ICSE Class 10 History and Civics Syllabus 2026–27: Complete Topics & Detailed Guide

The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has released the Class 10 History and Civics Syllabus 2026–27, designed to help students understand India’s political system and important historical developments. 

This syllabus builds strong conceptual knowledge, analytical thinking, and awareness of national and global events. It is highly important for board exam preparation and also helps students develop a deeper understanding of governance and history.

ICSE Class 10 History and Civics Syllabus 2026–27 

The ICSE Class 10 History and Civics exam consists of one written paper of 80 marks and an Internal Assessment of 20 marks. The exam duration is 2 hours. The syllabus is divided into two main sections:

• Section A: Civics

• Section B: History

Both sections are equally important and require conceptual clarity along with proper understanding of key events and systems.

Section A: Civics

The Civics portion focuses on the structure and functioning of the Indian government.

1. The Union Legislature

This topic explains the federal structure of India and the functioning of Parliament.

Key areas include:

• Lok Sabha: Composition, term, qualifications, and powers

• Rajya Sabha: Composition, election, and functions

• Parliamentary procedures like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and motions

• Passing of Ordinary and Money Bills

• Powers and functions of Parliament

Students must understand how laws are made and how Parliament controls the executive.

2. The Union Executive

This chapter deals with the executive branch of the government.

Important topics include:

• President: Election, powers, and impeachment

• Vice-President: Role, powers, and term

• Prime Minister and Council of Ministers: Formation, functions, and responsibilities

Special focus is given to the powers of the Prime Minister and the working of the Cabinet system.

3. The Judiciary

This section explains the role of courts in India.

Topics include:

• Supreme Court: Composition, jurisdiction, and powers

• High Courts: Structure and functions

• Subordinate Courts: District and Sessions Courts

• Lok Adalats: Meaning and advantages

Students should focus on judicial independence and the protection of fundamental rights.

Section B: History

The History section covers India’s freedom struggle and major global events.

1. The Indian National Movement (1857–1917)

This chapter focuses on the early phase of India’s freedom struggle.

Key topics include:

• First War of Independence (1857): Causes and consequences

• Growth of nationalism and role of reformers

• Formation of the Indian National Congress

• Early and Assertive Nationalists and their contributions

• Muslim League and Lucknow Pact

This section helps students understand the foundation of India’s independence movement.

2. Mass Phase of the National Movement (1915–1947)

This is one of the most important sections of the syllabus.

Topics include:

• Mahatma Gandhi and major movements like Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India

• Role of Subhas Chandra Bose and INA

• Forward Bloc and nationalist activities

• Independence and Partition of India

• Cabinet Mission Plan and Indian Independence Act 1947

Students should focus on causes, events, and impacts of each movement.

3. The Contemporary World

This section covers major global events of the 20th century.

Important topics include:

• First World War: Causes and results

• Rise of Fascism and Nazism

• Second World War: Causes, events, and consequences

• Cold War: Meaning and alliances

• United Nations: Objectives, organs, and agencies

• Non-Aligned Movement (NAM): Meaning and role of leaders

Understanding global history helps students connect events with modern-day international relations.

ICSE Class 10 History and Civics Internal Assessment

Internal Assessment carries 20 marks and includes project work based on the syllabus.

Students may be asked to:

• Compare political systems

• Study contributions of national leaders

• Analyze historical events or global issues

• Prepare reports or presentations

Proper research, presentation, and understanding are important for scoring well.

ICSE Class 10 History and Civics Syllabus 2026–27

Below, we have attached the complete syllabus PDF for your easy access. This PDF includes all important topics from Civics and History, helping you understand the exam pattern and plan your preparation effectively. You can download it and use it anytime for quick revision and better understanding of the subject.

ICSE Class 10 History and Civics Syllabus 2026–27

Preparation Tips for ICSE Class 10 History and Civics 2026–27

To score high in this subject, students should follow these tips:

• Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning

• Learn important dates, events, and definitions

• Practice writing structured answers

• Revise regularly using short notes

• Use diagrams and flowcharts for better retention

Answer writing practice is especially important for History and Civics.