Real-Life Scenarios Featured in ICSE and ISC Exams
In the 2025 ICSE and ISC board exams, students faced a new kind of challenge. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) included questions based on real-life scenarios and current events across multiple subjects. These questions aimed to test students’ conceptual understanding and their ability to apply knowledge beyond the classroom.
From Textbooks to Real-World Contexts
For example, ICSE history and civics included a question about handling disorderly conduct in the Lok Sabha. In ISC economics, students had to explain the rise in chocolate prices during Valentine’s week by identifying relevant economic principles.
These questions were not limited to theory-heavy subjects. They were spread across disciplines, including science and language papers. The intention was to help students see the connection between their lessons and everyday life.
A Shift Towards Applied Learning
Educators welcomed the change. “Learning has to be relatable and part of life,” said Damayanti Mukherjee, principal of Modern High School for Girls. She emphasized that students need to learn how to apply their knowledge, not just memorize content.
Mukherjee added that such skills are essential for college and job interviews. At the ISC level, where students specialize in chosen subjects, the ability to apply concepts prepares them for higher education and real-world challenges.
Pictorial and Experience-Based Questions
Some questions were also visual in nature. One ICSE biology question featured a picture of a gymnast. It asked students to identify parts of the body responsible for balance and explain how they function.
Another example came from the ICSE English language exam. A composition prompt read: “Your friends played a harmless prank on you. Give an account of what happened, your response to the prank, and what you learnt from the experience.” These types of questions encouraged introspection and personal connection.
Higher-Order Thinking on the Rise
Last year, CISCE announced that board exams would include 25% higher-order thinking questions. This year’s papers reflected that shift. Rodney Borneo, principal of St Augustine’s Day School, said, “It is refreshing because history lessons are being connected to real life. It ignites curiosity in students.”
The goal is not just academic performance but developing analytical thinking and real-world awareness. Such an approach motivates students by showing them that what they study is relevant to their lives.
Teacher Support Is Crucial
However, not all students found the transition easy. “The questions are not difficult, but they are different,” said a school principal. Some students hesitated, unsure how to approach unfamiliar formats. This delay affected their writing time.
Teachers agree that regular classroom practice must now include situation-based learning. Joeeta Basu, an ISC economics teacher, noted, “Students have to be prepared, or else they will find it difficult in the board examinations.” She added that exposure to real-life examples should be part of the teaching method, not just test preparation.
Exams Concluded in Early April
The ICSE exams concluded on March 27, while ISC exams ended on April 5. As students await their results, one thing is clear—exam patterns are evolving. The shift toward relevant, real-world questioning marks a significant move toward future-ready education.
