COURSEBOOK
Aligned with NEP 2020 With HEADSTART APP
SOCIAL STUDIES COURSEBOOK
Aligned with NEP 2020
Headstart Social Studies Coursebook - Class 5
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ISBN 978-81-967554-6-1
First Edition
Preface
Dear Parents, Educators, and Guardians,
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a pivotal milestone, emphasizing the critical role of ages 3 to 6 in shaping a child’s mental faculties. Moving away from the traditional method of memorization, it highlights the significance of key learning goals, places a greater emphasis on multidisciplinary education, and aims to nurture the creative talents of every learner.
Aligned with the visionary NEP 2020, we proudly introduce the “HeadStart Programme” by Infinity Learn— an innovative educational initiative meticulously designed to fortify your child’s foundation during their most formative years. Tailored for Grades 1 to 5, this program aims to instil a passion for learning and establishes a formidable academic base.
The HeadStart Program unfolds a tailored educational experience, commencing with Grades 1 and 2, where the focus lies on making numbers (Math) comprehensible and fostering exploratory learning in Environmental Studies (EVS). Progressing into Grades 3, 4, and 5, the program expands to encompass critical mathematical thinking, exploration of Science, and a nuanced understanding of society, environment, and global citizenship in Social Studies.
Equipped with thoughtfully crafted course books, home reinforcement workbooks, and a cutting-edge learning app, the HeadStart Program leverages both traditional and digital tools to ensure a comprehensive educational experience.
What is the HeadStart Advantage?
We firmly believe that enhancing creativity, logical and critical thinking in the early years will pave the way for a robust foundation in Mathematics and Science during the middle years. This, in turn, positions learners for success in senior-grade challenges, differentiating them in high-stakes exams such as JEE, NEET, and CUET.
For educators, we provide meticulously designed lesson plans and in-class videos, ensuring uniform and effective teaching methodologies. Our mission encapsulates the question ‘Baccha Seekha ki Nahi’—did the child learn?—as we are dedicated to ensuring that each child’s learning journey is not merely a progression but a meaningful and enriching experience.
We invite you to join us in this exciting new chapter of your child’s education. The “HeadStart Programme” is more than a curriculum; it’s a pathway to nurturing a lifelong passion for learning. Let’s provide our children with the optimal start in their educational journey.
Warm regards,
The Infinity Learn Team
Animals and Plants
• The Grasslands of Prairies
Innovation and Technology
• Means of Travel and Communication
Water and Air
• Natural Resources
• Natural Disasters
• Pollution
• Saving the Environment
Seasons and Festivals
• Weather and Climate
World and Universe
• Globes and Maps
• Latitudes and Longitudes
• Major Landforms
• The Land of Dense Forests
The Democratic Republic of Congo
• The Land of Ice and Snow -- Greenland
• The Land of the Hot Sun -- Saudi Arabia
• The Indian Government
• The United Nations
World and Universe
1
Globes and Maps
My Study Plan
Shape of the Earth
Globe as a model of the Earth
Difference between globe and maps
Types and features of maps
Symbols used in maps
Let’s Recall
Pihu: “I found an old box in my grandfather’s room. It had a compass in it. The compass showed the north, but the marks for the other directions were worn off. Help me mark the other directions.”
Aayu: “I am trying to read this map. Help me!”
Fill in the blanks:
1. The hospital is to the __________ (west/east) of the house.
2. The house is to the __________ (north/west) of the school.
3. There are _______ (2/5) trees to the west of my school.
4. The school is to the ______ (south-west/ north-west) of the shop and the school is to the _________ (south/south-east) of the hospital' to 'The school is to the _________ (south-west/ north-west) of the shop and to the (south/southeast) of the hospital.
Thinking Zone
Pihu is visiting her uncles during Diwali. One of her uncles is in Abu Dhabi, while the other stays in Jaipur. She needs to plan her trip. But before that, her father asked her to find these places on the globe or on a map.
Let’s Learn
The globe does look like the Earth. It is tilted as well. But the places are not too clear. Maybe Pihu could have used a larger and more detailed globe?
On the other hand, the map gives us more detail. In the given map above, we can see Jaipur as well as Abu Dhabi. Important cities are highlighted in the map. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, a state in India.Abu Dhabi is the capital of a country called the United Arab Emirates.
Shape of the Earth
Earlier, people used to think that Earth was flat. They believed that if we reach the far edge of the Earth, then we might fall off the edges.
Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, sailed around the world and proved that the Earth is round like a ball. It is a three-dimensional shape called a “sphere.”
The Earth’s round shape has been confirmed through scientific observations and evidence, such as the way the Earth casts a round shadow on the moon during a lunar eclipse and images taken from space.
Astronomers believe that the Earth is spherical and is slightly flattened at the top and the bottom (like an orange). This shape is called an oblate spheroid or a geoid.
What is a globe?
An Oblate Spheroid
The globe is a simple and accurate model of the Earth.
A globe is a very useful tool for studying geography because it shows the Earth’s actual shape and how places are located in relation to each other. It helps us understand the size, location, and features of different countries, continents, oceans, and more. It is mounted on an axis stand.
Explorer: A person who travels to find out about the Earth and people
Model: A three-dimensional representation of a thing or of a structure, usually smaller than the original
Sphere: A perfectly round three-dimensional object, like a ball, where every point on its surface is the same distance from the centre.
Globe: A model of the Earth
Word Zone
Globe - A Model of the Earth
The axis is an imaginary line that goes through the Earth from the North Pole to the South Pole. It allows the globe to rotate, just like the Earth spins on its axis. The tilt of the axis is the same as the earth’s actual tilt. This rotation helps you turn the globe and look at different parts of the world. The axis stand also allows you to tilt the globe to see how the Earth is positioned in relation to the Sun, which helps explain day and night and the changing seasons.
Advantages of using a globe
1. We can see the correct shape, size and location of the continents and oceans on the globe.
Disadvantages of using a globe
1. It is small.
2. We cannot see all the details clearly.
3. Difficult to carry.
4. It does not show the entire Earth at the same time.
Eartha is a 5,600-pound globe. It holds the title of the world’s largest rotating and revolving globe and is situated in Maine, USA. Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 1
What is a globe?
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. The ______________ is an imaginary line that goes through the Earth from the North Pole to the South Pole.
b. The ________________ is mounted on an axis stand.
Word Zone
Axis: An imaginary line passing 'from the North Pole to the South Pole'. of the Earth through the centre of the Earth
Let’s Learn
Maps
Pihu’s father told her that maps are representations of the earth’s surface or a part of it on a flat surface like paper or fabric. It shows specific areas clearly. Maps present information about the world in a simple, visual way. It is easy to carry.
Differences between Globes and Maps
Globe Map
It is 3-dimensional.
It represents the entire Earth and cannot be made for just a part of the Earth.
It is difficult to carry around.
It is 2-dimensional.
It can represent the whole Earth or any place like a country or a city.
It can be carried around conveniently. It provides a more accurate representation of the Earth but cannot display additional details.
It can show more details and information than the globe.
Types of maps
There are a variety of maps for different purposes, such as physical maps, political maps, topographic maps, road maps, and many more. You can select the appropriate map according to your needs.
Political Maps
These maps show the boundaries of countries, states, cities, and other political divisions. They are often used to understand the administrative and political divisions of a region.
Political Map of India
Physical Maps
Physical maps depict the physical features of an area, such as mountains, rivers, lakes, deserts, and other natural landmarks. These maps help students understand the geography of a region.
Physical Map of India
Thematic Maps
Thematic maps are designed to convey specific information about a particular theme or topic, such as population growth, migration patterns, or economic indicators.
Thematic Map of India: Annual
Features of a map
The features of the map make it easier for us to understand it better. Let us look at these one by one.
Directions
There are four cardinal (main) directions and four ordinal directions. The main directions are North, South, East and West.
Ordinal directions refer to the direction found at the point equally between each cardinal direction. Ordinal directions are: northeast (NE), southeast (SE), southwest (SW), and northwest (NW).
Maps usually place north at the top and indicate it with an “N.” From there, the other directions—east, south, and west—can be determined.
Scale
It shows how distances on a map relate to real-world distances. For instance, if the scale is 1 cm: 1 km, then 1 cm on the map represents 1 km in reality. So, if two places are 2 cm apart on a map with this scale, the actual distance between them is 2 km.
Colour
Colour is often used on maps to represent different features or characteristics. For instance, blue might symbolise water bodies like rivers or lakes, while green could stand for forests or vegetation. These colours help distinguish and identify various elements on the map more easily.
Word Zone
Map: A symbolic representation of selected characteristics of a place, usually drawn on a flat surface
Map Scale
Map Directions
Colours on Maps
Signs and Symbols
Signs, symbols, and colours are used on the map to represent various features, such as rivers, mountains, roads, and cities.
Map Symbols
Symbol: Something used for or regarded as representing something else Word Zone
Fact Zone
Cartography is the art of making maps, and those who make maps are called cartographers.
Early mapmakers added fake names to catch anyone copying their maps. Long ago, cave dwellers created simple maps to show where they hunted.
Practise - 2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. ________________ maps depict the physical features of an area, such as mountains, rivers and other landforms.
b. _____________________ maps show the boundaries of countries, states, cities, and other political divisions.
2. Name the following.
a. The four cardinal directions - ______________
b. The four ordinal directions - ______________
c. The relationship between distances on the map and the actual distances in the real world - ______________
d. The blue colour on the map symbolises - ______________
Globes and maps make it easier to study about the Earth.
