French in JAMB is more than memorising vocabulary. Candidates are tested on grammar, comprehension, oral expression, culture of Francophone countries, and correct usage of the language in written and spoken forms. To succeed, students need textbooks that develop accuracy, fluency, pronunciation, and cultural understanding.
JAMB therefore recommends a range of Best French textbooks for UTME involving grammar books, oral practice materials, cultural texts, and dictionaries. This guide explains what each recommended book covers and how it helps candidates prepare effectively for the 2026/2027 UTME French examination.
Recommended Textbooks for JAMB UTME French 2026/2027
The following are JAMB recommended textbooks for French 2026/2027 including French grammar books for JAMB candidates, Oral French preparation for JAMB, Francophone culture textbooks for secondary schools, French study materials for WAEC, NECO and JAMB, French language textbooks for Nigerian students, and more.
A. Written Language (Grammar, Composition, Comprehension)
| S/N | BOOK TITLE | AUTHOR | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Companion to French Grammar (4th Edition) | Ajiboye, T. (2014) | A clear and structured grammar guide covering tenses, sentence construction, agreement, prepositions, and common errors. Useful for mastering grammatical accuracy for JAMB objectives and comprehension questions. |
| 2 | Nouvel Horizon, Book 4 (New Revised Edition) | Ajiboye, T. (2012) | A comprehensive senior-level French coursebook covering grammar, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and written expression. It is also well aligned with the Nigerian secondary school syllabus. |
| 3 | A Comprehensive French Grammar | Byrne & Churchill (1980) | A detailed grammar reference explaining French structure, syntax, and usage. Useful for clarifying difficult grammar rules tested in JAMB. |
| 4 | Le Nouveau Bescherelle: L’Art de Conjuguer | Hatier (1980) | The standard reference book for French verb conjugation. Helps students master verb forms, tenses, and moods, an essential area in UTME French. |
| 5 | Grammaire progressive du français (Niveau intermédiaire) | Maïce, G. & Merlo, G. (1998) | A progressive grammar text with exercises that gradually build competence. Particularly useful for reinforcing grammar through practice. |
| 6 | On y va! Book 3 | Mazauric, C. & Siréjols, E. (2006) | A modern French textbook focusing on grammar, communication, and reading comprehension. Helps students apply grammar in real-life contexts. |
| 7 | A Comprehensive Revision Handbook of French Grammar | Ojo, S. A. (2000) | A revision-focused grammar handbook designed for quick review. Ideal for last-minute preparation before UTME. |
| 8 | Other Relevant French Grammar Materials | — | Includes supplementary grammar workbooks and practice materials that reinforce key language structures tested by JAMB. |
A. ii. Oral French (Pronunciation and Spoken Expression)
| S/N | BOOK TITLE | AUTHOR | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | An Introduction to Practice in Oral French | Ajiboye, T. (2010) | Focuses on pronunciation, intonation, stress patterns, and spoken expression. Helps students understand how French sounds are produced and recognised in oral-based questions. |
| 10 | Initiation à la Prononciation du Français Standard | Léon, M. (1978) | A classic text on French phonetics. Explains vowel sounds, consonants, liaison, and intonation, essential for oral comprehension. |
| 11 | Other Oral Practice Materials | — | Includes audio recordings, pronunciation drills, and listening exercises that strengthen listening and speaking skills. |
B. Culture of Francophone Countries
| S/N | BOOK TITLE | AUTHOR | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Comment vivent les Français | Girod, R. & Grand-Clément, F. (1979) | Explores French lifestyle, traditions, social values, and daily life. Helps students answer culture-based questions in JAMB. |
| 13 | French Essays on Culture and Civilisation for Schools and Colleges | Mbuko, L. (2000) | Covers Francophone culture, civilisation, institutions, and social life in a school-friendly style. |
| 14 | French Newspapers, Magazines, Journals | — | Exposure to authentic French materials improves comprehension, vocabulary, and cultural awareness. |
| 15 | French–English / English–French Dictionary | — | — |
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How to Study French for JAMB Using These Textbooks
1. Master grammar rules gradually: Focus on tenses, agreement, pronouns, and sentence structure.
2. Practise conjugation regularly: Verb conjugation is one of the most tested areas in JAMB French.
3. Improve reading comprehension: Read short passages daily to improve speed and understanding.
4. Work on oral and listening skills: Even though JAMB is CBT-based, many questions test sound recognition and pronunciation logic.
5. Study Francophone culture: Questions may cover lifestyle, traditions, and social practices.
6. Use revision books close to the exam: They help reinforce rules and identify weak areas quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ques: Which book is best for French grammar?
Ans: Companion to French Grammar by Ajiboye and Le Nouveau Bescherelle are excellent.
Ques: Is oral French tested in JAMB?
Ans: Yes. JAMB tests pronunciation awareness and sound recognition.
Ques: Do I need to study French culture?
Ans: Yes. Cultural questions appear regularly.
Ques: Can I pass JAMB French without oral practice?
Ans: It is possible, but oral practice improves understanding significantly.
Ques: Which book is best for revision?
Ans: A Comprehensive Revision Handbook of French Grammar by Ojo is very helpful.
Ques: Are French newspapers useful?
Ans: Yes. They improve vocabulary, comprehension, and cultural exposure.
Ques: Do I need a dictionary while studying?
Ans: Yes. It helps with spelling, meanings, and correct usage.
Ques: Is Nouvel Horizon enough on its own?
Ans: It is strong, but combining it with a grammar reference gives better results.
Ques: How many hours weekly should I study French?
Ans: At least three focused sessions per week.
Ques: Are these books also useful for WAEC and NECO?
Ans: Yes. They align with senior secondary French curriculum and SSCE exams.