In a major reshuffle of the examination system, Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Board (GSHSEB) has introduced several changes in 9th, 10th, 11th (Science Stream) and 12 classes (Science Stream). The Board has introduced NCERT books for 9th Class and 11th Class from the academic year 2018-19 and 2019-20.
80 Percent weightage to theory:
GSHSEB has decided to give more weightage to descriptive questions in order to improve writing skills of the students. Presently 50 percent weightage is given to objective or multiple choice questions (MCQs). The exam pattern has been changed to give more weightage to theory – based questions. It has been decided to give 80% weightage to theory and 20% weightage to MCQs.
NCERT Books for Classes 9 and 11:
From this year, the Board has introduced NCERT books for Class 9 and Class 11. The same will be followed for Class 10 and 12 next year onwards. The exam pattern also will be changed. With Gujarat board will go for NCERT pattern of exam as the syllabus and books of NCERT are being replicated in the state.
Changes in Gujarat Board Exam Pattern:
For Class 9 and Class 11 (Science) from 2018-19:
1) First unit test will be of 50 marks
2) Second unit test of 50 marks
3) Annual exam of 80 marks with 80% theory-based short, long and essay related questions and 20% MCQs.
4) Remaining 20 marks will be internal evaluation: 5 marks from first unit, 5 from second unit, 5 marks for notebook submission and 5 marks for subject enrichment activity (speaking and listening skills, science practicals and projects).
Changes for Class 10 from 2019-20:
1) Annual examination will be for 80 marks and these will be divided into 64 marks of short, long and essay-related questions while 16 marks will be allocated for objective type questions.
2) Weightage of board exam to internal evaluation changed from 70-30 to 80-20.
3) Internal marks will be calculated on marks obtained in unit tests, notebook submission and subject enrichment activity.
Changes in Class 12 (Science stream) from 2019-2020:
Board exam will be for 100 marks but the weightage will have 80 percent theory – based questions and 20 percent MCQs. Practical marks in Chemistry, Physics and Biology subjects will be of 50 marks.