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Syllabus

Short Story — Syllabus

ICSE · Class 10 · English Language - Archer

Short Story topics: Core Idea of Short Story Writing, Show, Do Not Tell, Writing a Short Dialogue, plus 1 more.

43 questions32 flashcards5 concepts

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A comparison chart illustrating the difference between 'telling' and 'showing' emotions and actions in writing, using specific examples to demonstrate stronger impact.
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4 Topics · ICSE Class 10 English Language - Archer · 2026-27

Topics in Short Story

1

1. Core Idea of Short Story Writing

  • 'Show; do not tell' is a maxim widely recommended by great writers.
  • A short story should make the reader feel present in the scene.
  • The writing should be dramatic and engaging.
2

2. Show, Do Not Tell

  • Emotions should be shown through gestures, expressions, and actions.
  • Specific details create stronger impact than direct statements.
  • A good shown sentence makes the reader picture the scene clearly.
3

3. Writing a Short Dialogue

  • Conversations are an important part of any story.
  • They make a story realistic, convey information about characters, and build a bridge between the reader and the story.
  • The required dialogue is usually about 50 to 60 words.
4

4. Drafting an Outline

  • Mind maps and word clouds are described as an efficient way of drafting a story.
  • A mind map is meant to be messy and unorganised, serving only as a tool to gather thoughts.
  • An outline helps decide the point of view, characters, beginning, main issue, climax, and resolution.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Writing a short story through show-don't-tell, planning, character dialogue, and careful style

Show, do not tellDialogue writingStory planningCharacter and plot developmentStyle and language choicesStory structure guidelines

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Short Story for ICSE Class 10 English Language - Archer?
Key topics in Short Story include Core Idea of Short Story Writing, Show, Do Not Tell, Writing a Short Dialogue, Drafting an Outline. Study these first, then practise questions on each for the ICSE Class 10 board exam.
How should I revise Short Story for the ICSE Class 10 board exam?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 43 practice questions on Short Story. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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