JSS 3 MATHEMATICS

STRUCTURED STUDY GUIDE

New General Mathematics · JSS3

Prepared for JSSCE / BECE · School of Science Entrance Examination

Based on New General Mathematics JSS 3 Teacher's Guide (Pearson / NERDC 2013)

How to use this guide:

• Follow the groups in order. Group A (Algebra) is first because it is the largest and most tested
area.
• Within each chapter, read the Concept section, then study the Worked Examples, then attempt
the Practice Exercises before checking the Answers.
• Use the Exam Tips and Common Mistake boxes to prepare for the JSSCE and Science
Entrance Exam.
• After every group, attempt the Group Revision Questions to confirm mastery before moving on.
STUDY PLAN OVERVIEW
This guide is organized into 5 thematic groups. Follow this plan to ensure complete coverage.

GROUP CHAPTERS COVERED THEME

GROUP A Ch 3 · Ch 6 · Ch 9 · Ch 10 · Ch 14 ALGEBRA (Priority)
GROUP B Ch 1 · Ch 2 · Ch 17 NUMBER &
NUMERATION
GROUP C Ch 4 · Ch 7 · Ch 12 GEOMETRY &
SIMILARITY
GROUP D Ch 5 · Ch 8 · Ch 15 MENSURATION &
TRIGONOMETRY
GROUP E Ch 11 · Ch 13 · Ch 16 EVERYDAY
MATHEMATICS
 GROUP A: ALGEBRA
Chapters 3 · 6 · 9 · 10 · 14

Algebra is the backbone of JSSCE Mathematics and makes up the largest single theme in the
NERDC curriculum. Master this group first — every other group becomes easier once your algebra is
solid.
The five chapters in this group build on each other in this order:
• Ch 3 – Factorisation 1: common factors and grouping (the foundation)
• Ch 6 – Formulae: substitution and change of subject (applying algebra to real formulas)
• Ch 9 – Factorisation 2: quadratic expressions (extending factorisation to quadratics)
• Ch 10 – Equations 1: equations with fractions (solving tricky fraction equations)
• Ch 14 – Equations 2: simultaneous linear equations (two unknowns, two equations)
 CHAPTER 3 Factorisation 1: Common Factors

Objectives
• Remove brackets from algebraic expressions
• Factorise expressions by taking out common factors
• Use factorisation to simplify numerical calculations
• Factorise expressions with four terms using grouping

CONCEPT 1 — Removing Brackets (Expansion)

Rule: Multiply every term inside the bracket by the term outside.

✏ Worked Example 1: Expand

a(b + c) = ab + ac

Remove brackets from: 3x(2x − 5)

= 3x × 2x − 3x × 5
= 6x² − 15x

Remove brackets from: 28a(a − ½b)

= 28a × a − 28a × ½b
= 28a² − 14ab

CONCEPT 2 — Common Factor Factorisation

HCF Method: Find the Highest Common Factor (HCF) of all terms, then divide each term by it. Write
as: HCF(remaining terms).

📌 KEY NOTE
Factorisation is the REVERSE of expansion.
HCF of numbers: largest number dividing all of them exactly.
HCF of letters: lowest power of each letter appearing in ALL terms.
e.g. HCF of 12ab² and 14a²b: HCF of 12,14 = 2; letters: a¹b¹ → HCF = 2ab

✏ Worked Example 2: Factorise using common factors

1. 5y + 10y²
HCF = 5y
= 5y(1 + 2y) ← check: 5y×1 + 5y×2y = 5y + 10y² ✓

2. 6x² − 9xy + 3x
HCF = 3x
= 3x(2x − 3y + 1)

3. Factorise 2πr² + 2πrh

HCF = 2πr
 = 2πr(r + h)

CONCEPT 3 — Using Factorisation to Simplify Calculations

You can sometimes factorise a numerical expression to make calculation easier.

✏ Worked Example 3: Numerical factorisation shortcut

Calculate 28 × 37 − 28 × 17
= 28(37 − 17) ← take out the common factor 28
= 28 × 20
= 560

Calculate 67 × 15 + 67 × 85
= 67(15 + 85)
= 67 × 100 = 6 700

CONCEPT 4 — Factorisation by Grouping (Four Terms)

When there are four terms and no single common factor for all, group them in pairs and factorise each
pair. If the bracket that results is the same in both pairs, the expression factorises.

✏ Worked Example 4: Grouping in pairs

Factorise: ax + ay + bx + by
Group: (ax + ay) + (bx + by)
Factorise each group: a(x + y) + b(x + y)
Common bracket (x + y): = (x + y)(a + b) ✓

Factorise: 4x − 8 + 3bx − 6b
Group: (4x − 8) + (3bx − 6b)
= 4(x − 2) + 3b(x − 2)
Common bracket (x − 2): = (x − 2)(4 + 3b) ✓

Factorise: 18 − xy + 9y − 2x ← need to REGROUP first!

Rewrite: 18 + 9y − xy − 2x
= (18 + 9y) + (−xy − 2x)
= 9(2 + y) − x(y + 2)
= (2 + y)(9 − x) ✓

⚠ COMMON MISTAKE TO AVOID

When grouping, if a pair gives −(bracket), the sign before the second pair must absorb the
minus.
Always verify your answer by expanding it back out.
Not every four-term expression will factorise — test before concluding.

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
 1. Remove brackets: (a) 5(3a − 2b) (b) 4x(x − 3y + 1) (c) −2p(p − q + r)
2. Find the HCF of: (a) 9xy and 24x² (b) 12ab² and 14a²b (c) 6p²q and 9pq²
3. Factorise: (a) 15m − 20 (b) 8p² − 12pq (c) 6ab + 9a²b² (d) 2πr² + 2πrh
4. Use factorisation to calculate: (a) 35 × 43 − 35 × 13 (b) 52 × 76 + 52 × 24
5. Factorise by grouping: (a) ab + ac + db + dc (b) 2n³ + 2n² + 2n + 2
6. Factorise by grouping: (a) pq − pr + 8q − 8r (b) xy − 3zy − 3xk + 9zk
7. Factorise: ab − db + 3ac − 3cd
8. [JSSCE type] Factorise completely: 2pq + 4pr − 3q² − 6qr

✅ ANSWERS
9. (a) 15a−10b (b) 4x²−12xy+4x (c) −2p²+2pq−2pr
10. (a) 3x (b) 2ab (c) 3pq
11. (a) 5(3m−4) (b) 4p(2p−3q) (c) 3ab(2+3ab) (d) 2πr(r+h)
12. (a) 35×30=1050 (b) 52×100=5200
13. (a) (a+d)(b+c) (b) 2(n²+1)(n+1)
14. (a) (p+8)(q−r) (b) (x−3z)(y−3k)
15. (a−d)(b+3c)
16. (q+2r)(2p−3q)

🏆 EXAM TIP
JSSCE always tests factorisation — expect 2–3 questions on common factors and grouping.
For Science Entrance: factorisation is the gateway to solving quadratics. A student who
cannot factorise cannot solve quadratic equations.
Memorise: HCF of two terms = (HCF of their coefficients)(lowest power of each common
letter).
 CHAPTER 6 Formulae: Substitution and Change of Subject

Objectives
• Substitute values into a formula and evaluate
• Draw up a table of values from a formula
• Change the subject of simple and complex formulae

CONCEPT 1 — Substitution into Formulae

Subject of a formula: the letter on its own on the left. In y = 3x − 8, the subject is y.
To substitute: replace every letter with its given numerical value and compute.

