CISCE Group 3 · Subject Code 66 · Classes 9 & 10

ICSE Robotics & AI Group 3 Subject (Code 66): Complete Guide for Schools to Implementing Classes 9 & 10

Planning to introduce ICSE Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (Subject Code 66) at your school? This is the practical playbook — syllabus, assessment pattern, lab setup, Python environment and teacher support — with every stage mapped to the CISCE framework.

22 min read The OLL Curriculum Team
OLL ICSE Group 3 Subject — Code 66: Robotics & AI for Classes 9th & 10th. Implementation Guide for Schools. Blue-and-red circuit-board hero banner featuring the OLL logo, the CODE 66 label and the '9th & 10th' badge.
Fig. 1 — OLL ICSE Group 3 · Code 66 · Robotics & AI Implementation Guide for Schools.

Introducing ICSE Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (Subject Code 66) in Classes 9 and 10 takes more than adding another subject to the timetable. Schools need to plan curriculum, the Robotics & AI lab, teacher support, practical activities and internal assessment together, from the first week of the academic year.

Rationale

Why did CISCE introduce Code 66?

The CISCE aims of the programme are to:

  1. Develop an understanding of concepts and applications in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.
  2. Build competencies via classroom instruction, laboratory learning and self-directed project-based work.
  3. Facilitate hands-on application of concepts through practical activities.
  4. Instill AI-readiness skills through Data, Computer Vision and Natural Language Processing.
  5. Introduce the AI Project Framework.
  6. Familiarise students with computational skills (basic Python coding).
  7. Create awareness of the ethical considerations of AI.

Decision

Should your school introduce this subject? Yes — here's why.

  1. Build practical technology skills. ICSE Robotics & AI moves students beyond theory into working robotics, programming, AI and hands-on projects.
  2. Develop future-ready competencies. The subject combines Robotics, AI, Python, Data and computational thinking — increasingly relevant across technology-driven fields.
  3. Encourage learning through projects. Students experiment, build, test and apply rather than memorise.
  4. Offer a structured ICSE pathway. Instead of occasional workshops, Robotics & AI runs as a proper ICSE Group 3 subject with a defined curriculum, practical work and assessment framework.

CISCE Framework

What does CISCE expect schools to do?

The CISCE Robotics and AI syllabus is built around a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory learning and project-based work. Six operational responsibilities sit with the school:

  1. Getting students to opt for the programme. Introduce the subject, its learning areas and practical applications so students make an informed choice.
  2. Identifying and training the right teacher. Ensure the teacher is adequately trained on concepts, curriculum, practical activities and resources.
  3. Arranging a curriculum provider. Books, structured lesson plans, instructional videos and other resources are all required.
  4. Purchasing materials for practicals. Robotics kits, controllers, sensors, motors and other components for hands-on activity.
  5. Implementing Robotics & AI in the timetable. Allocate regular periods for both instruction and practical work.
  6. Regular assessment. Tests, examinations, practical assessments and project-based evaluation across theory and practice.

Assessment

How is Code 66 assessed?

The prescribed ICSE Robotics & AI exam pattern gives equal weight to theory and practice: a two-hour written paper of 100 marks, and 100 marks of internal assessment.

Because half the marks come from internal assessment, year-round implementation matters. CISCE sets a minimum number of assignments for each class:

OLL infographic showing the minimum assignments prescribed by CISCE for Robotics, AI, and Python. Class 9 requires 15 assignments: 3 Robotics, 2 AI, and 10 Python. Class 10 requires 20 assignments: 4 Robotics, 4 AI, and 12 Python.
Fig. 3 — Minimum assignments prescribed by CISCE. Python carries the largest share.

Year plan

How should schools structure assessments through the year?

OLL Kit Components infographic listing 36 items included in the Robotics and AI kit — including Arduino Uno, sensors, motor driver, robot chassis, motors, wheels, screws, jumper wires, breadboard, servo motor, LEDs, buzzer, battery, tools, stickers, and packaging, with quantities shown for applicable components.
An implementation-ready kit anchors every stage of the yearly plan — practicals map directly to the assignments prescribed in each term.

