The ICSE Class 1 syllabus builds foundational skills in language, numeracy and environmental awareness. Below is a subject-wise, easy-to-scan guide for parents covering the complete Class 1 topics for 2025–26.
ICSE Syllabus by Class:
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Subject wise syllabus
English Literature
- Stories: The Green Autorickshaw, The Wise Pigeon, Ant and the Grasshopper, Oranges in the Road, Three Billy Goats Gruff
- Poems: Little Brown Seed, Little Raindrop
- Recitation & Textual Exercises (e.g., ‘My Missing Shoe’)
English Language
- Grammar: Articles (a, an, the), Position Words, Punctuation
- Vocabulary, Sentence Making & Sentence Completion
- Reading Comprehension passages; Paragraph writing; Invitations (simple)
- Verbs: is/are/am, has/have
Hindi
- Poems: रेल का खले, कछुआ राजा, हाथी, कैसे लगते भालू राम
- Stories & Lessons: मााँ की रसोई, मैं – मेरा पररिार, मेट्रो की सैर
- Grammar: संयुक्ताक्षर, लिंग, व्यंजन-समुच्चय; Oral recitation & picture reading
Marathi
- Letters & Sound: व्यंजने (प ते म, श ते ह, ळ ते ज्ञ)
- Poems: फुले, अ आ आई; Story: हुशार कािळा
- Number rhymes & activities (1–10)
Mathematics
- Subtraction within 10; Subtraction up to 100
- Measurement; Time
- Money (financial literacy worksheet); Introduction to multiplication; Data handling
Environmental Studies (EVS)
- Plants Around Us; Houses Around Us; Clothes We Wear
- Animals Around Us; Means of Transport; Means of Communication
- Air Around Us; The World Around Us
Computer Studies
- Computer mouse & basic input devices
- Computer – a machine (conceptual understanding)
- Where a computer stores data (basic idea)
Why this syllabus helps (Advantages)
- Strong language foundation across English, Hindi & regional language
- Early numeracy & problem-solving through age-appropriate maths
- Environmental awareness & curiosity-based learning
- Introductory computer literacy and financial literacy (money)
How Parents Can Use This Syllabus
- Read stories & poems daily to build vocabulary and confidence.
- Use play and real-life activities for maths (coins, time, measurement).
- Encourage outdoor observation for EVS topics (plants, animals, transport).
- Practice simple computer skills under supervision.
- Check topic-wise progress to align with school’s FA/SA assessments.
Why this syllabus helps (Advantages)
Introductory computer literacy and financial literacy (money)
Strong language foundation across English, Hindi & regional language
Early numeracy & problem-solving through age-appropriate maths
Environmental awareness & curiosity-based learning
In India, parents often find themselves weighing between CBSE vs ICSE vs IGCSE boards. But which one truly fits your child’s unique strengths and dreams?
In this comprehensive guide, we have discussed the strengths of each board, so make sure you read till the end and have a closer look. We have presented you with the CBSE ICSE IGCSE comparison to help you understand the benefits of each board. This guide will help you make an informed and crucial choice for your kids that can potentially open up future opportunities for them.
CBSE vs ICSE vs IB – An Overview
As a parent, you may be willing to get your child admitted to the best ICSE school in Mumbai. Now, let’s take a quick look at how CBSE vs ICSE vs IB compares against each other.
ICSE Board
The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations has set up the ICSE curriculum. It offers the best blend of depth and balance. The ICSE syllabus ensures equal attention to languages, sciences, and arts. This empowers learners to strengthen their reasoning skills while improving expression.
CBSE Board
The Central Government has set up the CBSE curriculum, and this national syllabus is widely accepted. It builds a strong foundation in students for the key subjects. Therefore, the CBSE Board suits students who would be preparing for competitive entrance exams later on.