✏ Worked Example 1: Substitution

Given y = 3x − 8, find y when x = 0:
y = 3(0) − 8 = −8

Given y = 3x − 8, find y when x = 10:

y = 3(10) − 8 = 30 − 8 = 22

Given V = ⅓s²h, find V when s = 5 cm, h = 9 cm:

V = ⅓ × 5² × 9 = ⅓ × 25 × 9 = ⅓ × 225 = 75 cm³

CONCEPT 2 — Tables of Values

A table of values shows corresponding values of two variables. Build one by substituting each x-value
into the formula.

✏ Worked Example 2: Table of values for y = 15 − 2x

x | −4 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 12
─────────────────────────────────────────
15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15
−2x | +8 | 0 | −8 | −16 | −24
y | 23 | 15 | 7 | −1 | −9

CONCEPT 3 — Change of Subject (Simple)

Principle: Treat the formula like an equation. Whatever you do to one side, do the same to the other.
Use inverse operations to isolate the new subject.

📌 KEY NOTE
Operations and their inverses:
+ and − are inverses of each other
× and ÷ are inverses of each other
squaring (²) and square root (√) are inverses
 Fractions: multiply both sides by the denominator to clear it.

✏ Worked Example 3: Simple change of subject

Make x the subject of y = mx + c
y − c = mx (subtract c from both sides)
x = (y − c)/m (divide both sides by m) ✓

Make R the subject of IR = V

R = V/I (divide both sides by I) ✓
When V = 240, I = 15: R = 240/15 = 16

Given A = ½(a+b)h, make h the subject:

2A = (a+b)h (multiply both sides by 2)
h = 2A/(a+b) (divide both sides by (a+b)) ✓

CONCEPT 4 — Change of Subject (Complex: Squares, Roots, Fractions)

✏ Worked Example 4: Complex change of subject

Given V = ⅓πr³, make r the subject:
3V = πr³ (multiply both sides by 3)
3V/π = r³ (divide both sides by π)
r = ∛(3V/π) (cube root both sides)

Given s = ½(u+v)t, make v the subject:

2s = (u+v)t
2s/t = u + v
v = 2s/t − u

Temperature conversion: C = 5(F−32)/9

Make F the subject:
9C = 5(F−32)
9C/5 = F − 32
F = 9C/5 + 32

⚠ COMMON MISTAKE TO AVOID

When the subject appears under a square root: square BOTH sides to remove the root.
When the subject is inside a fraction: first multiply both sides by the denominator.
When the subject appears twice in the formula: collect both occurrences on one side before
factorising.

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
17. If y = 3x − 8: (a) find y when x = 0; (b) find x when y = 22
18. The formula C = 600t + 5000 gives the cost in naira of making a dress that takes t
hours. (a) Find cost when t = 3; (b) Find t if cost = N8,300
19. If m = n² + 25, find: (a) m when n = −2, 0, +2, +4; (b) n when m = 26, 34, 50
20. Make x the subject: (a) y = mx + c (b) IR = V (c) A = ½(a+b)h
 21. [JSSCE type] If P = 2(l+b), express b in terms of P and l
22. [JSSCE type] Given S = 2(n−2), find n when S = 18
23. Make v the subject of s = ½(u+v)t. If s = 60, u = 10, t = 6, find v.
24. The formula for a sphere: V = 4/3πr³. Make r the subject.

✅ ANSWERS
25. (a) y = −8 (b) x = 10
26. (a) N8,800 (b) t = 5.5 hours
27. (a) 29,25,29,41 (b) n = ±1, ±3, ±5
28. (a) x=(y−c)/m (b) R=V/I (c) h=2A/(a+b)
29. b = P/2 − l
30. n = 11
31. v = 2s/t − u = 20−10 = 10
32. r = ∛(3V/4π)

🏆 EXAM TIP
Change of subject is one of the most tested JSSCE algebra skills — master the step-by-step
method.
For Science Entrance: you will use change of subject constantly in Physics formulas (v =
u+at, F=ma, etc.).
Practice converting the same formula to make different letters the subject.
 CHAPTER 9 Factorisation 2: Quadratic Expressions

Objectives
• Multiply two binomials to get a quadratic expression
• Expand products of binomials directly
• Factorise quadratic expressions (coefficient of x² = 1)
• Expand and factorise perfect squares
• Expand and factorise difference of two squares

CONCEPT 1 — Expanding Two Binomials

Rule: (a+b)(c+d) = ac + ad + bc + bd (multiply each term in the first bracket by each term in the
second)

📌 KEY NOTE
FOIL method: First, Outer, Inner, Last
(a+b)(c+d): First = ac, Outer = ad, Inner = bc, Last = bd
Then collect like terms.

✏ Worked Example 1: Expanding binomials

(x + 3)(x + 5)
= x² + 5x + 3x + 15
= x² + 8x + 15

(3x + 2)(x − 4)
= 3x² − 12x + 2x − 8
= 3x² − 10x − 8

(x − 5)(x + 5) ← difference of two squares pattern

= x² + 5x − 5x − 25
= x² − 25

CONCEPT 2 — Factorising Quadratics (coefficient of x² = 1)

A quadratic of the form x² + bx + c factorises into (x + p)(x + q) where:
• p + q = b (sum of the two numbers = coefficient of x)
• p × q = c (product of the two numbers = constant term)
Find two numbers that ADD to give b and MULTIPLY to give c.

✏ Worked Example 2: Factorising quadratics

Factorise x² + 8x + 15
Find two numbers: sum = 8, product = 15
Try: 3 + 5 = 8 ✓ and 3 × 5 = 15 ✓
Answer: (x + 3)(x + 5) ✓
 Factorise x² − 7x + 12
Sum = −7, product = +12 (both negative, same sign)
Try: −3 + (−4) = −7 ✓ and (−3)(−4) = +12 ✓
Answer: (x − 3)(x − 4) ✓

Factorise x² + 2x − 15
Sum = +2, product = −15 (different signs)
Try: +5 + (−3) = +2 ✓ and 5 × (−3) = −15 ✓
Answer: (x + 5)(x − 3) ✓

📌 KEY NOTE
SIGN RULES for (x+p)(x+q):
If c is POSITIVE: p and q have the SAME sign as b.
c+, b+ → both positive: (x+3)(x+5)
c+, b− → both negative: (x−3)(x−4)
If c is NEGATIVE: p and q have DIFFERENT signs.
c− → one + one −: (x+5)(x−3) or (x−5)(x+3)