A globe is an accurate model of the Earth.
A map is a 2-dimensional representation of the Earth on a flat surface like a paper.
Maps are of different types – Physical, Political and Thematic.
The features of the map help us to understand it easily.
The features of the map are – Direction, Scale, Colour, Signs and Symbols
Life Skills
How can you use the knowledge about maps to find out about the places where your relatives/ family or friends are living (abroad or in India), to plan a vacation? (Hint: What kind of maps will you use? Why?)
Cross-Curricular Connections Let’s Sum Up
Maths:
Look at this map. Its scale is 1 cm: 2 km. Calculate the distance between A and B.
21st Century Skills
Create two thematic maps of India, and mark with symbols how the forests and water bodies have been affected by climate change. Additionally, list a few ways in which this knowledge can help address the problem.
Extend Your Knowledge
The lunar south pole is the southernmost point on the Moon. It is of interest to scientists because of the occurrence of water ice in permanently shadowed areas around it.
Tips for the Parent
While using Google Maps, encourage the child to spot important landmarks and correlate distance to time with them by asking questions. Engage with your child by showing them your city and your relatives’ house on Google Earth. By zooming in and zooming out of the same, encourage the child to look for familiar places in it, like spotting their school/ a park/ a railway station, etc.
Latitudes and Longitudes
My Study Plan
• Latitude and longitude
• Locating places on Earth
• Differentiate between latitudes and longitudes
Let’s Recall
Riya and Rahul are going for a movie:
Let’s not be late for the movie. Otherwise, we might have trouble finding a seat.
Our seat numbers are E4 and E5.
Seats in the Theatre
Now, answer the following questions:
1. Are they sitting in the same row?
2. In the theatre, Riya sees her cousin watching the same movie. Her seat number is C2. How many rows ahead of Riya is she sitting?
3. Is Riya’s cousin sitting closer to the aisle than Riya and her friend?
4. Is “8” a valid seat number? Why?
5. Is “A” a valid seat number? Why?
We need two pieces of information to reach the correct seat number. Similarly, when we need to find the exact location of a place on Earth, we will need two types of information. What could these be? How can those help us reach the exact location? Let’s find out.
Resham and her friend are studying the globe. They see some lines drawn on it. They are wondering what could those be. What do you think these lines are? Are these actually drawn on Earth or imaginary lines?
Thinking Zone
Latitudes
Horizontal and Vertical Lines on the Globe
The globe is a model of Earth. It shows some lines on it. These lines are not drawn on Earth — they are imaginary lines. These lines are important for locating places on the map or globe. The horizontal lines are called latitudes and the vertical lines are called longitudes.
Latitudes are imaginary lines that run horizontally around Earth from east to west. They are like a set of circles that help us locate places on Earth’s surface.
The latitude around the middle of Earth is called the Equator. It is at an equal distance from the North Pole and the South Pole. It divides Earth into two halves: the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.
Word Zone
Hemisphere: One of the two halves of Earth, above or below the Equator
Latitudes
Features of latitudes
The main features of latitudes are:
1. Latitudes are parallel to each other. The distance between any two latitudes is always equal.
2. They are measured in degrees. They are numbered from 0° to 90° North or South.
3. We start at the middle of the globe, that is 0° (Equator). As we move up, the degree of latitude increases (90° (degrees) at the poles).
4. Latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere are marked as ° N (degree north) and those in the Southern hemisphere are marked as ° S (degree south).
5. All latitudes are complete circles except for poles, which are points.
6. The length of latitudes decreases as we move towards the poles. That means the largest latitude is the Equator.
7. There are a total of 181 latitudes. One is the Equator, 90 in the Northern Hemisphere and 90 in the Southern Hemisphere.
Some important latitudes
1. Equator: 0 degrees latitude. It’s the starting point for measuring latitudes.
2. Tropic of Cancer: Approximately 23.5 degrees north of the Equator.
3. Tropic of Capricorn: Approximately 23.5 degrees south of the Equator.
4. Arctic Circle: Approximately 66.5 degrees north of the Equator.
5. Antarctic Circle: Approximately 66.5 degrees south of the Equator.
Importance of latitudes
Climate zones
Latitudes help us understand the climate of different regions on Earth. For example, places near the Equator are generally warm, while those near the poles are colder.
Fact Zone
One degree of latitude equals about 111 kilometres on Earth’s surface.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Answer the following questions.
a. What is the longest latitude?
b. Name the latitude found at 66.5° North.
c. Name the latitude found at 23.5° South.
d. What is the total number of latitudes?
Let’s Learn
Longitudes
Longitudes are imaginary lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole.
The main longitude is called the Prime Meridian, which passes through Greenwich, England. It divides Earth into the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere.
Longitudes
Features of longitudes
The main features of longitudes are:
1. All longitudes meet at the poles.
2. The distance between two longitudes is minimum at the poles and maximum at the Equator.
3. They are of equal length and are not parallel to each other.
4. They are numbered from 0° to 180° in the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.
5. The longitudes of 180° East and 180° West are the same line. There are 360 longitudes in all.
Importance of longitudes
Time zones
Longitudes help us determine time differences around the world. Each 15° (degrees) of longitude represents a time zone, which is roughly one hour.
Longitudes and Time Difference Between Latitudes and Longitudes
Latitudes Longitudes
Imaginary horizontal lines running parallel to the Equator
Distance north or south of the Equator is measured in degrees
Imaginary vertical lines running from the North Pole to the South Pole
Distance east or west of the Prime Meridian is measured in degrees Equator (0 degrees latitude)
Run east to west
Help in understanding climates, dividing Earth into temperature zones, and in navigation
Locating Places on Earth
Prime Meridian (0 degrees longitude)
Run north to south
Help in determining time differences, and in navigation
Latitudes and longitudes intersect or meet each other, forming a grid pattern or a network of lines. We use this grid system to find the exact position of any place. For this, we need the exact latitude and longitude of that place.
Steps to locate a place
1. Latitude: Find the latitude on the map or globe where the place is located.
2. Longitude: Find the longitude on the map or globe where the place is located.
3. Intersection: The point where the latitude and longitude intersect or meet is the coordinate for that specific place.
Word Zone
Grid: A grid is like a pattern of straight lines that cross over each other, making squares Coordinate: It’s like the address of a point, using numbers or letters to pinpoint a spot.
Now, look at the map and check if the statement give below is correct:
• Delhi has a coordinate of 28.70° N (latitude), and 77.10° E (longitude).
INDIA
Latitude and
Longitude Map of India
Longitudes have one very important function: they determine the local time in relation to G.M.T. or Greenwich Mean Time, which is referred to as World Time. Countries to the East of the prime meridian are ahead of Greenwich time. The time zone in India is GMT+5:30 (hours).
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. We can locate places on Earth with the help of imaginary lines called _____________ and ________________.
b. The _____________________ passes through the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.
c. The _____________ are imaginary lines that run from the North Pole to the South pole and are equal in length.
Let’s Sum Up
• Latitudes and longitudes are imaginary lines.
• Latitudes are horizontal lines that run from east to west.
• Latitudes run parallel to the Equator.
• Longitudes are vertical lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole of Earth.
• Latitudes and longitudes intersect to make a grid system, which can be used to locate places on the globe or a map.
Life Skills
Imagine you are planning a family vacation and have two options: Country A near the equator and Country B at a higher latitude. How would you predict the climate in each country based on their latitude, and what factors might influence your decision on where to go for a holiday?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Compare the grid system formed by latitudes and longitudes with X-axis and Y- axis. How will you write coordinates to indicate a point on graph paper?
Math
21st Century Skills
Find out the time zones of some countries and compare them with Indian Standard Time (IST). Based on the location of the country, explain these differences.
Extend Your Knowledge
The International Date Line (IDL) is an imaginary line of demarcation on the surface of Earth that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole. It lies on the opposite side of the prime meridian. It demarcates the change of one calendar day to the next.
The time difference on either side of this line is 24 hours. So, the date changes as soon as one crosses this line. This line is drawn through where the sea lies and not on land to avoid any confusion of date. Hence, the IDL is drawn in a zig-zag manner.
Tip for the Parent
Encourage your child to find the coordinates of the town/city you live in. Ask them to find the coordinates of other towns/cities, states, and countries.
Weather and Climate
My Study Plan
• Weather
• Climate
• Difference between weather and climate
• Factors affecting the climate of an area
• Climatic conditions in the three heat zones – the Torrid Zone, the Temperate Zone and the Frigid Zone
Let’s Recall
Observe the given pictures and complete the words to describe the weather.
WEATHER EFFECTS
Thinking Zone
Imagine you are going on a trek on a high mountain. Write down any three important precautions and safety measures you will take before going on the trek, keeping in mind how breathing would be difficult in high altitudes.
Let’s Learn
Weather
Weather is the condition of the atmosphere at a particular place on a particular day or time. The condition of air, temperature, wind, humidity and rainfall at a particular time determines the weather of that place.
Weather
Word Zone
Atmosphere: The layer of air around the Earth
Temperature: The measure of how hot or cold something is
Humidity: The amount of moisture in the air
Weather is a temporary phenomenon because it changes every day. It may even change during the same day. Some days, the weather might be cloudy in the morning, but by afternoon, boom! It is sunny.
How are weather conditions recorded?
A thermometer tells us the temperature and a barometer helps predict changes in the air pressure in an area.
