How to Prepare for NVS TGT English Literature Section

Mastering the NVS TGT English Literature Section

The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) TGT English exam is a gateway to a prestigious teaching career. Among the various components of the exam, the Literature section is often the most challenging yet rewarding. Success in this section requires a blend of deep textual knowledge, historical context, and an understanding of literary devices. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to help you prepare effectively for the NVS TGT English Literature section.

Understanding the Syllabus

The first step in your preparation is to deconstruct the NVS TGT syllabus. The literature component generally covers:

• History of English Literature: Familiarize yourself with major literary ages—the Elizabethan Age, the Romantic Period, the Victorian Era, and the Modern Age.
• Major Authors and Works: Focus on canonical writers including Shakespeare, Milton, Wordsworth, Keats, Shelley, Dickens, Hardy, and T.S. Eliot.
• Indian Writing in English: Do not overlook contributions by Indian authors such as Mulk Raj Anand, R.K. Narayan, Anita Desai, and Kamala Das.
• Literary Terms and Forms: Understand the technical aspects like sonnets, epics, odes, soliloquies, and figures of speech.

Strategic Study Plan

To cover such a vast syllabus, you need a disciplined approach. Divide your study schedule into thematic blocks:

1. The Chronological Approach

Study literature chronologically. Understanding the social and political background of an era helps in interpreting the works written during that period. For instance, knowing the impact of the French Revolution is crucial to understanding the works of the Romantic poets.

2. Focus on Key Texts

You cannot read every book ever written. Instead, focus on the summary, major characters, central themes, and famous quotes from key literary works. Keep a 'character diary' where you note down the protagonist's journey and significant plot twists for each major novel or play.

3. Practice with Previous Year Papers

Previous year papers are the most reliable indicators of the exam pattern. They reveal the 'favorite' areas of the examiners. Analyze these papers to identify recurring themes and frequently asked authors.

Recommended Resources

Selecting the right books is half the battle won. We recommend the following:

• 'A History of English Literature' by Edward Albert: An excellent starting point for beginners.
• 'An Outline History of English Literature' by W.H. Hudson: Great for a concise overview of literary ages.
• NCERT Textbooks (Classes 6-10): Essential for understanding the basic thematic content prescribed for the school curriculum.
• Literary Criticism books by M.H. Abrams: Essential for mastering literary terms.

Effective Revision Techniques

Revision is critical for retaining factual information regarding dates, publication years, and character names. Use these techniques:

• Flashcards: Create flashcards for authors, their major works, and their publication years. Review these daily.
• Mind Maps: Create visual maps connecting authors to their contemporaries and the literary movements they belonged to.
• Mock Tests: Regularly take full-length mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve your speed and accuracy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many aspirants lose marks by focusing too much on minor details while missing the 'big picture.' Avoid spending too much time on obscure works. Instead, ensure your grasp of the 'classics' is ironclad. Additionally, do not ignore the Language/Grammar section, as the Literature section is just one part of the overall score. Maintain a balance between your reading and your practice sessions.

Final Words of Advice

Consistency is key. The NVS TGT exam tests not just your memory but your ability to analyze literary themes. Stay updated with current literary trends and keep practicing. With a structured plan and dedicated effort, you can confidently ace the NVS TGT English Literature section and secure your position as a TGT teacher.