CONCEPT 3 — Perfect Squares

Pattern: (a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b² and (a − b)² = a² − 2ab + b²

✏ Worked Example 3: Perfect squares

Expand (x + 8)²
= x² + 2(x)(8) + 8²
= x² + 16x + 64

Expand (2d − 5e)²

= (2d)² − 2(2d)(5e) + (5e)²
= 4d² − 20de + 25e²

Use perfect square to find 82²:

82² = (80 + 2)² = 6400 + 320 + 4 = 6724

Use perfect square to find 59²:

59² = (60 − 1)² = 3600 − 120 + 1 = 3481

CONCEPT 4 — Difference of Two Squares

Pattern: a² − b² = (a + b)(a − b)

✏ Worked Example 4: Difference of two squares

Factorise x² − 16
= x² − 4² = (x + 4)(x − 4) ✓

Factorise 8m² − 50n²

= 2(4m² − 25n²)
= 2((2m)² − (5n)²)
= 2(2m + 5n)(2m − 5n) ✓

Calculate 72² − 28² using difference of two squares:

= (72 + 28)(72 − 28)
= 100 × 44 = 4 400

Calculate 85² − 25:

85² − 5² = (85+5)(85−5) = 90 × 80 = 7 200

⚠ COMMON MISTAKE TO AVOID

a² + b² does NOT factorise over the integers. Only a² − b² factorises.
Always check if there is a common factor first, then look for a quadratic pattern.
For the difference of two squares shortcut in calculations: look for pairs like 63²−37²,
51²−49².

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
33. Expand: (a) (m+4)(m+6) (b) (x−9)² (c) (3b+8)(b−5) (d) (7+y)(7−y)
34. Find the coefficient of xy in: (a) (2x+3y)(4x−y) (b) (5x−2y)²
35. Factorise: (a) x²+18x+17 (b) d²+9d+14
36. Factorise: (a) x²−18x+17 (b) d²−5d−24
37. Expand: (a) (x+8)² (b) (2d−5e)²
38. Use short method to find: (a) 82² (b) 59²
39. Factorise: (a) x²−16 (b) 8m²−50n²
40. Use difference of two squares: (a) 72²−28² (b) 85²−25
41. [JSSCE type] A flat circular silver pendant has outside diameter 18 mm and a
circular hole of diameter 4 mm. Find the area of silver (use π = 22/7).

✅ ANSWERS
42. (a) m²+10m+24 (b) x²−18x+81 (c) 3b²−7b−40 (d) 49−y²
43. (a) +10 (b) −20
44. (a) (x+17)(x+1) (b) (d+7)(d+2)
45. (a) (x−17)(x−1) (b) (d−8)(d+3)
46. (a) x²+16x+64 (b) 4d²−20de+25e²
47. (a) 6724 (b) 3481
48. (a) (x+4)(x−4) (b) 2(2m+5n)(2m−5n)
49. (a) 4400 (b) 7200
50. Area = π(9²−2²) = 22/7×(81−4) = 22/7×77 = 242 mm²

🏆 EXAM TIP
Quadratic factorisation always appears in JSSCE — often 2–3 questions.
The difference of two squares trick is loved by JSSCE examiners for mental calculation
questions.
For Science Entrance: you will need to solve quadratic equations. Factorisation is how you
do it.
 CHAPTER 10 Equations 1: Equations with Fractions

Objectives
• Clear fractions in algebraic equations
• Solve equations with unknowns in the denominator
• Solve word problems leading to fractional equations
• Solve equations with binomials in the denominator

CONCEPT 1 — Clearing Fractions

Key Method: Multiply both sides of the equation by the LCM of all denominators to clear all fractions in
one step.

✏ Worked Example 1: Clearing fractions

Solve: x/5 = 3
Multiply both sides by 5:
x = 15 ✓

Solve: (x+2)/3 + (x−1)/4 = x

LCM of 3 and 4 is 12. Multiply all terms by 12:
12(x+2)/3 + 12(x−1)/4 = 12x
4(x+2) + 3(x−1) = 12x
4x + 8 + 3x − 3 = 12x
7x + 5 = 12x
5 = 5x
x = 1 ✓

CONCEPT 2 — Unknowns in the Denominator

If x appears in the denominator, treat it as a number and multiply both sides by it to clear it.

✏ Worked Example 2: Unknown in denominator

Solve: 2/x = 16/3
Cross-multiply:
3 × 2 = 16 × x
6 = 16x
x = 6/16 = 3/8 ✓

Solve: 7x − ½ = 5x/2
LCM = 2. Multiply all terms by 2:
14x − 1 = 5x
9x = 1
x = 1/9 ... but let us re-check: 7x/1 − 1/2 = 5x/2
Multiply by 2: 14x − 1 = 5x
9x = 1 → x = 1/9 Actually this is wrong, re-reading original:
 7x − 1/2 = 5x/2 → multiply by 2: 14x − 1 = 5x → 9x=1 → x=1/9
Check: 7(1/9) − 1/2 = 7/9 − 1/2 = 14/18 − 9/18 = 5/18 = 5/(2×9) =
(5/2)(1/9) ✓

CONCEPT 3 — Binomials in the Denominator

When the denominator contains a bracket (binomial), cross-multiply carefully.

✏ Worked Example 3: Binomials in denominator

Solve: 11/(3x−2) = 1/2
Cross-multiply: 11 × 2 = 1 × (3x−2)
22 = 3x − 2
3x = 24
x = 8 ✓

Solve: 3/7 − 5/(2x−1) = 0

3/7 = 5/(2x−1)
3(2x−1) = 5 × 7
6x − 3 = 35
6x = 38
x = 38/6 = 19/3 = 6⅓ ✓

Solve: 3/(2x+1) + 4/(x−1) = 0

Multiply both sides by (2x+1)(x−1):
3(x−1) + 4(2x+1) = 0
3x − 3 + 8x + 4 = 0
11x + 1 = 0
x = −1/11 ✓

CONCEPT 4 — Word Problems with Fractions

✏ Worked Example 4: Word problems

A car travels 120 km at v km/h. The journey takes 2½ hours. Find v.
Distance = Speed × Time
120 = v × 2.5
v = 120/2.5 = 48 km/h ✓

The masses of a mother and daughter differ by 27 kg and are in ratio

8:5. Find each mass.
Let daughter = 5k, mother = 8k
8k − 5k = 27
3k = 27 → k = 9
Daughter = 45 kg, Mother = 72 kg ✓

A pencil costs Nx. A notebook costs N4x. I spend N1000 on pencils

and N1000 on notebooks.
I get 15 more pencils than notebooks. Find the cost of one pencil.
Number of pencils: 1000/x; Number of notebooks: 1000/4x = 250/x
1000/x − 250/x = 15
750/x = 15
x = 50 → one pencil costs N50 ✓

⚠ COMMON MISTAKE TO AVOID

Never cancel a denominator without multiplying the ENTIRE equation by it.
After solving, always substitute your answer back into the original equation to verify.
If a solution makes a denominator equal to zero, that solution is REJECTED (undefined).