Climate
Word Zone
The climate of an area is the sum total of the weather it experiences over a very long period of time, such as years or decades. Unlike the weather of a place, which may keep changing, the climate of a place remains the same year after year.
The climate of an area is not affected by hourly or daily changes in the atmosphere. It is affected by conditions over an entire region rather than one specific area. For example, Mumbai is located on the western coast of India near Arabian Sea. It has tropical wet and dry climate with high humidity. So, most places on the western coast will have a similar climate as Mumbai.
Phenomenon: A remarkable event or happening
Thermometer: An instrument to measure temperature
Barometer: An instrument to measure pressure changes
Decades: Periods of ten years
Differences between weather and climate
Weather Climate
Refers to the actual atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place
Describes what you experience outside your window on any given day
Can change quickly, even from hour to hour, and is influenced by local conditions, like unexpected rain on a sunny day
Fact Zone
Represents the long-term average of weather conditions in a particular area
Describes what the weather is typically like in that place over years or decades
Is more stable and is influenced by regional conditions, like the location of a place near the sea or in the mountains
The Earth’s average temperature has increased by about 2° Fahrenheit (1° Celsius) since the late 1800s. This warming is mainly because of the increased release of carbon dioxide into the air by burning fossil fuels. As recorded till date, the years 2016 and 2023 were the hottest so far.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Answer the following questions.
a. Why should we check the weather forecast before stepping out in a new place?
b. How does knowing about the climate of an area help us plan our vacations?
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. Weather is the day-to-day ____________ conditions, while climate represents long-term ____________ patterns.
b. Weather is determined by factors like ____________ and ____________.
c. Weather can change rapidly, from sunny to stormy, in a matter of ____________, while climate represents average conditions over __________.
d. Understanding ____________ is important for choosing daily outfits, while understanding ____________ helps in long-term agricultural planning.
Let’s Learn
Factors Influencing Climate
Many factors play a crucial role in shaping the climate of a region. Let’s explore them.
1. Distance from the equator
The climate of a place is significantly affected by its distance from the equator. Regions near the equator experience hot climates because the sun’s rays fall directly on them, concentrating the heat in a small area.
Word Zone
Concentrating: Focusing on a smaller area, increasing the strength
Distance from the Equator Affects the Climate
As we travel from the equator to the poles, the sun’s slanted rays cover a greater area. This makes the heat less concentrated, resulting in cooler temperatures.
That’s why the north and south poles have an extremely cold climate, whereas equatorial areas have a hotter climate.
2. Altitude
Altitude is the measure of the height of a place above sea level. The temperature tends to drop about 1° Celsius for every 100 metres increase in altitude.
Weather Impacted by Altitude
Places at higher altitudes, like hill stations such as Ooty in the Nilgiri Hills, have colder climates compared to lower-altitude areas. Even though Ooty is near the equator, its higher altitude keeps it cool. The Himalayan peaks are much higher than the Nilgiris. They remain snow-covered even during summers.
3. Distance from the sea
Oceans heat up and cool down slower than land, resulting in a moderating effect.
During the day, the land heats up faster than the water. As the land becomes warmer, the air above it rises, creating a low-pressure area. Cooler air from the sea moves in to fill this low-pressure area, creating the sea breeze. Sea breezes are common in coastal regions, especially on sunny days. They have a cooling effect on the land, making coastal areas more comfortable during hot afternoons. They also bring moisture from the sea, which can result in cloud formation and sometimes rain.
During the night, the land cools down faster than the water. As the land loses heat, the air above it becomes cooler and denser, creating a high-pressure areawhereas low pressure builds up above the water. Cooler air from the land moves towards the sea to fill this low-pressure area, resulting in the land breeze. Land breezes are common in coastal areas during the evening and night. They have a warming effect on coastal areas during the night.
The movement of the sea and land breeze keeps coastal areas like Mumbai cool in summer and warm in winter compared to other areas of the country. The regions far from the sea have more extreme temperature variations, like the northern parts of India, which experience very hot summers and freezing winters.
Word Zone
Denser: Having more mass or particles in a given volume, making it heavier or more tightly packed
SEA BREEZE SEA BREEZE
Sea Breeze
Land Breeze
4. Direction of the wind
Wind direction plays a role in climate. Sea breezes, which blow from the sea towards the land, bring moisture and rain to coastal areas like Mumbai. Land breezes, blowing from land to sea, are warm and dry.
5. Humidity
Humidity is the amount of water vapour in the air. An increase in humidity increases the chances of rainfall. Coastal regions like Mumbai tend to have higher humidity levels as evaporation of surface water in the day increases the amount of water vapour above such areas. In colder places, the increased humidity results in snowfall rather than rainfall.
The air becomes thin at high altitudes and contains much less oxygen. This can cause illnesses in humans, such as altitude sickness. Humans have difficulty breathing above 5,500–6,000 m. The altitude of Mount Everest is 8,848.86 m. Mountaineers train for months and carry oxygen cylinders to climb such high mountains.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Give reasons for the following.
a. Places near the equator have hot and humid climates, while those closer to the poles have colder climates.
b. It may rain on a sunny day in coastal areas.
c. The high mountain tops are covered with snow even in summer.
d. The coastal areas have a hot and humid climate.
e. Land breeze is dry and warm.
Fact Zone
Let’s Learn
Heat Zones of the Earth
The climate of the poles is very different from the climate near the equator. All the places in a certain area have similar climatic conditions based on the factors that influence its climate. So, the world is divided into three distinct climatic zones based on regions with similar climatic conditions. These are the Torrid, Temperate, and Frigid zones.
The Torrid Zone
Also known as tropical zone or tropics, this zone lies between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. It receives direct sunlight, resulting in a hot and humid climate. Some parts of this zone also experience heavy rainfall. India lies in this zone.
The Temperate Zone
This zone covers the region from the Tropic of Cancer to the Arctic Circle in the Northern Hemisphere and from the Tropic of Capricorn to the Antarctic Circle in the Southern Hemisphere. In this zone, sunlight falls at an angle, leading to a climate that is neither extremely hot nor very cold.
The Frigid Zone
Also known as polar zone, this zone includes the areas from the Arctic Circle to the North Pole in the Northern Hemisphere and from the Antarctic Circle to the South Pole in the Southern Hemisphere. This zone has extremely cold conditions and remains snow-covered throughout the year.
Word Zone
Humid: Air with lots of moisture Angle: At a tilt or slant
Heat Zones
Fact Zone
Torrid zone has the largest varieties of plant and animal species due to various factors including consistent climate, abundant sunlight and high rainfall.
Let’s Practise - 3
1. Give reasons for the following.
a. Why is the world categorised into three heat zones?
2. Match the following.
Heat Zone
Characteristics
a. Torrid Zone i. Extremely cold, snowy all year round
b. Temperate Zone ii. Hot, humid and rainy
c. Frigid Zone iii. Not too hot or cold
Word Zone
Hemisphere: Half of the Earth
Let’s Sum Up
• Weather is the day-to-day atmospheric conditions, including temperature, wind, humidity and rainfall, and it can change quickly.
• Climate is the sum total of long-term weather patterns for a region and remains relatively stable year after year.
• Factors influencing climate include the distance from the equator, altitude, distance from the sea, wind direction, and humidity.
• The world is divided into three main climatic zones: the Torrid Zone (hot and humid), the Temperate Zone (neither too hot nor too cold), and the Frigid Zone (extremely cold).
Life Skills
How can you use the knowledge about the climate of a tourist destination and its daily weather forecast to plan a vacation?
History:
In which heat zone did the first humans evolve?
Science:
What adaptations are seen in the plants and animals living in the frigid zone that help them survive in the extreme cold?
21st Century Skills
Imagine you are visiting Mumbai with your parents in the month of October, just when winter begins in our country. You are taking a stroll on the Marine Drive on the coast of the Arabian Sea. It was a bright, sunny day. Suddenly, it became cloudy, and there was a light rainshower!
What caused this sudden change of weather?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Extend Your Knowledge
Find out how the climate of an area affects the diet and occupation of the local people.
Tips for the Parent
• Watch the weather forecast with your child on television one day and ask them to notice the variations in weather in different parts of India.
• While planning a trip to a place other than the one you live in, ask your child to find out about the climatic condition of the place.
World and Universe Major Landforms
My Study Plan
• Mountains and their features
• Plateaus and their characteristics
• Features of plains and their importance
• Deserts and their unique characteristics
• Rivers and their significance
Let’s Recall
Look at the picture and identify the different landforms. Use the words given in the box below.
Mountain Lake Hill Valley River Plain
Our Earth is not a plain land mass. It has points as high as the Mount Everest and regions as low as the Spiti Valley. From deserts to plains to plateaus, we see a variety of different places on Earth. These variations are called landforms. Landforms are also called relief features.
Thinking Zone
Aayu and Pihu are studying the globe to understand what it represents. Do you know what the different colours on the globe stand for?
Let’s
Learn
Mountains
Mountains are elevated landforms with steep and sloping sides and peaks.
Some mountains are not very tall. They are known as hills.
When mountains are grouped together, they form a mountain range. Examples of mountain ranges include the Andes and the Himalayas.
Newer mountains, like the Himalayas, have sharp peaks whereas the Aravalli in Rajasthan, being older mountains, have rounded peaks.
Features of Mountains
• Mountains have less vegetation at higher altitudes due to snow cover.
• People usually inhabit the lower parts and foothills of mountains.
• Mountains act as natural barriers against cold and hot winds.
