As soon as the students join Class 11, they ask one question which is ISC Class 11 Biology Book Vs CBSE Class 11 Biology Book. Both boards are designed to develop a good grounding in Biology, but there are differences in terms of the curriculum, method and extent of coverage.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions which may provide further understanding of the differences mentioned above.
Are the syllabus of ISC Class 11 Biology Book and CBSE syllabus different?
Yes, the syllabus has difference in term of structure and the level of detail. Here's a quick comparison:
|
Feature |
ISC Class 11 Biology Book |
CBSE Class 11 Biology Book |
|---|---|---|
|
Syllabus Design |
Conceptual with more theoretical content |
NCERT-based, aligned with competitive exams |
|
Depth of Topics |
Covers extra topics not found in CBSE |
Focuses on clarity and precision |
|
Practical Portion |
Emphasizes lab work and experiments |
Also includes practicals but with defined NCERT scope |
|
Approach to Learning |
Traditional and theory-based |
Application-based with real-life examples |
|
Board Examination Pattern |
Detailed questions requiring explanations |
Focus on objective + short descriptive answers |
Also Read: Are NCERT Enough for Class 11 CBSE Exam Preparation? - Oswaal – Oswaal Books
Which board is better for preparing competitive exams like NEET?
CBSE is generally opted for competitive exams like NEET since the pattern and syllabus of the exam is prepared mainly on the basis of NCERT books. Nevertheless, the students who have the ISC Class 11 Biology Book also can prepare well with the proper conceptual understanding. It may need further correlation with the NCERT syllabus for certain exams, if needed.
Is the ISC Class 11 Biology Book and Physics Book more detailed?
Yes, as compared to the other books, ISC Class 11 Biology Book and ISC Class 11 Physics Book are relatively more detailed in their explanations. It also provides additional topics and goes beyond the syllabus prescribed for the NCERT. This can be an advantage and a disadvantage at the same time depending on the learning objectives of the student.
Do ISC students face difficulties in switching to CBSE books?
Some students of the ISC board prefer the CBSE books as they are easier to understand and there is little or no extra information given. However, those students who have read the ISC Class 11 Biology Book and ISC Class 11 Physics Book may find it easier and can answer the questions in analytical and descriptive format.
Can ISC students use ISC Question Bank Class 12 for practice?
Yes, the students who are preparing for the board exams prefer to use ISC Question Bank Class 12 for better practice. These question banks are developed exclusively according to the pattern of the ISC examination and contain questions Chapter-wise as well as Previous Year. As we all know, it is useful for revision and to get an idea of the type of question that may appear on a given topic.
Practice Comprehensively with Oswaal360 CBSE Online Courses for Class 11 2026
Conclusion
Though both ISC and CBSE Boards have their syllabi designed for fostering a strong foundation in Class 11 Biology, there are certain variations in the focus, coverage and teaching methodologies. ISC Class 11 Biology Book is a more detailed one than CBSE Book and the CBSE book is more focused towards the exams. These differences are important for students to note because they inform the choice-making process depending on the students’ purposes: passing board exams or getting into a competitive entrance exam.
