Master math the smart way with chapter-wise strategies and real-world tips
This expert guide breaks down the entire NCERT mathematics syllabus from Classes 6 to 10. Learn what makes math challenging, how to simplify problem-solving, and practical techniques that help students and parents strengthen core concepts. From visual tricks to revision schedules, this blog has everything you need for CBSE math success.
Gaurav Parashar
@gauravparashar
The NCERT Mathematics curriculum for Grades 6 to 10 is targeted at developing a logical step-wise thinking for solving problems which will develop throughout the student’s academic career. A student’s progression from arithmetic to a more advanced application of geometry, algebra, and data analysis is now possible as every class progressively builds more sophisticated concepts. Both students and parents will benefit from understanding the structure of the curriculum as it will aid in better planning, efficient strategies for revision, and focused guidance for assistance.
The basics of the number system, which revolves around the various types of Natural Numbers, Whole numbers, and Integers is taught to students in class 6. They learn to perform basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on these numbers. Fractions and Decimals builds on the understanding of ‘parts of a whole’ and stimulate students to think in more practical ways involving money, measurements, and quantities. Mensuration and Geometry introduces basic shapes, perimeter, area, and properties of geometrical figures. In algebra, students learn to form simple rules with patterns which starts to stimulate algebraic thinking, marking the beginning of the Branch of Algebra.
The Class 7 Mathematics curriculum builds upon the foundational concepts and restructures the knowledge into more complex formats. Concepts related to Integers and Rational Numbers are applied in real-world situations like finance and weather, where both positive and negative values are integrated. Students are introduced to Linear Equations and operations of one variable, guiding them towards basic methods of isolation and solving unknowns. In Data Handling, students learn to interpret and represent data using bar and pie graphs as well as calculate central values like mean, median, and mode. Basic geometry theorems are also introduced. Students learn about lines and angles, symmetry as well as properties of triangle and quadrilateral shapes.
In Class 8, students learn more novel branches of Mathematics. Algebraic Expressions expand to include combination of terms by addition, subtraction, and multiplication, which are more complex. Students learn about different types of quadrilaterals, their properties, and applications in detail. Mensuration is advanced to include volume and surface area considering three-dimensional shapes by construction and real-world container measurements. In their previous classes, students learned about relations between quantities through concepts like Direct Variation and Graphs. Students also learned to interpret real-world situations like speed and pricing of items on coordinate graphs.
The movement towards abstract and logical reasoning starts to take more form in Class 9. Students are acquainted with higher algebra with the introduction of Polynomials and Linear Equations in Two Variables, where they learn the application of equations in forming and solving them with the help of algebraic identities. The introduction to Euclid’s Geometry and Coordinate Geometry serves to introduce learners towards rigorous mathematical proof and spatial reasoning. Tackling complex problems involving the surface area and volume of cones, cylinders, and spheres is also part of the curriculum under Mensuration. Statistics and Probability is another novel inclusion of the curriculum that formally introduces data reasoning alongside basic predictive calculations, providing learners with their first organized exposure to data evaluation.
Mathematics for Class 10 is taught in an orderly fashion and prepares students for an integrated approach for the board exam. Number theory is revisited with Real Numbers and Quadratic Equations while also introducing parabolic functions and their roots. Students learn to recognize and apply numerical patterns in diverse contexts with Arithmetic Progressions. Students deepen their geometrical reasoning from the study of similarity, right triangles, and trigonometric ratios in Triangles and Trigonometry. The curriculum is concluded with the Applications of Probability, which integrates the entire curriculum while challenging the learners’ logical reasoning through real-world scenarios and calculating probabilities of various outcomes through cards, coins, and dice.
In all of these subjects, there are particular concepts that persistently prove to be difficult for students. Algebra is particularly challenging since it requires extensive abstract thinking, and recognizing patterns that often requires many transformations. In trigonometry, a number of students struggle due to what is often referred to as visual theorems and vocabulary that is novel to them. Mensuration involves a number of intricate formulas and requires meticulous unit conversion which is gravely prone to error. Probability incorporates a fair degree of logic coupled with statistial interpretation which can be deemed as too abstract and not applicable to the actual world. A lack of basic foundational understanding, insufficient practice and failure to utilize visual methods further complicate these issues.
