G8 ENG PP1 OPENER TERM 3 2026

KENYA JUNIOR SCHOOL ASSESSMENT

OPENER EXAMINATION TERM 3 2026

GRADE 8

ENGLISH: PAPER 1

Time: 1 Hour 20 Minutes

Candidate's Name:

Assessment Number:

School Name:

School Code:

Candidate's Signature:

Date:

Read the passage below and then answer questions 1 to 5.

One hot afternoon, an ant wandered around in search of water to quench her thirst. After moving about for a long time under the scorching sun, she finally came across a spring. To reach the water, the tiny ant climbed onto a blade of grass leaning over the spring. Unfortunately, she lost her footing, slipped and fell into the water. Since she could not swim, she struggled helplessly against the current.

The ant would certainly have drowned if a dove resting on a nearby tree had not noticed her distress. Moved by compassion, the dove quickly plucked a leaf from the tree and dropped it into the water close to the struggling ant. The ant managed to crawl onto the floating leaf, which gently carried her to the safety of dry ground. The ant felt indebted to the dove for the kind gesture.

Just as the ant was preparing to return home, she spotted a hunter creeping quietly behind a nearby tree. The hunter had not noticed the tiny ant because all his attention was fixed on the unsuspecting dove perched above. Moments later, he raised his net, ready to trap the bird.

Realising the danger the dove was in, the ant acted without hesitation. She rushed forward and bit the hunter sharply on the heel. Crying out in pain, the hunter lost his balance and dropped the net before he could catch the dove. Alarmed by the sudden commotion, the dove spread his wings and flew safely away. Before disappearing into the sky, he looked down gratefully at the brave little ant, whose quick action had saved his life in return.