ICSE Class 12 Syllabus for Political Science

The ISC (Indian School Certificate) Class 12 Political Science syllabus offers an in-depth study of political concepts, theories, and institutions, focusing on both Indian and global contexts. Here’s a detailed overview:

ISC Class 12 Political Science Syllabus

**1. Contemporary World Politics

1. Cold War Era:

   • Origins and Development: Ideological conflict between the USA and the USSR, major events (e.g., Cuban Missile Crisis, Berlin Wall).
   • Major Conflicts: Korean War, Vietnam War, and their global impact.
   • End of the Cold War: Factors leading to the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War.

2. The New World Order:

   • Post-Cold War World: Changes in international relations and global politics.
   • Globalization: Economic, political, and cultural dimensions of globalization.
   • Emerging Powers: Role of China, India, and other emerging economies in global politics.

3. Regional Conflicts and Cooperation:

   • Middle East Conflicts: Israel-Palestine conflict, Iran-Iraq War, and peace processes.
   • South Asia: Conflicts and cooperation, including the Kashmir issue and regional organizations like SAARC.

4. International Organizations:

   • United Nations (UN): Structure, functions, and role in maintaining global peace and security.
   • World Trade Organization (WTO): Objectives, functions, and impact on global trade.
   • International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank: Roles and functions in global economic stability.

5. Human Rights:

   • Concept and Evolution: Definition, significance, and international frameworks.
   • Human Rights Violations: Case studies and responses by international organizations.

**2. Indian Government and Politics

1. Constitutional Framework:

   • Making of the Constitution: Historical background, drafting, and adoption.
   • Preamble: Objectives and significance.
   • Fundamental Rights and Duties: Scope, importance, and enforcement.

2. Federalism:

   • Structure of Indian Federalism: Division of powers between the Union and State governments.
   • Centre-State Relations: Key issues and conflicts.
   • Role of the States: State powers, responsibilities, and challenges.

3. Executive:

   • President of India: Powers, functions, and role.
   • Prime Minister and Council of Ministers: Powers, functions, and responsibilities.
   • State Executive: Governor, Chief Minister, and State Council of Ministers.

4. Legislature:

   • Parliament of India: Structure (Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha), functions, and powers.
   • State Legislatures: Structure, functions, and role.
   • Legislative Process: How laws are made and enacted.

5. Judiciary:

   • Structure: Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts.
   • Functions: Judicial review, interpretation of laws, and protection of fundamental rights.
   • Judicial Activism: Concepts and case studies.

6. Political Parties and Pressure Groups:

   • Political Parties: Structure, functions, and role in Indian democracy.
   • Election Commission: Role and functions in conducting free and fair elections.
   • Pressure Groups and Movements: Role and impact on policy-making.

7. Challenges to Indian Democracy:

   • Corruption: Causes, effects, and measures to combat corruption.
   • Regionalism and Casteism: Issues and their impact on national integration.
   • Secularism: Definition, challenges, and role in Indian politics.

8. Public Policy and Administration:

   • Policy-making Process: Steps involved in formulating and implementing public policies.
   • Administrative Reforms: Key reforms and their impact on governance.

Assessment:

• Written Examination:

  • Theory Paper: Questions on contemporary world politics and Indian government and politics, including analysis of case studies and current events.
  • Critical Analysis: Understanding and interpretation of political concepts and theories.

• Internal Assessment:

  • Projects and Presentations: Based on contemporary political issues, case studies, and political analysis.
  • Class Assignments: Essays, debates, and discussions on political topics.

The ISC Class 12 Political Science syllabus aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of political systems, international relations, and democratic processes. It encourages critical thinking and analysis of political events and issues, preparing students for further studies and careers in political science, public administration, and related fields.