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
51. Solve: (a) 3/5 = x/15 (b) (x+2)/3 + (x−1)/4 = x
52. Solve: (a) 2/x = 16/3 (b) 7x/1 − 1/2 = 5x/2
53. Solve: (a) 11/(3x−2) = 1/2 (b) 3/7 − 5/(2x−1) = 0
54. Solve: (a) x/(x−4) = 2/5 (b) 3/(2x+1) + 4/(x−1) = 0
55. [JSSCE type] A car travels 156 km at v km/h, then 180 km at (v+8) km/h. The times
are equal. Find v.
56. The masses of two boys are in ratio 8:5 and differ by 27 kg. Find their masses.
57. A man drove 156 km at v km/h. He then drove 180 km at (v+8) km/h. If the times are
equal, find v.
58. [JSSCE type] I have enough money to buy 4 exercise books at N120 each. How
many pencils costing N80 can I buy for the same amount?

✅ ANSWERS
59. (a) x=9 (b) x=1
60. (a) x=3/8 (b) x=1/9
61. (a) x=8 (b) x=19/3
62. (a) x=−2⅔ (b) x=−1/11
63. 156/(v) = 180/(v+8) → 156(v+8)=180v → 156v+1248=180v → 24v=1248 → v=52
km/h
64. Daughter 45 kg, Mother 72 kg
65. v = 52 km/h
66. Money = 4×120 = N480; pencils = 480/80 = 6

🏆 EXAM TIP
Fraction equations are always in JSSCE. The most common error is multiplying only one
term instead of all.
Cross-multiplication is allowed when there is exactly one fraction on each side.
Word problems often disguise fraction equations — look for 'rate', 'ratio', 'time', 'distance'.
 CHAPTER 14 Equations 2: Simultaneous Linear Equations

Objectives
• Draw up a table of values for a linear equation in two variables
• Solve simultaneous equations graphically
• Solve simultaneous equations by substitution
• Solve simultaneous equations by elimination
• Apply simultaneous equations to word/real-life problems

CONCEPT 1 — What are Simultaneous Equations?

A single equation in two unknowns (e.g. x + y = 5) has infinitely many solutions. Two equations together
(simultaneous) can pin down one unique solution (x, y) that satisfies BOTH at the same time.

CONCEPT 2 — Graphical Method

Draw both lines on the same graph. The solution is the point of intersection.

✏ Worked Example 1: Graphical approach setup

Solve graphically: y = 3x − 1 and y = 2 − x

Table for y = 3x − 1:
x | −2 | 0 | +2
y | −7 | −1 | +5

Table for y = 2 − x:
x | −2 | 0 | +2
y | 4 | 2 | 0

Plot both on same axes. They cross at x = 0.75, y = 1.25

Check: y = 3(0.75)−1 = 1.25 ✓ and y = 2−0.75 = 1.25 ✓

CONCEPT 3 — Method of Substitution

Steps: (1) Make one unknown the subject from one equation. (2) Substitute into the other equation. (3)
Solve. (4) Back-substitute to find the other unknown.

✏ Worked Example 2: Substitution method

Solve: 4x + 3y = −1 ... (i)
2x − y = 7 ... (ii)

From (ii): y = 2x − 7 ← make y the subject

Substitute into (i):
4x + 3(2x − 7) = −1
 4x + 6x − 21 = −1
10x = 20
x = 2

Back-substitute: y = 2(2) − 7 = 4 − 7 = −3
Answer: x = 2, y = −3 ✓

Verify in (i): 4(2) + 3(−3) = 8 − 9 = −1 ✓

CONCEPT 4 — Method of Elimination

Steps: (1) Multiply equations so that the coefficient of one unknown is the same in both. (2) Add or
subtract to eliminate that unknown. (3) Solve. (4) Back-substitute.

✏ Worked Example 3: Elimination method

Solve: 2x + 7y = 3 ... (i)
2x − y = 3 ... (ii)

Coefficients of x are already equal (both 2).

Subtract (ii) from (i):
(2x + 7y) − (2x − y) = 3 − 3
8y = 0
y = 0

Substitute y = 0 into (ii):

2x − 0 = 3 → x = 1.5
Answer: x = 1.5, y = 0 ✓

Harder example: Solve 8y + 4z = 7 and 6y − 8z = 41

Multiply first eq by 2: 16y + 8z = 14
Add to second eq: 22y = 55 → y = 2.5
Substitute: 8(2.5) + 4z = 7 → 20 + 4z = 7 → z = −3.25

📌 KEY NOTE
Elimination: if you want to ELIMINATE x, make the x-coefficients equal and SUBTRACT.
Elimination: if you want to ELIMINATE x and the signs differ, make coefficients equal and
ADD.
Substitution works best when one equation already has a subject (like y = 2x − 7).
Always verify your answer in BOTH original equations.

CONCEPT 5 — Word Problems

✏ Worked Example 4: Real-life simultaneous equations

The sum of two numbers is 14. Their difference is 8. Find the
numbers.
Let the numbers be x and y:
x + y = 14 ... (i)
x − y = 8 ... (ii)
Add: 2x = 22 → x = 11
Subtract: 2y = 6 → y = 3
Numbers are 11 and 3 ✓

A rectangle is p cm long and q cm broad. Perimeter = 42 cm. Length −

Breadth = 9 cm.
2(p + q) = 42 → p + q = 21 ... (i)
p − q = 9 ... (ii)
Add: 2p = 30 → p = 15 cm
From (i): q = 21 − 15 = 6 cm
Area = 15 × 6 = 90 cm² ✓

A car travels 2h at x km/h and 3h at y km/h; total = 310 km. Average

of x and y = 60 km/h.
2x + 3y = 310 ... (i)
(x + y)/2 = 60 → x + y = 120 ... (ii)
From (ii): x = 120 − y. Substitute into (i):
2(120 − y) + 3y = 310
240 − 2y + 3y = 310
y = 70, x = 50 ✓

⚠ COMMON MISTAKE TO AVOID

Always number your equations and state which method you are using — examiners award
marks for method.
Check that both equations are 'linear' (no x², xy, etc.) before applying these methods.
Word problems: let x = one thing and y = another thing. Write two separate equations before
solving.

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
67. Solve by substitution: (a) 4x+3y=−1 and 2x−y=7 (b) x=2y−1 and 3x−y=8
68. Solve by elimination: (a) 2x+7y=3 and 2x−y=3 (b) 3x+2y=12 and 5x−2y=4
69. Solve graphically (draw tables and graphs): y=3x−1 and y=2−x
70. The sum of two numbers is 14 and their difference is 8. Find the numbers.
71. I have N460 less than Dotun. Together we have N1280. How much does each have?
72. A rectangle is p cm long and q cm broad. Perimeter = 42 cm, difference of sides = 9
cm. Find p, q, and area.
73. A nut and bolt together have mass 98 g. Four bolts and two nuts have mass 336 g.
Find the mass of each.
74. [JSSCE type] A car travels for 2 hours at x km/h and 3 hours at y km/h; total distance
= 310 km. Average of x and y is 60 km/h. Find x and y.

