Grade 10 Employablility Skills

 

Unit 1: Communication Skills
Communication skills mean how we communicate with each other and share our views and thoughts.

Parts of Communication
Communication has three important parts:

1. Transmitting: The sender transmits the message through one medium or another.
2. Listening: The receiver listens or understands the message.
3. Feedback: The receiver conveys their understanding of the message to the sender in the form of feedback to complete the communication.

Various Elements of a Communication Cycle
A communication cycle consists of:

• Sender: The person beginning the communication.
• Message: The information that the sender wants to convey.
• Channel: The means by which the information is sent.
• Receiver: The person to whom the message is sent.
• Feedback: The receiver's acknowledgement and response to the message.

Methods of Communication

1. Face-to-face Informal Communication:
   There is nothing better than face-to-face communication. It helps the message to be understood clearly and quickly. Also, body language can be seen in this case. It adds to the effectiveness of the communication.
2. E-Mail:
   E-mail can be used to communicate quickly with one or more individuals in various locations. It offers flexibility, convenience, and is low-cost.
3. Notice/Posters:
   Effective when the same message has to go out to a large group of people. Generally used where E-mail communication may not be effective.
   Example:

• Change in the lunchtime for factory workers
• XYZ clothing will remain closed for customers on Sunday

4. Business Meetings:
   Communication during business meetings at an organization is generally addressed to a group of people. It can be related to business, management, and organizational decisions.
5. Other Methods:
   Various other methods like social networks, messages, phone calls for communication, newsletters, blogs, etc.

Verbal Communication
Verbal communication includes sounds, words, language, and speech. Speaking is one of the most effective and commonly used ways of communicating.

Types of Verbal Communication

1. Interpersonal Communication: Takes place between two individuals and is thus a one-on-one conversation.
2. Written Communication: This form of conversation involves writing words.
3. Small Group Communication: Takes place when there are more than two people involved.
4. Public Communication: Takes place when one individual addresses a large meeting or gathering.

Advantages of Verbal Communication

• It is an easy mode of communication.
• You can exchange ideas by saying what you want.
• Quick response is possible.
• Enables you to adapt interaction as per the other person's response.

Disadvantages of Verbal Communication

• Depends on words, which can be misunderstood if not used properly.

How to Master Verbal Communication
→ Always think before you speak.
→ Be concise and clear.
→ Confidence and body language are key.

Non-Verbal Communication

• Non-verbal communication is the expression or exchange of information or messages without using any spoken or written word.
• It plays an important role in our day-to-day communication.

Breakdown of Communication

• 55% communication is through body movements, face, arms, etc.
• 38% communication is through voice, tone, pauses, etc.
• Only 7% communication is through words.

Non-Verbal Communication Consists of

1. Gestures:

• Raising a hand to greet or say goodbye
• Pointing your finger at someone

2. Expressions:

• Smiling when you are happy
• Making a sad face when you are sad

3. Body Language:
   Postures by which attitudes and feelings are communicated.

Visual Communication

• This type of communication proves to be effective since it involves interchanging messages only through images or pictures.
• You don't need to know any particular language to understand it.
• In simpler terms, visual communication is about exchanging information through images.

Examples
→ No phones
→ No entry
→ No parking zone
→ No smoking zone

Communication Cycle and the Importance of Feedback
For effective communication, it's important that the sender receives acknowledgement from the receiver about getting messages across.
While the sender sends information, the receiver provides feedback on the received message.

Types of Feedback
• Positive feedback
• Negative feedback
• No feedback

What is Good Feedback?
→ A good feedback is one that is:

1. Specific – Avoid general comments and include examples to clarify your statement.
2. Timely – Feedback should be given on time; delayed feedback loses impact.
3. Polite – The recipient should not feel offended by the language.
4. Offering Continuing Support – Let recipients know you are available for help; feedback should be continuous.

Importance of Feedback

• Validates effective listening between sender and receiver
• Motivates people to build better work relationships
• Boosts learning and helps focus on goals
• Helps in planning and improving products and services
• Improves performance

Barriers to Effective Communication

• Physical Barriers: Not being able to see gestures, posture, and body language.
• Linguistic Barriers: Inability to communicate using a common language.
• Interpersonal Barriers: Difficulty in communication due to unwillingness to express or misunderstandings.
• Organizational Barriers: Hierarchies and formal structures that restrict free communication.
• Cultural Barriers: Misunderstandings due to differences in customs and cultural norms.

