ICSE Class 10 Home Science Board Exam Question Paper 2018 with Solutions

ICSE Class 10 Home Science Board Exam Question Paper with Solutions

SECTION A

Question 1.

(a) Define a colour wheel. [2 Marks]

Answer:
The circle containing twelve colours i.e., three primary, three secondary and six tertiary colours is called the colour wheel.

Teacher's Note:
a) A colour wheel is an illustrative organization of colour hues around a circle, showing relationships between primary, secondary, and tertiary colours.
b) Students must remember to include the exact components (primary, secondary, and tertiary) to secure full marks.

(b) State any two ways of taking care of carpets. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Carpets should not be turned or folded.
2. They should be lightly cleaned regularly, and heavy furniture should never be dragged over them to avoid damaging the fibers.

Teacher's Note:
a) Proper maintenance increases the durability and aesthetic appeal of floor coverings.
b) Avoid writing vague points like "wash them daily," as wool or heavy carpets cannot be washed frequently.

(c) Why is Ecotone so popular these days? [2 Marks]

Answer:
An ecotone is a transition area between two biological communities or ecosystems. It is popular because it acts as a buffer zone protecting neighbouring ecosystems from environmental damage (such as a wetland absorbing pollutants) and displays high biodiversity.

Teacher's Note:
a) An ecotone contains elements from both adjacent ecosystems, often resulting in an abundance of species (edge effect).
b) Ensure you mention both the ecological transition and its protective buffer function.

(d) List two factors that influence the size of the kitchen. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The number of family members and how many people work in the kitchen simultaneously.
2. The amount of storage space and the placement of major equipment like the refrigerator, stove, and sink.

Teacher's Note:
a) Kitchen planning must prioritize efficiency, workflow (work triangle), and ergonomics.
b) Do not confuse kitchen size with kitchen decoration; focus strictly on functional requirements.

(e) Name any two types of family budget. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Surplus Budget: A budget where income exceeds expenditure, allowing for savings.
2. Balanced Budget: A budget where estimated income equals estimated expenditure.

Teacher's Note:
a) The third type is a deficit budget (where expenditure exceeds income), though the question asks for any two.
b) Clear definitions with financial implications fetch full credit.

Question 2.

(a) State any two objectives of savings. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. To provide financial security during emergencies such as illness, loss of job, or accidents.
2. To meet future anticipated expenses like children's higher education, marriage, or post-retirement needs.

Teacher's Note:
a) Savings act as a financial cushion and curb unnecessary expenditure.
b) Always state distinct, practical objectives rather than general statements.

(b) What do you mean by endorsement of a cheque? [2 Marks]

Answer:
Endorsement means signing your name on the back of a negotiable instrument, such as a cheque, to transfer its ownership and right to receive payment to another person.

Teacher's Note:
a) Endorsement makes the instrument negotiable to a third party.
b) Mentioning the signature on the back/reverse of the cheque is a key keyword for examiners.

(c) Give the full form of ATM and PIN. [2 Marks]

Answer:
ATM: Automated Teller Machine
PIN: Personal Identification Number

Teacher's Note:
a) Full forms must be spelled accurately without spelling mistakes.
b) Do not write "Any Time Money" for ATM in formal examinations.

(d) What are endocrine glands? [2 Marks]

Answer:
Endocrine glands are ductless glands of the endocrine system that secrete their hormones directly into the bloodstream rather than through a duct.

Teacher's Note:
a) Key examples include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands.
b) The term "ductless" is mandatory for full marks.

(e) State any two factors affecting the physical development of a child. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Nutrition: Intake of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for proper growth and bone development.
2. Heredity: Genetic factors inherited from parents greatly influence height, body structure, and physical traits.

Teacher's Note:
a) Other factors include physical exercise, health status, and hormonal balance.
b) Keep points concise and scientifically accurate.

Question 3.

(a) What do you mean by a food group? [2 Marks]

Answer:
A food group is a collection of food items that share similar nutritional properties or classification of biological nutrient contents (such as carbohydrates, proteins, or vitamins).

Teacher's Note:
a) Examples include cereals, pulses, fruits and vegetables, milk products, and fats/sugars.
b) Mentioning nutritional similarity is essential.

(b) Name any two adolescent eating disorders. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Anorexia Nervosa
2. Bulimia Nervosa

Teacher's Note:
a) These psychological disorders are common during adolescence due to body image concerns.
b) Correct medical spellings are required for full credit.

(c) List any two factors as to why breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. It replenishes the body's glucose supply and boosts energy levels after an overnight fast, improving concentration and performance.
2. It provides essential daily nutrients and kick-starts the body's metabolism for the day.

Teacher's Note:
a) Skipping breakfast leads to lethargy and lowered cognitive efficiency.
b) Focus on metabolism and brain function as key arguments.

