CBSE Class 9 Social Science Exam Pattern 2026 with Marking Scheme and Topic-wise Weightage

Dec 2, 2025, 15:51 IST

The CBSE Class 9 Social Science curriculum is crucial for a strong base. Success requires understanding the exam structure and unit weightage for effective prioritization. The 80-mark theory paper assesses conceptual knowledge and application of social and political principles. Knowing the mark distribution and section breakdown is key to a strategic study plan.

CBSE Class 9 Social Science Exam Pattern 2026 with Marking Scheme and Topic-wise Weightage
CBSE Class 9 Social Science Exam Pattern 2026 with Marking Scheme and Topic-wise Weightage

The CBSE Class 9 Social Science curriculum is essential for building a strong foundation for higher classes. To perform well in the final examination, students need a clear understanding of both the exam structure and the weightage assigned to each unit in the syllabus. This knowledge helps students prioritize their study efforts and allocate time effectively to different topics.

The examination is structured to test various skills, including conceptual knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and application of social and political principles. It covers all units of the syllabus, with a maximum of 80 marks for the theory paper. Knowing the mark distribution per unit and the paper's section-wise breakdown allows students to prepare a more strategic and targeted study plan.

Check: CBSE Class 9 Social Science Syllabus 2025-26 Downlaod PDF

CBSE Class 9 Social Science Exam Pattern

The following table details the structure of the CBSE Class 9 Social Science Question Paper for the 2026 examination, including the section-wise distribution of questions, question types, and the corresponding marks. This structure helps students understand how the 80-mark theory paper is organized.

Section

Questions

Type of Question

Marks per Question

Total Marks

A

1 to 20

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1

20

B

21 to 24

Very Short Answer (VSA)

2

8

C

25 to 29

Short Answer (SA)

3

15

D

30 to 33

Long Answer (LA)

5

20

E

34 to 36

Case-Based Questions (3 sub-parts)

4

12

F

37a (History)

Map-Based Question

2

5

37b (Geography)

Map-Based Question

3

N/A

 

CBSE Class 9 Social Science Marking Scheme

The CBSE Class 9 Social Science curriculum is comprised of four distinct subjects: History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics. Review the detailed CBSE Class 9 Social Science Marking Scheme provided below.

Unit Name

Marks

Unit I India and the Contemporary World – II (History)

20

Unit II Contemporary India – II (Geography)

20

Unit III Democratic Politics – II (Political Science)

20

Unit IV Economics

20

Internal Assessment

Periodic Assessment (5) + Portfolio (5) + Inter-Disciplinary Project (5) + Subject Enrichment Activity (Project Work) (5)

20

Total

80 + 20

It is crucial for students to clear both the theory and internal assessment minimums and achieve the 33% overall aggregate to be declared successful in the subject. 

To study well for the CBSE Class 9 Social Science exam, you must know the exam pattern and how the marks are divided. The exam is for 80 marks, split between four main subjects: History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics. Knowing how the marks are shared and what types of questions will be asked helps you plan your study time smartly. This careful approach, along with hard work, is the best way to get high marks and build a good base for your future studies.

Anisha Mishra
Anisha Mishra

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Anisha Mishra is a mass communication professional and content strategist with a total two years of experience. She's passionate about creating clear, results-driven content—from articles to social media posts—that genuinely connects with audiences. With a proven track record of shaping compelling narratives and boosting engagement for brands like Shiksha.com, she excels in the education sector, handling CBSE, State Boards, NEET, and JEE exams, especially during crucial result seasons. Blending expertise in traditional and new digital media, Anisha constantly explores current content trends. Connect with her on LinkedIn for fresh insights into education content strategy and audience behavior, and let's make a lasting impact together.
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