As per the New Education Policy 2020, students will be evaluated based on their talents, which is referred to as competence.
CBSE Competency-Based Questions (CBQs) are designed to assess students’ understanding and practical application of their learning.
Unlike traditional questions that focus on memorization, CBQs prompt students to think critically, solve problems, and demonstrate creativity.
For example, instead of asking for a specific date, a CBQ might explore the impact or significance of an historical event.
What is Rote Learning or Memorization?
“Rote learning is a process of recalling information based on repetition”. According to Edgar Dale, we forget 90% of what we have learned within just 24 hours through this memorization process.
Changes for Classes IX-XII Year-End Board Examinations (2024-25)
| Type of Questions | Percentage Composition |
|---|
| Competency Focused Questions (MCQs/Case Based/Integrated) | 50% |
| Select Response Type Questions (MCQs) | 20% |
| Constructed Response Questions (Short/Long Answer) | 30% |
- Classes IX-X maintain the composition of exam papers with 50% competency-focused questions, 20% MCQs, and 30% constructed response questions from the previous academic year.
- Classes XI-XII see an increase in competency-focused questions (from 40% to 50%) and a decrease in constructed response questions (from 40% to 30%), while MCQs remain at 20%.
CBSE 2025 Pattern for 2025 Boards Examination [in detail]
1. Competency Focused Questions = 50%
These questions assess understanding and application of competencies, not just rote memorization.
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Definition: Questions with a stem and options, where only one answer is correct.
- Example: “Which of the following is the main function of the respiratory system?”
- A) Digestion B) Circulation C) Breathing D) Excretion
- Purpose: Tests recall and application in a structured format.
- Case-Based Questions
- Definition: Questions based on scenarios or case studies.
- Example: “A patient presents with shortness of breath and chest pain…”
- Purpose: Evaluates ability to analyze and apply knowledge in new situations.
- Source-Based Integrated Questions
- Definition: Questions using external sources (text, image, graph) for analysis.
- Example: “Given a graph of population growth, explain the observed trend.”
- Purpose: Assesses interpretation and analysis of information from various sources.
2. Select Response Type Questions (MCQ) = 20%
These questions require selecting the correct answer from options provided.
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Definition: Questions with options, one correct answer.
- Example: “What is the capital of France?”
- A) London B) Berlin C) Paris D) Madrid
- Purpose: Tests recall of factual information and basic understanding.
3. Constructed Response Questions = 30%
These questions require constructing answers, either brief or detailed.
- Short Answer Questions
- Definition: Questions needing concise answers.
- Example: “Define photosynthesis.”
- Purpose: Tests recall and ability to express ideas briefly.
- Long Answer Questions
- Definition: Questions needing detailed, structured responses.
- Example: “Explain the process of cellular respiration.”
- Purpose: Tests depth of understanding and ability to organize and express ideas comprehensively.
Conclusion
- CBSE aligns assessment practices with NEP 2020, focusing on Competency Based Education.
- Emphasis on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and practical application of concepts (holistic learning).
- Objective to move away from traditional rote memorization.