In short: The CBSE syllabus for Class 6, 7, and 8 under NEP 2020 includes the new Ganita Prakash for Maths, Curiosity for Science, restructured Social Science, updated English and Hindi curricula, and new additions like coding, AI awareness, and vocational exposure. This guide covers every subject across all three classes with chapter lists, key topics, and links to detailed study strategies.
What Is Different About the 2027-28 Syllabus?
The NEP 2020 (National Education Policy) has fundamentally restructured what students learn in Class 6-8. The key changes:
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New NCERT textbooks: Ganita Prakash replaces the old Maths textbook. Curiosity replaces the old Science textbook. These are not just name changes — the approach is activity-based, discovery-driven, and focused on competency rather than memorisation.
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Assessment reform: No single high-stakes exam. Continuous evaluation with two-term structure (half-yearly + annual), 20-30% internal assessment through activities, projects, and periodic tests.
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New subjects: Coding and computational thinking, AI awareness, and vocational education exposure are introduced starting from Class 6.
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Integrated approach: Subjects are less siloed. Science chapters integrate Physics, Chemistry, and Biology concepts. Social Science connects History, Geography, Civics, and Economics through themes.
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5+3+3+4 structure: Class 6-8 falls in the "Middle Stage" (ages 11-14) of the new educational structure, with emphasis on abstract thinking, experiential learning, and multidisciplinary exploration.
Mathematics - Ganita Prakash
The new NCERT Maths textbook series for Class 6-8 is called Ganita Prakash. It uses an activity-based approach where students discover mathematical concepts through exploration before learning formal rules.
Class 6 Maths - Ganita Prakash (10 Chapters)
| Chapter | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| 1. Patterns in Mathematics | Number patterns, shape patterns, sequences |
| 2. Lines and Angles | Types of lines, types of angles, measuring with protractor |
| 3. Number Play | Number properties, divisibility rules, number sense |
| 4. Data Handling and Presentation | Tables, bar graphs, pictographs, pie charts |
| 5. Prime Time | Prime/composite numbers, prime factorisation, LCM, HCF |
| 6. Perimeter and Area | Perimeter and area of rectangles, squares, triangles, composites |
| 7. Fractions | Types, equivalent fractions, operations on fractions |
| 8. Playing with Constructions | Ruler-compass constructions of basic figures |
| 9. Symmetry | Lines of symmetry, rotational symmetry |
| 10. The Other Side of Zero | Integers, number line, operations with negative numbers |
Detailed guide: Class 6 Maths Complete Guide
Class 7 Maths - Ganita Prakash Part 1 and Part 2
Class 7 uses a two-part textbook. The major topic areas covered across both parts:
| Topic Area | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Number System | Rational numbers, properties, operations, representation |
| Fractions and Decimals | Multiplication, division of fractions and decimals |
| Algebra | Algebraic expressions, like/unlike terms, simple equations |
| Ratio and Proportion | Ratios, proportion, unitary method |
| Percentage | Conversion, profit and loss, simple interest |
| Geometry | Triangle properties, angle sum, congruence criteria (SSS, SAS, ASA, AAS, RHS) |
| Practical Geometry | Triangle constructions with ruler and compass |
| Symmetry | Advanced symmetry, rotational symmetry |
| Data Handling | Mean, median, mode, basic probability, graph interpretation |
Detailed guide: Class 7 Maths Complete Guide
Class 8 Maths - Ganita Prakash Part 1 (7 Chapters)
| Chapter | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| 1. Rational Numbers | Properties, operations, rational numbers between rationals |
| 2. Linear Equations in One Variable | Equations with variables on both sides, word problems |
| 3. Understanding Quadrilaterals | Properties of parallelogram, rectangle, square, rhombus, trapezium |
| 4. Data Handling | Histograms, pie charts, probability (0 to 1) |
| 5. Squares and Square Roots | Perfect squares, properties, finding square roots |
| 6. Cubes and Cube Roots | Perfect cubes, cube root by factorisation |
| 7. Algebraic Expressions and Identities | Four standard identities, multiplication of expressions |
Additional topics typically covered in the full curriculum: Exponents and Powers, Direct and Inverse Proportion, Mensuration (Surface Area and Volume), Factorisation, Comparing Quantities (Compound Interest), Visualising Solid Shapes.
Detailed guide: Class 8 Maths Complete Guide
Formula reference for all classes: Class 6-7-8 Maths Formulas Complete List
Science - Curiosity
The Curiosity textbook series takes an integrated, activity-based approach to Science. Chapters cover Physics, Chemistry, and Biology concepts woven together by themes.
