CBSE class 10 English Tips: ‘Read the literature chapters thoroughly’

Dealing with Board exam stress is a common challenge for students, and it’s important to address it healthily and effectively. Providing a positive and understanding environment during such time can contribute to a healthier experience for students during this crucial period.

As the Central Board of Secondary Education, the exams are all set to usher in starting mid-February till April 2024, let’s focus on how to make this whole ride one smooth sailing experience for students.

Following the date sheet, February 21, 2024, is scheduled for the English exam for class X, for which Surabhi Gupta, HoD, English at Apeejay School, Noida suggests some useful tips and suggestions that can come in handy for the students.

“There are a few important pointers to prepare the subject course well which the students must do before the examination. First, they should read their literature chapters thoroughly. Second, be extremely clear and precise with the format of the writing section. Third, it’s advisable for the students to do ample practice reading passages of all types and should prepare well for Question Number 13, the last question of the paper which is a standard common question under the CBSE pattern. This question primarily involves a comparison between two chapters which may have a similar theme, plot, or situation. Last, I would suggest they attempt a few sample papers and time themselves so that the students can train themselves to finish the paper in approximately two hours and 50 minutes so that they have 10 minutes left for revision,” Gupta said.

One common mistake that the students make is mostly for question number 13, wherein they are required to write dialogues for the two common scenarios between chapters. “Students while attempting this question often just get lost in writing pleasantries. Instead, the correct way is to fill these dialogues (exchanges) with key points from both the chapters that they are comparing. It is an important 5 marks comprehensive question that the students should take seriously,” Gupta added.

What are the best revision practices that the students should abide by?

·        There is no substitute for reading the chapters thoroughly and the students should not rely on audio e-books for the same. It is because there are most often MCQs or 2-mark questions from unexpected corners of the English chapters.

·        Students should spend time writing and practicing actual answers in the writing section. And not just learn a format and be complacent about it. This practice gives you a reality check on how much time you are taking.

·       Students should be well clear about the format particularly for questions related to invitations – formal and informal, because they tend to be a little confusing.

·      Tiny bits of information like mentioning RSVP, customary sign-offs, phone numbers, date, time, and venue should not be ignored.

·        While attempting MCQs students should use elimination of wrong answers only and not do it in haste.

·        Practice the RTC (reference to context) very well since there are 16 marks in the paper which can be most easily scored.