Word Zone
A Mountain Range
Settlements at Foothills
Elevated: Raised above the ground
Altitudes: Heights above sea level
Foothill: A low hill at the base of mountain Barriers: Obstacles that block movement
• Rivers originate from snow-capped mountains, supplying water to various areas.
• The slopes of mountains are rich in flora and fauna.
• Mountains are a source of various minerals.
• The scenic beauty of mountains and their surrounding regions attract tourists.
Plateaus
Plateaus rise above their surroundings like mountains and hills, but they have flat tops without peaks, often called tablelands. They are found in all continents.
Features of Plateaus
• The geographic location of the plateau decides the vegetation found there.
• Some plateaus can be hundreds of kilometres long, like the Deccan Plateau in India, which spans over eight Indian states.
• Minerals such as coal, iron ore, bauxite, manganese, and copper are often found in plateaus. Many rivers flow through plateaus.
• Some plateaus have canyons, which are deep valleys with steep sides, usually with a river flowing through it. The Grand Canyon, for example, is located in the Colorado Plateau in the United States of America.
Plains
Plains are large, low-altitude landforms formed by rivers. Rivers originate in the mountains and flow down. These rivers deposit sand and silt along their beds, gradually creating plains. These landforms can be found near seas across continents.
The northern plains of India have been formed by rivers Yamuna, Ganges, Brahmaputra and their respective tributaries.
Plateau
Plains
Features of Plains
• Plains have fertile soil from river deposits, making them suitable for agriculture. They support the growth of a wide variety of crops.
• Plains are more populated than mountains and plateaus. Many towns and cities can be found in the plains.
• Many historical civilisations have flourished along riverbanks on the plains.
• Plains are ideal for human settlement due to good transportation, availability of water, and fertile soil.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Match the landforms to their descriptions: Landform Descriptions
a. Mountains
b. Plateaus
c. Plains
Deserts
i. Flat tops without peaks
ii. Large, low latitude landforms suitable for agriculture
iii. Elevated landforms with peaks
Deserts are vast sandy areas with minimal rainfall and extreme temperatures. They have very little vegetation, and only a few animals like camels, lizards, and snakes can survive there.
Some of the famous deserts of the world include the Sahara desert in Africa, and the Thar and Arabian deserts in Asia.
Features of Deserts
• Deserts are hot during the day and cold at night.
• Deserts receive very little rainfall, making them extremely dry.
• Sandstorms are common in deserts. Sand dunes are small hills of sand that are formed due to the wind.
• Common desert plants include cacti and date palms.
Flourished: Prospered Word Zone
Desert
• Oases, or small pools of water, can be found in deserts. They are usually surrounded by date palm trees. These are fertile areas amidst a desert where water and vegetation are present.
• Deserts are usually found in the western parts of continents. Famous deserts include the Sahara desert in Africa, the Thar desert in Asia, the Great Sandy desert in Australia, and the Patagonian desert in South America.
Rivers
Rivers are natural waterbodies that flow from higher places to lower places. They originate from mountains and go through different places. Rivers are the primary source of water when there is low/no rainfall, supporting the survival of animals and plants. They also help people in travel and trade. Many cities and towns are built near rivers.
Journey of a River
A river passes through three different stages:
A. The Upper or Youthful stage
This is the first stage in which the river flows down rapidly from the mountain, creating valleys, waterfalls, canyons, and rapids.
B. The Mature stage
This is the second stage, and begins in the plains. The river is joined by its tributaries and deposits silt along its course. In this stage, the size of the river widens, and the speed decreases. It thus creates loops or meanders.
River
Water
Stages of the River
Meanders Delta
C. The Old stage
This is the final stage. The speed of the river reduces further and it is ready to flow into the sea. Just before entering the sea, it breaks into many streams, called distributaries, forming a delta.
The Sundarbans Delta, and the Nile Delta are some examples of deltas.
Features of Rivers
• Rivers have flowing water that goes from higher to lower places.
• Rivers start as small streams and get larger as they join together.
• Rivers can be narrow or wide, and they have curves.
• Rivers have banks on each side.
• Some rivers form waterfalls.
• Rivers flow into bigger bodies of water, like seas or oceans.
• When rivers flood, they can create flat areas called floodplains.
• Rivers are important for plants, animals, and people. They can be used to generate electricity.
Some famous rivers are the Amazon, the Nile, the Mississippi, the Yangtze, and the Ganges.
Mesopotamia is the oldest civilisation in the world. It developed along the banks of two great rivers, the Euphrates and the Tigris. In the midst of a vast desert, the people of Mesopotamia relied on these rivers to provide them with drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and major transportation routes.
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 2
Answer the following questions in one word with the help of the box given below.
Deserts Rivers Oasis
1. Which landform has extreme weather conditions and sandy terrain?
2. What is a fertile area amidst a desert called?
3. Which body of water is characterised by its continuous flow of water from higher to lower areas?
Let’s Sum Up
• Major landforms include mountains, plateaus, plains, deserts, and rivers.
• Each landform has unique features.
• Mountains are tall with steep sides.
• Plateaus are flat on the top without peaks and are often called tablelands.
• Plains have fertile soil and many people live there.
• Deserts are sandy, and have extreme weather conditions.
• Rivers flow from higher to lower surfaces, and they are important for plants, animals, and people.
Life Skills
If you were to plan a family picnic, which location would you choose: near a river, on a plain, or in the mountains? Justify your choice.
Cross-Curricular Connections
Science
Describe how the availability of water in a river influences the lives of people living nearby. Also, suggest ways in which we can protect and preserve our natural landforms, such as mountains and rivers for the future generations.
21st Century Skills
• Aayu and Pihu recently visited the Aravalli Ranges in Rajasthan. They were able to explore different landforms there. Help Aayu and Pihu create an engaging album on their visit and show it to the class. Use Internet as a tool to make the activity fun and interactive.
• Aayu and Pihu went on a vacation with their family to Manali. Aayu saw the road taking twists and turns, just like the river in the adjacent valley. He started feeling giddy and was about to throw up. On seeing Aayu’s condition, Pihu wondered:
1. Why can’t roads in mountains be as straight as highways?
2. Why does a river have so many turns? What are they called?
3. How are roads built in such difficult terrain?
Help Pihu find the answers to these questions.
Extend Your Knowledge
The movement of tectonic plates under the Earth create various landforms. For example, when two plates collide, they can form mountains. Conversely, when plates pull apart, they create rift valleys.
Tips for the Parent
• Go on nature walks together to discover landforms like hills, valleys, and rivers.
• Explain the major landforms using maps, globes, and online tools to spark curiosity.
• Plan creative projects to make models or drawings of different landforms for hands-on learning.
The Land of Dense Forests -The
Democratic Republic of Congo
My Study Plan
Location and landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Vegetation, climate, and wildlife in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Transport, economy, and life of the people in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Let’s Recall
Africa is one of the seven continents in the world and is the second largest. It is situated in the eastern hemisphere, spanning both the northern and southern hemispheres. Can you locate the continent of Africa on this map? Mark its outline in red colour.
Thinking Zone
As we know, the equator divides the Earth into two halves, and it also passes through the continent of Africa. Can you find out through which countries it passes in the continent of Africa?
Countries on the Equator
Let’s Learn
Location
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country in the African continent. It is located in the central part of Africa. It was previously known as Zaire. Its capital is Kinshasa. It is a landlocked country having a very small coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
Landlocked: Surrounded by land Coastline: The coastline is where land meets the sea Word Zone
AFRICA
REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
Map
The Democratic Republic of Congo
To the east of the DRC lie the countries Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and Tanzania.
To the west is the Republic of Congo, in the north are the Central African Republic and Sudan, and in the South are Angola and Zambia. The western tip of the country touches the Atlantic Ocean. Nine countries surround the DRC.
Landscape
The DRC has many features such as rivers, mountains, plateaus, and lakes. However, the most remarkable feature of the country is the Congo river. The Ruwenzori mountains are home to some of the highest peaks in Africa. Its highest peak is the Margherita peak. There are four major lakes in the DRC –Lakes Albert, Edward, Kivu, and Tanganyika.
Congo River
The DRC is in the equatorial region. It means it’s close to the middle of the earth. It is hot and humid throughout the year. It receives rainfall almost daily around 4 pm. Hence, it is also known as the 4 o’ clock rain. There is no winter season. The mornings are warm, the afternoons are very hot and humid, but the nights are cool.
Word Zone
Equatorial: Near the Earth’s equator
Humid: When there is a lot of moisture in the air
4 o’ clock rain: The rainfall that occurs daily happens around 4 p.m
The
Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley Climate
Hot and Humid Climate in DRC
Fact Zone
There are two countries with similar names: the larger one is the Democratic Republic of the Congo (often referred to as DRC or DR Congo), and the smaller one is the Republic of the Congo.
Let's Practise - 1
1. What is the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)?
2. On which mountain range is the highest peak of the DRC situated?
3. Name the following.
a. The main river in the DRC - ___________.
b. A lake in the DRC - __________.
c. Type of climate in the DRC - ______________.
Let’s Learn
Vegetation
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) gets rain all year, so it’s full of green plants and trees. It has dense forests with tall trees up to 60 metres high, creating a canopy that blocks sunlight. This keeps the lower parts of
Word Zone
Leafy roof made by trees
Dense Canopy of Forest Trees
Canopy:
the forest damp and dark, where you will find shrubs, herbs, and small plants. Because the trees shed leaves at different times, the forests stay green, earning them the name evergreen forests.
