Summary
As the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (ICSE) class 10 board examinations approach, students find themselves in the midst of intense preparation.
The English Language paper, scheduled for February 21, 2024, assumes a significant weightage in providing fillip to a student’s overall performance in the exams.
As the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) class 10 board examinations approach, students find themselves in the midst of intense preparation. The English Language paper, scheduled for February 21, 2024, assumes a significant weightage in providing fillip to a student’s overall performance in the exams.
To guide students through this crucial phase, The Telegraph Online Edugraph reached out to esteemed educator Anjana Chatterjee, a teacher of English at The Future Foundation School, Kolkata. She has been associated with the venerable task of training young minds for over 37 years now.
Understanding the Exam Pattern
Anjana Chatterjee advises students to start by understanding the ICSE class 10 English Language paper's format and marking scheme. She recommends going through the Pupil Performance Analysis (PPA) of the last few years, accessible on the Council website. This provides insights into trends and areas that require attention.
Key Focus Areas
When queried about essential topics, teacher Chatterjee emphasises mastering the formats of Formal and Informal Letters, Notice and Email. "These formats play a pivotal role in showcasing language proficiency and securing marks," she informs us.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Addressing common challenges, teacher Chatterjee notes that the lack of a specific syllabus often leads to neglect. "To overcome this," she recommends "rigorous practice in various language constructs, including Direct-Indirect Speech, Active-Passive Voice and other grammatical nuances."
Study Strategies for Language Skills
To enhance language skills, she suggests that students take a multifaceted approach. “Reading English newspapers, maintaining a daily diary, listening to informative programmes like news on the BBC, engaging in discussions and participating in debates contribute significantly to one’s repository of language,” she believes.
Grammar and Vocabulary Mastery
Highlighting the importance of grammar and vocabulary, teacher Chatterjee stresses regular practice at school and home. She advises correcting mistakes promptly and maintaining consistency.
Effective Resources for Practice
Teacher Chatterjee observes, “Using standard workbooks, previous years' ICSE papers and online resources are adequate for the purpose of practising. Solving previous years' papers is beneficial, with a focus on understanding solutions and noting common errors.”
Strategies for Effective Revision
“Identifying strong and weak areas during revision. Analysing question papers, noting common errors in grammar, and practising similar exercises contribute to a comprehensive revision," she adds.
Managing Exam Stress
To alleviate exam stress, teacher Chatterjee advises students to maintain a balanced lifestyle—eating well, getting adequate sleep, and incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation. “Believing in oneself, following a routine, and arriving at the exam centre with ample time are additional stress management tips,” quips teacher Chatterjee.
Final Tips for Success
Teacher Chatterjee's parting advice includes utilising the reading time judiciously, making informed choices for the essay and letter, and approaching the paper without preconceived notions.
As students gear up for the ICSE class 10 English Language exam, we hope that seasoned educationist Anjana Chatterjee's insights serve as a compass guiding them towards success.
Remember dear students, confidence and preparation go hand in hand on this journey to acing the boards.
Good luck!
Last updated on 07 Feb 2024
