Class X CBSE board exams are on the horizon, it is high time that students strengthen their preparation for the crucial assessment. The Science exam is scheduled to be conducted on February 20, 2025, and students are meticulously fine-tuning their strategies to ensure top-notch performance in the same. The Science exam entails 39 questions spanning physics, chemistry, and biology, totalling 80 marks, with a 3-hour time limit. It will gauge students’ theoretical knowledge and their ability to link it with practical applications through diverse question formats including multiple-choice questions, short answers, and long-answer questions.
The key ingredient to achieving success is a finely tuned study strategy seamlessly blended with consistent efforts with a meticulously crafted preparation plan. Section A of the exam comprises 16 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and 4 assertion-reasoning questions, each carrying one mark. Sections B,C,D,E consist of short-answer and long-answer questions, evaluating the depth of understanding and the ability to articulate scientific concepts. Practising the MCQs of Section A is of huge importance for students to achieve excellence in science exams. Ms. Niyati, a TGT Science teacher at Ahlcon International School and DoE Resource Person, has suggested a few questions and some effective preparation strategies to help students sail through the exam.
The preparation strategies outlined are also relevant for students studying in online schools that follow the CBSE curriculum. While the learning setting may differ, the exam’s expectations remain the same. By making use of digital platforms for collaborative learning, engaging in virtual discussions, and tapping into online resources to enhance their knowledge, students can gain a competitive edge. With focused effort and a structured plan, students will be fully prepared to tackle their Science exam with confidence and achieve excellent outcomes.
CBSE Class 10 Science Board exam: 5 important MCQs
This section demands students to have an absolute comprehension of the concepts to pick the right answers. Practising previous year’s question papers can be of great benefit. Here are a few essential questions suggested by Ms.Niyati:
Question 1: Ahana studies that soap solution results in micelle formation, which helps to remove dirt. It has a unique orientation which helps in keeping the dirt out of the water. Which of the following statements about soap molecules is correct?
A. Hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail
B. Hydrophobic head and a hydrophilic tail
C.Hydrophobic head and a hydrophobic tail
D. Hydrophilic head and a hydrophilic tail
Ans. A. Hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail
Question 2: Which of the following are the effects of atmospheric refraction?
1. Twinkling of stars.
2. Tyndall effect.
3. Advance sunrise and delayed sunset.
Choose the correct option from the codes given below:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 3
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (C). 1 and 3
Question 3: Study the given statements about the human brain carefully and identify the option that indicates the correct function of that part of the human brain:
A. Pituitary gland – Endocrine and exocrine gland.
B. Thyroid – Excess release of this hormone causes goiter
C. Pancreas – Master gland
D. Pancreas – regulation of blood sugar level by release of insulin
Ans. (D). Pancreas – regulation of blood sugar level by release of insulin
Question 4: In human beings, when the process of digestion is completed, the (i) proteins, (ii) carbohydrates, and (iii) fats are respectively finally converted into :
A. (i) Amino acids, (ii) glucose and (iii) fatty acids
B. (i) Amino acids, (ii) glucose, (iii) fatty acids and glycerol
C. (i) Glucose, (ii) fatty acids and glycerol, (iii) amino acids
D. (i) Sugars, (ii) amino acids, (iii) fatty acids and glycerol
Ans. (B). (i) Amino acids, (ii) glucose, (iii) fatty acids and glycerol
Question 5: Match column I with column II and select the correct option using the given codes
A. a – (ii), b – (i), c – (iii), d – (iv)
B. a – (iii), b – (i), c – (iv), d – (ii)
C. a – (iv), b – (ii), c – (iii), d – (i)
D. a – (iii), b – (ii), c – (i), d – (iv)
Ans. (B). a – (iii), b – (i), c – (iv), d – (ii)
CBSE Class 10 Science Board exam: Key tips for success from expert
NCERT is the bedrock of board exam preparations. Shedding light on the same, Ms. Niyati says, “Mastering NCERT concepts and diagrams is the first step toward securing a good score. It lays the foundation upon which students can build their knowledge.”
She also lays stress on the cruciality of concept comprehension over rote memorization. Here are some effective tips suggested by Ms.Niyati to assist students in optimising their exam preparations.
- Master the basics: Start with the fundamentals. It is essential to have an in-depth knowledge of the basics, especially for MCQs which gauges the core knowledge of students. Pay keen attention to the phrasing of the question, even a small alteration in wording can change the correct answer.
- Eliminate incorrect options: To answer the MCQs rightly, first try to remove the incorrect options, it amplifies the chances of selecting the correct one.
- Practise timed questions: Speed and accuracy are the keywords when it comes to solving MCQs. Students need to attempt previous year question papers to get hold of these concepts.
Subject-Specific Strategies for Science
Science is an integrated subject, but it is bifurcated into three branches—physics, chemistry, and biology. It is essential for students to have a thorough insight into each of these sections to fetch more marks. Each requires distinct preparation strategies. Here are some subject-specific tips provided by Ms.Niyati.
Biology:
- Diagrams are essential: Diagrams are the cornerstone of the biology exam. Practise drawing neat, well–labelled diagrams and incorporate them wherever possible while answering the questions.
- Master key terminology: A glossary of important terms is invaluable. Regular revision of these terms ensures clarity during the exam.
- Understand life processes: Focus on processes like nutrition, respiration, and excretion. These concepts form the backbone of your biology paper.
Physics
- Formulas and numerical problem solving: Physics involves plenty of formulas. Keep a list of essential formulas and practice their application in numerical problems.
- Master conceptual understanding: Ensure a deep understanding of the principles behind formulas—simply memorizing them is not enough.
- Ray diagrams and circuit analysis: Practice drawing ray diagrams for optics and understanding circuits in electricity and magnetism.
Chemistry
- Balance reactions and equations: Chemistry is all about reactions. Understand the different types of reactions and how to balance them.
- Understand acids, bases, and salts: Knowing the properties and reactions of these substances is crucial.
- Focus on Organic Chemistry: Ensure you understand the structure and nomenclature of carbon compounds.
Effective Study Habits for Class X Science
Here are some helpful tips for students that can lead them to excel in board exams.
- Early preparation: Starting early enables students to have plenty of time to understand concepts, practise questions and strengthen their preparations. Spacing out your study schedule over time is far more effective than cramming at the last minute. A well-planned schedule can help prevent last-minute stress.
- Emphasize understanding over memorization: Rote learning is not effective in science subjects. It requires comprehension of the concepts and being able to connect them with then real-world scenarios. Grasp the underlying principles, and try to dig out the ‘why’ of every question rather than cramming the facts.
- Practice regularly: Dive into mock tests and previous years’ question papers. Simulate an exam-like environment while solving the questions. Note the time-taking and weak areas and streamline your preparation strategy accordingly.
- Create concise notes: Coherence and brevity in notes will help you revise effectively during the last days of preparation. Make sticky notes for key formulas, concepts, and diagrams for top-notch preparation.
- Seek support when needed: Reach out to your teachers, mentors, and peers when a concept seems unclear.
- Focus on well-being: Maintain a balanced lifestyle with adequate rest, nutritious food, and exercise. A healthy body supports a sharp mind.
On the day of the exam, following a few simple strategies can make a significant difference:
- Manage time wisely: Avoid spending too much time on any one question. Move on and return to challenging questions later if needed.
- Read carefully: Pay close attention to the wording of each question before answering.
- Neatness matters: Write your answers neatly and legibly to ensure the examiner can follow your reasoning.
- Double-Check: If time permits, review your answers before submitting the paper to catch any careless mistakes.
