CBSE Competency-Based Questions and Answers

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What Are Competency-Based Questions?

Competency-based questions (CBQs) are a new element in the CBSE examination system for assessing students. The questions test student's abilities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-life situations. Unlike earlier methods, which only required one to memorise facts, the CBQs check ‘how you think’ rather than just ‘what you know’. 

Competency-based questions adhere to the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to transform the Indian education system by making learning more practical and relevant to the contemporary world. Continue reading this page if you want to learn more about CBQs.

CBSE Guidelines on Competency-Focused Practice Questions

CBSE has introduced guidelines for including CBQs in tests and everyday practice. Here are some key points to remember:

  1. Proportion in exams: In exams, at least 30% of the questions for grades 9-12 are competency-based.
  2. Question types: CBQs will come in different question formats including MCQs, case studies, source-based questions, and assertion-reasoning problems.
  3. Subjects focused: CBSE competency-based questions include all the important subjects like science, math, and English.
  4. Interdisciplinary approach: Competency-based questions often combine the concepts of multiple subjects to reflect real-world problem-solving scenarios.
  5. Classroom integration: Schools are encouraged to familiarise students with such questions through assignments, projects, and class tests to reduce exam stress.

By including these questions, CBSE ensures students develop higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application.

Types of Competency-Focused Practice Questions in CBSE

CBSE competency-based questions come in diverse formats to test various skills and competencies. They are:

  1. Case-based questions
    These questions show you a real-life situation and test how well you can apply your knowledge to solve it. They are common in science, social studies, and business studies.

    Example: In a science test, you can get a situation about a dirty river close to a village. The question may ask you to pose ways to reduce pollution and explain how your ideas could help protect fish and other water animals.
  2. Situation-based questions
    These questions put you in a hypothetical situation and ask how you would react based on what you’ve learnt. They are meant to test your ability to think on your feet.

    Example: In an economics test, you might be asked: "Imagine sitting as a manager in a company that suddenly has lower sales. What would you do to make things better?"
  3. Data interpretation questions
    You will get information in charts, graphs, or tables and questions will be based on the analysis of the given data. Such questions are common in geography, economics, and science.

    Example: In geography, you might see a bar graph showing rainfall levels in two regions over five years. The question would require you to compare the rainfall trends and suggest how they might affect agriculture in these regions.
  4. Problem-solving questions

    These questions involve the application of logical and conceptual abilities to solve problems and they are used very frequently in maths and science.

    Example: One of the common CBQs in maths is: You have to fence a rectangular garden that has an area of 100 square meters. Assuming the length is 10 metres, how much fencing will you require?

  5. Higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) questions

    HOTS questions challenge the mind to think deeper. They are based not on simple facts but upon an analysis, evaluation, or creation of something new.

    Example: In English, you can be asked to read a poem and explain how the poet uses imagery to highlight the theme of nature’s destruction. Also, compare it to another poem you’ve read.

Benefits of Practising Competency-Based Questions

CBSE competency-based questions have many advantages for students. Here are some of the many reasons why it is important to practice them:

  1. Improves Critical Thinking
    These questions encourage students to think clearly and carefully, going beyond just memorising to solve real problems.
  2. Makes Ideas Clearer
    To answer these questions, you have to be 100% clear with their concepts. Students need to know the "why" and "how" of each topic.
  3. Boosts Exam Readiness
    These questions are a major portion of CBSE exams, so regular practice helps students significantly improve their CGPA.
  4. Develops Life Skills
    Competency-based questions are applied to build skills such as decision-making, communication, and analytical thinking.
  5. Preps You for Competitive Exams
    Many tough exams like JEE, NEET, CLAT, CAT, and CA use a similar skills-based method, making this practice very useful for studying in the future.

How to Prepare for Exam Using Competency-Based Questions

Preparing for competency-based questions CBSE requires strategic planning and repeated practice. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  1. Know the Format
    Learn about the different types of competency-based questions. Use sample papers from CBSE to see how answers to such questions are written.
  2. Focus on Concepts
    Do not simply memorise. Think through and understand why and how things occur, leading to a substantial comprehension.
  3. Practice daily
    Spend an hour or so daily answering competency-based questions. Begins with less complex and, eventually, more complicated ones.
  4. Analysing Errors
    Look over your answers to find and learn from your mistakes. Ask teachers or mentors for feedback to get better.
  5. Time Management
    Competency-based questions usually need thorough answers. Practising in a timed setting helps to boost speed and accuracy.

Resources for Competency-Based Question Bank and CBSE Sample Papers

The right resources help in mastering CBSE competency-based questions 2024-25 PDF. Oswal Publishers has a complete range of study materials according to the guidelines provided by CBSE:

  1. CBSE Sample Papers
    Gurukul by oswal’s CBSE Sample papers are made to match the latest CBSE exam pattern. Each sample paper has questions that test different skills, helping students prepare for the exam.
  2. CBSE Question Banks
    Oswal Publishers has question banks organised chapter-wise and topic-wise. They come with separate sections for CBQs and provide clear explanations and answers to help students understand the details of each answer.
  3. Internet Resources
    Oswal Publishers also offers digital access to free mock test, sample papers and question banks through  oswal.io. These resources contain CBSE competency-based questions 2024-25 and are updated regularly, making them reliable and easy to use.
  4. Hands-on Activities and Practice Tests
    The additional mock tests and practical exercises in Oswal's books replicate the real exam situations, which helps the students improve their answering methods.

Conclusion

Competency-based questions are a game-changer in CBSE’s approach to assessments. They encourage students to think critically, apply knowledge practically, and prepare for real-world challenges. With consistent practice and the right resources, such as Oswal Publishers’ question banks and sample papers, mastering these questions becomes easier and more effective. Start your journey with them today!

FAQs on CBSE Competency-Based Questions

Ans: CBQs are questions designed to assess students’ analytical, problem-solving, and application skills rather than just their ability to recall facts.

Ans: Yes, they form a significant portion of the exam, constituting at least 30% of the question paper.

Ans: To practise effectively, you can use CBSE sample papers, question banks, and other resources like Oswal Publishers’ books.

Ans: Oswal Publishers’ CBSE sample papers and question banks are among the best resources for accessing top-quality CBSE competency-based questions and answers.

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