WAEC GCE Metal Work Syllabus 2025/2026
The 2025/2026 WAEC GCE Metal Work syllabus is designed to assess candidates’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills in metalworking processes, tools, safety, and fabrication. It prepares students for careers in engineering, fabrication, and technical trades.
This syllabus applies to candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates (GCE). It emphasizes both conceptual understanding and hands-on competence in metalworking.
Scheme of Examination
- Paper 1: Objectives
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 1 hour
- Marks: 50
- Paper 2: Essay and Sketches
- Six structured questions; answer four
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 100
- Paper 3: Practical Work
- Workshop-based tasks assessed by a visiting examiner
- Duration: 3 hours
- Marks: 100
Core Syllabus Topics
1. Safety and Workshop Practice
- Safety rules and first aid
- Fire prevention and control
- Workshop layout and maintenance
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
2. Metalworking Tools and Machines
- Classification: measuring, marking, cutting, shaping, joining
- Maintenance and sharpening
- Portable and stationary machines: lathes, drills, grinders, welding equipment
3. Materials Used in Metal Work
- Ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Properties and uses
- Heat treatment and alloying
- Corrosion and prevention
4. Metalwork Processes
- Cutting, filing, drilling, turning, forging, casting
- Welding: gas and electric
- Soldering and brazing
- Sheet metal work and fabrication
5. Design and Drawing
- Freehand and instrument drawing
- Orthographic and isometric projection
- Dimensioning and scaling
- Working drawings and exploded views
6. Joining and Assembly Techniques
- Riveting, bolting, welding, soldering
- Types of joints and their applications
- Strength and durability considerations
7. Finishing and Surface Treatment
- Cleaning, polishing, painting, plating
- Protective coatings and aesthetics
8. Career Opportunities in Metal Work
- Welding, machining, fabrication, tool making
- Automotive and aerospace industries
- Entrepreneurship in metal-based trades
Sample Questions
Objective Example:
Which of the following is a non-ferrous metal?
- Mild steel
- Cast iron
- Copper
- Stainless steel
Answer: C. Copper
Essay Example:
Explain five safety precautions to observe when using an electric arc welding machine.
Answer Tip: Include use of goggles, proper grounding, dry gloves, ventilation, and fire extinguishers.
Sketch Example:
Draw and label a lap joint and state one use.
Answer Tip: Provide clear lines, labels for overlapping surfaces, and mention its use in sheet metal work.