Ways to Overcome Barriers to Effective Communication
• Use simple language
• Avoid assumptions based on culture, religion, or geography
• Use visuals
• Take help of a translator
• Be respectful of others' opinions
• Communicate in person whenever possible

Writing Skills – Part of Speech
Writing skills are part of verbal communication and include e-mails, letters, notes, articles, SMS/chat, blogs, etc.

1. Capitalization
Set of rules to capitalize words correctly:

• Titles: Capitalize first letters before people's names
• Word 'I': Always capitalize
• Names: Capitalize names of people, places, days, and months
• Start of Sentences: Capitalize the first letter

2. Punctuation
Marks used in writing to clarify meaning and indicate pauses:

• Full stop: At the end of a sentence
• Comma: Indicates a pause, separates items in a list
• Question Mark: At the end of a question
• Exclamation Mark: Shows strong feeling or reaction
• Apostrophe: Shows possession or is used in contractions

Basic Parts of Speech
• Nouns – Names of people, places, animals, and things
• Pronouns – Me, she, you, I
• Adjectives – Salty, spicy
• Verbs – Walk, talk
• Adverbs – Slowly, quickly

Supporting Parts of Speech
• Articles – A, an, the
• Conjunctions – And, but
• Interjections – Wow, Oh-no
• Prepositions – In, on

Writing Skills – Sentences

Parts of a Sentence
• Subject – Person or thing that performs an action
• Verb – Describes the action
• Object – Person or thing that receives the action

Types of Sentences

1. Statement or Declarative Sentence
2. Question or Interrogative Sentence
3. Emotion/Reaction or Exclamatory Sentence
4. Order or Imperative Sentence

Active and Passive Sentences

• Active Voice: The subject does the action
• Example: Radha is reading a book.
• Passive Voice: The subject receives the action
• Example: A book is being read by Radha.

 

UNIT-2: SELF MANAGEMENT SKILLS

Self-management, also referred to as 'self-control', is the ability to control one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior effectively in different situations. It helps you maximize productivity and performance across different areas of life and career.

Basics of Self-Management
To succeed, you need to master the following skills:
(i) Self-awareness: Ask for honest feedback and use it to handle situations better.
(ii) Responsibility: Take ownership of your tasks to support self-development.
(iii) Time Management: Prioritize your tasks. Create and follow a timetable. Avoid procrastination.
(iv) Adaptability: Be open to changes and adapt smoothly.

1. STRESS MANAGEMENT

Stress is our emotional, mental, physical, and social reaction to any perceived demand or threat. These demands or threats are called stressors.

Examples of Stressors
• Feeling unprepared before exams
• Worrying about appearance or public speaking

Stress Management is planning and taking steps to cope with daily pressures effectively.

Benefits of Stress Management

• Brings joy and positivity
• Helps complete tasks on time
• Boosts energy and strengthens relationships

ABCs of Stress Management
A. Adversity – The stressful event
B. Beliefs – How you interpret the event
C. Consequences – Your response or outcome

Three Steps to Manage Stress

1. Be aware – Identify signs like headaches, sleeplessness, sadness, nervousness
2. Identify the cause – Find the root of stress: exams, family pressure, poor diet, etc.
3. Apply stress management methods – Use time management tools, talk to someone, and focus on priorities

Stress Management Techniques

1. Time Management
2. Physical exercise, yoga, meditation, and fresh air
3. Healthy diet
4. Positive thinking
5. Vacations and breaks
6. Organizing academic life and avoiding procrastination

Ability to Work Independently
A calm, relaxed person can work independently, which includes:

1. Being self-aware, self-monitoring, and self-correcting
2. Knowing what needs to be done
3. Taking initiative
4. Accepting mistakes without blaming others
5. Willingness to keep learning

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions and the emotions of others.

