Essential English Essay Topics for ICSE Class 10th Board Exams: 2017 Examination Insights

As students prepare themselves for the ICSE board exams, the selection of appropriate essay topics plays a pivotal role in securing a competitive edge. In the context of the 2017 ICSE exam for Class 10th, specific topics were prominent. This article delves into the key essay topics that could not only help students score well in their exams but also emphasize the relevance of current events and socio-cultural issues.

1. Demonetization Its Impact

The demonetization of Indian currency in 2016 was a significant economic move that affected every aspect of daily life significantly. This topic can be explored from a socio-economic viewpoint, discussing the challenges faced by small businesses and the financial inclusion of marginalized communities. It also offers an opportunity to discuss the long-term benefits of the policy. Here’s an example topic that could be considered:

"Discuss the impact of demonetization on the daily lives of people, highlighting both the short-term challenges and long-term benefits."

2. Jallikattu and Community Rights

Jallikattu is a traditional bull-taming festival in southern India that has been a subject of controversy due to its animal rights and cultural significance. This topic allows students to reflect on the balance between socio-cultural heritage and animal welfare. Here’s a suggested essay topic:

"Examine the cultural importance of Jallikattu and the challenges it faces in terms of animal rights and public safety."

3. Short Story and Narrative Techniques

The ICSE board often assesses students' ability to write creative and descriptive texts. Key topics include:

Short Story: Students can write an original short story based on given prompts. For example:

"It was raining hard that night. In my hurry to get into the house, I didn’t notice the black car parked across the road. I realized something was wrong when………."

This topic requires students to develop a character, a plot, and use narrative techniques effectively.

Narration: The narrative essay can focus on getting your friend out of trouble, describing a crowded place during a bomb scare, or a day in the vicinity of the school. These topics offer the opportunity to showcase the ability to create a vivid and engaging narrative:

"Describe the events leading up to and during a bomb scare in a crowded place, and how your actions helped in getting your friend out of trouble."

4. Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays are important for showcasing students' observational skills and ability to convey sensory experiences. Writing about one's surroundings, such as a room, neighbourhood, or park, can be an excellent topic:

"Describe the sights and sounds of your neighborhood near the school, focusing on the elements that remind you of home and personal experiences."

5. Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays allow students to present a well-structured argument on a specific topic. Here’s an example of a relevant topic:

"Evaluate the moral and ethical issues associated with the demonetization policy in India, considering its impact on economic inclusion and social justice."

Conclusion

The 2017 ICSE paper provided a blend of creative and analytical writing tasks. Understanding and preparing for these topics can help students excel in their English examinations. The topics of demonetization and Jallikattu, alongside short story, narrative, and descriptive writing, offer a diverse range of content to hone their writing skills and critical thinking abilities.

To conclude, engaging with these topics and preparing accordingly can significantly enhance a student's performance in the ICSE Board Exams. By focusing on relevant and thought-provoking topics, students can not only improve their writing skills but also gain a deeper understanding of current issues, making their preparation more meaningful and comprehensive.