(d) Why should ripe bananas not be stored in the refrigerator? [2 Marks]

Answer:
Bananas are tropical fruits unsuited to cold temperatures. Refrigeration deactivates the enzymes responsible for normal ripening, while browning enzymes damage cell walls, causing the skin to blacken and the fruit to lose texture and flavor.

Teacher's Note:
a) Chilling injury disrupts metabolic processes in tropical fruits.
b) Mentioning temperature sensitivity and enzyme inhibition ensures complete credit.

(e) State any two factors causing food spoilage. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Action of microorganisms (bacteria, yeast, and molds).
2. Presence of enzymes naturally present in food or environmental factors like moisture, air (oxygen), and improper temperature.

Teacher's Note:
a) Food spoilage renders food unfit for human consumption due to changes in texture, smell, and taste.
b) Microorganisms and enzymatic action are the primary biological causes.

Question 4.

(a) Suggest any two points to be considered while storing clothes. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Clothes should be thoroughly washed, dried, and free from moisture to prevent the growth of fungus and mildew.
2. Woollen and silk clothes should be stored with mothballs, neem leaves, or proper repellents to protect them from moths and silverfish.

Teacher's Note:
a) Proper storage increases garment longevity.
b) Distinguish between different fabric requirements briefly if needed.

(b) Name the method of washing rayon fabrics. [2 Marks]

Answer:
Rayon should be washed gently using mild soap through the kneading and squeezing method, avoiding harsh scrubbing or wringing.

Teacher's Note:
a) Rayon loses its strength when wet, hence it requires gentle handling.
b) Avoid wringing as it distorts the fabric shape.

(c) What is a standardization mark? [2 Marks]

Answer:
A standardization mark is a certification on a product indicating that it meets specified quality, safety, and manufacturing standards set by a governing authority (e.g., ISI, AGMARK, FPO).

Answer:
1. When any inferior, cheaper, or toxic substance has been substituted wholly or in part.
2. When the food contains any prohibited preservative or permitted preservatives in excess of the prescribed limits.

Teacher's Note:
a) Adulteration lowers the nutritional value and safety of food.
b) Use precise legal food safety definitions for top marks.

(e) Define the term consumer. [2 Marks]

Answer:
A consumer is any person who buys goods or hires/uses services for consideration (payment or promise of payment) to satisfy personal needs or wants.

Teacher's Note:
a) The definition covers both goods and services.
b) Emphasize the end-user aspect in the definition.

SECTION B

Question 5.

Home furnishing requires aesthetic taste and knowledge.
In this context, explain the following:
(a) Three dimensions of colour. [5 Marks]

Answer:
The three dimensions of colour are:
1. Hue: It refers to the specific name or identity of a colour (such as red, blue, or green) as found on the colour wheel.
2. Value: It describes the lightness or darkness of a colour. Adding white creates a tint, while adding black creates a shade.
3. Intensity (Chroma): It refers to the brightness, purity, or saturation of a colour, showing how vivid or dull it appears.

Teacher's Note:
a) These three dimensions are fundamental for creating harmonious colour schemes in interior decoration.
b) Clearly define each dimension with appropriate terms like tint, shade, and purity.

(b) Factors affecting the selection of curtains and draperies. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Factors affecting the selection of curtains and draperies include:
1. Size and Proportion of the Room: Plain or light-colored curtains make small rooms look larger, while heavy drapes suit large rooms.
2. Purpose and Function: Curtains should match the room's utility (e.g., blackout curtains for bedrooms, washable light fabrics for kitchens).
3. Existing Room Décor: They must coordinate with the wall colour, furniture patterns, and flooring.
4. Lighting and Ventilation: Curtains should allow adequate natural light and air depending on window placement.
5. Fabric Durability and Maintenance: Easy-to-wash and fade-resistant fabrics are preferred for longevity.

Teacher's Note:
a) Window treatments significantly impact the overall interior aesthetics and lighting.
b) List at least four to five well-explained points for a 5-mark question.

(c) Important features and characteristics of flooring in a kitchen. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Important features of kitchen flooring include:
1. Easy to Clean: Kitchen floors accumulate grease, food spills, and dust, so materials like ceramic tiles or vitrified tiles that are easy to wash are ideal.
2. Non-Slippery: The surface should provide a good grip to prevent slips and falls when wet.
3. Durable and Stain Resistant: Flooring must withstand heavy foot traffic, dropping of utensils, and chemical spills.
4. Water Resistant: It should be impervious to water absorption to avoid dampness and hygiene issues.
5. Comfort: Since long hours are spent standing, the flooring should not be excessively hard or fatiguing.

Teacher's Note:
a) Kitchen hygiene heavily depends on the ease of maintaining the floor.
b) Avoid rough or kutcha (temporary) flooring materials.

Question 6.