Components of Emotional Intelligence

• Emotional Awareness – Recognizing and naming your emotions
• Harnessing Emotions – Using emotions to improve thinking and problem-solving
• Managing Emotions – Regulating your emotions and helping others do the same

Steps to Improve Emotional Intelligence

1. Understand your emotions and observe your behavior
2. Think logically and avoid impulsive decisions
3. Practice meditation and yoga

Knowing Yourself

To know yourself better, explore your:

• Beliefs, opinions, likes, dislikes, and values
• Strengths and weaknesses

Techniques to Identify Strengths and Weaknesses

1. Strengths
• Think about what you are naturally good at
• Note what others appreciate in you
• Reflect on your successful experiences
2. Weaknesses
• Notice what tasks you find difficult
• Listen to feedback from others
• Accept areas of improvement positively

Difference between Interests and Abilities

Interests

1. Things you enjoy doing in your free time
2. Activities you do without being asked
3. What you wish to learn or explore

Abilities

1. Natural or acquired skills
2. Help perform tasks with proficiency
3. Can be developed or enhanced

Note: If your interest doesn't match your ability, either improve your skill or consider a different path.
Example: You may love music but may not sing well – then you might explore music production instead of singing.

Self-Motivation

Self-motivation is the internal drive to take action without being influenced by others.

Types of Motivation

1. Internal Motivation – Doing things because they bring joy or satisfaction
• Example: Passion for painting or helping others
2. External Motivation – Doing things for rewards or recognition
• Example: Winning a prize or praise from teachers

Qualities of Self-Motivated People

• Clear vision of goals
• Strong focus
• Understanding of priorities
• Dedication to dreams

Ways to Build Self-Motivation

• Identify your strengths
• Set clear, meaningful goals
• Make a step-by-step plan
• Stay committed and consistent

In life, we need to have a clear vision of what we'll do and where we want to go.

Goals
Goals are a set of dreams with a deadline to achieve them.
Example: Saving pocket money to buy a phone by a particular date.

Goal Setting
Goal setting involves finding and listing your goals, then planning how to achieve them.

Benefits of goal setting:

• Helps focus on what's important
• Avoids distractions
• Leads to success in career and personal life

How to Set SMART Goals

SMART stands for:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Realistic
• Time-bound

1. Specific
A specific goal answers:

• Who is involved?
• What do I want to achieve?
• Where do I begin?
• When do I start and finish?
• Which means do I use?
• Why am I pursuing this?

Example:

• Non-specific: I want to learn English.
• Specific: I aim to speak English fluently by attending coaching classes after school daily. In six months, I'll participate in an inter-school debate competition.

2. Measurable
A measurable goal answers:

• How much?
• How many?
• How do I know I’ve achieved it?

Example:

• Not measurable: I want to be rich.
• Measurable: I want to have five times more money than I have today by the end of this year.

3. Achievable
Big goals should be broken into smaller, actionable parts.

Example:

• Big goal: I want to become a teacher in my school.
• Smaller steps:
• Complete higher secondary
• Complete graduation
• Complete B.Ed.
• Apply for teaching jobs

4. Realistic
A realistic goal is practical and possible to achieve.

Example:

• Unrealistic: I will read my entire year's syllabus in one day and get good marks.
• Realistic: I will spend 3 hours every day after school revising to get good marks in exams.

5. Time-Bound
A goal should have a clear timeframe for completion.

Example:

• Not time-bound: I want to lose 10 kg someday.
• Time-bound: I want to lose 10 kg in the next 6 months.

Time Management and Its Importance
Time management is a skill that helps you:

• Complete tasks on time
• Make effective timetables
• Estimate the time required for tasks
• Submit homework and assignments on time

Four Steps for Effective Time Management

1. Organize

• Plan your day and tasks
• Use a timetable
• Keep surroundings neat and tidy

2. Prioritize

• Make a to-do list
• Rank tasks by importance

3. Control

• Manage your activities efficiently
• Avoid time wasters like gossip sites or excessive phone usage

4. Track

• Keep a record of how your time is being spent
• Review and adjust plans for better use of time

Unit 3 – ICT Skills

ICT (Information & Communication Technology)
ICT skills help us to communicate, run our business, and stay connected with our family and friends. A computer system consists of two main parts: hardware and software.