✅ ANSWERS
75. (a) x=2, y=−3 (b) x=3, y=2
76. (a) x=1.5, y=0 (b) x=2, y=3
77. Intersection at x=0.75, y=1.25
 78. 11 and 3
79. I have N410, Dotun has N870
80. p=15 cm, q=6 cm, Area=90 cm²
81. Bolt=70g, Nut=28g
82. x=50 km/h, y=70 km/h

🏆 EXAM TIP
Simultaneous equations always appear in JSSCE. Learn ALL three methods: graphical,
substitution, elimination.
Word problems with two unknowns → set up two equations → use substitution or
elimination.
For Science Entrance: Physics problems often require you to solve two equations
simultaneously.

GROUP A — REVISION QUESTIONS (Mixed Algebra)

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
83. Factorise: (a) 6ax−2by+4ay−3bx (b) x²+5x−9x−45 (c) 22ab−11ac+6rb−3rc
84. The HCF of 10a²b and 8ab is: A 80a²b B 2ab C 4 D 40
85. Which are factors of 6x²−21xy? (I 3, II x, III (2x−7y)) A I only B II only C I and II D All
86. If y=(x+9)/(x−3), find y when x=5
87. If A=½(a+b)h, express h in terms of A, a and b
88. Solve simultaneously: 4x+3y=−1 and 2x−y=7
89. Factorise πr²+2πrh and hence find its value when π=22/7, r=4, h=5
90. The coefficient of x in (x−2)(x+9) is: A −18 B −2 C +1 D +7 E +9
91. If 3/5 = x/15, find x. A 5 B 9 C 3 D 25 E 45
92. [Hard] Solve: 3/(2x+1) + 4/(x−1) = 0. Find x.

✅ ANSWERS
93. (a) (2a−b)(3x−2y) wrong → correct: group as (6ax+4ay)+(−2by−3bx)=2a(3x+2y)
−b(2y+3x)=(2a−b)(3x+2y) wait: let me redo. 6ax−2by+4ay−3bx:
rearrange=6ax+4ay−3bx−2by=2a(3x+2y)−b(3x+2y)=(2a−b)(3x+2y) (b)
x(x+5)−9(x+5)=(x−9)(x+5) (c) (2a+b)(11c+3r) — check: 22ab−11ac+6rb−3rc =
11a(2b−c)+3r(2b−c)=(11a+3r)(2b−c)
94. B (2ab)
95. D (all of them: 3x(2x−7y), so all three are factors)
96. y = 7
97. h = 2A/(a+b)
98. x=2, y=−3
99. πr(r+2h); value = 22/7 × 4 × (4+10) = 22/7×4×14 = 22×8 = 176
100. D (+7)
101. B (x=9)
102. x = −1/11
 GROUP B: NUMBER & NUMERATION
Chapters 1 · 2 · 17

These chapters develop number sense, problem-solving through words, and understanding of rational
vs non-rational numbers.

CHAPTER 1 Binary System: Operations and Applications

Key Concepts
Base 2 (Binary): Uses only digits 0 and 1. Place values are powers of 2.

✏ Worked Examples
CONVERTING: Denary → Binary (repeated division by 2)
43 ÷ 2 = 21 r 1
21 ÷ 2 = 10 r 1
10 ÷ 2 = 5 r 0
5 ÷ 2 = 2 r 1
2 ÷ 2 = 1 r 0
1 ÷ 2 = 0 r 1
Read remainders upward: 43₁₀ = 101011₂

CONVERTING: Binary → Denary (expand in powers of 2)

10110₂ = 1×2⁴ + 0×2³ + 1×2² + 1×2¹ + 0×2⁰
= 16 + 0 + 4 + 2 + 0 = 22₁₀

ADDITION: 1011₂ + 1001₂

1 0 1 1
+ 1 0 0 1
─────────
1 0 1 0 0₂ (= 20₁₀ ✓: 11+9=20)

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
103. Convert to binary: (a) 30 (b) 57 (c) 100
104. Convert to denary: (a) 10110₂ (b) 111011₂ (c) 11 010₂
105. Add in binary: (a) 1001₂ + 1001₂ (b) 1101₂ × 11₂
106. [JSSCE type] What is the value of (101₂)² in base 2?

✅ ANSWERS
107. (a) 11110₂ (b) 111001₂ (c) 1100100₂
108. (a) 22 (b) 59 (c) 26
109. (a) 10010₂ (b) 100111₂
110. 11001₂ (25 in denary)
 CHAPTER 2 Word Problems

Key Vocabulary
Sum: add. Difference: subtract (larger minus smaller). Product: multiply. Quotient: divide.

✏ Worked Examples
Find the product of 16 and the positive difference between −1⅓ and
1⅔.
Positive difference = |−1⅓ − 1⅔| = |−4/3 − 5/3| = |−3| = 3
Product = 16 × 3 = 48

I think of a number, add 14, multiply by 3; answer is 51. Find the

number.
Let number = n
3(n + 14) = 51
n + 14 = 17
n = 3 ✓

Sum of two numbers is 34. Two-sevenths of one = one-fifth of the

other.
Let numbers be x and (34−x).
2x/7 = (34−x)/5
10x = 7(34−x) = 238−7x
17x = 238 → x = 14; other = 20 ✓

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
111. Find one-sixth of the sum of 13, 17 and 18.
112. Find the sum of the product of 4 and 5 and the positive difference between 3
and 10.
113. Three consecutive even numbers have sum 72. Find the highest.
114. The positive difference between −6.4 and a number is 8.5. Find two possible
values.
115. [JSSCE type] The product of two numbers is 7⅕. One is 9. Find the other.

✅ ANSWERS
116. 8
117. 27
118. 26
119. 2.1 or −14.9
120. 4/5

CHAPTER 17 Rational and Non-Rational Numbers

Key Concepts
Rational number: can be written as exact fraction p/q (integers). Includes: whole numbers, fractions,
terminating decimals, recurring decimals.
Non-rational (irrational): cannot be written as exact fraction. Includes: √2, √3, √5, π (note: 22/7 is a
rational approximation of π, not π itself).

✏ Identifying rational vs non-rational

Rational: 13, 1.3, 3/5, 16, √16 (=4), 0.7, 0.7̄ (=7/9), 22/7
Non-rational: √13, √2.5, π

Finding √5 by trial and improvement:

We know 2² = 4 < 5 < 9 = 3², so 2 < √5 < 3
Try 2.2: 2.2² = 4.84 (too small)
Try 2.3: 2.3² = 5.29 (too big)
Try 2.23: 2.23² = 4.9729 (too small)
Try 2.24: 2.24² = 5.0176 (too big)
√5 ≈ 2.2 correct to 1 d.p.

