Keep basics clear to sail through HOTS, say experts

For Class 12 student Shaarang Bhanot of DPS, Mathura Road, preparing for the Boards does not seem as daunting as tackling questions on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS).

For Class 12 student Shaarang Bhanot of DPS, Mathura Road, preparing for the Boards does not seem as daunting as tackling questions on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS).

A-student-prepares-for-board-exams-in-New-Delhi-on-Saturday-HT-photo-Sanjeev-Verma

As Board exams are drawing closer, minds of most of the students are occupied with the dreadful section on HOTS as 20 per cent of the question paper comprises questions based on them.

“My only concern is that most of such questions are twisted and analytical in nature. One has to thoroughly grasp the concepts to solve HOTS-based questions. But at times, pressure is so much that students feel blank in the examination hall. I am just preparing to put my best in exams,” said Bhanot.

According to experts, the only key to solve such questions is practise and understanding the fundamentals thoroughly.

“If the basics are clear, the students will be able to sail through even the most difficult questions in exams.

The questions on HOTS assess the analytical and critical skills of the students. They should understand that there is no short-cut for success. Therefore, students must revise the numerical and theory thoroughly,” said Sneh Saxena, head of department (HOD), chemistry, DPS, Vasant Kunj.

According to teachers, the questions on HOTS are usually simple but are presented in a different form.

“At this point, it is advisable to practise as much as one can. The students should practise all questions and the solved examples in the NCERT books and sample papers. It will help them to brush up their basics and improvise time management,” said Anjali Sharma, HOD, Mathematics, Bal Bharati Public School, Noida.

“If students have practiced enough, then they do not need to worry. They will be able to crack questions on HOTS. The only key to success is understanding the concepts well,” said Ritu Madan, HOD, Economics, Springdales School, Dhaula Kuan.

Students, who are doing the last leg of revision should go back to basics in order to pass the exam with flying colours.

“The revision of concepts should be done properly. All candidates should refer NCERT books and then go for sample papers to practice more,” said Sharmistha Sanyal, Physics teacher at Mother’s International School, Aurobindo Marg.