Budgeting is an art of planning income so that some money is left aside for saving.
In this context, explain :
(a) Five advantages of making a budget. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Advantages of making a budget:
1. Helps in controlling unnecessary expenditure and living within means.
2. Ensures systematic allocation of income to various family needs according to priorities.
3. Facilitates savings for unforeseen emergencies and future goals.
4. Acts as a financial guide, preventing debt accumulation.
5. Promotes cooperation and financial awareness among family members through joint planning.

Teacher's Note:
a) Budgeting brings financial discipline and stability to households.
b) Present points with clear headings for better presentation.

(b) The utility of a passbook and paying-in-slip book in the operation of a bank account [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Utility of a Passbook: It serves as an official record of the customer's account maintained by the bank. It displays all deposits, withdrawals, interest earned, and the current balance, allowing the account holder to track transactions easily.
2. Utility of Paying-in-Slip: It is used for depositing cash or cheques into a bank account. The counterfoil, duly stamped and signed by the cashier, serves as legal proof of deposit for the customer until entries are updated in the passbook.

Teacher's Note:
a) Both documents are essential for maintaining accurate bank records and preventing disputes.
b) Clearly separate the utility of both items to score full marks.

(c) How does a recurring account help common people to save money? [5 Marks]

Answer:
A recurring deposit (RD) account helps common people by:
1. Enabling small savings: Individuals can deposit a fixed small amount every month instead of arranging a large lump sum.
2. Instilling discipline: It forces regular savings habits over a specified period (e.g., 12, 24, or 36 months).
3. Earning higher interest: It offers a higher rate of interest compared to a normal savings account.
4. Financial security: Accumulated funds with interest are available at maturity for planned expenses like education or weddings.

Teacher's Note:
a) Recurring accounts are tailor-made for salaried individuals and small earners.
b) Highlight the regular monthly deposit feature and attractive interest earnings.

Question 7.

Adolescence is a crucial stage in every individual life.
In this context explain
(a) Measures to be adopted to prevent body odour. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Measures to prevent body odour include:
1. Bathing regularly (twice daily during summer) using an antibacterial soap to eliminate sweat-feeding bacteria.
2. Wearing clean, breathable cotton undergarments and clothes to absorb sweat and prevent moisture buildup.
3. Drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins from the body.
4. Using deodorants or antiperspirants to mask or check excessive perspiration.
5. Changing socks and footwear daily to prevent foot odour.

Teacher's Note:
a) Hormonal changes during adolescence increase sweat gland activity, making hygiene crucial.
b) Emphasize regular bathing and clean clothing as primary hygiene practices.

(b) Importance of exercise in an adolescent’s life. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Importance of exercise includes:
1. Physical Health: Promotes bone density, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness, preventing obesity.
2. Mental Well-being: Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by releasing endorphins (feel-good hormones).
3. Weight Management: Burns excess calories, helping teens maintain a healthy body weight and physique.
4. Improved Posture and Energy: Enhances stamina, flexibility, and overall body posture.
5. Builds Discipline: Inculcates regular routines, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Teacher's Note:
a) Regular physical activity during adolescence lays the foundation for lifelong health.
b) Cover both physical and mental health benefits to ensure comprehensive answering.

(c) The role of parents in helping an adolescent to deal with emotional problems. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Parents can help adolescents by:
1. Providing empathetic listening without being judgmental or overly critical.
2. Balancing guidance with autonomy, allowing teens to develop self-responsibility.
3. Understanding mood swings caused by hormonal changes rather than reacting with anger.
4. Offering emotional support and reassurance during academic or peer pressure.
5. Maintaining open communication channels to build mutual trust and respect.

Teacher's Note:
a) Adolescence is marked by identity crises and emotional turbulence.
b) Emphasize patience, communication, and balanced parenting.

Question 8.

Laundering is a combination of cleaning and finishing.
In this context explain :
(a) How do you wash a school woolen cardigan? [5 Marks]

Answer:
Steps to wash a woollen cardigan:
1. Preparation: Trace the outline of the cardigan on brown paper to check dimensions later. Check for stains and mend any loose threads.
2. Steeping: Soak briefly in cold water with mild liquid detergent (avoid hot water as it shrinks wool).
3. Washing: Gently squeeze and knead the fabric; do not rub, twist, or wring.
4. Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly in clean cold water to remove all soap residue.
5. Drying: Roll in a clean towel to absorb excess water, then lay flat in the shade over the brown paper outline to retain its original shape.

Teacher's Note:
a) Wool requires delicate care because hot water and friction cause felting and shrinkage.
b) Mentioning the outline tracing method is mandatory for full credit.

(b) The importance of starches and blueing agents in laundry. [5 Marks]

Answer:
1. Importance of Starching:
- Restores crispness, stiffness, and body to cotton and linen fabrics.
- Gives a glossy, attractive finish and prevents dirt from penetrating deep into the fibers.
2. Importance of Blueing Agents:
- Counteracts the yellowish tint in white cotton or linen garments.
- Enhances whiteness and brightness, making clothes look fresh and clean.