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
121. Which are rational: (a) 13 (b) √13 (c) 1.3 (d) 3/5 (e) 16 (f) √16 (g) 1.6 (h)
√1.6 (i) π (j) 22/7?
122. Use trial and improvement to find √53 to 1 d.p.
123. Write 0.4̄ as a rational number (fraction).
124. Find the first digit of √5.3 and √53.

✅ ANSWERS
125. Rational: a, c, d, e, f, g, j. Non-rational: b, h, i
126. 7.3
127. 4/9
128. √5.3: first digit 2; √53: first digit 7
 GROUP C: GEOMETRY & SIMILARITY
Chapters 4 · 7 · 12

These chapters cover geometric constructions, similar shapes, and scaling. Geometry questions often
carry multiple marks in JSSCE.

CHAPTER 4 Geometrical Constructions

Key Construction Steps

• Perpendicular bisector of AB: Open compasses > ½AB; draw arcs above and below from A and
B. Join intersection points.
• Angle bisector: Draw arc from vertex crossing both arms. From where arc cuts each arm, draw
equal arcs that cross. Join vertex to crossing point.
• 60° angle: Draw arc from O. With same radius, mark point on arc from where arc crosses the
line. Join.
• 30° angle: Bisect the 60° angle.
• 90° angle: Perpendicular bisector, or: from end of line, use 60° then bisect the remaining angle.
• 45° angle: Bisect the 90° angle.

📌 KEY NOTE
JSSCE may ask you to construct specific angles (30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 105°, 150°).
75° = 45° + 30° or 60° + 15°
105° = 60° + 45°
Always make a rough sketch before doing the accurate construction.

CHAPTER 7 Similarity 1: Similar Shapes and Scale Factors

Key Concepts
Similar figures: same shape, different size. All corresponding angles are equal and corresponding
sides are in the same ratio (scale factor).

✏ Worked Example: Similar triangles

Triangle ABC ~ Triangle PQR (same angles)
AB = 6 cm, BC = 10 cm, AC = 12 cm
PQ = 9 cm, QR = 15 cm, PR = 18 cm

Scale factor k = PQ/AB = 9/6 = 3/2

A vertical flag pole casts a shadow 35 m long.

A nearby 2 m stick casts a 5 m shadow at the same time.
The triangles formed are similar.
Pole height / 2 = 35 / 5
Pole height = 14 m

In Fig: OA=3cm, OX=7.5cm, AB=4cm. Triangle OAB ~ Triangle OXY (AA).

Scale factor = OX/OA = 7.5/3 = 2.5
XY = AB × 2.5 = 4 × 2.5 = 10 cm

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
129. ABC and PQR are similar. AB=6, BC=10, AC=12; PQ=9, QR=15, PR=18.
Why are they similar?
130. A shop sells coffee in small (h=9cm, d=6cm) and large jars. Large jar
radius=5cm. Find large jar height.
131. A cuboid is 6cm×3cm×5cm. A similar cuboid is 14cm long. Find width and
height.
132. [JSSCE type] Two similar triangles: ΔXYZ and ΔHKG. XY=9m, XZ=8m,
HK=7½m. Find HG.

✅ ANSWERS
133. Corresponding sides in same ratio (each is ×3/2)
134. h = 9×(5/3) = 15 cm
135. Width = 3×(14/6) = 7 cm; Height = 5×(14/6) = 11⅔ cm
136. HG = XZ × (7.5/9) = 8 × 5/6 = 6⅔ m

CHAPTER 12 Similarity 2: Area and Volume of Similar Shapes

📌 KEY NOTE
If scale factor (k) = ratio of corresponding LENGTHS:
Area factor = k² (ratio of corresponding AREAS)
Volume factor = k³ (ratio of corresponding VOLUMES)

✏ Worked Examples: Area and Volume factors

Two similar cylinders have heights 3cm and 6cm.
Scale factor k = 6/3 = 2
Area factor = k² = 4 (larger has 4× the surface area)
Volume factor = k³ = 8 (larger has 8× the volume)

Metal tray 40cm×30cm costs N256. Similar tray is 50cm long. Find its
cost.
k = 50/40 = 5/4
Cost is proportional to area: area factor = (5/4)² = 25/16
Cost = N256 × 25/16 = N400

Model car windscreen = 35cm×10cm; real windscreen area = 0.315m² =

3150cm²
Model windscreen area = 350 cm²
Area scale factor = 3150/350 = 9
Linear scale factor = √9 = 3
Volume factor = 3³ = 27
Mass of real car = 25 × 27 = 675 kg

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
137. Two plastic cups are similar with heights 7.5cm and 12.5cm. First costs N72.
Find cost of second.
138. A statue has base area 1.08m². Its model has base area 300cm². Model
mass = 12.5kg. Find statue mass.
139. Similar cylinders h=6cm and h=10cm. First has volume 180cm³. Find volume
of second.
140. [JSSCE type] A compound has area 3025m² shown as 16cm² on a map. Find
map scale.

✅ ANSWERS
141. k=12.5/7.5=5/3; area k²=25/9; cost=72×25/9=N200
142. area k=1.08m²/300cm²=10800cm²/300cm²=36; linear k=6; volume k=216;
mass=12.5×216=2700 kg wait: k²=36, k=6, k³=216. mass=12.5×216=2.7 tonnes
143. k=10/6=5/3; vol factor=125/27; vol=180×125/27=833.3 cm³
144. Scale: √(3025m²/16cm²) = √(30250000cm²/16cm²) = √1890625 = 1375. Scale
1:1375
 GROUP D: MENSURATION & TRIGONOMETRY
Chapters 5 · 8 · 15

These chapters are always represented in JSSCE — area, sectors, and trigonometry carry guaranteed
marks.

CHAPTER 5 Area of Plane Shapes

📌 KEY NOTE
KEY FORMULAE to memorise:
Triangle: A = ½ × base × height
Parallelogram: A = base × height
Trapezium: A = ½(a+b)h [a,b = parallel sides, h = perpendicular height]
Circle: A = πr²
Sector: A = (θ/360) × πr²
Ring: A = π(R² − r²) [outer radius R, inner r]

✏ Worked Examples
Trapezium: parallel sides 9m and 15m, height 6m
A = ½(9+15)×6 = ½×24×6 = 72 m²

Sector: radius 12cm, angle 150°, π=3.14

A = (150/360)×π×12² = (5/12)×3.14×144 = 188.4 cm²

Ring: inside diameter 4cm, outside diameter 10cm

r=2cm, R=5cm; A = π(25−4) = 22/7×21 = 66 cm²

Trapezium area = 135m², parallel sides 19m and dm, height 9m

135 = ½(19+d)×9 → 270 = 9(19+d) → 30 = 19+d → d = 11

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
145. Find areas: (a) Trapezium with parallels 3m and 11m, height 8m; (b) Circle
radius 7cm (π=22/7)
146. Sector: radius 8cm, centre angle 150°, π=3.1. Find: (a) area; (b) if area =
124cm², find angle
147. Ring: inside diameter 4cm, outside diameter 10cm. Use π=22/7.
148. A park of 2.4 ha. Tennis courts = 60m×50m. Paths=10%, lake=15%. How
many ha for gardens?
149. [JSSCE type] How many tiles 30cm×30cm cover a floor 4m×5m (allow
wastage)?

