In short: Telangana SSC Science has two papers — Paper I (Physical Science: Physics + Chemistry, 50 marks) and Paper II (Biological Science: Biology, 50 marks). This post covers chapter-wise important questions for both papers, highlighting diagram-heavy questions, practical/lab-based questions, and the most repeated PYQ topics.
Paper Structure Recap
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Physical Science (Physics + Chemistry) | 50 | 2 hr 45 min | Numericals + equations |
| Paper II | Biological Science (Biology) | 50 | 2 hr 45 min | Diagrams + definitions |
Both papers follow this question type distribution:
| Section | Type | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Section I | Very Short Answer (1–2 marks) | 10 |
| Section II | Short Answer (2–4 marks) | 20 |
| Section III | Long Answer / Essay (5 marks) | 15 |
| Section IV | Numerical / Diagram | 5 |
| Total | 50 |
Most Repeated Topics — PYQ Analysis
Paper I: Physical Science (Top 12)
| Rank | Topic | Frequency (5 years) | Usual Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohm's Law + circuit numericals | 5/5 | 4–5 |
| 2 | Mirror/Lens formula numericals | 5/5 | 4–5 |
| 3 | Balancing chemical equations | 5/5 | 2–4 |
| 4 | Acids and bases — properties + pH | 5/5 | 2–4 |
| 5 | Ray diagrams (concave/convex mirror/lens) | 5/5 | 2–5 |
| 6 | Carbon compounds — IUPAC naming | 4/5 | 2 |
| 7 | Fleming's Left/Right Hand Rule | 4/5 | 2 |
| 8 | Reactivity series of metals | 4/5 | 2 |
| 9 | Electric power and energy calculations | 4/5 | 4 |
| 10 | Extraction of metals from ores | 4/5 | 4 |
| 11 | Functional groups in organic chemistry | 4/5 | 1–2 |
| 12 | Series and parallel resistance calculations | 4/5 | 4 |
Paper II: Biological Science (Top 12)
| Rank | Topic | Frequency (5 years) | Usual Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Human digestive system diagram | 5/5 | 5 |
| 2 | Heart structure + double circulation | 5/5 | 5 |
| 3 | Nephron structure + urine formation | 5/5 | 4–5 |
| 4 | Photosynthesis process | 5/5 | 4–5 |
| 5 | Mendel's monohybrid cross | 5/5 | 4–5 |
| 6 | Sex determination in humans | 5/5 | 2–4 |
| 7 | Neuron structure + reflex arc | 4/5 | 4 |
| 8 | Flower parts + pollination | 4/5 | 4–5 |
| 9 | Aerobic vs anaerobic respiration | 4/5 | 2–4 |
| 10 | Human brain — parts and functions | 4/5 | 4 |
| 11 | Food chain + energy flow | 4/5 | 2–4 |
| 12 | Asexual reproduction methods | 4/5 | 2 |
Paper I: Physical Science — Chapter-Wise Important Questions
Reflection of Light on Curved Surfaces (4–5 marks)
Numerical questions (most important):
- An object is placed 30 cm from a concave mirror of focal length 15 cm. Find the image position, nature, and magnification.
- Find the focal length of a convex mirror if the image of an object at 20 cm is formed at 5 cm behind the mirror.
- Mirror formula problems: 1/v + 1/u = 1/f (at least 2–3 variations).
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw ray diagrams for image formation by concave mirror when object is at C, beyond C, between C and F, at F, and between F and P.
- Draw ray diagram for convex mirror (any position).
Theory questions:
- Distinguish between concave and convex mirrors (table format).
- State the sign convention for spherical mirrors.
PYQ pattern: One numerical (4 marks) + one ray diagram (2 marks) is the standard combination. Always show your sign convention.
Refraction of Light at Curved Surfaces (4–5 marks)
Numerical questions:
- An object is placed 20 cm from a convex lens of focal length 10 cm. Find image position and magnification using lens formula.
- Find the power of a lens with focal length 25 cm.
- A combination of two lenses — find the effective power.
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw ray diagrams for image formation by convex lens (all positions).
- Draw ray diagram for concave lens.
- Diagram showing total internal reflection in a glass prism.
Theory questions:
- Explain total internal reflection with examples (mirage, optical fibre).
