CBSE Class 11 – English Elective (2025–26 Syllabus)
CBSE Class 11 – English Elective (2025–26 Syllabus)
Class: XI
Subject: English Elective
Board: CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education)
Governing Body: NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training)
Question Paper Pattern & Marking Scheme (CBSE – English Elective, Class 11)
Theory Examination: 80 Marks | Internal Assessment: 20 Marks
Section A – Reading Skills (20 Marks)
- Unseen literary and discursive passages
- MCQs and short-answer questions testing comprehension, inference, and vocabulary
Section B – Creative Writing & Applied Grammar (30 Marks)
- Creative and critical writing tasks
- Short compositions, literary analysis, and contextual grammar usage
Section C – Literature (30 Marks)
- Questions from prescribed NCERT textbooks
- Short Answer (SA) and Long Answer (LA) questions
- Extract-based and theme-based questions
Internal Assessment (20 Marks)
- Listening & Speaking Skills
- Literary/Research Project
- Portfolio and periodic assessments
The CBSE Class 11 English Elective Syllabus 2025–26 is specially designed for students with a strong interest in literature and critical studies. Prescribed by NCERT and implemented by CBSE, this curriculum encourages in-depth literary appreciation, analytical thinking, and creative expression. Through a rich selection of prose, poetry, essays, and fiction, the English Elective course builds advanced reading, writing, and interpretative skills essential for humanities-focused academic pathways.
CBSE Class 11 English Elective Syllabus 2025–26 (NCERT)
Book 1: Kaleidoscope – Textbook in English (Literature Reader)
| Section | Unit / Chapter | Title | Learning Outcomes / Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Stories | 1 | I Sell My Dreams | Magical realism, memory, and identity |
| 2 | Eveline | Psychological conflict and decision-making | |
| 3 | A Wedding in Brownsville | Human relationships and cultural setting | |
| 4 | Tomorrow | Irony, time, and moral responsibility | |
| 5 | One Centimetre | Social injustice and empathy | |
| Non-Fiction / Essays | 6 | A Lecture Upon the Shadow | Metaphysical thought and philosophical reflection |
| Poetry | 7 | A Poison Tree | Emotions, anger, and consequences |
| 8 | Trees | Nature, symbolism, and freedom | |
| 9 | The Wild Swans at Coole | Memory, change, and nostalgia |
Book 2: Fiction
| Unit | Title | Learning Outcomes / Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Novel | The Old Man and the Sea | Perseverance, dignity of labour, and man–nature relationship |
- CBSE Class 11 English Elective syllabus 2025–26
- NCERT Class 11 English Elective curriculum
- CBSE English Elective Kaleidoscope book
- Class 11 English Elective exam pattern
- CBSE Class 11 English Elective chapters
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the difference between English Core and English Elective?
English Elective focuses more on literary analysis and critical appreciation, while English Core emphasizes functional language skills.
Q2. Which books are prescribed for Class 11 English Elective?
NCERT prescribes Kaleidoscope and The Old Man and the Sea.
Q3. Is English Elective suitable for science students?
Yes, but it is best suited for students interested in literature, humanities, and creative studies.
Q4. How many marks are allotted for internal assessment?
Internal assessment carries 20 marks, including projects and speaking skills.
Q5. Does English Elective help in higher studies?
Yes, it is highly beneficial for literature, mass communication, and humanities courses.
The CBSE Class 11 English Elective Syllabus 2025–26 provides an enriching literary experience through diverse genres, authors, and themes. Fully aligned with NCERT guidelines, the syllabus nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and interpretative skills. With consistent reading, thoughtful analysis, and structured writing practice, students can excel academically while developing a lifelong appreciation for literature.
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