Class 6 Science - Curiosity (12 Chapters)
| Theme | Chapters | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Inquiry | The Wonderful World of Science | Scientific method, observation, experimentation |
| Living World | Diversity of Life | Characteristics of living things, basic classification |
| Food | Sources and Components | Food chains, nutrients (carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals) |
| Materials | Sorting and Grouping | Properties of materials: transparency, hardness, solubility |
| Materials | Separation of Substances | Handpicking, winnowing, sieving, filtration, evaporation |
| How Things Work | Motion and Measurement | Types of motion, standard measurement, unit conversion |
| How Things Work | Fun with Magnets | Magnet properties, poles, magnetic/non-magnetic materials |
| Natural Resources | Water | Water cycle, conservation, purification |
| Natural Resources | Air Around Us | Composition of air, properties, air pollution |
| Natural Resources | Our Environment | Ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation |
| Earth and Space | Earth in the Universe | Solar system, day-night, seasons, Moon, constellations |
Detailed guide: Class 6 Science Complete Guide
Class 7 Science - Curiosity
Class 7 Curiosity builds on Class 6 with more formal scientific concepts:
| Subject Area | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Heat and temperature, modes of heat transfer, speed-distance-time calculations, electric circuits, light and reflection |
| Chemistry | Physical and chemical changes, acids-bases-indicators, fibre to fabric |
| Biology | Nutrition in plants and animals, transport in plants and animals, respiration, reproduction in plants, weather and adaptations |
Detailed guide: Class 7 Science Complete Guide
Class 8 Science - Curiosity (13 Chapters)
| Subject Area | Chapters | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | Force and Pressure | Types of force, pressure formula, atmospheric pressure |
| Physics | Friction | Types of friction, methods to reduce friction |
| Physics | Sound | Vibration, frequency, pitch, loudness, noise pollution |
| Physics | Light | Laws of reflection, human eye, regular/diffused reflection |
| Physics/Chemistry | Electricity and Magnetism | Circuits, heating effect, magnetic effect, electromagnets |
| Chemistry | Chemical Effects of Current | Electrolysis, electroplating, conductors in liquids |
| Chemistry | Metals and Non-Metals | Properties, reactivity, displacement reactions |
| Biology | Microorganisms | Bacteria, viruses, fungi, useful and harmful microorganisms |
| Biology | Cell Structure and Functions | Plant vs animal cell, organelles, cell theory |
| Biology | Reproduction in Animals | Sexual/asexual reproduction, fertilisation, development |
| Biology | Conservation of Plants and Animals | Biodiversity, deforestation, wildlife sanctuaries |
| Biology | Reaching the Age of Adolescence | Puberty, hormones, reproductive health |
| Interdisciplinary | Natural Phenomena | Lightning, earthquakes, safety measures |
| Interdisciplinary | Pollution of Air and Water | Sources, effects, prevention |
Detailed guide: Class 8 Science Complete Guide
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Social Science
Social Science in Class 6-8 covers History, Geography, Civics (Political Science), and Economics. Under NEP 2020, the approach emphasises connecting these disciplines through themes and real-world applications.
Class 6 Social Science
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| History | Early humans, first farmers, first cities, early kingdoms, empires, new ideas (Buddhism, Jainism) |
| Geography | The Earth, globe and maps, major landforms, India: climate, vegetation, wildlife |
| Civics | Diversity, government, local government, rural and urban livelihoods |
Class 7 Social Science
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| History | Medieval India: rulers, architecture, society. Mughal Empire, regional kingdoms, devotional paths |
| Geography | Environment, ecosystems, natural vegetation and wildlife, water, air, human-environment interaction |
| Civics | Equality, role of government, women's rights, media and democracy, markets |
Class 8 Social Science
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| History | Modern India: colonial rule, revolt of 1857, education, nationalism, social reform, India after independence |
| Geography | Resources (types, conservation), agriculture, industries, human resources |
| Civics | Indian Constitution, Parliament, judiciary, social justice, marginalisation |
| Economics (introduced) | Basic economic concepts, poverty, food security |
English
English in Class 6-8 develops reading comprehension, grammar, writing, and literature appreciation.
Key Grammar Topics by Class
| Class | Grammar Focus |
|---|---|
| Class 6 | Nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, articles, prepositions, simple tenses (present, past, future), sentence types |
| Class 7 | All 12 tense forms, active and passive voice (basic), direct and indirect speech (basic), conjunctions, clauses (basic), subject-verb agreement |
| Class 8 | Tenses (advanced), active/passive voice (complex sentences), direct/indirect speech (advanced), conditional sentences, modals, phrases and clauses, sentence transformation |
Literature and Writing
| Component | Class 6 | Class 7 | Class 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prose | Short stories, descriptive passages | Longer narratives, biographical texts | Complex themes, persuasive writing |
| Poetry | Simple poems, rhyme schemes | Figurative language, imagery | Poetry analysis, themes |
| Writing | Paragraphs, informal letters, short essays | Formal/informal letters, essays, diary entries | Essays, letters, articles, stories, reports |
| Reading | Comprehension passages, vocabulary building | Inferential comprehension, summary writing | Analytical comprehension, critical thinking |
For grammar-specific strategies, see our English grammar tips for Class 6-7-8.