Wildlife
The DRC is also known as the Natural Zoo of the World. It has five national parks listed as World Heritage sites. It’s home to various animals like monkeys, baboons, chimpanzees, and mountain gorillas.
The Savanna grasslands have elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. The swamp regions host African forest elephants, bonobos, and gorillas. The rivers in the DRC have diverse fish, alligators, and crocodiles. Its forests are home to many snakes and reptiles.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the second largest country in Africa.
National Parks: Areas protected for nature conservation
World Heritage sites: Special places of global significance
Swamp: Wet, muddy land Word Zone
Gorilla Monkey
African Elephant Crocodile Cobra Snake
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Which country is known as the Natural Zoo of the World?
2. What type of forest is there in the DRC?
3. Name some animals found in the DRC forests.
Let’s Learn
Transport
Transport is a big challenge in the DRC as they are still working on better roads and trains. Currently, these mainly connect big towns and cities. Rivers are crucial for reaching interior areas and forests. Air travel is also becoming popular in the country.
Economy
Water Transport
Mineral resources are the country’s primary economic source. Despite having rich natural resources and valuable minerals, the country is weak economically. Most of the people- more than 70%, live in extreme poverty. However, there have been some improvements in the last two decades, and the economic conditions in the country are gradually improving.
Mining
The DRC is very rich in natural resources. It is the largest producer of cobalt ore in the world. It is also the largest producer of tantalum, a mineral used for manufacturing computers and mobile phones. Thus, mining is the primary industry and one of the major occupations in the DRC.
Other minerals found in the DRC are gold, silver, tin, manganese, iron ore, coal, bauxite, and uranium. Most of the minerals are exported as industries are not well developed.
Mining
Agriculture
Agriculture is another major occupation in the DRC. It is the source of income for most of the population. The main crops cultivated here are rice, maize, and cassava. The roots of cassava are ground into flour to make bread. The fertile soil also yields a good amount of cash crops like cotton, tobacco, cocoa, coffee, rubber, and oil palm. The cash crops are grown for export to other countries.
Farming
Other industries in the DRC are textile, paper, soap, cement, and petroleum industries.
Word Zone
Yields: Amount of crop harvested
Life of the People
The DRC is sparsely populated with people belonging to many different cultural groups. Most of the people live in villages. The people speak the Bantu language. However, the official language of the DRC is French. In rural areas, people live in thatched huts. People in towns and cities have adopted a western lifestyle. The original inhabitants are the short-statured pygmies. They follow the huntergatherer lifestyle. They enjoy music and drumming. Most of the population follows Christianity while the others still follow traditional African customs.
Kinshasa is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world.
Let’s Practise - 3
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The DRC is the largest producer of the ______ ore.
b. The root of ______ is ground to make flour for bread.
c. Cash crops are chiefly cultivated for _______ to other countries.
d. The ______ are the original inhabitants of the DRC.
e. The DRC is an economically _______ country.
Word Zone
Sparsely: Small in numbers
Huts
Pygmies
Fact Zone
Let’s Sum Up
The DRC is in the central part of Africa in the equatorial zone. It is landlocked by 9 countries.
It has a variety of geographical features including rivers, mountains, plains, plateaus, and dense forests.
It has dense tropical evergreen forests with rich vegetation serving as habitat for a large variety of animals like gorillas, rhinoceros, elephants, hippos, giraffes, lions, okapis, alligators, snakes, bonobos, chimpanzees, etc.
It has very rich mineral reserves of cobalt ore, iron ore, bauxite, gold, silver, copper, tantalum, uranium, diamonds and other metals.
Mining is a major occupation along with agriculture. Economically it is a weak country, and most of the population lives below the poverty line.
People of many different cultural backgrounds are found in the DRC. Most people follow Christianity and speak the Bantu language.
Original inhabitants are the short-statured pygmies who are hunters and gatherers and are now found in only a small region.
Transport is not well developed, and railways and roadways are only found in major places. Waterways are used to reach interiors.
Life Skills
Why do you think it’s important for a country like the Democratic Republic of Congo to work on improving its transportation system, and how do you think better transportation can positively impact the lives of the people living there?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Maths:
The Congo River is the second-longest river in Africa, stretching approximately 4,700 kilometres. If a boat travels at an average speed of 25 kilometres per hour, how many hours will it take to travel the entire length of the Congo River?
21st Century Skills
Create a PowerPoint presentation on the diverse wildlife in the DRC.
Extend Your Knowledge
Did you know that the Democratic Republic of Congo has the secondlargest rainforest in the world? It’s called the Congo Basin Forest. This big and diverse rainforest helps control the Earth’s climate and is home to many different plants and animals, making it important for our planet.
Tip for the Parent
Show your child the different geographical features in the DRC on a map through online resources. Discuss with your child why a country like the DRC though rich in valuable resources is not economically developed.
The Land of Ice and Snow -Greenland
My Study Plan
• Location of Greenland on the world map
• Vegetation, climate and wildlife in Greenland
• Economy and life of the people in Greenland
Let’s Recall
Can you locate the continent of North America on this map? Mark its outline in red colour.
Map not to scale
World Map
Thinking Zone
Aayu was reading about the continent of North America. He learnt that it is a big continent which also includes the largest non-continental island of the world. He also learnt that the island contains the tundra region which has very less vegetation and no trees. He began wondering what kind of animals would be found in the region and decided to find out more about it. Can you help Aayu with this?
Let’s Learn
The largest non-continental island that Aayu read about is located in the Atlantic Ocean and is known as Greenland . It is located in the northern Atlantic Ocean. People in Greenland also call it ‘Kalaallit Nunaat,’ which means the land of the Greenland people. The capital of Greenland is Nuuk, also known as Godthaab, meaning good hope. It is the largest island that is not a continent. It has its own local government and is self-governed as an autonomous province of Denmark.
Map not to scale
Greenland on World Map
Word Zone
Autonomous: An independent region which has the freedom to govern itself
Location
Greenland lies in the polar region, which is the area surrounding the North Pole and the South Pole. The northern polar circle is known as the Arctic Circle and the southern polar circle is known as the Antarctic Circle. Since the polar region consists of ice and snow, it is also known as the Frigid Zone. Almost two-thirds of Greenland lies in the Arctic Circle.
Map not to scale
Greenland under Arctic Circle
It is located to the northeast of Canada. The Baffin Bay separates Greenland from the northern island of Canada called Ellesmere Island. In the southeast, it is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Greenland Sea lies next to its east border. The Arctic Ocean lies to its north and the Baffin Bay to its west. Iceland is a country to the southeast part of Greenland.
Greenland’s Map
Word Zone
Bay: Body of water partially surrounded by land
Climate
As Greenland lies in the Arctic Circle, it has an Arctic climate making it extremely cold throughout the year. Almost 80% of Greenland is covered with a single large and thick ice sheet and hence appears white.
The summer season lasts from late May to August and even into September. Summers are very cold; however, the temperatures are not below freezing point. In summer, the temperatures may be around 70 Celsius in the southwestern coasts while 40 Celsius in the Northern regions. The Sun may not set from the end of May till the end of July. This phenomenon occurs in the Arctic region due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and is known as the Midnight Sun.
However, in the southern regions, there is a bright and sunny climate during summer, with the possibility of 24-hour days.
The winter season spans from October to May in Greenland, with extremely cold temperatures. In January, the average winter temperature ranges from -7°C in the south to -34°C in the north. In the Arctic regions during winter, the Sun doesn’t Word Zone
Ice sheet: A very large layer of ice covering a land for a very long period
A Town Covered with Snow
Midnight Sun
rise for several months, leading to no sunlight and continuous snowfall. Cold winds also blow during this season, and when the Sun is visible, it stays near the horizon for only a short time.
Sun over the Horizon
The spring and autumn have a very short duration in Greenland. The ice sheet that covers Greenland is about 1500 m thick. As snow falls on the ice sheet, it is compressed to form ice layers. As layers get piled up, the weight and pressure cause a large portion to move outwards towards the sea or ocean. These large masses of ice are known as
Sometimes huge portions of this sheet break away and float in the sea or ocean. These are known as icebergs. Since most of the part of the iceberg is underwater, they are a threat to ships.
A Massive Sheet of Glacier
An Iceberg
The northern part of Greenland is only about 710 km away from the North Pole.
The green lights or Auroras, known as Aurora Borealis occur all year round in Greenland but can be seen from the end of September to April. They cannot be seen in other months due to the midnight sun. They attract a lot of tourists from around the world.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Large masses of ice formed due to the weight and pressure of the snow are called ________.
b. _____ have most part submerged in water.
2. Answer the following.
a. The height of the Greenland ice sheet - ___________
b. Winter temperature in north of Greenland - __________
c. The capital of Greenland - ______________
d. The meaning of the word Godthaab - ________
Fact Zone
Northern Lights
Vegetation
Since most of Greenland has large flat plains which are covered with ice, it has a tundra type of vegetation. Very little vegetation is found there. Tall trees do not grow in Greenland as the portion below the topsoil is frozen. This frozen layer of soil is known as permafrost. Mosses, lichens, grasses and bushes grow here.
Herbs grow in some places in summer. Small shrubs and trees are also found here but the trees show stunted growth. Shrubs that grow here are usually berrybearing. They serve as a source of food for animals.