Systematic and iterative ways of approaching problems enhances one’s confidence in dealing with mathematical challenges. To start with, students must comprehend the question, and one effective method is to read the question at least twice. It is beneficial to highlight or mark important values and phrases. It is critical to identify all the known and unknown values, including the relevant formula, before attempting to solve the problem. Substituting the known values, including the units, must be done consistently and accurately. Each of the steps should be documented in an orderly fashion. This orderly documentation captures one’s thought processes and allows for the retrieval of some marks in the case of board exams. Lastly, all problems, not just multi-step problems, must be thoroughly checked for precision and reasoning, especially the more complicated steps.
The importance of visual aids increases manifold in the abstract realms of mathematics. Basic concepts such as integers, and fractions as the number lines and pie charts to illustrate the concept of fractions. Visualization and logical intuition via the application of balance scales and logic trees helps to solve linear equations. The same applies to geometry and trigonometry, which significantly benefit from the use of graph paper, the plotting of models in three dimensions, and animation tools that display transformations and measures of angles. When it comes to data handling and statistics, the tangible application of the classroom in the form of real graphs such as class test scores, temperature logs, and the ever-popular cricket scores makes the subject more interesting. Edzy brings to life the dynamic visual elements to lessons through the use of modules which allow the student to vary parameters in real-time and see the results immediately which helps students more.
Mastering mathematics requires precision and concentration which can be achieved through short, habitual practice sessions that are optimized in structure. In terms of productivity, I recommend a daily routine that combines 30 to 45 minutes of practice with a set of 8 to 10 questions, spanning different chapters to foster integrated learning. In a week, students should aim to reinforce two chapters which have been completed in the week prior to the fortnightly period, through self-assessed mini-tests or practice worksheets. In terms of confidence and self-efficacy, it is important to attempts and review questions which have been previously marked incorrectly or left unanswered. I encourage students to sit for full mock tests monthly to practice timed full examinations. Spaced repetition of important formulas and definitions after intervals of 3 to 5 days is most effective for long-term retention and recall.
Showing learners how mathematics functions in the real world is one of the best ways to capture their attention. For instance, children really appreciate the value in mathematics with real use in life, such as managing budget as a pocket money, shopping, and calculating discounts. They also see value in geometry while painting their bedroom walls or while rearranging their rooms to maximize space. While planning road trips or estimating time to commute, children can apply concepts of speed, time, and distance. Activities such as sharing the meal costs or prepaid mobile plans also apply basic algebra concepts. Edzy uses these examples in its gamified modules where practical problems are turned into real life fun challenges to be solved, thus rewarding accuracy and curiosity.
When rushing or being overly confident, students tend to commit errors even when they understand the content. A large part of the math errors made by students stems from either misreading the question or being overly confident and ignoring small details. Many students overlook the sign errors in algebra, especially in the case of forgetting to put the minus sign or incorrectly expanding the brackets. In mensuration and in trigonometry, the ideas of area and perimeter are often interchanged, leading to the wrong formula being used. Yet another problem students often face is the failure to mention the necessary units. Marks are sure to be lost even if the answer is correct when units are omitted. In the pursuit of being efficient, students tend to incomplete the solutions or written steps, which reduces their chances of being awarded partial credit. Working and refraining from overlooking all the details enhances your chances of not falling into any of these errors.
In the case NCERT textbooks are the primary resource to follow, additional materials broaden learners' perspectives and prepare them for higher-level assessments. For example, Edzy’s adaptive practice packs for mathematics offer game-based personalized practice sessions for mastery of particular skills. NCERT Exemplar Problems and the NCERT Exemplar Mathematic textbooks provide higher-order thinking questions which encourage learners to think beyond the bounds of memorization. Learners gain insight into recurring questions and marking schemes by practicing with previous years' CBSE board exam papers. These are also complemented with reference books by R.D. Sharma and R.S. Aggarwal, which, along with offering diverse unsolved exercises, contain an extensive collection of solved problems for the consolidation of concepts. Videos explaining difficult problems, particularly those found on Edzy’s carefully curated YouTube playlist, provide visual and guided solutions and are also step-by-step solutions to the problems.
With the right approach, mathematics can be transformed from a source of anxiety into a pillar of strength. The NCERT curriculum, when approached with the right tools and mindset, is a step-by-step guide from primary numeracy skills to sophisticated logical reasoning. There is a progression in each class, and many gaps in learning can be traced to earlier ignored or misapprehended concepts. Problem-solving skills can be enhanced and fear can be transformed into fluency through consistent practice, visual aids, individualized learning such as provided by Edzy, and hands-on experience. Supporting your child’s math journey starts and goes beyond guiding them to solve textbook exercises. It is about fostering a mindset that views challenges as potential learning experiences.
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