1. Hardware
The physical parts that we can see and touch. Example: keyboard, monitor, CPU.

2. Software
The part that cannot be seen, but makes the hardware work. Example: Windows, MS Office.
The most important software in any computer is the Operating System (OS). It starts working as soon as we switch on the computer and displays the desktop.
Examples: Ubuntu, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS.
All applications like browsers, games, and office tools are software programs that perform specific functions.

Starting a Computer

• Press the Power button on the CPU.
• The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) runs automatically.
• BIOS performs a self-test. If successful, it loads the Operating System.

Login & Logout

• Use login-ID and password to access the computer.
• Logging in confirms you are authorized.
• Always log out after work to secure your data.

Using the Keyboard

• Function Keys: F1 to F12 perform special tasks.
• Control Keys: CTRL, SHIFT, SPACEBAR, ALT, CAPSLOCK, TAB.
• Enter Key: Moves the cursor to a new line or confirms tasks.
• Punctuation Keys: Include symbols such as colon (:), semicolon (;), question mark (?), etc.
• Windows Key: Opens the Start menu.
• Navigation Keys: Arrow keys, HOME, END, PAGE UP, PAGE DOWN.
• Command Keys: INSERT (INS), DELETE (DEL), BACKSPACE.

Using the Mouse

1. Roll Over or Hover: Shows item details.
2. Point and Click: Selects an item.
3. Drag and Drop: Moves an item to a new location.
4. Double Click: Opens a file.

Basic File Operations
Files and Folders:
Files store information. Each file has a name and extension (e.g., .txt, .jpg).
Folders hold groups of files.

Creating a File:
Open text editor → Write → Save with name and extension.

Creating a Folder:
Choose location (e.g., Desktop) → Right-click → "New Folder" → Name it (e.g., Demo).

Basic Shortcut Keys
CTRL + Z – Undo
CTRL + C – Copy
CTRL + Y – Redo
CTRL + V – Paste
CTRL + A – Select All
CTRL + P – Print
CTRL + X – Cut
CTRL + S – Save

Computer Care and Maintenance
Taking care of devices extends their life and saves money.

Tips:

• Keyboard: Avoid eating over it. Clean with soft brush.
• Screen: Wipe with soft cloth.
• Handle Devices Carefully: Avoid dropping.
• Keep It Cool: Ensure CPU fan is working.
• Avoid Overcharging: Unplug when fully charged.
• No Food/Drinks Nearby: Prevent spills.
• Plug in Devices Gently: Avoid damaging ports.
• Don’t Overload System: Too many programs slow the computer.

Maintenance Schedule
Daily:

• Clean email box
• Download and save attachments

Weekly:

• Clean keyboard and monitor
• Dust CPU and printer
• Backup data to external drive

Monthly:

• Transfer and organize photos
• Clean download folder
• Uninstall unused apps
• Run disk cleaner and virus scan

Yearly:

• Clean contact lists
• Update OS
• Renew antivirus

Backup Your Data
Save data on external devices like CDs or DVDs to prevent loss.

Scanning and Cleaning Viruses
Install antivirus software to prevent and remove harmful programs.

Improving Performance
Delete unnecessary files and temp data regularly.
This frees up disk space and keeps the system fast.

Removing SPAM
Delete unwanted emails that advertise or trick users.

Computer Security and Privacy
Security and privacy are important to protect personal data.

Threats to Computers
Theft

• Physical: Device is stolen
• Identity: Hacker steals personal info
• Software Piracy: Using unlicensed software

Viruses

• Worms: Self-replicating and hard to remove
• Trojan Horse: Disguised as helpful programs but harmful

Online Predators

• People pretending to be your age to gain trust or bully

Internet Scams

• Fake offers or lotteries to steal money or data

Protecting Your Data

• Use strong passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols
• Install antivirus and firewall software
• Encrypt data to protect it from unauthorized use
• Use secure websites with https:// and a lock symbol

NTRODUCTION –
Entrepreneurship is the type of self-employment where one is running a business to satisfy the needs of people and looking for ways to make the business better to make profits.

