The English Language Paper 1 is one of two mandatory English papers (totaling 160 external marks), and it is crucial for a student’s overall percentage. The paper specifically tests the ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and structure arguments logically—skills highly valued by the ICSE board. Unlike Paper 2 (Literature), Paper 1 requires consistent writing practice and perfect knowledge of grammatical rules and prescribed formats. Students must approach this paper as an exercise in precise, error-free communication, with the Composition section (20 marks) being the single most important component.
To do well in the ICSE Class 10 English Language (Paper 1) exam, you need to do a few important things. Make sure you use the right formats for your essays and letters. Your grammar needs to be perfect, and you should be good at reading to understand the difficult unseen passage. The exam also checks how you use tone, words, and how well you organize your writing, showing that the ICSE board really cares about your overall language skills.
Check: ICSE Class 10 English Syllabus 2025-26 Download PDF
ICSE Class 10 English Language (Paper 1) Structure
The paper is 80 Marks and carries a duration of 2 Hours (plus 15 minutes of reading time). All five questions are compulsory.
Component | Word Limit / Details | Marks |
| Composition Writing | 300–350 words (Narrative, Descriptive, Argumentative, Story, or Picture-based) | 20 Marks |
| Letter Writing | Formal (e.g., complaint, application) OR Informal (e.g., friendly). | 10 Marks |
| Notice & E-mail Writing | (a) Write a Notice (concise format). (b) Write a corresponding Email (formal tone). | 10 Marks |
| Unseen Passage | Comprehension of a 500-word passage (Short Q/A, Vocabulary, and 50-word Summary). | 20 Marks |
| Functional Grammar | Transformation of sentences, synthesis, prepositions, tenses, etc. (Objective/MCQ format). | 20 Marks |
Preparation Tips for 2025 Examination
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Practice writing narrative, descriptive, and expository essays.
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Practice writing within a time limit to get used to managing time during the exam.
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Understand the format for formal and informal letter writing.
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Focus on essential topics such as tenses, subject-verb agreement, articles, prepositions, conjunctions, and modals.
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Practice exercises on sentence transformation, error spotting, and gap-filling.
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Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the types of questions asked and the expected format of answers.
Also Check: ICSE Syllabus 2025-26 for Class 10: Download Revised Syllabus PDF
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