First-term Exam Prep: ‘Attempt question paper with maximum marks first’

Preparing for the Home Science first-term exam in classes XI and XII requires a strategic approach that combines effective study techniques, time management, and a focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. It is important to remember that it is like any other exam of 100 marks – 70 marks for theory and 30 marks for practical.

While many students may feel that it is only Home Science and an easy paper to score, the truth is that many students end up making mistakes and losing marks unnecessarily. According to Sheena Ahuja, a Home Science teacher at Apeejay School, Faridabad in Sector 15, despite repeatedly telling the students to begin the question paper from the last question with maximum marks, they start from MCQs.

“I always tell my students to attempt the questions with maximum marks first. This needs to be from question No 37 which is a 5 marker; they then need to answer questions that are 4 marks each and so forth. The MCQs should be done right at the end,” Ahuja stressed.

Also, the MCQs can be ticked as the student reads the question paper in the 15 minutes that are given to them. “Once you have ticked the answer, it will take 10 minutes to write them out in the sequence,” Ahuja said.

How to begin the preparation?

Understand the syllabus: You should familiarise yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern. Understand which chapters or topics are covered in the first term so you can allocate your time accordingly.

Create a study schedule: Develop a study schedule that allocates time for each subject and topic. Make sure to include breaks to avoid burnout. Stick to your schedule as much as possible.

Gather study material: Ensure you have all the necessary textbooks, notes, and reference materials. Use reliable sources to supplement your understanding of the subject.

Make notes: While studying, create concise and organised notes. Summarising information in your own words helps you understand and remember it better.

Practice practical skills: Home Science often involves practical skills such as cooking, sewing, and budgeting. Practice these skills regularly to build confidence and proficiency.

Review regularly: Set aside time for regular revision. Reviewing previously studied topics helps reinforce your memory and ensures you don’t forget important information.

Practice sample papers: Solve sample papers and previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and types of questions asked. This will also help you manage your time during the actual exam.

Seek clarification: If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to ask your teachers or classmates for clarification. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the concepts.

Use technology wisely: Utilise educational apps, online resources, and interactive videos to enhance your understanding of certain concepts. However, be mindful of not getting distracted by non-educational content.

Group study: Studying with classmates can provide different perspectives and help you grasp concepts more thoroughly. Just ensure that the group study remains focused and productive.

Simulate exam conditions: As the exam date approaches, practice solving sample papers or mock tests under timed conditions. This will help you manage your time during the actual exam.

Ahuja tells you that she doesn’t wait for the entire syllabus to be completed before giving assignments. “I go chapter-wise. Once the chapter is over, I give my students all the possible questions that an examiner can ask them about the chapter. These include every possible MCQ, assertion-reasoning, subjective, and case study questions. My students also have a revision schedule,” Ahuja said.

The MCQs can be ticked as the student reads the question paper in the 15 minutes that are given to them. Once you have ticked the answer, it will take 10 minutes to write them out in the sequence

–Sheena Ahuja, Home Science teacher at Apeejay School, Faridabad in Sector 15

This is based on the format that the students will see in the Board exams.  “The assignment of the chapter is based on the Board sample paper. Besides giving them questions in the assignments, I also ask them to make fill-ups based on the chapter. This not only builds a question bank but ensures that the students thoroughly read the chapters. For instance, I have 14 students in a class, they will make 10 fill-ups each. We discuss these in the class. This holds for MCQs and assertion-reasoning questions,” Ahuja shared.

The problem areas for students are in assertion-reasoning questions. “This is because they have to use logical reasoning to answer them. A lot of questions are application-based. For example, we have a chapter on Elements of Art and Principles of Design in Designing. I tell them to design a birthday party dress for an 18-year-old incorporating the elements of design; it is more of experiential learning rather than rote learning,” Ahuja explained. She added that Home Science is not about learning the concepts, every question is application-based or high-thinking based.

“Besides theory, I also make my students practice for practicals that are held regularly. Even for the first-term exam, there will be a 30-mark practical question paper,” Ahuja said in conclusion.