KCSE-style Questions — The Samaritan: A Guide
50 exam-style questions grouped by topic. Paste into WordPress Custom HTML block.
A. Comprehension and Plot (Questions 1–10)
- Describe the setting of Act 1 Scene 1 – The Failed Award.
- Why did Mayor Mossi refuse to launch The Samaritan app during the ceremony?
- Outline the reaction of Nicole when Mossi ordered her to stop The Samaritan.
- What was the purpose of the emergency meeting in Act 1 Scene II – The Rift?
- Identify two allegations against the municipal leaders mentioned in the newspapers.
- Why does Mossi call himself “Smoke that thunders”?
- What strategies do Mossi, Harvester, and Bembe discuss in Act 1 Scene III to deal with The Samaritan?
- In Act 2 Scene 1, why are Alvita and Montano worried about Nicole?
- What message does Nicole draw from the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan?
- Summarize Mossi’s accusations against Seymour in Act 2 Scene II – Mayor’s Visit.
B. Themes (Questions 11–20)
- Explain how the theme of technology is developed in the play.
- How is the theme of corruption illustrated through Ted’s character?
- Show how bad governance is portrayed in Maracas municipality.
- Explain how the theme of hope and optimism is presented through Alvita and Montano’s play within a play.
- Describe how environmental degradation is shown in the text.
- How does the play depict the role of the youth in societal change?
- Explain the theme of blackmail with an example from Mossi’s actions.
- Discuss how the theme of hypocrisy is portrayed using the biblical allusion.
- How is poverty and unemployment depicted in the municipality?
- Explain how fear and intimidation affect Nicole’s work.
C. Characterization (Questions 21–30)
- Using examples, describe Mossi’s character traits.
- How is Nicole portrayed as a determined leader?
- Identify two ways Harvester is shown as loyal.
- Explain how Ted is portrayed as both fearful and traitorous.
- How does Bembe’s character contribute to the theme of impunity?
- Explain how Alvita and Montano’s characterization supports the plot.
- How is Seymour shown to be both a schemer and unreliable?
- Show how Narine’s role as principal reveals the pressures of leadership.
- How does Jaden’s profession contrast with his actions?
- In what way does Ramdaye’s unpredictability create tension in the play?
D. Style and Language Use (Questions 31–40)
- Explain the significance of the play within a play in The Samaritan.
- Give two examples of hyperbole from the play and explain their effect.
- Identify one simile and explain its meaning in context.
- How is vivid description used to set the scenes?
- Explain the role of sarcasm in revealing Mossi’s attitude towards the App.
- Give an example of symbolism in the text and explain its meaning.
- How is irony used to criticize municipal leadership?
- Identify an instance of foreshadowing and explain how it builds suspense.
- Explain the use of biblical allusion in reinforcing the play’s message.
- How does the use of idiomatic expressions enhance the dialogue?
E. Interpretation and Critical Thinking (Questions 41–50)
- What does The Samaritan app symbolize in the play?
- Do you think Mossi’s fear of The Samaritan is justified? Give reasons.
- In your view, how does the play portray the relationship between politics and the media?
- How does the author use humour to address serious issues?
- If you were Nicole, would you have agreed to delete the posts on The Samaritan? Explain.
- Discuss the relevance of The Samaritan to contemporary Kenyan society.
- How does the title The Samaritan relate to the main message of the play?
- Compare the challenges faced by Nicole with those faced by whistleblowers in real life.
- In your opinion, does the ending of the play offer hope or despair? Support your answer.
- Suggest two lessons that students can learn from Alvita and Montano’s innovation.