IB Board
As a parent, do you want your child to adapt to a global approach to learning? The International Baccalaureate may be the right curriculum in this case. It includes various projects and discussions that push the mental faculties of students and help them think independently. Learners can also solve problems with creativity and adapt to different academic environments around the world.
IGCSE Board
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education is equivalent to the ICSE and CBSE curricula. It follows a flexible framework of study that is recognized across the world. Students get a wide range of subjects to choose from, besides engaging in practical learning. Those planning to study abroad often go for the IGCSE curriculum.
Now, you know the basic differences between the curricula through this IB vs CBSE vs ICSE comparison.
CBSE ICSE IGCSE Comparison – Structure and Approach
Parents often look out for the best international school in Kandivali for their kids, particularly when they have study abroad plans. Now, let’s take a look at this CBSE ICSE IGCSE comparison to understand the curricula better. We have evaluated these three curricula based on two key parameters – syllabus and teaching style.
Syllabus – CBSE ICSE IGCSE Comparison
ICSE
In terms of syllabus, the ICSE board offers a broader and detailed curriculum. Learners benefit from the equal weight to science, mathematics, languages, and the arts. Teachers at reputed ICSE schools lay special emphasis on English. As a result, your children develop strong language and communication skills.
CBSE
The CBSE Board follows a compact syllabus that has been designed particularly for preparing for examinations. Subjects like Mathematics and Science get special emphasis. It follows a pretty straightforward structure, which makes it easier for students to prepare for competitive examinations.
IGCSE
The IGCSE curriculum is designed for the international audience. The best thing about IGCSE schools is that students can enjoy flexibility while choosing their subjects. It is meant for an international audience and adapts well to different academic needs and career paths.
Teaching Style – CBSE ICSE IGCSE Comparison
ICSE
Under the ICSE Board, students learn concepts in different subjects through assignments, projects, and lab work. Students at the best ICSE school in Borivali benefit from this comprehensive curricula.
CBSE
Teachers help students grasp the concepts in a structured manner. They clearly focus on textbooks and the prescribed content.
IGCSE
Under the IGCSE Board, the priority lies in research-based learning with project work, case studies, and presentations. This helps students build skills they would need for higher education abroad.
IB vs CBSE vs ICSE – Global Readiness
As a parent, are you comparing IB vs CBSE vs ICSE to prepare your kid to study beyond national borders in the future? You must consider the global recognition and teaching style of each board.
ICSE
Students pursuing education from top ICSE school in Kandivali are accepted by many foreign universities. ICSE schools hold an advantage as they prepare students for global readiness. Its strong focus on the English language and detailed syllabus makes it easier for students to adapt to international environments overseas where English is the medium of instruction.
CBSE
The CBSE curriculum is recognized within India and some universities abroad. However, its global acceptance is not as extensive as ICSE or IB. Under the CBSE Board, the syllabus is mostly designed for competitive exams in India. Therefore, CBSE students can continue their education domestically.
IB
The IB curriculum is extensively respected by universities worldwide. Here, the priority lies in critical thinking and interdisciplinary projects. Therefore, students learn how to research, present, and collaborate. These skills are highly valued in global higher education.
Conclusion
Always consider the career goals of your child while choosing the right board from CBSE vs ICSE vs IB curricula.
While each board has its strengths, ICSE presents both academic depth and global recognition. So, it’s a safe yet competitive choice that ensures a well-balanced growth. Top ICSE schools prepare students for opportunities both in India and abroad.
FAQ
Between the curricula, which provides students more room for extracurriculars?
ICSE schools offer more exposure to sports, arts and community work when you compare CBSE vs ICSE vs IGCSE curricula.
Is ICSE acceptable for an Indian as well as a foreign university?
Yes, the ICSE board is recognized internationally. In the senior years, students can continue with the Indian boards or opt for international programs for their higher studies.
Which board is preferable for students who shift countries frequently?
The ICSE, IB and IGCSE boards are said to be the best solutions around for children of those parents who are in regular move from one place to another.
