CBSE Class X Math Paper Proves Lengthy and Complex, Sparks Emotional Outbursts in Chennai
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class X board examinations commenced on a turbulent note in Chennai on Tuesday, as numerous students encountered a math (standard) paper that was widely perceived as lengthy and complex. This initial hurdle set a demanding tone for the crucial academic assessment period.
Students Exit Exam Halls in Tears Over Challenging Questions
At an examination center located in Velachery, the emotional toll was palpable, with several candidates walking out of the hall in tears. Many students reported that the questions diverged significantly from the patterns observed in their school-level pre-board examinations, catching them off guard.
"A five-mark question focusing on intersections and medians consumed an excessive amount of time. I was unable to complete the entire paper within the allotted duration," lamented V N Nihal, a student who faced the rigorous test. This sentiment echoed among peers, highlighting widespread time management struggles.
Parents Reconsider Voluntary Second Exam Amid Score Concerns
In light of the paper's perceived difficulty, many parents who were initially opposed to the concept of their children opting for the second voluntary board exam—designed to allow score improvement—have undergone a change of heart. The prospect of suboptimal marks has prompted a strategic reassessment.
"My daughter estimates she will only achieve a score between 50 and 60 out of 80. Since she plans to pursue the biology and mathematics group in Class XI, improving her performance through the second exam has become imperative," explained N Shoba, a concerned parent from Alandur. This shift underscores the high stakes associated with board exam results for future academic streams.
Educators Note Increased Difficulty and Competency-Based Focus
Teachers and school principals also observed that the math (standard) paper presented a greater challenge compared to the previous year's edition. They noted an emphasis on competency-based questions, which require deeper analytical skills rather than rote memorization.
"The overall difficulty level can be described as moderate, but it featured a substantial number of competency-based inquiries. At our center, student reactions were mixed, with no overt signs of distress, though responses varied," commented P G Subramanian, Principal of Bhavan's Rajaji Vidyashram. This professional assessment provides context to the varied student experiences across different venues.
Contrasting Experiences for Basic Math and Class XII Candidates
The inaugural exam day encompassed both math (standard) and math (basic) subjects for Class X students. Those who attempted the basic math test reported a relatively smoother and more manageable experience, offering a stark contrast to their peers in the standard track.
Simultaneously, most Class XII students who undertook their first examination in optional subjects—including Biotechnology, Entrepreneurship, and Shorthand in English and Hindi—expressed satisfaction with their papers. This dichotomy highlights the divergent challenges faced across different grade levels and subject choices during the board exam season.
The emotional and academic repercussions of this demanding math paper are likely to influence preparation strategies for subsequent exams, with increased attention now being paid to the voluntary second examination option as a critical avenue for academic recovery and advancement.