The Quinngua valley in southern Greenland which runs in the north-south direction is the only place having a natural forest. It is about 15 km long and has trees like the Downy Birch and the Grey-leaf Willow. Here the trees grow up to Word Zone
Tundra: Large flat Arctic plains near the North Pole where trees do not grow as the soil below the surface is always frozen
Permafrost: Soil which is permanently frozen
Moss Covered Land Lichen
Crowberry Shrub
20-25 feet tall (around 7 metres). Crops cannot be grown here due to cold climate. Even firewood has to be imported from other countries.
Downy Birch Tree
The Quinngua valley Wildlife
Aayu began to wonder whether the country of Greenland, covered in snow, could support the existence of plants and animals. Let’s explore more about the flora and fauna in Greenland.
The animals here have thick fur to protect against the cold climate. Some are even domesticated for pulling sledges. Polar bears and reindeers inhabit the region, along with musk oxen, arctic foxes, snow hares, certain rodents, and even lemmings.
Marine animals such as walruses, seals, and whales inhabit the seas and oceans. The Greenlandic sled dogs are used for pulling sledges on ice. In the southern part of the country, some goats, pigs, and sheep are also raised. Greenland is home to various birds, including petrels, puffins, gulls, and the white-tailed eagle.
Word Zone
Flora: The plants of a particular region
Fauna: The animals of a particular region
Sled Dogs: Dogs used for pulling sledges
Sledge: An object with long, narrow strips of wood or metal under it instead of wheels, used for travelling over snow and ice
Reindeer
Lemming
Sled Dogs Walrus
The Arctic tern is a bird that migrates from the North Pole in summer to the South Pole and returns in winter. It is a small bird that undertakes the longest migratory journey among all animals on Earth. It breeds in Greenland as well as in the Kitsissunnguit archipelago during the summer.
Let’s Learn
Economy
The major needs of Inuits are fulfilled by hunting animals. Animals provide them with meat, skin and fat. Inuits are experts at fishing and hunting. Traditionally they used harpoons to hunt animals but nowadays they use rifles.
Word Zone
Inutis: The native people of Greenland.
Harpoon
Fact Zone
Arctic Tern
They use boats called kayaks for fishing. For hunting whales, bigger boats called ‘umiaks’ are used. However, with modernization, they have started using motorboats. Boats are also used for water transport. On land, sledges are used, and nowadays, motorized sledges are also employed.
Umiak and Kayak
Some people also work in mines and oil fields. However, most people have now migrated to towns and cities. Most settlements are found in coastal areas due to the thick ice sheet. In addition to Nuuk, Sisimiut, and Ilulissat are other major cities. The economy of Greenland has long been based on the export of fish and shrimp; fish comprise up to 90% of exports. Animal skins are also exported.
Life of the People
Aayu thought that plants and animals have adapted to the Greenland climate, but how do people in Greenland manage to survive there? Let us find out.
Fish for Export
The native people in Greenland are called Inuits or Eskimos. ‘Inuit’ is a common term for people living in the Arctic region in different countries. The Inuits in Greenland were people from North America who traveled here and settled a long time ago. They have adapted to the harsh climatic conditions.
To keep themselves warm, the Inuit people wear clothes made from animal fur and skin in layers. Their clothing consists of a tight double-layered jacket with a hood called Parka, double–layered trousers, mittens and water-tight boots also worn in layers. The clothes and boots are made from caribou or seal skin.
In the northern parts of the country, people build houses from blocks of compressed snow. These are called snow houses or igloos. They are domeshaped to allow snow to slide off. They have a narrow opening at the bottom and a small opening at the top for smoke from the fire to escape. The floor is covered with animal skin or fur to keep warm. Since ice is a bad conductor of heat, it does not allow the heat within to escape, thus keeping it warm inside.
Word Zone
Mittens: Gloves without separate openings for fingers
Comprise: To consist of Export: Send to other countries as part of trade
Inuit
Parka
Igloo
In summer, they stay in tents called tou pigs built from animal skins. Recently they have started living in wooden houses raised from the ground by a metre using pillars.
Traditionally, the Inuits have lived by fishing and hunting, and gathering roots in summer to fulfil their needs, for hundreds of years. But now, they can purchase goods imported from other countries.
The ice sheet of Greenland is enormous and ranks as the second largest in the world; the ice sheet of Antarctica is the largest.
Import: Source or buy from other countries
Tou Pig
Word Zone
Wooden House
Fact Zone
1. Name the following.
a. Two chief occupations of the people in Greenland are _________,__________.
b. Chief item to be exported from Greenland is _________.
c. Tents in which Inuits live in summer are called _________.
d. Boat used for fishing in Greenland is called _______.
e. Boat used for hunting whales in Greenland is called ________.
f. Traditional tool used for fishing in Greenland is ________.
Let’s Sum Up
• Most of Greenland (Capital Nuuk) lies in the Arctic region near the North Pole.
• It is the largest island which is not a continent.
• It lies to the northeast of Canada and to its southeast is Iceland.
• Almost 80% of Greenland is covered with about 1500 m thick ice sheet.
• The Sun does not set for a few months in summer and is known as the mid-night sun. Summers are also cold in Greenland.
• Winters are extremely cold with very low temperatures.
• Vegetation is of the tundra type with short trees, shrubs and grasses.
• Animals like polar bears, reindeer, musk ox, arctic foxes, lemmings, are found in the wild. Sled dogs are bred for carrying sledges. Goats, sheep and other such animals are domesticated.
• Fishing and hunting are the chief occupations of the people in Greenland.
• 90% of Greenland exports consist of fish.
• The people wear double-layered jackets called parkas with double-layered trousers and double-layered watertight boots. Clothing is made from animal skin.
• They live in snow houses called igloos in winter and in tents called tou pigs in summer.
• Nowadays raised wooden houses are also becoming popular.
Life Skills
What things related to Greenland would you speak about to others to arouse their interest in the country? What would you need to carry if you were planning a trip to Greenland? Prepare a list.
Cross-Curricular Connections
History:
How old is the ice sheet of Greenland? In which period was it formed?
Science:
What adaptations are found in the plants and animals of Greenland?
21st Century Skills
Make a brochure about Greenland for a tourism company.
Extend Your Knowledge
Greenland has the most fastest moving glacier in the world, called the Jakobshavn Glacier. This glacier produces huge icebergs that move towards the sea. Scientists are studying it because it’s shrinking quickly and adding to rising sea levels. The breakingoff of ice from the Jakobshavn Glacier can be really amazing, showing the strong forces shaping Greenland’s icy landscapes.
Tips for the Parent
• Help your child discover more about the challenges faced by people living in extremely cold climates.
• Ask them what they would do to make the lives of those people easier.
Jakobshavn Glacier
The Land of the Hot Sun -Saudi Arabia
My Study Plan
• Location of Saudi Arabia on the world map
• Climate, vegetation, and wildlife in Saudi Arabia
• Transport, natural resources, economy, and life of the people in Saudi Arabia
Let’s Recall
The Middle East region includes countries lying to the east and south of the Mediterranean Sea. Can you locate the Middle East region on the world map? Mark it in red colour.
Map
Thinking Zone
Imagine a place with vast deserts, camels, and a history that goes back thousands of years. What do you think life is like there?
Let’s Learn
Location
The Arabian Peninsula is like a big triangle in the southwestern part of Asia. It is surrounded by three large bodies of water: the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, and the Persian Gulf. Most of the land in the peninsula is taken up by a huge desert called the Arabian Desert.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula.
Saudi Arabia on Map
Most of the Arabian Desert lies in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia occupies about 80% of the Arabian Peninsula. It is Asia’s fifth largest country. A monarch rules it and hence is known as a kingdom. Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia. It is bordered in the north by Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait. In the east, it is bordered by the Persian Gulf, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. A part of Oman lies to its south-east, while Yemen lies to its south and south-west. The Red Sea and The Gulf of Aqaba lie to its west.
Climate
The climate in Saudi Arabia is very hot and dry. The summer season lasts from May to September. The days are very hot and dry, while nights are cooler. The temperature in the central regions is usually between 27 ºC and 43 ºC. The coastal
Word Zone
Peninsula: A land body covered on three sides by water
Monarch: A monarch is a king or queen who leads a country
Camel in the Desert
regions experience less heat, with the average temperature in the range of 27 ºC to 38 ºC.
In the deserts, temperatures may reach up to 55 ºC.
Dust storms are also very common. The winter season lasts from October to April. The rainfall is also very low.
The holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina are in Saudi Arabia. Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was born in Mecca.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The desert climate is ________.
b. Saudi Arabia is called the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia because it has a ______.
c. Most of the _______ desert lies in Saudi Arabia.
2. Name the capital city of Saudi Arabia.
3. What type of climate does Saudi Arabia have?
Grand Mosque of Mecca Fact Zone
Sandstorm in the Desert
Vegetation
In Saudi Arabia, only a small portion of the land is suitable for plant growth and agriculture. Plants are found near the oasis. Plants that grow in deserts have long roots that can go deep into the ground in search of water. Many types of cacti are found here. Other plants, such as sedges, tamarisk, aloe vera, common fig, etc., are also found here. Although date palms grow near oasis, they are also cultivated in big towns. Some other crops, such as wheat, barley, rice etc., and some fruits and vegetables are also cultivated.
