"What" by Solomon Osuokam Ogbeh

 The word "what" can function as different parts of speech, depending on its use in a sentence. It can be an interrogative pronoun, an interrogative adjective, or an interrogative adverb. In this detailed exploration, we will examine each role of "what," providing examples and explanations to ensure thorough understanding.

Interrogative Pronoun

As an interrogative pronoun, "what" is used to ask questions about things or objects. It stands in place of the noun that is the focus of the question.

Examples:

1. What is in the box?
2. What are you doing, Chika?
3. What was said during the meeting?

Explanation: In these examples, "what" is used to inquire about a specific thing or action. It does not modify a noun but stands alone as the subject or object of the question.

Exercise: Formulate questions using "what" as an interrogative pronoun.

Interrogative Adjective

When "what" is used as an interrogative adjective, it modifies a noun by specifying or questioning its identity, type, or amount. In this role, it is always followed by a noun.

Examples:

1. What book are you reading, Emeka?
2. What colour do you prefer, Amina?
3. What time is the meeting scheduled for?

Explanation: In these examples, "what" modifies the noun that follows it, providing more information about the noun. It helps to specify or inquire about the particular item or characteristic being discussed.

Exercise: Create sentences where "what" is used as an interrogative adjective.

Interrogative Adverb

As an interrogative adverb, "what" is used to inquire about the extent or degree of something. It often appears in expressions related to time, manner, and reason.

Examples:

1. What time did you arrive, Funmi?
2. What manner of person would do such a thing?
3. What reason do you have for being late, Bolaji?

Explanation: Here, "what" is used to modify the verb, asking about the specifics of time, manner, or reason. It helps to provide more context to the action or situation being questioned.

Exercise: Write questions using "what" as an interrogative adverb.

Examples and Context

1.     Interrogative Pronoun in a Classroom Setting:

·        Teacher: "What is the capital of Nigeria?"

·        Student: "The capital of Nigeria is Abuja."

2.     Interrogative Adjective in Daily Conversation:

·        Mother: "What food would you like for dinner, Tunde?"

·        Tunde: "I would like jollof rice, please."

3.     Interrogative Adverb in a School Scenario:

·        Principal: "What time does your class start, Uche?"

·        Uche: "My class starts at 8:00 AM."

By understanding and recognising the different roles of "what" in sentences, students can enhance their grammatical skills and comprehension. This knowledge is crucial for effective communication, both in writing and speaking.

Exercises

1.     For each sentence below, identify whether "what" is used as an interrogative pronoun, adjective, or adverb.

·        What is your favourite subject?

·        What kind of music do you like, Ada?

·        What caused the accident, Ibrahim?

2.     Create your own questions using "what" in different roles. Ensure you vary your use of "what" as a pronoun, adjective, and adverb.

3.     Complete the sentences using "what" in the appropriate role.

·        _______ book are you reading?

·        _______ did you say?

·        _______ manner of event is this?

By completing these exercises, students will reinforce their understanding of the different uses of "what" and how it can function in various parts of speech. This practice will help solidify their grasp of English grammar and improve their overall language proficiency.