Gear up for new ‘levels’ of maths paper

Aakash Chaudhry

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced two levels of examination in mathematics for Class X students in 2020 to cater to different kinds of learners. The nomenclature for the two examinations will be Mathematics — Standard, for the existing level of examination, and Mathematics — Basic, for the easier level.

The syllabus, classroom teaching and internal assessment for both the levels would remain the same.

The standard-level mathematics assesses higher mathematical abilities compared to the basic-level. Accordingly, the difficulty level of Mathematics — 'Basic' will be less than that of Mathematics —'Standard'.

A student can opt for only one option.

Students have to pass Mathematics-Standard in CBSE Class X board exams to take up maths at the senior secondary level.

Syllabus

Study of Number System, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Statistics, Graphs and Coordinate Geometry etc. 

Exam Pattern

This year the pattern of CBSE board exam has taken a new direction. It will include objective type questions, fill in the blank type questions in addition to very short type questions in Section A, while Section B & C are of short type questions including 2 & 3 marks respectively and Section D has long answer type questions and each question carries 4 marks.

— The writer is Director and CEO of Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL).

Preparation Tips

Plan and prioritise your syllabus according to the weightage of different chapters

It is important to plan and study around the weightage of different topics. Algebra (which includes Polynomials, Pair of Linear Equation in Two Variables, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Progressions) and Geometry (which includes Triangles, Circles, Construction) carry maximum marks. Algebra needs practice of questions based on formulae and calculation, while questions in geometry are based on theorems and geometrical figures. A student needs to prepare and practice accordingly to get full marks.

It’s easy to score in topics like Trigonometry, Co-ordinate Geometry, Probability with less efforts while topics like Mensuration (which includes Areas Related to Circles, Surface Areas & Volumes) and Statistics need more focused calculations but again not difficult to score. Time bound practice gives edge on such topics.

Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.

Practice as many previous years’ papers as possible, but keep in mind that the current pattern of the paper has been changed. Time-bound practice of sample papers is the key to success at this stage. Solving previous years' papers also familiarises with the important topics and helps identify weak areas. Additionally, solve as many mock tests as possible. This will improve speed and accuracy, boost confidence and aid in better time management during the exam. 

Exam revolves around NCERT

The syllabus of the CBSE Board Exams is completely based on the NCERT textbooks. Hence, a detailed study of the NCERT textbooks is a must. Pay attention to every line of the book as it entails important information. Studying from the NCERT textbooks is ideal for a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the concepts as it can provide an edge over others. Practice each and every question of the NCERT, especially solved examples and proofs of the theorems. 

Smart work and time management

Since one has to solve each and every question in maths unlike other theoretical subjects, managing time well in the exam is very important. Read the question paper thoroughly and attempt those questions first which you are sure about. To utilise every minute wisely, work really hard on your speed. Setting a timer while attempting questions can help you assess how much time is taken to solve a question. This will help improve your speed and accuracy.

Browse through important formulae before going to sleep  

Make a list of all important formulae/ theorems of all chapters and revise at frequent intervals. This list will also help you in your last minute quick revision. 

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