✅ ANSWERS
150. (a) ½(3+11)×8 = 56m² (b) 22/7×49 = 154cm²
151. (a) 82⅔cm² (b) 225°
 152. 66 cm²
153. Tennis court = 3000m² = 0.3ha; paths = 0.24ha; lake = 0.36ha; gardens = 2.4
− 0.3 − 0.24 − 0.36 = 1.5ha
154. 238 tiles

CHAPTER 8 & 15 Trigonometry 1 & 2: Tangent, Sine, Cosine

📌 KEY NOTE
In a right-angled triangle, for angle θ:
tan θ = opposite / adjacent
sin θ = opposite / hypotenuse
cos θ = adjacent / hypotenuse

Memory aid: SOH-CAH-TOA

S = O/H C = A/H T = O/A

Complement: sin θ = cos(90°−θ) and cos θ = sin(90°−θ)

✏ Worked Examples: Trigonometry

FINDING A SIDE: In right-angled triangle, angle = 35°, adjacent =
4km. Find opposite.
tan 35° = opposite / 4
opposite = 4 × tan 35° = 4 × 0.7002 = 2.8 km

FINDING AN ANGLE: opposite = 6.2m, adjacent = 3.4m. Find angle of

elevation of sun.
tan θ = 6.2 / 3.4 = 1.8235
θ = tan⁻¹(1.8235) ≈ 61.3°

SINE/COSINE: In ΔABC, B̂ =90°, Â=23°, BC=6cm. Find AB.

tan A = BC/AB → tan 23° = 6/AB
AB = 6/tan 23° = 6/0.4245 ≈ 14.14 cm

ISOSCELES TRIANGLE: equal sides = 8cm, angle between them = 40°.

Find height.
Each half has angle 20° at top, opposite = height h, hypotenuse =
8cm
sin 20° = h/8 → h = 8 sin 20° = 8 × 0.342 = 2.736 cm
Wait: use half-angle at base. Base-angle = (180−40)/2 = 70°
Height h from apex: tan 70° = (base/2)/h → actually use: sin
20°=h/8, h=8sin20°=2.74cm

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
155. Find x: right triangle, adjacent=4km, angle=35°. Find opposite (tan
35°=0.7002).
156. Find angle θ: height of tree=6.2m, shadow=3.4m. Find angle of elevation.
 157. An isosceles triangle has equal sides 8cm and angle between them 40°. Find
height.
158. In ΔABC, B̂ =90°, Â=23°, BC=6cm. Find AB and Ĉ.
159. [JSSCE type] A table is 76cm high on legs 80cm long. Find angle legs make
with horizontal.
160. Right triangle: shorter sides 12cm and 15cm. Find the acute angles.

✅ ANSWERS
161. 2.80 km
162. 61.3°
163. Height = 8 sin20° / ... Actually: bisect apex angle → right triangle with hyp=8,
angle at apex=20°, opp=height from base, so sin 70°=h/8, h=8×0.9397=7.52 cm?
No: the height from apex perpendicular to base. In right half: angle at top=20°,
hyp=8, adj=h → cos20°=h/8 → h=8cos20°=7.52 cm
164. AB = 14.14 cm; Ĉ = 67°
165. θ = sin⁻¹(76/80) = 71.8°
166. Angles: tan⁻¹(12/15)=38.7° and tan⁻¹(15/12)=51.3°
 GROUP E: EVERYDAY MATHEMATICS
Chapters 11 · 13 · 16

These practical chapters appear reliably in JSSCE. Compound interest, proportion, and statistics are
always tested.

CHAPTER 11 Compound Interest

📌 KEY NOTE
Simple Interest: I = PRT/100 (where R is % rate, T is years)
Amount (SI): A = P + I = P(1 + RT/100)

Compound Interest: interest is added to the principal each year.

After year 1: A₁ = P(1 + R/100)
After year 2: A₂ = A₁(1 + R/100) = P(1 + R/100)²
After n years: Aₙ = P(1 + R/100)ⁿ

✏ Worked Examples
Simple Interest on N95,000 for 4 years at 2.5% p.a.:
I = 95000 × 2.5 × 4 / 100 = N9,500

Compound Interest: N700,000 for 2 years at 6% p.a.

Year 1: Interest = 700000 × 6/100 = 42,000; Amount = 742,000
Year 2: Interest = 742000 × 6/100 = 44,520; Amount = 786,520

Inflation: N10,000 table, 20% and 10% inflation in successive years.

After year 1: 10000 × 1.20 = 12,000
After year 2: 12000 × 1.10 = 13,200

Depreciation: Moped cost N540,000, loses 20% each year. Value after
2 years:
After yr 1: 540000 × 0.8 = 432,000
After yr 2: 432000 × 0.8 = 345,600

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
167. Find SI on N95,000 for 4 years at 2.5% p.a.
168. Find compound interest on N700,000 for 2 years at 6% p.a.
169. A table costs N10,000. Inflation is 20% then 10%. Find cost after 2 years.
170. A moped cost N540,000 and depreciates 20% per year. Find value after 2
years.
171. [JSSCE type] N156,000 at 4.5% p.a. compound interest for 2 years. Find final
amount.

✅ ANSWERS
 172. N9,500
173. Year1: 742,000; Year2: 786,520; CI = 86,520
174. N13,200
175. N345,600
176. Year1: 156000×1.045=163,020; Year2: 163020×1.045=170,355.90

CHAPTER 13 Proportion: Direct, Inverse, Reciprocal

📌 KEY NOTE
Direct proportion: y = kx (as x increases, y increases proportionally). Graph: straight line
through origin.
Inverse proportion: y = k/x (as x increases, y decreases). Graph: curve (hyperbola).
Reciprocal of x = 1/x. Use reciprocal tables to simplify division calculations.

✏ Worked Examples
Direct: A clinic vaccinates 270 children in 3 days. How many in 5
days?
270/3 = 90 per day; in 5 days: 90 × 5 = 450 children

Inverse: 4 books cost N120 each. How many N80 pencils can I buy for
same amount?
Total money = 4 × 120 = N480
N480 ÷ N80 = 6 pencils

Reciprocal calculation: find f if 1/f = 1/18 + 1/31

1/f = 31/(18×31) + 18/(18×31) = (31+18)/558 = 49/558
f = 558/49 ≈ 11.39 ≈ 11 (to 2 s.f.)

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
177. A car travels 240km. At 40km/h it takes 6h. How long at 80km/h?
178. Directly or inversely? 4 exercise books cost N120 each; how many N80
pencils for same money?
179. Find reciprocal of: (a) 3.645 (b) 36.45 (c) 0.003645
180. It costs N6 billion to build 22km of motorway. Find cost per km (to 2 s.f.).

