About the Book

A Textbook of I.C.S.E. Geography for Class X has been especially written to comply with the norms set by the Council for the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (I.C.S.E.) examinations, and it strictly conforms to the latest Syllabus and Scope prescribed by the Council.

The idea of writing this book was conceived after a careful study of various practical problems confronting the students of Geography, especially in interpreting Topographical Survey Sheets and marking on the maps, which cover about 40% of the Class X Board Examination Paper.

I have tried to give simple explanations, instructions and guidelines so as to inculcate interest, understanding and self-confidence in the pupils and help them attain perfection in this subject and write 'to-the-point' answers as expected in the public examination.

Section-wise Salient Features of the Book
Section A-I : A thorough study of Ordnance Survey Maps forms an integral part of the I.C.S.E. examination paper as a compulsory question accounting for 20 marks. Interpretation of survey maps demands a clear perception, a good observational skill and a good deal of self-practice with appropriate application of the subject matter. Hence, starting from the introduction and meaning of the topographical survey maps, their uses and importance, this book provides step-by-step instructions in "interpretation" of survey maps while elaborating on each point of the given syllabus. All the topographical details within India are based on the Survey of India maps. A detailed glossary of conventional signs and symbols used in survey maps is given for better understanding of the topo sheets.

Section A-II: A set often solved maps in colour is given for self-practice and development of map-filling skills. It carries ten marks as a compulsory question in the Board Examination.

Section B : In this section, a study of SAARC countries in South Asia and India including map marking based on chapters 6 - 10 is given. Efforts have been made to cover all the points given in the syllabus along with necessary maps which have been worked out for the ready reference of the students. A special chapter on the geography of the SAARC countries (the latest addition in the syllabus) has been added, dealing with each country separately for detailed guidance while studying South Asia and marking the maps. All the maps have a direct textbook approach under the following headings :
Recall
Comprehensive text of the matter
Keywords and Technical terms (wherever necessary)
Recap

Recall : The learning of Geography is a continuous process as each new chapter is related to the previous chapters. In the present book, the fundamentals/basics related to each chapter are outlined in the beginning of the chapter for ready reference
by the pupil under 'Recall' for better insight into the subject matter.

Comprehensive Text : The text matter is given with additional updated information along with appropriate maps, diagrams and pictures.

Keywords/Technical Terms : Keywords are given with definitions or explanations wherever necessary.

Recap : The Board papers of previous years, pertaining to the contents of the text have been discussed (Annexure II) for self-study.

The main salient feature of this book is the additional information on 'Remote Sensing' - a recent development on space technology, closely related to Geography. Remote sensing is the technique wherein satellites of INSAT series are extensively used for meteorological applications for studying day-to-day weather conditions. Here it is meant only to acquaint the students with the changing scenario and latest developments in the field of modem geography.

A set of Worksheets (1-14) based on each chapter is given at the end of the book. This will help in quick revision and better understanding of the subject.

I am certain that this comprehensive as well as examination-oriented textbook will provide an ideal means for the interaction between the teachers and the students. Suggestions for improvement of the book are welcome.
-Author

About the Author

M.A., B.Ed.
Former Vice Principal
St. Martin's High School
Ferozaguda, Balanagar,
Hyderabad