Will CBSE'S two-level exam model for Science, Social Science limit students?

Much like its Basic Math and Standard Math model for Classes 9 and 10, CBSE is set to introduce a two-level learning and exam model for Science and Social Science as well to cater to diverse learning needs. This aims to reduce academic stress and boost flexibility for future career goals. But what challenges does this CBSE model come with?

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a two-level structure for Science and Social Science in Classes 9 and 10, starting from the 2026-27 academic session. This follows the success of the two-level Mathematics model for Class 10, which allows students to choose between Basic and Standard levels based on their aptitude and future goals.

The two-level Mathematics model has already shown positive results, giving students the flexibility to pick a level that suits them. While it has boosted confidence and performance, especially for those choosing the basic level, challenges remain.

Even though the recent CBSE proposal aims to reduce academic stress and cater to diverse learning needs, we need to remember that those students who opt for the lower level of mathematics, or Math Basic, in Classes 9 and 10 are unable to choose the science stream in Classes 11-12.

However, not all CBSE schools abide by this. Some of them also choose to conduct aptitude tests after Class 10 to decide if students who opted for Math Basic would be able to tackle the mathematics difficulty level in science and commerce streams in Classes 11 and 12.

With CBSE's new announcement, it is likely that the same model will be used for the two-level curricula and exam structure for science and social science.

Many students have struggled to make the right choice with the two-level Math model, and schools are still working on adapting the curriculum uniformly. CBSE hopes to address these issues as it expands the model to other subjects.

CBSE'S CHALLENGES IN TWO-LEVEL MATHEMATICS

Adopting a two-level model in CBSE schools across India for any subject isn't an easy task.

"The introduction of this dual-level system stems from the challenges faced by CBSE in ensuring effective math education for all students. One major hurdle has been the extensive teacher training required to support such a complex system," says Naman Jain, Vice Chairman, Silverline Prestige School, Ghaziabad.

"Teachers need to be equipped with the necessary skills to teach at both levels and cater to the varying needs of students. Additionally, there’s the issue of curriculum overload, with students often struggling to keep up with the sheer volume of content," Jain adds.

To address these concerns, CBSE has emphasised the importance of personalised teacher development. Moving forward, a similar focus will likely be needed for science and social science curricula.

These subjects will need to maintain a practical, concept-focused approach while minimising excessive theoretical content that can overwhelm students.

REDUCING ACADEMIC STRESS THROUGH PERSONALISED LEARNING

One of the key advantages of the two-level system is its ability to reduce academic stress.

By providing personalised learning pathways, students can progress at their own pace, ensuring that they are not overwhelmed by material that may be too advanced or too simple for their abilities. This tailored approach allows for greater focus on individual strengths, thereby reducing the fear of failure.

"The system’s flexibility is especially beneficial for students with diverse learning styles, offering them the opportunity to excel in the areas that matter most for their future career paths," says a teacher from GD Goenka Public School.

"Some students are not interested in studying subjects like social science and humanities, yet they are required to study these subjects at an advanced level. Similarly, students interested in humanities are compelled to study science at the same level as those who are passionate about it," says Dhruv Parashar, Class 9, Heritage Public School.

"I want to choose the science stream in Class 11 because I am interested in studying science. However, I am not interested in social science, but I am still required to study it at the same level as those who are genuinely interested in the subject," he further adds.

WHAT STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THIS MOVE

The new CBSE dual-level curriculum has received mixed opinions. Some feel it puts unnecessary pressure on students by making them choose their academic path too early, while others believe it is a needed change that could improve education in the long run.

"This is neither a fair nor a just decision. If the foundation of a person's education is weak, they are left unprepared for both mainstream education and life. I am against this decision by CBSE," says Punya Prasoon, Class 9, Our Lady of Fatima Higher Secondary School, Aligarh.

"The CBSE decision to introduce two levels of Science and Social Science complicates things for students by forcing them to decide their future stream as early as Class 8. Choosing the lower-level option limits opportunities in Classes 11 and 12 in most schools," says Amay Khandelwal, Class 10, DAV Burhar Public School.

"This early decision pressurises students who are still exploring their interests and may unfairly restrict career options. Stream choices should be made in Class 11 based on evolving potential, not fixed in Class 8," he adds.

IMPACT ON COMPETITIVE EXAMS AND HIGHER EDUCATION

"As students embrace the dual-level system, one of the key concerns is how this will affect their preparation for competitive exams and access to higher education. The two-level structure allows students to concentrate on their strengths, thereby enhancing their readiness for competitive exams", says Silverline Prestige School Chairman Naman Jain.

However, there is a potential for bias toward the advanced group of students, as institutions may prioritise this group for admissions. This issue requires careful management to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all students, regardless of the level they choose.

ALIGNING WITH NEP 2020

CBSE's two-level model for different subjects also aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to reduce the reliance on private coaching and provide a more equitable education system.

By offering a dual-level system within schools, students receive personalised learning without the need for additional private tutoring. This ensures that students from all backgrounds have access to quality education within the school system, helping to level the playing field and minimise the financial burden on families.

As the dual-level mathematics system continues to evolve with more subjects being added to the system, its success will depend on how well CBSE manages the challenges of implementation and ensures that both levels are equally valued in academic and professional settings.

While there are hurdles to overcome, the potential to transform how different subjects are taught in Indian schools with a personalised approach is significant.

By reducing academic pressure and offering students the opportunity to learn at their own pace, the two-level system is a promising step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.