✅ ANSWERS
181. 3 hours
182. Inversely — more per item means fewer items. 6 pencils.
183. (a) 0.2743 (b) 0.02743 (c) 274.3
184. N270 million per km

CHAPTER 16 Everyday Statistics

📌 KEY NOTE
Mean = (sum of all values) ÷ (number of values)
Median = middle value when data is arranged in order (for even n: average of two middle
values)
Mode = value(s) that appear most often
Range = highest value − lowest value

Pie chart: angle for each sector = (frequency/total) × 360°

✏ Worked Examples: Statistics

Data: 17, 13, 14, 18, 13, 14, 19, 15, 11, 18, 13 (11 values)
Ranked: 11, 13, 13, 13, 14, 14, 15, 17, 18, 18, 19
Mean = (sum)/11 = 165/11 = 15
Median = 6th value = 14
Mode = 13
Range = 19 − 11 = 8

Pie chart: diet = 120°, so fraction = 120/360 = 1/3

Exercise = 90° so 90/360 × 100% = 25%
Magazine has 96 pages. Advertising angle = 360−120−90−60−(water
sector).
If advertising = 60°, pages = 60/360 × 96 = 16 pages

📝 PRACTICE EXERCISE
185. Find mean, median, mode, range of: 17, 13, 14, 18, 13, 14, 19, 15, 11, 18, 13
186. Pie chart: diet=120°, exercise=90°, advertising=60°, other=?, clean water=?.
Magazine=96 pages. (a) Fraction for diet (b) % for exercise (c) How many pages for
advertising?
187. 8 men and 1 woman in a boat; average mass = 79kg. Without the woman,
average = 81.5kg. Find woman's mass.
188. Average age of 21 students = 14yr 3mo. If oldest excluded, average = 14yr
1mo. Find oldest student's age.
189. Club collected: N100 (×4), N200 (×10), N500 (×8), N1000 (×5), N5000 (×3).
Find mean, mode, median.

✅ ANSWERS
190. Mean=15, Median=14, Mode=13, Range=8
191. (a) 1/3 (b) 25% (c) 16 pages
192. Total = 9×79=711; men total = 8×81.5=652; woman = 711−652=59 kg
193. Total age = 21×171mo = 3591mo; remaining 20 total = 20×169=3380mo;
oldest = 3591−3380=211mo = 17yr 7mo
194. Mean=N880; Mode=N200; Median=N500. Best representative: median
(mean skewed by N5000 outliers)
 FULL JSSCE MOCK EXAMINATION
50 Questions · All Topics · 90 Minutes

Instructions: Answer ALL questions. For multiple-choice, circle one letter. Show all working for non-
MC questions. Use π = 22/7 unless otherwise stated.

SECTION A — Multiple Choice (30 marks)

1. The HCF of 10a²b and 8ab is: A 80a²b B 2ab C 4 D 40a²b²

2. Factorise: 6x² − 21xy A 3x(2x−7y) B x(6x−21y) C 3(2x²−7xy) D 6x(x−3.5y)
3. The coefficient of x in (x−2)(x+9) is: A −18 B −2 C +1 D +7
4. Solve 3/5 = x/15: A 3 B 5 C 9 D 45
5. If y = (x+9)/(x−3), find y when x = 5: A 7 B 5 C −2 D −5
6. If A = ½(a+b)h, express h in terms of A, a, b: A A−½(a+b) B 2A/(a+b) C A/2(a+b) D ½A(a+b)
7. Express 43 in base 2: A 101011 B 101001 C 110001 D 110011
8. If P = 2(l+b), find b when P = 40, l = 8: A 12 B 14 C 16 D 24
9. Expand (x−9)²: A x²−81 B x²+81 C x²−18x+81 D x²+18x+81
10. Factorise x²+8x+15: A (x+5)(x+3) B (x−5)(x−3) C (x+15)(x+1) D (x−3)(x+5)
11. The exact value of 85²−25 is: A 7200 B 7225 C 7175 D 7050
12. A sector of a circle (r=12cm) has angle 160°. Area in cm² in terms of π: A 5⅓π B 10⅔π C 16π
D 64π
13. The reciprocal of 0.02 is: A 0.5 B 5 C 50 D 500
14. Which angles can be constructed with ruler and compasses only? A 115° B 125° C 135° D
145°
15. Two similar triangles have sides in ratio 3:5. Their area ratio is: A 3:5 B 6:10 C 9:25 D 27:125
16. Change 342₆ to base ten: A 134 B 134 C 134 D 134
17. If x+3y=7 and x−3y=7, then y= A 0 B 7/3 C −7/3 D 14
18. A right triangle has opposite=6.2m, adjacent=3.4m. The angle of elevation is: A 29° B 51° C
61.3° D 79°
19. Marks of 11 students: 17,13,14,18,13,14,19,15,11,18,13. The mode is: A 11 B 13 C 14 D 15
20. N700,000 at 6% compound interest for 2 years: total interest is approximately: A N42,000 B
N84,000 C N86,520 D N88,200

SECTION B — Short Answer (20 marks)

21. Factorise by grouping: 4x − 8 + 3bx − 6b

22. Make r the subject of A = 2πr² + 2πrh. [Hint: factorise first]
23. Solve: 11/(3x−2) = 1/2
24. Use difference of two squares to find 72² − 28².
25. The sum of two numbers is 14. Their difference is 8. Find both numbers.
26. Trapezium: parallel sides 19m and d m, height 9m, area 135m². Find d.
27. Solve simultaneously: 4x + 3y = −1 and 2x − y = 7
28. 8 men and 1 woman average mass 79kg. Men alone average 81.5kg. Find woman's mass.
29. Factorise: (a) x² + 18x + 17 (b) d² − 5d − 24
30. Find compound interest on N700,000 at 6% p.a. for 2 years.

SECTION A ANSWERS:
1B 2A 3D 4C 5A 6B 7A 8A 9C 10A 11A 12D 13C 14C 15C 16A 17A 18C 19B 20C
SECTION B ANSWERS:
21. (x−2)(4+3b)
22. A = 2πr(r+h); A/2πh = r+h... This doesn't isolate r neatly. Better: 2πr²+2πrh=A →
2πr(r+h)=A. This is a quadratic in r; for Science entrance, leave it in factored form.
23. x = 8
24. (72+28)(72−28) = 100×44 = 4,400
25. x=11, y=3
26. d = 11
27. x=2, y=−3
28. 59 kg
29. (a) (x+17)(x+1) (b) (d−8)(d+3)
30. N86,520

SUMMARY: Topics to Revise in Final Days

✦ Algebra (Group A): Factorisation, Change of Subject, Quadratics, Fraction Equations,
Simultaneous Equations
✦ Number (Group B): Binary conversions, Word problems, Rational numbers
✦ Geometry (Group C): Constructions (angles), Similar triangles (AA, ratios), Area &
Volume factors
✦ Mensuration & Trig (Group D): Areas (trapezium, sector, ring), SOH-CAH-TOA
✦ Everyday Maths (Group E): SI/CI, Direct & Inverse proportion,
Mean/Median/Mode/Range