CBSE Class 10 Science Syllabus 2026-27: Topics and Marking Scheme

The CBSE Class 10 Science paper is divided into two categories: Annual theory examination and the Internal assessment. The theory paper will consist of 80 marks, and the internal assessment will consist of 20 marks. Look at the table below to know the unit-wise syllabus for Science theory and practical exams.

Unit-Wise Syllabus Breakdown: Important Chapters and Topics

CBSE Class 10 Science Syllabus for Practical Exam 2026-27

Apart from the theory paper, 20 marks are assigned for the practical exams, which are evaluated internally by the schools.

• Periodic Assessment - 05 marks + 05 marks

• Subject Enrichment (Practical Work) - 05 marks

• Portfolio - 05 marks

CBSE Class 10 Science Practical Exam Syllabus - List of Experiments

1. A) Finding the pH of the following samples by using pH paper/universal indicator:

• Dilute Hydrochloric Acid

• Dilute NaOH solution

• Dilute Ethanoic Acid solution

• Lemon juice

• Water

• Dilute Hydrogen Carbonate solution (Unit I)

B) Studying the properties of acids and bases (HCl & NaOH) based on their reaction with:

• Litmus solution (Blue/Red)

• Zinc metal

• Solid sodium carbonate (Unit I)

2. Performing and observing the following reactions and classifying them into:

1. Combination reaction

2. Decomposition reaction

3. Displacement reaction

4. Double displacement reaction

(i) Action of water on quicklime

(ii) Action of heat on ferrous sulphate crystals

(iii) Iron nails kept in copper sulphate solution

(iv) Reaction between sodium sulphate and barium chloride solutions (Unit I)

3) Observing the action of Zn, Fe, Cu and Al metals on the following salt solutions:

(i) ZnSO4(aq)

(ii) FeSO4(aq)

(iii) CuSO4(aq)

(iv) Al2 (SO4)3(aq)

Arranging Zn, Fe, Cu and Al (metals) in the decreasing order of reactivity based on the above result. (Unit I)

4) Studying the dependence of potential difference (V) across a resistor on the current (I) passing through it and determining its resistance. Also plotting a graph between V and I. (Unit IV)

5) Determination of the equivalent resistance of two resistors when connected in series and parallel. (Unit IV)

6) Preparing a temporary mount of a leaf peel to show stomata. (Unit II)

7) Experimentally show that carbon dioxide is given out during respiration. (Unit II)

8) Study of the following properties of acetic acid (ethanoic acid):

• Odour

• Solubility in water

• Effect on litmus

• Reaction with Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (Unit I)

9) Study of the comparative cleaning capacity of a sample of soap in soft and hard water. (Unit I)

10) Determination of the focal length of a concave mirror and a convex lens by obtaining the image of a distant object. (Unit III)

11) Tracing the path of a ray of light passing through a rectangular glass slab for different angles of incidence. Measure the angle of incidence, angle of refraction, and angle of emergence and interpret the result. (Unit III)

12) Studying (a) binary fission in Amoeba, and (b) budding in yeast and Hydra with the help of prepared slides (Unit II)

13) Tracing the path of the rays of light through a glass prism (Unit III)

14) Identification of the different parts of an embryo of a dicot seed (Pea, gram or red kidney bean). (Unit II)

CBSE Class 10 Question Paper Design 2026-27

The Central Board of Secondary Education has also put out the CBSE 10th Science question paper design 2026-27 to help students know the weightage of the Science paper. Look at the table below to know the competency-based weightage.

Typology of CBSE Science Class 10 Questions

The science paper will have different types of questions:

• Very Short Answer-type questions, including objective-type questions

• Assertion – Reasoning type questions

• Short answer and Long answer questions

• Source-based/ Case-based/ Passage-based/ Integrated assessment questions.

• An internal choice of approximately 33% would be provided.

CBSE Class 10 Science Prescribed Books and Resources

Students should refer to the following CBSE Class 10 Science books to prepare well for the examination:

• Science Textbook for class X- NCERT Publication

• Assessment of Practical Skills in Science- Class X- CBSE Publication

• Laboratory Manual-Science-Class X, NCERT Publication

• Exemplar Problems Class X – NCERT Publication

• Reading Material – Science – Class X (2026-27) – CBSE