The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is once again at the forefront as students from across India prepare diligently for the Class 10 Board Exams, which are set to begin on February 20, 2025. With over 44 lakh students registered this year, exam preparation has reached its peak. The Science exam on this date is expected to be particularly challenging, covering key subjects such as physics, chemistry, and biology. Students will face 39 questions within the 80 marks total, to be completed over three hours, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
This year, students are advised to pay special attention to pivotal chapters, especially "Carbon and Its Compounds," which has been highlighted as part of the syllabus. Specific questions have been identified from past exams, creating valuable resources for focused study. For example, students might be asked about the role of concentrated sulphuric acid in chemical reactions or the structure of various compounds—a clear indication of the level of detail required.
According to the CBSE, students can find resources directly on their website, including sample question papers and guidelines, which outline what topics will be featured prominently. One of the strategies advocated by educators is the need for consistent study habits combined with targeted review sessions. Ms. Niyati, TGT Science at Ahlcon International School, commented, "A balanced approach is necessary for success; students should blend their consistent efforts with well-planned strategies to tackle the exam effectively." This balance is especially important as the exam will test theoretical knowledge and problem-solving capabilities.
Preparing for the board exams also involves revisiting previously asked questions. This consolidation helps students identify patterns and understand what is typically emphasized during the tests. Practicing previous year's question papers allows students to engage with the exam format, easing anxiety and improving time management skills under pressure. Experts agree this method is invaluable as it mimics real exam conditions.
Alongside rigorous study, the CBSE has released study resources like blueprints for Mathematics and Social Science, which help students gauge the weightage of each chapter. This year, the focus will not only be on recitation of information, but also on clear and cohesive answer-writing skills.
For the Science exam, students are expected to answer short answer questions concisely—often two marks each. Understanding the marking scheme is another tip for success. "Pay attention to the intent of the question and core concepts often awarded marks, such as definitions, explanations, and formulas," remarked Ms. Niyati. Clarity and precision are key here—students are encouraged to keep their responses straightforward and directly related to the questions asked.
Diagrams and labels can also significantly boost scores. Whether it's illustrating scientific principles or biological concepts, strong visuals can complement textual explanations. Therefore, students should practice drawing accurate and clear diagrams, ensuring they label important components.
Utilizing structured answer formats, such as bulleted lists for specific points, can greatly improve the clarity of students' responses during the exam. One highly recommended technique is PEEL, standing for Point, Explanation, Example, and Link. The PEEL method helps structure answers logically: beginning with the point, providing explanations, supporting with examples, and linking back to the overall topic.
Linking scientific concepts to real-world applications not only strengthens comprehension but also enhances the quality of answers during exams. Students are encouraged to incorporate these examples wherever possible, making their answers not just correct but also relevant and engaging.
Looking beyond traditional study methods, students attending online schools or utilizing digital tools can collaborate on study sessions, participate actively in forums, and access vast online resources. This approach facilitates interaction with peers and educators, potentially unearthing different perspectives on challenging concepts.
Meanwhile, as the excitement for board exams mounts, another important event looms—the Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) initiative. Scheduled to engage students, teachers, and parents alike, the event hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi provides opportunities for participants to discuss strategies and difficulties they face. The registration deadline for this year's PPC is January 14, 2025, and the event will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
With over 2.69 crore prior registrations, the PPC has been incredibly successful, offering enriching experiences along with rewards for top participants, including PPC kits and opportunities to meet directly with the Prime Minister.
This combination of board exam strategies and engagement with initiatives like PPC presents students with comprehensive resources to maximize their preparation for the upcoming challenges. With the exam date approaching rapidly, the onus is on students to utilize these strategies effectively and present their best selves on exam day.
January is fast approaching, and with it, the CBSE Class 10 Board Exams will soon be upon students. By adhering to sound preparation techniques, students can approach the exams with confidence and clarity, ready to showcase their hard work and knowledge.