English Language and Literature Syllabus and Study Materials for Class 5 to Class 10 ICSE Board

Welcome to your go-to resource for the English Language and Literature syllabus for students from Class 5 to Class 10 under the ICSE Board. This page is crafted to provide a detailed overview of the curriculum, along with recommended study materials and resources to help students at each grade level build a strong foundation in English.
Syllabus Overview
The ICSE English syllabus is structured to gradually develop students' language skills, analytical abilities, and appreciation for literature as they progress from Class 5 to Class 10.
Class 5 to Class 7: Foundation Building
• English Language:
o Reading Comprehension: Developing skills to understand and interpret texts.
o Grammar Basics: Parts of speech, tenses, punctuation, and sentence structure.
o Creative Writing: Writing short paragraphs, essays, and stories.
o Letter Writing: Introduction to formal and informal letter writing.
• English Literature:
o Prose and Poetry: Reading and understanding simple stories and poems.
o Drama: Basic introduction to plays, focusing on reading and narration.
Class 8 to Class 10: Advanced Learning
• English Language:
o Composition: Writing essays, narratives, and descriptive pieces with a focus on clarity and creativity.
o Formal Writing: Letters, notices, and emails for various purposes.
o Advanced Grammar: In-depth study of tenses, voices, direct and indirect speech, and more.
o Unseen Passages: Enhancing comprehension and analytical skills.
• English Literature:
o Prose: Detailed study of classic and contemporary short stories and extracts.
o Poetry: Analysis of poems, focusing on themes, imagery, and poetic devices.
o Drama: Study of classic plays with an emphasis on character analysis, themes, and plot.
Study Materials
To ensure comprehensive preparation, here are the recommended study materials for students in Classes 5 to 10:
1. Textbooks:
o For Classes 5-7:
 New Mulberry English Course: Covers grammar, comprehension, and writing skills with engaging content.
 Communicate in English: A series that focuses on communication skills through stories, poems, and activities.
o For Classes 8-10:
 Treasure Chest – A Collection of ICSE Poems and Short Stories: Essential for literature studies in higher classes.
 Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare: In-depth study of these classic plays for Class 9 and 10.
2. Grammar and Composition Books:
o High School English Grammar and Composition: A classic resource suitable for students from Class 7 onwards.
o ICSE Total English: Tailored to ICSE syllabus, covering grammar, writing, and comprehension for Classes 8-10.
3. Supplementary Reading:
o Class 5-7:
 The Wind on the Hill by A.A. Milne: For enhancing reading and comprehension skills.
 The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling: A classic that helps build language and storytelling skills.
o Class 8-10:
 Animal Farm by George Orwell: For advanced reading and understanding of themes and allegory.
 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: Recommended for understanding complex themes and character development.
4. Sample Papers and Previous Year Question Papers:
o ICSE Sample Papers: Available for Classes 8-10, these help students understand the exam format and practice effectively.
o Previous Year Question Papers: A must-have for students in higher classes to practice and evaluate their preparation.
5. Online Resources:
o ICSE Guide: Offers comprehensive notes, explanations, and solved papers.
o YouTube Channels: Channels like ‘ICSE Class 5-10 English’ provide video lessons, explanations, and tips for all levels.
Tips for Success
1. Start Early: Build a strong foundation in the lower classes to make advanced concepts easier to grasp.
2. Regular Practice: Practice writing, grammar, and comprehension regularly to reinforce learning.
3. Engage with Literature: Encourage reading beyond the syllabus to develop a deeper appreciation for language and literature.
4. Group Discussions: Discuss literature and language topics with peers to gain new perspectives.
5. Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from teachers on your writing and comprehension skills.
Conclusion
The ICSE English Language and Literature syllabus from Class 5 to Class 10 is designed to progressively enhance students' language skills and literary understanding. With the right study materials, consistent practice, and a strategic approach, students can excel in their exams and develop a lifelong appreciation for English. Start early, stay focused, and utilize the resources provided to achieve academic success!