- Explain refraction through a glass prism with diagram.
PYQ pattern: Combined, the two Light chapters carry 8–10 marks in Paper I. Expect at least one numerical + one diagram.
Human Eye and Colourful World (2–3 marks)
Important questions:
- Explain the defects of vision (myopia, hypermetropia) with diagrams showing correction.
- Why does the sun appear reddish at sunrise and sunset?
- Explain dispersion of white light through a prism with diagram.
- What is atmospheric refraction? Give examples.
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Diagram of the human eye with labelled parts.
- Correction of myopia and hypermetropia using lenses.
PYQ pattern: Defects of vision (2 marks) is the most common question. Dispersion appears as a 1–2 mark question.
Electricity (6–7 marks) — HIGHEST WEIGHTAGE IN PAPER I
Numerical questions (critical):
- Three resistors in series/parallel — find equivalent resistance, current, and voltage across each.
- Calculate the electric power consumed by a device given voltage and current.
- Find the cost of electricity: kWh = (P × t) / 1000, then multiply by rate.
- Verify Ohm's Law from given V-I data.
Theory questions:
- Derive the formula for equivalent resistance in series and parallel.
- State Ohm's Law and its limitations.
- Explain Joule's law of heating with applications.
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw a circuit diagram with ammeter, voltmeter, resistors, battery, and key.
- Draw V-I graph for an ohmic conductor.
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- Describe the experiment to verify Ohm's Law. Draw the circuit, list apparatus, and write the procedure.
- How would you determine the equivalent resistance of two resistors connected in series using an ammeter and voltmeter?
PYQ pattern: This chapter alone carries 6–7 marks. A circuit numerical (4 marks) appears every year. The series-parallel derivation is a common 5-mark essay.
Electromagnetism (3–4 marks)
Important questions:
- State Fleming's Left Hand Rule and Right Hand Rule. When is each used?
- Explain the working of an electric motor with diagram.
- Explain the working of an electric generator with diagram.
- What is electromagnetic induction? Describe Faraday's experiment.
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Diagram of an electric motor with labelled parts.
- Diagram of an electric generator (AC).
- Magnetic field lines around a straight conductor carrying current.
PYQ pattern: Motor or generator diagram (4 marks) alternates between years. Fleming's rules appear as a 2-mark question.
Chemical Reactions and Equations (5–6 marks)
Important questions:
- Balance the following chemical equations (3–4 equations given).
- What are the different types of chemical reactions? Give one example for each.
- What is a redox reaction? Identify the oxidized and reduced substances in given reactions.
- Explain decomposition reactions with examples (thermal, electrolytic, photochemical).
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- Describe an activity to show that a chemical change has taken place (change in colour, gas evolution, temperature change).
- What happens when iron nails are kept in copper sulphate solution? Write the equation.
PYQ pattern: Balancing equations (2 marks) is guaranteed. Type identification (2–4 marks) appears every year. Redox identification appears 4 out of 5 years.
Acids, Bases and Salts (5–6 marks)
Important questions:
- What happens when an acid reacts with a metal? Write general equation and one example.
- Explain the pH scale. What is the pH of pure water, lemon juice, and blood?
- How is washing soda prepared from baking soda? Write equations.
- What is Plaster of Paris? How is it prepared? Write the chemical equation.
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- How would you test whether a given solution is acidic or basic using litmus paper and pH paper?
- Describe an activity to show the reaction between an acid and a base (neutralization).
PYQ pattern: pH scale question (2 marks) appears every year. Plaster of Paris or washing soda preparation (4 marks) alternates. Neutralization reactions are common 2-mark questions.
Metals and Non-Metals (3–4 marks)
Important questions:
- Arrange the following metals in decreasing order of reactivity: Cu, Fe, Zn, Na, Au.
- What is ionic bonding? Explain the formation of NaCl with electron dot structure.
- Why does aluminium not corrode even though it is a reactive metal?
PYQ pattern: Reactivity series (1–2 marks) and ionic bonding explanation (2–4 marks) are the most common.
Carbon and Its Compounds (4–5 marks)
Important questions:
- What is a homologous series? Give examples with general formula.