Wildlife
Only animals that can survive the harsh desert climate are found here. It includes different types of insects, snakes, scorpions, desert rats, etc. The most important animal found in the desert is the camel. It has many unique adaptations: broad padded feet prevent sinking in the sand, hump stores fat for nutrition during food scarcity, long legs to distance themselves from hot sand, and eyelashes and closable nostrils shield against the sand. Special mouth structures enable camels to consume thorny plants. Other animals like the Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, wild goats, caracal, etc., and birds like falcons, eagles, and vultures are also found in Saudi Arabia.
Oasis: A small area in a desert where water and plants are found
Adaptations: Special features that help living organisms survive in their habitat Word Zone
Camel
Arabian Oryx
Caracal
Date Palm Trees Near Oasis
Saudi Arabia is home to the Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter. This is the largest continuous sand desert in the world, covering parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Answer briefly.
a. What adaptation do camel’s feet have to walk on sand?
2. Name the following.
a. The part that stores fats in camel _______.
b. The region having water around which plants grow in desert ________.
c. A tall tree growing in desert regions of Saudi Arabia _________.
Let’s Learn
Transport
Transport in Saudi Arabia is well developed. Major towns and cities, as well as tourist places and places of pilgrimage, are well connected by a network of roadways, railways, waterways, and even airways. Airways also connect it with other countries. Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam are major international airports. Jeddah, Ras Tanura and Yanbu are major seaports.
In desert regions, camels are the main means of transport as they can live for many days without food and water and can walk easily on sand. Hence, the camel is often called the ship of the desert, as people use it for transporting goods and food.
Natural Resources
Saudi Arabia has deposits of mineral oil or crude oil (petroleum) in large amounts. It is exported to almost all other countries in the world through ships.
The major oil deposits are found in Ghawar and Dhahran. Ghawar is the largest oil field in the world. Many refineries in the country produce petrol, diesel, kerosene, etc. from the extracted crude oil. Petroleum is also known as liquid gold because of its high market value.
Economy
The discovery of petroleum transformed Saudi Arabia’s economy and lifestyle. As the world’s second-largest producer of petroleum, after the USA, most of the country’s income comes from exporting it. Agriculture in Saudi Arabia relies on desalinated water to grow crops such as wheat, rice, fruits, and vegetables. Saudi Arabia has also developed industries like petrochemicals, cement, iron, steel, and fertilizers. Small-scale industries like textiles, soap, handicrafts, and leather have flourished. The mining industry is gaining importance, too. Key industrial centres include Jubail and Dammam on the east coast and Yanbu on the west coast.
Life of the People
Originally, the people of Saudi Arabia, known as Bedouins, were nomadic and raised livestock like goats, sheep, horses, and camels. They lived in tents and wore clothes woven from the wool. Their diet consisted of dairy products and certain crops, including dates. Since the discovery of crude oil, lifestyles have changed, with Bedouins now living in villages and city dwellers adopting modern living in houses and skyscrapers. People in Saudi Arabia still wear traditional clothes. Men wear a Thawb and Ghutra, and women wear an Abaya and Shayla. Desalination plants ensure water supply in many places.
Word Zone
Desalination: Process of removing salt from seawater
Nomadic: Moving from one place to another in search of food or better conditions
Skyscrapers: Very tall buildings
An Oil Rig Extracting Petroleum
Bedouins and their Tents
Male dress - Thawb and Ghutra
Female Dress - Abaya and Shayla
When Bedouins move to another place, they carry their tents, belongings, camels, and other animals along with them. The long group of rows in which they move is known as a Caravan. Fact Zone
1. Name the following.
a. An important seaport of Saudi Arabia ______.
b. The natural resource on which the economy of Saudi Arabia depends ______.
c. The long loose robe worn by men in Saudi Arabia _______.
d. The head scarf worn by women in Saudi Arabia ______.
e. Chief means of transport in the desert ________.
f. A place where major oil deposits are found in Saudi Arabia ________.
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. The native people of Saudi Arabia are called __________.
b. Animals are reared by the nomadic people of Saudi Arabia for _____, ________ and ____. Let’s Practise - 3
Let’s Sum Up
• Saudi Arabia in the Middle East has a desert climate and follows a monarchy.
• The harsh climate supports plants like cacti, date palms, and crops grown using desalinated water.
• Animals found here are Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, wild goats, and Caracal.
• Transportation is well-developed in towns and cities with railways, roads, waterways, and air travel.
• Saudi Arabia’s major resource is petroleum, leading to economic growth and modernization.
• Industries like petrochemicals, cement, iron, steel, and mining have developed.
• The traditional nomadic inhabitants were Bedouins who raised livestocks like camel, sheep and goat.
• Traditional dress, Thawb for men and Abaya with Shayla for women, is still worn.
Life Skills
You are exploring the Saudi Arabian desert, and you come across a challenging situation. Your water supply is running low, and you’re feeling hot. What steps would you take to stay cool and conserve water?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Science:
What adaptations are found in the plants and animals of desert climates?
21st Century Skills
If you were in charge of making things work in Saudi Arabia, how would you help use less oil and find better ways to make energy? Think about cars, houses, and machines – how could they run without using so much oil? What ideas do you have to tell everyone and get them interested in using different kinds of energy that are good for the Earth?
King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in the world. It covers the staggering area of about 780 square kilometres. The airport is located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Tip for the Parent
Help your child to find out more about the kind of lifestyle of the people living in Saudi Arabia.
Animals and Plants
The Grasslands of Prairies
My Study Plan
• Location of the Prairie grasslands on the world map
• Climate, vegetation, and wildlife in the Prairie grasslands
• Natural resources, economy and life of the people in Prairie grasslands
Let’s Recall
Large land masses covered with ice and snow are found near the poles and are known as the Arctic Circle and the Antarctic Circle. Tropical regions, covered with dense vegetation, including trees, shrubs, and other plants, are called tropical rainforests. Regions covered with sand are known as deserts. But have you heard of regions covered with grass? Do you know what they are called? Let’s find out.
Thinking Zone
Aayu was reading a comic book when he came across a character who was a cowboy. He was fascinated by the character with the hat and riding a horse. This sparked his curiosity, and he wondered if such people really existed and, if so, where. He wanted to know more about them. Can you help him out?
A Cowboy Riding a Horse
Let’s Learn
Grassland
Vast regions covered with tall grasses are known as grasslands. Grasslands are found in tropical as well as temperate regions. Thus, depending on the climate, the vegetation differs. That is why they are categorised as tropical and temperate grasslands. Grasslands in different parts of the world have different names. The table given below lists the names of some of the grasslands.
Temperate grasslands Name of the region Name of the grassland
Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil Pampas
South Africa Veld
Eastern Europe and Central
Asia Steppes
Australia Downs
North America Prairies
Tropical Grasslands
East Africa Savanna
Brazil Campos
Venezuela Llanos
Grasslands on the World Map
The grasslands in North America are known as the prairies. The word ‘prairie’ is French for ‘meadow.’ These prairies are vast, fertile plains covered with vegetation consisting of tall grasses. They are mostly flat or gently sloped, and in some Word Zone
Tropical: Very hot and humid Temperate: Climate characterized by mild temperatures Meadow: Field of grass
GRASSLANDS
places, they may be hilly. While trees are not commonly found in this grassland-dominated region, areas near river valleys and low-lying plains do have trees.
Location
The prairies are found in the central region of the continent of North America. They lie between the Rocky Mountains in the west and the deciduous forests in eastern America and from the Chihuahuan Desert in the south to the deciduous forests of Canada in the north. Thus, prairies cover the Great Plains, the lowlands of the USA, Canada and the northern part of Mexico, as well as the wet, hilly region in the east. The tributaries of the Mississippi River in the USA and the tributaries of the Saskatchewan River drain this region.
Climate
The prairies lie in the middle of the continent; hence, they have a continental climate. This climate is usually observed in large land masses and is characterized by moderate temperatures and rainfall. There is a significant difference in temperature between summer and winter. Summer temperatures range between 18°C in the north and 28°C in the south. In winter, the temperatures vary from -18°C in the north to 10°C in the south of the prairies.
Rocky Mountains in North America Word Zone
Dominate: Prominent or more noticeable
UNITED ST A TES OF A MERIC A
Prairies in North America
Prairies
The prairies lie to the east of Rocky Mountains which block the clouds and much of the rainfall. Thus, the region to the east is known as the rain shadow region. Hence the prairies do not receive a lot of rainfall.
Grassland Covered with Snow
The annual precipitation is moderate. This type of rainfall is very suitable for the growth of grasses. The prairies also experience a warm wind in the winters known as the ‘Chinook’. It blows from the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains. These winds blow at a high speed. Since they are almost 10°C warmer than the temperature during winter, they bring about a rapid temperature rise. This causes the snow to melt and makes the grass available for grazing animals. However, the fast winds can also cause the soil to lose moisture and even soil erosion.
Warm winds similar to the Chinook winds are known by different names in different regions. In the European Alps they are known as Föhn winds, in central Asia as Afganet, and in the Andes region of South America, they are known as Puelche.
Word Zone
Precipitation: Water released from clouds in the form of rain, snow, hail, sleet, etc
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Grasslands are of two types: _________ and _______.
b. The prairies extend from the ________ in the west of America to the ________ in the eastern side.
c. The prairies have a _________ type of climate.
2. Match the following.
Region
Australia
Let’s Learn
Vegetation
The main vegetation that grows in the prairies is grass. Grasses of different heights grow there – tall grass, short grass, and mid-grass or middle grass. Different varieties of these grass types are found there, for example, big bluestem (tall), needle grass (short), porcupine grass (short), and wheatgrass (mid-grass). The grasses in the prairies have very deep roots, which enable them to survive the harsh winter. Trees do not grow in the prairies due to a lack of water. The prairies receive very little rainfall, which cannot support the growth of trees. Also, the winters are cold, and the summers are hot; this type of climate is not ideal for tree growth.