Hindi
Hindi curriculum covers literature (prose and poetry), grammar (vyakaran), and writing skills across Class 6-8.
Key Hindi Grammar Topics by Class
| Class | Grammar Focus (Vyakaran) |
|---|---|
| Class 6 | Sangya, sarvanam, visheshan, kriya, ling, vachan, karak, viram chinh |
| Class 7 | Sandhi, samas, upsarg, pratyay, muhavare, lokoktiyan, anuched lekhan |
| Class 8 | Advanced sandhi, samas, alankar, patra lekhan, nibandh, avtaran, dialogue writing |
For Hindi grammar preparation, see our Hindi vyakaran complete guide.
New Additions Under NEP 2020
Coding and Computational Thinking
Starting from Class 6, students are introduced to:
- Block-based programming (like Scratch)
- Computational thinking concepts: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, algorithms
- Basic problem-solving through coding
- By Class 8: introduction to text-based programming (Python basics)
This is not a separate exam subject in most schools but is assessed through projects and activities. For more details, see our guide on coding and AI in the new CBSE curriculum.
Vocational Exposure
Under NEP 2020, Class 6-8 students get exposure to vocational skills through:
- Hands-on workshops (pottery, carpentry, gardening, cooking)
- Skill-based projects
- Visits to local businesses and artisans (where possible)
- The goal is exposure, not mastery — helping students understand the dignity of all work
For more on the vocational education component, see our vocational education guide for Class 6.
Art, Physical Education, and Life Skills
NEP 2020 gives formal recognition to:
- Visual and performing arts (integrated into regular assessment)
- Physical education and sports (regular health check-ups, fitness standards)
- Life skills education (financial literacy, digital literacy, environmental awareness)
Assessment Structure Under NEP 2020
Understanding how your child is assessed helps you prepare them better:
| Assessment Component | Weightage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Yearly Exam | 35-40% | Written exam covering first term syllabus |
| Annual Exam | 35-40% | Written exam covering full year syllabus |
| Periodic Tests | 10-15% | 2-3 tests throughout the year |
| Activities and Projects | 5-10% | Hands-on activities, science experiments, maths projects |
| Notebook and Homework | 5% | Regular submission and quality of work |
| Subject Enrichment | 5% | Extra activities: science practicals, maths lab, language projects |
Key changes from old system:
- No single exam determines the entire grade
- Continuous evaluation means regular class participation matters
- Activity-based assessment rewards doing, not just knowing
- Portfolio-based assessment tracks growth over the year
How to Use This Syllabus Overview
This page gives you the complete picture. For detailed chapter-wise strategies, use the individual class guides:
Maths:
Science:
Study Approach:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these textbooks the same for all CBSE schools?
Yes. All CBSE-affiliated schools must use the NCERT-prescribed textbooks: Ganita Prakash for Maths and Curiosity for Science. Individual schools may add supplementary materials, but the core textbook and syllabus are the same across India.
My school is still using old textbooks. What should I do?
Some schools take a year to transition. If your school is still using old NCERT books, check with the school administration. For the 2027-28 session, all schools should be using the new textbooks. In the meantime, the new textbooks are available for free download on the NCERT website.
Is the syllabus the same for ICSE and State Boards?
No. This guide covers the CBSE syllabus specifically. ICSE and state boards have their own textbooks and chapter lists. However, the underlying concepts (fractions, algebra, cell biology, etc.) are similar across boards. The depth and presentation differ.
How are marks distributed in the Class 8 annual exam?
Most CBSE schools follow a pattern of 80 marks for the written exam and 20 marks for internal assessment. The written exam typically includes MCQs, short answer, and long answer questions. The exact distribution varies by school.
Does my child need to study coding and AI for exams?
Coding and AI awareness are typically assessed through projects and activities, not through written exams. However, participation in these activities counts toward the overall grade. Encourage your child to participate — these skills are increasingly valuable regardless of exam marks.
When should I start worrying about board exam preparation?
The honest answer: not now, but also not never. Class 6-8 is about building foundations, not cramming for boards. If your child studies consistently now and builds strong concepts, board exam preparation in Class 9-10 will be smooth. The biggest "preparation" you can do now is ensuring strong fundamentals. The transition guide from Class 8 to Class 9 covers when and how to shift gears.
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