National Talent Search Examination-NTSE 2009 Modification in Scheme

Modification in the Scheme of Testing National Talent Search Examination-2009

Please note that the following changes have been made in the SAT and MAT for NTS Examination from 2009 onwards.
• The SAT and MAT will have 100 items each in place of 90 items given in the NTS Scheme.
• Each question will carry 1 mark. The total marks will be 100 for each test.
• Minimum qualifying marks will be 40% i.e. 40 marks for general category.
• Minimum qualifying marks for reserved categories will be 32% i.e. 32 marks.
• The duration of the tests will remain the same i.e. 90 minutes each.
• For first 90 questions in both SAT and MAT, the candidates have to put a cross mark (X) on the number of the correct alternative on the answer sheet against the corresponding question. For questions 91-100, the answers are to be written in the given space in the answer sheet.
• In SAT the first 90 items are divided into three areas – 35 for Science, 20 for Mathematics and 35 for Social Science. However, no separate sections are given in the test. The last 10 questions are mixed from different subjects.

For more info visit- http://ncert.nic.in/

Marathi compulsory in all schools in Maharashtra

Maharashtra Government has decided to make Marathi compulsory phase-wise in all English, Urdu and other mediums of schools in the state from class one to class four, from the academic year 2009-10. The decision was taken recently, based on the recommendation of the a State Level Study Committee, an official release.

In the non-Marathi medium schools from class one to four, Marathi will be taught as the second language. The language curriculum will be decided with the consent of Working Member Group, the release said.

Listening, speech and conversation would be the focus for class one and two students, while in class three and four along with listening, speech and conversation, reading and writing will also be included. While there would be no textbooks for class one and two students, the class three and four students will have limited type independent textbooks. The handbooks and guidelines would be prepared for the class one and two children.

Marathi will be taught in two-hour session each week.

There will be no formal evaluation of the language for class one to four and also there will be no written exams for these students, the release added.