- Write the IUPAC names and structural formulas for: methanol, ethanol, ethanoic acid, propanone, methanal.
- What are functional groups? List four with examples.
- Give the chemical tests to distinguish between ethanol and ethanoic acid.
- What happens when ethanol reacts with sodium? Write the equation.
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- How would you test for the presence of a carboxyl group in a given organic compound?
- Describe the saponification reaction. What are the products?
PYQ pattern: IUPAC naming (2 marks) appears every year. Homologous series definition + examples (2–4 marks) is equally common. Functional groups identification is a guaranteed 1–2 mark question.
Classification of Elements — Periodic Table (2–3 marks)
Important questions:
- State Mendeleev's periodic law and its limitations.
- State the modern periodic law. How are elements arranged in the modern periodic table?
- How do atomic size and metallic character vary along a period and down a group?
PYQ pattern: Periodic trends (2 marks) or Mendeleev vs Modern comparison (2 marks) — one of these appears every year.
Principles of Metallurgy (3–4 marks)
Important questions:
- Explain the extraction of a metal from its ore (choose based on reactivity: electrolysis, reduction, physical separation).
- What is an alloy? Give two examples with their composition and uses.
- What is corrosion? How can corrosion of iron be prevented?
PYQ pattern: Extraction method based on reactivity (4 marks) is the most common question type. Alloys (2 marks) and corrosion (2 marks) are secondary.
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Paper II: Biological Science — Chapter-Wise Important Questions
Nutrition (6–8 marks)
Diagram questions (critical): 🎨
- Draw a labelled diagram of the human digestive system. (5/5 frequency — guaranteed 5-mark question)
- Draw the cross-section of a leaf and label the parts involved in photosynthesis.
- Diagram of nutrition in Amoeba (phagocytosis).
Theory questions:
- Explain the process of photosynthesis. Write the overall equation and the role of sunlight, chlorophyll, water, and CO₂.
- Describe the digestion of food in the human body from mouth to intestine.
- What are the different modes of nutrition? Compare autotrophic and heterotrophic nutrition.
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- Describe an experiment to show that light is necessary for photosynthesis (starch test using iodine).
- How would you test for the presence of starch in a leaf?
PYQ pattern: Digestive system diagram (5 marks) appears in every paper. Photosynthesis explanation (4–5 marks) appears 5 out of 5 years. This is the highest-scoring Biology chapter.
Respiration (4–5 marks)
Important questions:
- Compare aerobic and anaerobic respiration in a table (at least 4 points).
- Explain the process of respiration in human beings with the role of diaphragm.
- Write the equation for aerobic respiration. Where does each stage occur in the cell?
- Why do we get cramps after vigorous exercise?
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw the human respiratory system with labelled parts (lungs, bronchi, alveoli, diaphragm).
- Diagram showing exchange of gases in the alveoli.
PYQ pattern: Aerobic vs anaerobic comparison (2–4 marks) is the most repeated question. The cramps question (1–2 marks) appears frequently.
Transportation (5–6 marks)
Diagram questions (critical): 🎨
- Draw a labelled diagram of the human heart showing all four chambers, valves, and blood vessels. (5/5 frequency)
- Diagram showing double circulation in humans.
- Diagram of transport in plants (xylem and phloem).
Theory questions:
- What is double circulation? Why is it necessary?
- Explain the functions of blood components: RBC, WBC, platelets, plasma.
- How is water transported in plants? Explain the role of transpiration.
- Differentiate between xylem and phloem in a table.
PYQ pattern: Heart diagram (5 marks) is as predictable as the digestive system diagram. Double circulation explanation (2–4 marks) accompanies it. This chapter consistently carries 5–6 marks.
Excretion (4–5 marks)
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw a labelled diagram of a nephron and explain the process of urine formation. (5/5 frequency)
- Draw the human excretory system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra).
Theory questions:
- Describe the three steps of urine formation: filtration, reabsorption, secretion.
- How do plants excrete waste products?
- What is the role of kidneys in maintaining water and salt balance?
PYQ pattern: Nephron diagram + urine formation process (4–5 marks) appears every year. This is one of the most predictable questions in Paper II.
Control and Coordination (4–5 marks)
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw a labelled diagram of a neuron.