Successful entrepreneurs have the following qualities:
• They are confident and believe in themselves and their abilities.
• Entrepreneurs keep trying new ideas in their business.
• They are patient.
• An entrepreneur is creative and thinks differently about business ideas.
• He/She takes responsibility for their actions.
• Entrepreneurs make decisions after thinking about them.
• They work hard.
• Entrepreneurs do not give up when they face a difficulty.

Pro Tip: Try to remember 3 of these qualities because in board exams there are only short answer questions from Part A Employability Skills.

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Session 1: Entrepreneurship and Society

There are mainly two ways by which a person earns a living – wage employment and self-employment.
Wage-employed people work for someone else and get paid.
Self-employed people start their own businesses to satisfy public demands.

A self-employed person who is always trying to make his/her business better by taking some risks and experimenting with new ideas is an entrepreneur.

Example:
Ramya and Ramu both own plant shops.
Ramu sits at his shop every day. When customers come, he sells to them.
Ramya walks around and gets customers to her shop. She also sells seeds and flowers with her plants.
Ramya is working to do more and grow her business. She has also added a different idea to her business.
So, Ramya is an entrepreneur and Ramu is a businessman.

Where do these entrepreneurs do their business?
Entrepreneurs run their businesses in a market. The market consists of people who buy and sell products or services. Everyone involved earns money. Entrepreneurs help grow the area and society they live in.

What do entrepreneurs do when they run their businesses?
• Fulfill Customer Needs
• Help Society
• Sharing of Wealth
• Use Local Materials
• Create Jobs
• Lower Price of Products

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Session 2: Qualities and Functions of an Entrepreneur

Qualities of Entrepreneurs:
Confident, creative, hardworking, patient, and responsible.

Functions of an Entrepreneur:
Making decisions, managing the business, dividing the income, taking risks, and creating a new method, product, or idea.

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Session 3: Myths about Entrepreneurship

A myth is a false belief or misconception.

Common Misconceptions and the Truths:

1. Myth: Every business idea must be unique.
   Truth: You can improve an existing idea.
2. Myth: You need a lot of money to start a business.
   Truth: Not all businesses need large capital.
3. Myth: Only people with big businesses are entrepreneurs.
   Truth: Even small business owners are entrepreneurs.
4. Myth: Entrepreneurs are born, not made.
   Truth: Anyone can become an entrepreneur through thinking and effort.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for true/false or 1-marker questions on these myths.

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Session 4: Entrepreneurship as a Career Option

There are two ways to earn money:

1. Self-employment
2. Wage employment

Example:
A doctor working at a hospital is wage-employed.
A doctor running their own clinic is self-employed.

Stages in Entrepreneurship:
• Enter – Starting the business
• Survive – Facing competition
• Grow – Expanding the business

 

Green Skills

What is Sustainable Development?

Sustainable development means fulfilling the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations.

Importance of Sustainable Development

1. Fulfills the needs of people
2. Conserves natural resources
3. Maintains coordination between people and nature
4. Ensures resources are available for future generations

Problems Related to Sustainable Development

Food:
Fertile land is being used for other purposes. Soil is losing nutrients due to overuse and harmful chemical fertilizers.

Water:
Rivers and ponds are being polluted by garbage, leading to a shortage of clean water in the future.

Fuel:
Trees are being cut for wood and fuel, which leads to climate change and extreme weather.

Sustainable Development Includes

• Reducing overuse of natural resources
• Recycling and reusing materials
• Scientific management of renewable resources (especially bio-resources)
• Planting more trees
• Using eco-friendly and biodegradable materials

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The SDGs are global goals to:

• End poverty
• Protect the environment
• Promote peace and prosperity

Some key issues under SDGs include:

• Gender equality
• Clean water
• Affordable energy
• Climate action
• Biodiversity

Sustainable Practices

• Organic farming
• Vermicomposting
• Rainwater harvesting

Session 2: Our Role in Sustainable Development

Natural resources are limited. If we don’t conserve them, future generations may suffer.

How We Can Help

Quality Education
Help friends stay in school, encourage studies, and support education for all.

Clean Water and Sanitation
Avoid open defecation, build toilets, and keep water sources clean.

Affordable and Clean Energy
Use solar energy and biogas as eco-friendly alternatives to coal and other fuels.