitions, internships, and innovation hubs.

7.4 The first year in business school demands discipline and adaptability, yet it also offers

unique opportunities.

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SECTION C: PARAGRAPH AND ESSAY ANALYSIS

[30 marks]

Read the following essay carefully and then answer the questions that follow.

Setting Yourself Apart Academically

1. A. In today's competitive world, students cannot rely solely on passing grades if they

wish to stand out. B. Academic distinction requires deliberate effort, clear strategies, and a

willingness to go beyond the minimum. C. Whether at university or in professional training

institutions, the ability to set oneself apart academically is vital, not only for career

advancement but also for personal growth. D. Students who achieve this are those who

combine discipline, creativity, and resilience. E. This essay will examine three key ways in

which students can distinguish themselves: by developing strong study habits, by cultivating

originality, and by engaging actively in research and wider learning opportunities.

To begin with, strong study habits form the foundation of academic excellence.

Students who plan their time carefully, keep up with readings, and revise consistently are

better prepared for assessments . For example, a learner who sets aside a fixed period each

day for study is less likely to struggle with last-minute pressure. Organisational skills such as

maintaining calendars, setting deadlines, and breaking large tasks into smaller goals can

dramatically improve performance. Importantly, these habits also build resilience, as students

learn how to balance workload and manage stress effectively. Success is rarely about

intelligence alone; more often, it is the product of consistent effort and discipline.

In addition to discipline, originality is a distinguishing quality in academic work.

Examiners and lecturers value essays and projects that demonstrate independent thinking

rather than the mere repetition of textbook content. Originality requires courage : it involves

questioning established ideas, offering new perspectives, and synthesising information in

creative ways. For instance, a history student may distinguish herself not by listing known

facts, but by comparing different interpretations of an event and drawing reasoned

conclusions. Similarly, in scientific research, proposing innovative solutions to problems can

mark a student out as exceptional. Originality signals that a student is not only learning but

also contributing to knowledge .

Another vital way to stand out academically is through active engagement in research

and wider learning opportunities. Universities are not only places for lectures and

examinations; they are also centres of discovery. Students who attend seminars, participate

in academic societies, or seek mentorship from lecturers often acquire insights that go beyond

the syllabus. Participation in research projects teaches valuable skills such as critical analysis,

teamwork, and academic writing. Beyond campus, volunteering, internships, and community

service provide opportunities to app ly classroom knowledge in real-life contexts. These

experiences broaden horizons and demonstrate initiative, qualities highly valued by

employers and postgraduate institutions.

However, it is important to recognise that the pursuit of academic distinction must be

balanced. Some students become so focused on standing out that they neglect wellbeing,

relationships, or ethical considerations. Academic success should not come at the expense of

health or integrity. Plagiarism, for example, may deliver short-term results but destroys

credibility. Equally, sacrificing sleep and social connection for grades can lead to burnout. The

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most successful students are those who combine ambition with balance, striving for

excellence while remaining grounded.

A. In conclusion, setting oneself apart academically is about more than securing high

marks. B. It involves cultivating discipline through good study habits, demonstrating originality

in thought, and embracing opportunities for research and wider engagement. C. At the same

time, success requires balance, integrity, and self-care. D. Students who pursue excellence in

this holistic manner not only enhance their academic records but also equip themselves with

the skills and values needed to thrive in an increasingly demanding world .

Adapted from: https://chat.openai.com/

1. Which of the sentences numbered A-E in paragraph 1 is the thesis statement of the essay?

(2)

2. What strategy is used in paragraph 1 to introduce the topic?

(2)

A. General to specific

B. Famous quotation

C. Anecdote

D. None of the above

3. Identify and write down an irrelevant sentence in paragraph 2.

(2)

4. Identify two transitional words or phrases in paragraph 3.

(2)

5. Identify three transitional words or phrases that are used to link ideas between paragraphs.

(3)

6. Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

6.1 The first sentence that is written in bold in paragraph 2 is

(2)

A. A topic sentence

B. A suppo rting sentence

C. Development of a supporting sentence

D. A concluding sentence

6.2 The third sentence that is underlined in paragraph 3 is:

(2)

A. A topic sentence

B. The first supporting sentence

C. Development of the first supporting sentence

D. A concluding sentence

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7. Identify and write down a comma splice error.hidden in paragraph 5.

(1)

71. Rewrite and grammatically correct the sentence error that you wrote in question 7. (2)

8. Analyse paragraph 4 carefully and illustrate how it is structured by listing its three main

components (topic sentence, supporting sentences, concluding sentence). You may copy the

sentences as they are and name them.

(3)

9. Write down any two supporting ideas from paragraph 4.

(2)

10. Identify and name the type of sentence error hidden in paragraph 5. First, copy the

sentences with errors and then name them .

(1)

11. What is the purpose of the sentence underlined in paragraph 4?

(1)

12. The sentence part below was taken from paragraph 3. Rewrite it to indicate clearly the

topic and the controlling idea.

(2)

Sentence : Originality is a distinguishing quality in academic work.

a. Topic: _ __

b. Controlling idea: _ __

13. Identify a sentence in paragraph 6 that best summarises the ideas presented in the essay

above . The sentences are numbered A-D; thus, write only the letter of the co rrect answer.

(1)

14. Among the three different types of essays that were taught in this course, which type is

the essay being analysed? Narrative, descriptive, expository, or persuasive?

(2)

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SECTION D: PARAGRAPH WRITING

[10 marks]

Choose any one of the prompts hereunder and write a body paragraph of about 100 words.

Pay attention to structure, coherence, punctuation, and language usage. Begin the paragraph

with a clear and suitable topic sentence.

The importance of perseverance in achieving business and academic success.

The dangers of corruption for developing economies.

The role of innovation and creativity in modern business.

The importance of work and life balance for young professionals.