- Draw a diagram showing a reflex arc and explain the reflex action.
- Draw the human brain and label its three main parts (cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla).
Theory questions:
- What is a reflex action? Give two examples and explain the pathway.
- Describe the functions of the three parts of the human brain.
- Name the plant hormones. Write one function of each: auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, abscisic acid.
- Differentiate between nervous system and endocrine system.
PYQ pattern: Neuron diagram + reflex arc (4 marks) and brain functions (2–4 marks) alternate between years. Plant hormones (2 marks) appears 4 out of 5 years.
Reproduction (5–6 marks)
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Draw a labelled diagram of a flower showing all four whorls.
- Diagram showing germination of a pollen grain on the stigma.
- Diagram of the human female reproductive system.
Theory questions:
- Describe the different methods of asexual reproduction with examples: fission, budding, fragmentation, regeneration, vegetative propagation.
- Explain the process of pollination and fertilization in flowering plants.
- What are the methods of contraception? Classify them into barrier, chemical, and surgical.
Practical/Lab-based questions: 🔬
- Describe an activity to study budding in yeast under a microscope.
- Observe the parts of a flower and identify the male and female reproductive structures.
PYQ pattern: Flower diagram (4–5 marks) and asexual reproduction methods (2–4 marks) are the most common. Human reproduction questions appear as 4–5 mark essays.
Heredity (5–6 marks)
Important questions (very high frequency):
- Explain Mendel's monohybrid cross experiment with a Punnett square. State the F1 and F2 ratios. (5/5 frequency)
- Explain sex determination in human beings with a diagram. (5/5 frequency)
- What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?
- What are dominant and recessive traits? Give examples.
Diagram questions: 🎨
- Punnett square for monohybrid cross (Tt × Tt).
- Diagram showing sex determination (XX and XY chromosomes).
PYQ pattern: Mendel's experiment (4–5 marks) and sex determination (2–4 marks) appear in every paper. Together they carry 6–9 marks. These are the two most guaranteed Biology questions after the digestive system diagram.
Evolution (2–3 marks)
Important questions:
- What are homologous organs? How do they provide evidence for evolution? Give examples.
- Differentiate between homologous and analogous organs with examples.
- How do fossils provide evidence for evolution?
PYQ pattern: Homologous vs analogous organs (2 marks) is the most common. Fossils appear as a 1–2 mark question. Low marks but easy — do not skip.
Our Environment (3–4 marks)
Important questions:
- What is an ecosystem? Explain the components: biotic and abiotic.
- Draw a food chain with four trophic levels. Explain the 10% law of energy transfer.
- What are biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes? Give examples.
- What is ozone depletion? How does it affect living organisms?
PYQ pattern: Food chain + energy flow (2–4 marks) appears 4 out of 5 years. Ozone depletion (1–2 marks) is a frequent VSA.
Natural Resources (2–3 marks)
Important questions:
- What is sustainable development? Why is it necessary?
- How can we conserve forests and water resources?
- What is the importance of biodiversity?
PYQ pattern: Conservation methods (2 marks) or sustainable development (1–2 marks) — one appears per paper. Low weightage but easy marks.
Complete List of Diagram-Heavy Questions 🎨
These questions require well-labelled diagrams. Practice drawing each one at least 3 times.
Paper I Diagrams
- Ray diagrams for concave mirror (all 5 positions)
- Ray diagrams for convex lens (all 5 positions)
- Human eye diagram
- Correction of myopia and hypermetropia
- Electric circuit diagram (series/parallel)
- V-I graph
- Electric motor diagram
- Electric generator diagram
- Magnetic field lines around a conductor
Paper II Diagrams
- Human digestive system ⭐
- Human heart with double circulation ⭐
- Nephron structure ⭐
- Human respiratory system
- Neuron and reflex arc
- Human brain (3 parts)
- Flower with all four whorls
- Human female reproductive system
- Punnett square for monohybrid cross
- Sex determination diagram
- Food chain with trophic levels
⭐ = appears almost every year as a 5-mark question.
