At present, 20-30 marks are awarded on this basis in case of science and other subjects involving practicals. From the next year, 20 marks will be earmarked for internal assessment in subjects like mathematics, languages, political science, legal studies and others.
The number of objective-type questions will also go up. The students will be asked 20 objective-type questions in all subjects.
A circular issued to all CBSE-affiliated schools mentions that the change has been introduced to enhance students’ aptitude towards critical thinking, problem solving, information analysis, collaboration, effective communication, developing curiosity and imagination.
KS Randhawa, MGN Public School Principal who is also the District CBSE coordinator, said, “The modified format will primarily focus on the students’ understanding of the subject. They will have to thoroughly go through their syllabus to get maximum marks in internal assessment and objective-type questions. The objective-type questions will include multiple-choice questions, fill in the blanks, one-word and match the following exercises. Internal assessment may include project work, practicals, portfolios, file presentations etc.”
Innocent Hearts School Principal Rajeev Paliwal said the new initiative would discourage mindlessly cramming of syllabus besides promoting analytical skills and reasoning ability.
The board has also proposed to conduct practical examinations for Classes X and XII at the external centres from the next academic session.
What’s new
• 20 marks To be earmarked for internal assessment in maths, languages, political science, legal studies etc
• 20 questions Of objective type in all subjects will test students’ ability as regards critical thinking, problem solving, information analysis etc