1. Before the academic session

  • Lab & kit readiness
  • Python setup and software
  • Lab infrastructure
  • Teacher training

2. Term 1 — foundation & continuous assessment

  • Concepts + practical learning
  • Begin internal-assessment assignments
  • Robotics, AI and Python basics

3. Mid-year assessment

  • First structured evaluation
  • Syllabus-based test on concepts covered
  • Practical/programming evaluation

4. Term 2 — advanced learning & projects

  • Complete syllabus
  • Advanced Robotics, AI and Python
  • Integrated projects
  • Finish remaining IA work

5. Pre-Prelims

  • First full-syllabus examination
  • Full-length theory paper
  • Practical/programming revision
  • Identify learning gaps for remediation

6. Prelims

  • Final board-style preparation
  • Full-syllabus mock exam under exam conditions
  • Final revision based on performance

7. Before the ICSE exam

  • Complete IA records
  • Revise weak areas
  • Practise Python/programming
  • Final doubt-solving sessions

Practicals

Recommended assignments & practical activities

The CISCE-suggested assignments mix Robotics, AI and Python Programming, with increasing complexity across Grades 9 and 10.

Grade 9

Robotics.

  • Identify and present 5 unique smart robots and their applications.
  • Explain: "All robots are machines, but all machines are not robots."
  • Create a mind map of features, applications and classification of robots.

Artificial Intelligence.

  • Explore how AI can be used in classrooms and how teaching could change in an AI-enabled classroom.
  • Discuss how AI can be a blessing or a curse, with relevant examples.
  • Use the AI Project Framework to design a Smart School — attendance, homework, fees, library.

Python Programming.

  • Create a mind map of Python data types with examples.
  • Explore uses of Python functions and modular programming.
  • Explain different types of errors in Python.
  • Write programs using while loops.
  • Find the larger of two numbers, prime/composite, HCF and LCM.
  • Print: "AI is a Powerful Tool; however, it is to be used with Discretion."

Grade 10

Robotics.

  • Presentation on machine vs. robot vs. cobot.
  • How is technology evolving, and how does it impact us?
  • Are smart systems making humans less smart?
  • Report on robotic systems in different areas of life.

Artificial Intelligence.

  • Concept map for a Smart Transport Management System for a school.
  • Design an AI-enabled Query Management System using the AI Project Framework.
  • Ideas for implementing AI across a school using the AI Project Framework.

Python Programming & Data Analysis.

  • Work with lists, strings and dictionaries on real-world datasets.
  • NumPy arrays: indexing, slicing, searching, sorting, reshaping.
  • Pandas for CSV / JSON.
  • Matplotlib plots, bar graphs, histograms.
  • Basic data analysis on real-world datasets.
  • Regression, trend analysis and predictions.
  • Normal distribution + analysing student scores (mean, median, mode).
  • Python programs for real-world applications: electricity bills, employee bonuses.

Lab

What infrastructure does a Robotics & AI lab need?

An ICSE Robotics & AI lab needs both a digital and a physical layer. Students need computers with a Python programming environment, the right robotics hardware and access to simulation tools.

OLL infographic illustrating the connection between digital and physical layers in Robotics and AI. The Digital Layer includes Computers with Python and Simulation & Virtual Labs, while the Physical Layer includes Arduino/SBC boards, sensors, motors and servos, LEDs and components, wires and breadboards, and chassis and mechanics.
Fig. 5 — Digital + Physical: two halves of a working Code 66 lab.

Depending on the school's model, a robotics kit for schools may include:

  • Robotics boards such as Arduino or other single-board systems
  • Sensors, motors and servo motors
  • LEDs and electronic components
  • Wires and breadboards
  • Robotics chassis and mechanical components
  • Simulation and virtual laboratory environments
  • Computers with Python installed / OLL's Virtual Python IDE

The real question isn't how many components you buy. It is whether those components are enough for every activity your students are expected to perform across Class 9 and Class 10.

Pedagogy

Connect every practical to a concept

Practical work should not be an occasional workshop. It works best when it follows directly from what was just taught. After learning about sensors, students work with sensors. After learning programming concepts, they write and test code. After learning about robotic systems, they combine components into a working project.

OLL Code 66 Program infographic showing a complete Robotics and AI learning ecosystem, including ICSE-aligned textbooks, 30+ hands-on activities, robotics kits, Python and AI projects, virtual labs, teacher resources, assessments, and LMS-based progress tracking.
OLL Code 66: an end-to-end ecosystem where every practical maps back to a concept — books to kits to code to LMS assessments.

Vendor evaluation

How to choose an ICSE Robotics & AI curriculum provider

Choosing the right curriculum provider is about more than a textbook or a set of robotics kits. Schools need a programme aligned with the CISCE framework while making Robotics, AI and Python practical, engaging and easy to implement.

