ICSE Class 11 Syllabus for Political Science

ICSE Class 11 Political Science Syllabus Latest 2025-2026

The ICSE Class 11 Political Science syllabus provides a foundation in political theory, the structure of governments, and international relations. The syllabus aims to help students understand the functioning of political systems and the role of various institutions in governance. Here is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus:

**1. Introduction to Political Science

  • Definition and Scope:
    • What is Political Science? Definition, scope, and importance.
    • Political Theories: Basic political theories and their applications.
  • Political Concepts:
    • State and Nation: Definitions, differences, and characteristics.
    • Sovereignty: Concept and significance of sovereignty in a state.
    • Citizenship: Rights and duties of citizens, types of citizenship.

**2. Political Theory

  • Political Ideologies:
    • Liberalism: Principles, key thinkers, and historical development.
    • Socialism: Principles, key thinkers, and historical development.
    • Conservatism: Principles, key thinkers, and historical development.
    • Fascism: Principles, key thinkers, and historical development.
  • Democracy:
    • Concepts of Democracy: Definition, characteristics, and types (direct and indirect).
    • Principles of Democracy: Popular sovereignty, majority rule, protection of minority rights.
  • Political Parties:
    • Functions and Types: Role and functions of political parties, types of political parties, and their significance in the political system.

**3. Comparative Government

  • Constitutional Framework:
    • Constitution: Definition, features, and significance of a constitution.
    • Types of Constitutions: Written and unwritten constitutions, rigid and flexible constitutions.
  • Forms of Government:
    • Unitary and Federal Systems: Characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
    • Presidential and Parliamentary Systems: Differences between presidential and parliamentary systems of government.
  • Governance Structures:
    • Executive: Roles and functions of the executive branch in different systems.
    • Legislature: Functions and types of legislatures (unicameral and bicameral).
    • Judiciary: Role and functions of the judiciary, and the concept of judicial review.

**4. Indian Government and Politics

  • Indian Constitution:
    • Historical Background: Evolution of the Indian Constitution, key milestones.
    • Features: Preamble, fundamental rights, and fundamental duties.
  • Structure of Government:
    • Executive: The President, Prime Minister, and Council of Ministers. Powers and functions.
    • Legislature: The Parliament of India (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha). Functions, powers, and roles of members.
    • Judiciary: Structure of the judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts). Functions and powers.
  • Federalism:
    • Division of Powers: Distribution of powers between the central and state governments.
    • State Governments: Structure and functions of state governments.

**5. International Relations

  • International Organizations:
    • United Nations: Structure, functions, and role in international relations.
    • Regional Organizations: Examples (European Union, ASEAN, etc.) and their roles.
  • International Law:
    • Concepts: Definition, sources of international law, and its role in global governance.
  • Global Issues:
    • Peace and Security: Challenges to global peace and security, conflict resolution.
    • Human Rights: International human rights norms, conventions, and organizations.

**6. Contemporary Political Issues

  • Political Economy:
    • Economic Policies: Overview of economic policies and their impact on governance.
  • Globalization:
    • Impacts: Effects of globalization on politics, economics, and culture.
  • Current Affairs:
    • Significant Events: Analysis of recent political events and trends in India and globally.

**7. Practical Work

  • Research Projects:
    • Political Analysis: Conducting research on political systems, parties, or significant political events.
  • Debates and Discussions:
    • Current Issues: Participating in debates and discussions on contemporary political issues and policies.

Notes

  • Textbooks and Reference Materials: Use prescribed textbooks and additional reference materials as recommended by ICSE or your school.
  • Updates: Always check with your school for the latest syllabus updates or specific topics.