Practical/Lab-Based Questions Summary 🔬
TSBSE papers include questions based on lab activities from the textbook. These are not separate practical exams but appear within the theory paper.
| Activity | Paper | Usual Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Verify Ohm's Law using circuit | Paper I | 4–5 |
| Test solution with litmus/pH paper | Paper I | 2 |
| Starch test on leaf for photosynthesis | Paper II | 2–4 |
| Observe budding in yeast | Paper II | 2 |
| Identify flower parts | Paper II | 2 |
| Reaction of metals with acid | Paper I | 2 |
| Test for CO₂ gas | Paper I | 1–2 |
50-Day Study Plan
Days 1–20: Paper I (Physical Science)
| Days | Focus | Key Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 | Electricity | Circuit numericals, Ohm's Law, series/parallel derivation |
| 6–9 | Light (both chapters) | Mirror/lens numericals, all ray diagrams |
| 10–12 | Chemical Reactions + Acids/Bases | Balancing, pH, salt preparation |
| 13–15 | Carbon Compounds + Metallurgy | IUPAC naming, extraction methods |
| 16–17 | Electromagnetism | Motor/generator diagrams, Fleming's rules |
| 18–20 | Remaining chapters | Human Eye, Periodic Table, Metals |
Days 21–40: Paper II (Biological Science)
| Days | Focus | Key Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 21–24 | Nutrition + Respiration | Digestive system diagram, photosynthesis, aerobic vs anaerobic |
| 25–28 | Transportation + Excretion | Heart diagram, nephron diagram, double circulation |
| 29–31 | Control + Coordination | Neuron, reflex arc, brain, hormones |
| 32–35 | Reproduction + Heredity | Flower diagram, Mendel's cross, sex determination |
| 36–38 | Evolution + Environment + Natural Resources | Homologous organs, food chain, conservation |
| 39–40 | Diagram practice day | Draw all 11 Paper II diagrams twice |
Days 41–50: Revision
| Days | Activity |
|---|---|
| 41–44 | Solve 4 previous year papers (1 per day, alternating Paper I and II) |
| 45–47 | Re-practice all diagram questions |
| 48–49 | Numerical revision (Electricity, Light, Circuits) |
| 50 | Formula + equation sheet review, light reading only |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder — Physical Science or Biological Science?
Physical Science (Paper I) is harder for students weak in calculations since Electricity and Light involve numericals. Biological Science (Paper II) is harder for students who struggle with memorization and diagrams. Most students find Paper I slightly more challenging.
How many diagrams should I expect in Paper II?
Plan for 3–4 diagrams in Paper II. Section IV is entirely diagram-based (5 marks), and 1–2 long answer questions will also require diagrams. Total diagram marks in Paper II can be 10–15.
Are lab-based questions asked in the theory paper?
Yes. TSBSE includes activity-based questions within the theory paper. These are based on experiments described in the state textbook. They are usually worth 2–4 marks and test whether you understand the procedure and observation.
Should I study from NCERT or the Telangana state textbook?
Study from the Telangana state textbook. The exam is based on the state syllabus. While NCERT concepts overlap, the Telangana textbook has different chapter organization, activities, and examples. Use NCERT only as a supplement for additional understanding.
How do I score full marks on diagram questions?
Three things: (1) Use a pencil and ruler for lines and labels, (2) Label every part clearly — unlabelled diagrams lose 1–2 marks, (3) Add a title below the diagram. Practice each diagram at least 3 times before the exam.
What is the best way to memorize chemical equations?
Group equations by type (combination, decomposition, displacement, double displacement, redox). Memorize 2–3 key equations per type. Focus on the equations mentioned in the textbook's "Activity" sections — those are the ones most likely to be asked.
Is there internal choice in Science papers?
Yes. The essay/long answer section gives 3 questions and you choose 2. This means you can skip one 5-mark topic per paper if needed.
What if I cannot draw a diagram properly in the exam?
A rough but labelled diagram scores more than no diagram at all. Always attempt the diagram even if it is not perfect. The labels and title are more important than artistic accuracy.
Related Telangana Board Resources
Telangana Board Class 10 Science Weightage 2027 | Telangana SSC All 6 Subjects Weightage 2027 | Telangana SSC Class 10 Maths Important Questions 2027 | Telangana Board Class 10 Maths Weightage 2027 | Telangana Board Class 10 Important Questions 2027 | Telangana Board TS SSC Class 10 Complete Guide
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