When comparing providers, ask five questions:

OLL infographic showing a suggested ICSE Robotics & AI assessment plan for Classes 9 and 10, presented as a seven-stage academic timeline from pre-session preparation through Term 1, mid-year assessment, Term 2, pre-prelims, prelims, and final ICSE examination preparation.
A strong Code 66 provider maps every practical, assignment and assessment against a year-long academic timeline — from pre-session prep to the ICSE board exam.
QuestionWhat a strong answer looks likeOLL
Is the curriculum mapped to ICSE Code 66?Every chapter, activity and assessment linked to the CISCE syllabus.✓
Robotics kits & lab infrastructureRequired kits, components and lab setup for every practical activity.✓
Are teachers supported?Lesson plans, videos, presentations, activity instructions and training reduce the load on teachers.✓
Can student progress be tracked?LMS, assignments, assessments and practical work visible throughout the year.✓
Service supportOngoing academic + technical support for implementation, teacher queries, lab issues and practical activities.✓

Syllabus

Class 9 & 10 curriculum — what students actually learn

The CISCE Robotics & AI curriculum for Classes 9 and 10 combines Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Python Programming. Students move from foundational concepts in Class 9 to more advanced applications, programming and integrated robotic systems in Class 10.

Class 9 — building the foundations

Robotics

  • Introduction to Robotics
  • Evolution, types, applications
  • Laws of Robotics
  • Robot components & systems
  • Motion, joints, links, DOF

Artificial Intelligence

  • Intro & applications
  • Data and information
  • Evolution of computing
  • AI ethics, bias, fairness
  • Computer Vision, NLP, Neural Networks
  • AI Project Cycle

Python

  • Python fundamentals
  • Data types & variables
  • Operators
  • Conditional statements
  • Loops and functions

Assessment: Minimum 15 assignments covering Robotics, AI and Python.

Class 10 — advancing skills and applications

Robotics

  • New-age robotic systems
  • Drones, autonomous vehicles, healthcare robots
  • Cobots & human-robot interaction
  • Gears, sensors, actuators, controllers
  • Robotic design in Tinkercad
  • Integration of robotic systems

Artificial Intelligence

  • Machine & computer decision-making
  • Automated & autonomous systems
  • Introduction to Machine Learning
  • Machine intelligence
  • Cybersecurity & AI ethics
  • Advanced AI Project Cycle

Python

  • Modules & packages
  • NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, Matplotlib
  • Lists, tuples, strings

Assessment: Minimum 20 assignments covering Robotics, AI and Python.

Resources

Books for Class 9 & 10 ICSE Robotics & AI

  1. OLL — ICSE Code 66-focused Robotics & AI books for Classes 9 and 10, combining theory with practical activities, Python, AI and robotics projects. Includes lesson plans, videos, assessments and practical kits. Buy from OLL
  2. Orange Publication — Robotics & AI learning books for ICSE students with structured chapters and activities.
  3. KIPPS — ICSE-focused Robotics & AI resources designed to help students understand concepts and prepare for assessments.
  4. STEMpedia — Robotics, AI and STEM resources with a practical, project-based approach.

Staffing

Selecting the right teacher for Code 66

Educational background.

  • Preferably a graduate/postgraduate in Computer Science, IT, Electronics, Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, STEM Education or a related field.
  • Basic understanding of coding, computational thinking, robotics and technology.
  • A formal Robotics/AI degree is not essential if the teacher has the right technical aptitude and willingness to learn.

Teaching & STEM/Robotics experience.

  • Prior teaching experience in Computer Science, STEM, Robotics, Coding or AI is preferred.
  • Experience conducting practical sessions and projects is an advantage.
  • Comfort with robotics kits, sensors, motors, programming tools and AI-based activities.
  • Ability to explain technical concepts in a simple, student-friendly manner.

Full implementation

How OLL supports ICSE Robotics & AI implementation

OLL infographic explaining the ICSE Robotics & AI Board Assessment Format for Subject Code 66. It shows a 100-mark Written Paper and 100-mark Internal Assessment, with internal assessment components including Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Python Programming, and Report and Presentation.
OLL's programme is built around the 100 + 100 board pattern — theory paper, and an internal-assessment stream that keeps Robotics, AI, Python and the final report all covered.