Teacher's Note:
a) Both are finishing agents used during the final stages of laundering.
b) Explain the distinct role of starch (stiffness/finish) and blue (brightness/whiteness).

(c) Detergents are better than soaps in laundry work. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Advantages of detergents over soaps:
1. Hard Water Compatibility: Detergents work effectively even in hard water, whereas soaps form insoluble scum.
2. Better Cleansing Action: Detergents have stronger emulsifying and wetting properties.
3. Acidic Water Usability: Detergents can be used in slightly acidic solutions, unlike soap.
4. Resource Saving: Detergents are petroleum or chemical-based, saving edible oils/fats required for soap manufacturing.
5. Solubility: They dissolve much faster and more completely in water.

Teacher's Note:
a) Synthetic detergents have largely replaced soaps for laundry due to superior performance.
b) Hard water efficiency is the primary point to highlight.

Question 9.

Meal planning is both an art and science.
In this context explain.
(a) Five factors affecting meal planning. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Factors affecting meal planning:
1. Age and Sex: Nutritional requirements vary depending on whether the person is a child, adolescent, adult, or elderly, as well as gender differences.
2. Occupation and Physical Activity: Manual laborers require more energy (calories) than sedentary workers.
3. Nutritional Adequacy: Meals must provide all essential nutrients in correct proportions (balanced diet).
4. Economic Status (Budget): The cost of food items must align with the family income.
5. Food Availability and Season: Seasonal foods are fresh, nutritious, and cost-effective.

Teacher's Note:
a) Meal planning balances nutritional science with culinary creativity.
b) List key physiological and economic factors clearly.

(b) The need for adequate nutrition by the elderly. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Adequate nutrition in old age is necessary because:
1. It helps prevent and manage age-related chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Calcium and Vitamin D intake maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
3. Soft, easily digestible, and fiber-rich foods prevent constipation and accommodate dental loss.
4. Adequate hydration and balanced nutrients support vital organ function, especially the kidneys.
5. It boosts immunity and improves overall quality of life in old age.

Teacher's Note:
a) Nutritional needs change with age due to lowered metabolic rates and reduced physical activity.
b) Focus on specific needs like calcium, soft foods, and reduced fat intake.

(c) Importance of food preservation. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Importance of food preservation:
1. Increases shelf life by preventing spoilage by microorganisms and enzymes.
2. Makes seasonal fruits and vegetables available throughout the year.
3. Increases dietary variety by enabling the storage of diverse food items.
4. Reduces food wastage at home and commercial levels.
5. Stabilizes market prices by preventing seasonal gluts and shortages, ensuring steady food supply.

Teacher's Note:
a) Food preservation ensures food security and economic stability.
b) Give clear points covering preservation methods and economic benefits.

Question 10.

Consumer education helps a consumer in making sensible purchases.
In this context explain :
(a) The objectives of consumer education. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Objectives of consumer education:
1. To create awareness of consumer rights and responsibilities.
2. To provide knowledge about product standards, quality marks (ISI, AGMARK), and labels.
3. To develop critical thinking and decision-making skills to prevent exploitation by traders.
4. To guide consumers on how to select goods wisely to obtain maximum satisfaction for money spent.
5. To educate consumers on grievance redressal procedures and legal remedies available under consumer protection laws.

Teacher's Note:
a) Consumer education empowers individuals to make informed and safe market choices.
b) Mentioning consumer rights and quality marks is essential for high scores.

(b) Health hazards due to the consumption of argemone seeds. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Argemone seeds are a toxic adulterant often mixed with mustard seeds due to their similar appearance:
1. Regular consumption of oil adulterated with argemone causes a severe disease known as epidemic dropsy.
2. Symptoms include severe swelling of the limbs due to accumulation of watery fluid (edema).
3. It causes cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and glaucoma.
4. Other effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and irregular fever.
5. It can lead to fatal organ failure in severe cases.

(c) Wise buying techniques made by the consumer. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Wise buying techniques include:
1. What to buy: Preparing a shopping list based on actual family needs and priorities.
2. When to buy: Purchasing seasonal goods when prices are lower and avoiding impulse buying.
3. Where to buy: Buying from reliable shops, cooperatives, or wholesale markets for better quality and fair prices.
4. How to buy: Checking product labels, net weight, expiry dates, ingredients, and standardization marks (ISI/AGMARK).
5. How much to buy: Buying in appropriate quantities depending on storage space and consumption capacity to avoid wastage.

Teacher's Note:
a) Wise buying ensures value for money and resource optimization.
b) Structure the answer using the five standard "W" guidelines (What, When, Where, How, How much).