Deletion of certain topics from class X syllabus of Math invites mixed reactions

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has removed the sections of Pythagoras Theorem and Quadratic Equations from the class X syllabus of Math. Approximately 30% of the Math syllabus has been deleted for classes VI, VII, VIII and IX. The academic body for schools has reduced certain sections from the Math syllabus so as to address the learning gaps that exist in the students due to the closure of schools for the last two years due to COVID pandemic.

The sections that have been removed from class X syllabus of Math by NCERT have either been taught to students in previous classes or will be taught in the subsequent classes. The exams that will take place in March 2023, will be based on this reduced syllabus. Apart from Pythagoras Theorem and Quadratic Equations, other sections like Division algorithm for polynomials, Pair of linear equations in two variables, equation reducible to a pair of linear equations in two variables, Trigonometric ratios of complementary angles and many more sections also stand deleted.
Speaking to Education Times, a source in NCERT on the condition of anonymity, says, “The decision to delete some sections from various subjects has been taken because either that particular section was taught in the previous classes or it will be taught in detail in the next higher classes. Pythagoras Theorem has been deleted from the class X Math syllabus because students start learning it from class VIII onwards.

Similarly the removal of quadratic equations was approved because students have learnt to form equations in the previous classes and the section of quadratic equations will be taught to them in class XI too and hence it has no bearing for a class X student. The removal of these two sections will not affect the overall learning about Mathematics. Deletion of these two topics is already in motion for the academic session of 2022-23. The examination that will be conducted in March 2023 will be based on this reduced curriculum.”


“Till class X we aim to teach all the topics which the students would need to apply while studying in higher classes like XI and XII and hence these two topics would be dealt in these two classes in greater details. Approximately 30% of the Mathematics syllabus has been deleted for classes VI, VII, VIII and IX even with an aim to address the learning gap among students that was caused due to pandemic in last two years. Now the students would need to deal with only 70% of the syllabus which will ensure less mental stress for them.”


“By the year, 2024, NCERT might complete the task to write new textbooks that are in line with National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and NEP 2020,” informs the source.


Sudha Acharya, chairperson, National Progressive Schools Conference (NPSC), says, “Rationalisation and reduction of the topics can be done in such a scenario, where the same topic can be dealt in some other chapter. Pythagoras Theorem is essential in Mathematics as it finds significant application in higher classes and the students have to learn it to reach expected standards. Even if it is removed from the class X syllabus, the teachers will still be teaching it to them.


If students don’t study Pythagoras Theorem in class X, they would face a problem in understanding Trigonometry and its applications in subjects like Physics and Chemistry. Even the students who take up Economics after class XII will also be at a disadvantage because at an undergrad level all the concepts of Mathematics are intimately applied in Econometrics. Students who sit for entrance exams like JEE and NEET, also need to have a clear understanding of the Pythagoras Theorem.”