OLL's ICSE Robotics & AI programme for Classes 9 and 10 is an integrated school solution, not just a textbook or a hardware package. It brings together:

  • ICSE-Aligned Curriculum & Textbooks — Class 9 & 10 books mapped to Code 66.
  • 30+ Hands-on Activities — practical activities across Robotics, AI and Python.
  • Complete Robotics Kits — Arduino, sensors, motors and all required hardware.
  • Python, AI & Machine-Learning Projects — apply Python, AI and ML in real projects.
  • Assessments — quizzes, assignments, practical assessments and tests.
  • LMS & Progress Tracking — student-wise progress across the year.
  • Virtual Labs & Online Python IDE — practise from any computer with internet, no install.

OLL Code 66 Program

ICSE Robotics & AI · Class 9 & 10

A ready-to-run implementation: books, 36-item kits, Python IDE, LMS, assessments and teacher training — all mapped to CISCE Code 66.

See the Program
  • ICSE-aligned textbooks (9 & 10)
  • 36-item Robotics & AI Lab Kit
  • Virtual Python IDE (browser)
  • LMS + student progress tracking
  • Lesson plans, videos, worksheets
  • Assessments + IA framework

Impact

Real student results from OLL Code 66

OLL students have shown consistent strength in ICSE Robotics & AI, with several scoring 95+ including multiple perfect 100/100s.

Students who scored 100/100

StudentSchoolGradeResult
Anany Abhay SrivastavaN. L. Dalmia High SchoolICSE X100/100
Aashlesha Dhanraj KotianN. L. Dalmia High SchoolICSE X100/100
Hinesh Komal NyatiN. L. Dalmia High SchoolICSE IX100/100
Ranveer Mukesh SinghN. L. Dalmia High SchoolICSE IX100/100
Krishang UdasiSanjeevani World SchoolICSE X100/100

Complemented by several high scores — Isha Dipen Chokshi (ICSE X · 100), Lakshanya Panwar (ICSE X · 99), Deeveesha Vijay Bhatt (ICSE IX · 99), Mahika Amitkumar Sankhe (ICSE IX · 98), Ayaan Ashish Singh (ICSE IX · 98) — the pattern is not a handful of toppers but a whole cohort clearing 90+.

Adoption

Schools already running OLL Code 66

Several schools have adopted OLL Code 66 as a third-subject option for ICSE students, bringing Robotics & AI into the regular academic curriculum with kits, teacher resources, assessments and LMS-based learning.

  • N. L. Dalmia High School
  • Sanjeevani World School
  • Seven Eleven Scholastic School, ICSE
  • Fravashi International Academy
  • Loretto Convent School, Lucknow

Ecosystem at a glance: 400+ schools, 1,47,500+ students, 35+ cities.

Get ready

ICSE Robotics & AI readiness checklist for schools

Before the academic year begins, make sure your school has clarity on each of these:

  • Student and parent communication
  • Curriculum & syllabus mapping / provider selection
  • Timetable and instructional hours
  • Laboratory infrastructure
  • Robotics kits & component availability
  • Python environment
  • Teacher selection
  • Teacher training
  • Practical activity plan
  • Internal assessment schedule
  • Student project documentation
  • Examination preparation

Planning these early keeps the subject from becoming rushed or overly theory-focused later in the year.

Ready to implement Code 66?

Bring OLL's ICSE Robotics & AI to your school.

Curriculum, robotics kits, virtual labs, teacher resources and LMS — mapped to CISCE Code 66 and running in 400+ schools.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is ICSE Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Code 66?

Code 66 is the CISCE subject code for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in ICSE Classes 9 and 10. It combines classroom instruction, lab work and projects across robotic systems, components, motion, AI, data, Python programming and AI project frameworks.

How is ICSE Robotics and AI assessed?

Through a two-hour written paper of 100 marks and an internal assessment of 100 marks — theory and practical carry equal weight.

How many assignments are required in Class 9 and Class 10?

A minimum of 15 assignments in Class 9 across Robotics (3), AI (2) and Python (10), and a minimum of 20 in Class 10 across Robotics (4), AI (4) and Python (12).

What equipment is needed for an ICSE Robotics and AI lab?

Computers with Python, robotics boards such as Arduino, sensors, motors and servos, LEDs and electronic components, wires and breadboards, robotics chassis and mechanical parts, plus simulation or virtual-lab tools.

Does CISCE provide resources for teachers?

Yes. The CISCE Primer on Robotics and Artificial Intelligence for Teachers includes suggested activities, assignments and lesson-planning guidance for Classes IX and X.