Mathematics and Science
What this domain tests
For Mathematics/Science teacher candidates, this 60-mark section covers Classes VI–VIII content and pedagogy. Mathematics includes number system, ratio and proportion, algebra, geometry, mensuration, and data handling. Science includes food and nutrition, materials, motion, light, electricity, life processes, and natural resources. Pedagogy questions target problem solving, inquiry, the nature of science, misconceptions, and assessment.
Core rules to keep straight
- Percentage profit and loss are based on cost price unless the question states otherwise.
- Discount is calculated on marked price, not cost price.
- Speed = distance ÷ time; velocity includes direction; mass is not weight.
- In science, a hypothesis must be testable; an observation is not the same as an inference.
- A misconception is not cured by repeating the correct statement; it needs discrepant evidence and explanation.
Worked example
A shopkeeper marks an item 25% above cost and gives a 10% discount. Find profit percent. Let CP = ₹100. MP = ₹125. Discount = 10% of 125 = ₹12.50. SP = ₹112.50. Profit = ₹12.50 on CP ₹100, so profit = 12.5%. The common wrong answer, 15%, comes from subtracting 10% from 25% instead of applying discount to MP.
Traps that cost marks
- Applying discount to CP and getting an inflated profit.
- Mixing units: cm² with m², or km/h with m/s.
- Treating weight and mass as interchangeable.
- Confusing speed and velocity, or distance–time graphs with distance–speed graphs.
- Thinking a demonstration alone replaces inquiry and explanation.