Big Bluestem
However, in areas near rivers, trees such as willows, poplars, alders, etc., are found.
Poplar Tree
Since this region is very fertile, it is suitable for agriculture. Also, grains, which are grasses, grow very well in these regions. Hence, crops such as wheat, barley, maize, oats, rye, etc., are grown here. Other crops like cotton, potatoes, soybean, canola, alfalfa, and nutritious grasses are also grown here.
Oat Crop
Potato Crop
The temperate grasslands are also called the ‘Granaries of the world’ due to the large wheat production.
Word Zone
Rye: A grain used for making flour, bread, etc
Canola: A plant with yellow flowers grown for oil seeds
Alfalfa: A herb type of plant grown for grazing
Wildlife
Many different types of animals are found in the prairie grasslands. Due to the abundance of grasses in the prairies, grazing mammals like prairie dogs, pronghorn antelopes, elks, deer, and bison are present.
Though the bison or the American buffalo was once found in large numbers, its population has significantly reduced due to hunting, and it is now endangered. Insects such as grasshoppers, viceroy and monarch butterflies, and dung beetles are found in large numbers.
Predatory animals like coyotes, mountain lions, and birds such as the grasshopper sparrow, prairie chicken, and prairie falcon are also inhabitants of the prairie grasslands. The population of the prairie chicken has also decreased due to habitat loss.
Prairie Dog
Bison
Viceroy
Coyote
Fact Zone
Prairie dogs are not dogs but rodents; they are herbivorous, burrowing squirrels. Despite this, their warning calls sound like a dog’s bark. Thus, they are named after both their habitat and the warning calls they make.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The grasses in the prairies have _______ roots.
b. _______ and _______ are a type of short grass growing in the prairies.
2. Name the following.
a. A rodent found in the prairies: _______
b. The types of grasses found in the prairies: _______, _______, _______
c. Two insects found in the prairies: _______, _______
Let’s Learn
Natural Resources
The prairies are not only rich in vegetation, but they also boast significant natural resources. Major deposits of crude oil, bituminous coal, and natural gas are found in the prairies, with coal being particularly abundant in these regions. Additionally, various minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, and phosphate rocks are also present here.
Bituminous Coal
Economy
The major activity in the prairies is farming, which covers most of the land. Since the region is located in advanced countries like the USA and Canada, farming is conducted using scientific cultivation methods. Machines such as tractors and harvesters are employed for farming.
Harvester
Due to the abundance of grazing lands, livestock rearing is also carried out alongside farming, making it the largest cattle-producing region. The prairies host a significant portion of the sheep population in the USA, and goats and horses are also raised in ranges. Dairy farming is another vital activity in the prairies.
As a result of extensive agriculture and dairy farming, food processing industries thrive in this region. Wool production is also a significant industry, with the highest amount of wool in the USA being produced in the state of Texas.
Goats in a Farm
Wool Processing
The grasslands are also utilized for recreational activities such as fishing and wildlife observation.
Life of the People
The original people that inhabited the prairies were the Indigenous Americans. They were hunters and herders. They reared huge herds of grazing animals found there like the bison, pronghorn antelopes, elks and deer. They used the hide of animals to make their clothing and shelters. Their shelters were tents called Tepees. Some even used grass to make shelters. The native plants formed a part of their diet. They lived in harmony with nature.
Indigenous Americans
Now the prairies are inhabited by farmers and ranchers. Farmers primarily grow food crops and cotton. Ranchers own ranches to rear animals – mostly cattle and sheep, and primarily produce meat. Hides are used for making leather. Wool is produced from sheep and goats.
American Tepee
A Ranch in a Rural Area
Word Zone
Hide: The skin of animals used for making leather
Aayu’s curiosity was finally answered when he learned more about cowboys. He came to know that cowboys are animal herders who take care of cattle in the ranches in North America. They ride a horse and round up the cattle. They also perform many other tasks on the ranch.
Nowadays, much of the prairie land is lost to cultivation and agriculture. Only a very small amount of land remains as the natural prairie region. Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 3
1 Name the following.
a. The major activity in the prairie grasslands: _________
b. The industries flourishing in prairies are related to: ___________
c. The original inhabitants of prairies: __________
d. Two activities besides agriculture done in the prairies: ________ and _______
e. Two major natural resources in the prairies: ______ and ______
2 Fill in the blanks.
a. The ranchers rear animals mainly for ______.
b. The shelter of Indigenous Americans were called_________.
c. The people who tend to cattle and other work on a ranch are called ______.
Word Zone
Round up: Gather the livestock
A Cowboy
Let’s Sum Up
• Large areas of land covered with grasses are called grasslands. They are found in the tropical as well as the temperate regions and have different names in different places.
• The grasslands in North America are known as the prairies.
• The prairies are found in the countries of the USA, Canada and northern parts of Mexico.
• The tributaries of the Mississippi River in the USA and the Saskatchewan River in Canada drain the prairies.
• The temperature in summer is between 18 °C in the north to 28 °C in the south. In winter it is between -18 °C in the north to 10 °C in the south.
• The prairies receive less rainfall, between 25 mm to 101 mm. Most of it is in the form of snow.
• Different types of grasses are found here – tall grass, mid-grass and short grass. Cereal crops are also grown here.
• Different types of animals found here are bison, pronghorn, deer, prairie dogs, etc. Birds like prairie falcons, grasshopper sparrows and insects like monarch butterflies and dung beetles are found here.
• Natural resources like crude oil, coal, and ores of iron, copper, zinc and phosphate are found here.
• The economy is mainly driven by agriculture as it is the major occupation. Livestock rearing, and dairy farming are other major occupations.
• Original inhabitants of Prairies were hunters and herders who lived in harmony with nature. They made tents called tepees from animal hides.
• Animals are reared in ranches whose owners are called ranchers.
• The people who work at ranches and take care of animals are called cowboys.
Life Skills
In what ways do you think the Indigenous Americans’ lifestyle, characterised by hunting, herding, and living in harmony with nature, influenced the cultural and environmental practices in the prairies, and how has this cultural heritage endured over time? What can you learn from their way of living?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Science:
Why do grasses and plants in the prairie region have deep roots?
21st Century Skills
Make a powerpoint comparing North American prairies to a grassland somewhere else in the world. Show how they are alike and different and talk about how people affect these places. Think about things like the weather, plants, animals, and what people do for a living.
Extend Your Knowledge
Grasslands are important for trapping carbon dioxide, a gas that causes global warming. They do this by using plants, especially grasses, which absorb carbon dioxide during a process called photosynthesis. The carbon gets stored in the soil and roots of the grass. Grasslands help fight climate change by holding onto this carbon.
Tip for the Parent
• Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the prairies. Highlight the different types of grasses and animals like bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. Discuss the significance of birds, insects, and their role in maintaining the ecosystem.
Natural Resources
My Study Plan
Natural resources and their examples
Uses of natural resources in daily life
Factors contributing to the wastage and depletion of natural resources
Conservation of natural resources
Let’s Recall
Observe the given pictures and write the names of the festivals they represent.
Thinking Zone
There are various festivals related to seasons and farming, like Makar Sankranti, Bihu, Onam, etc. Why is changing seasons important for farming?
Let’s Learn
Natural Resources and Their Uses
Natural resources are the valuable gifts of nature that support us in living better lives. These resources include air, water, land, soil, minerals, plants, and animals. They form the foundation of our environment, shaping our cultures and ecosystems, and being useful to us in many ways.
Resources
Word Zone
Ecosystem: A community of living things together with their environment
Natural
Let us discuss these natural resources and explore some of their many uses:
Air
Air is an invisible yet essential natural resource. It is a mixture of gases that surrounds our planet and provides the oxygen we need to breathe. Without air, life would not be possible.
Animal resources
Animals play an important role in our ecosystems, contributing to pollination and seed dispersal. They also provide us with food, clothing, and other valuable resources.
Plants
Plants, through photosynthesis, convert sunlight into energy, forming the basis of our food chains. They also provide us with timber, medicine, and materials for clothing and shelter.
Water resources
Word Zone
Irrigation
Water is the essence of life, covering over 70% of our planet’s surface. It is essential for drinking, irrigation, sanitation, and various industrial processes.
Pollination: To move or carry pollen to a plant, causing the seeds to be fertilised
Dispersal: Distributing or spreading things or people over a wide area
Irrigation: The supply of water to land by human-made means
Clean Air
Sheep Provides Wool
Plants Provide Medicines
Forest resources
Forests are home to many plants and animal species, which contribute to biodiversity. Forests also control climate, prevent soil erosion, and provide us with timber, medicine, and other valuable resources.
Wind
The moving air is called wind, and it is a renewable energy source. It can be used to generate electricity. Wind turbines convert the wind energy into clean and sustainable power.
Solar energy
Solar energy, the energy emitted by the sun, is another renewable energy source. It can also be used to generate electricity. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. It is a clean and sustainable way to power things instead of using fossil fuels.
Word Zone
Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth Sustainable: Being capable of continuing Fossil Fuels: Fuels made from really old plants and animals that contains carbon. Fossil fuels include natural gas, coal, and petroleum
Timber
Wind Turbines
Solar Panels
Land resources
The fertile soil is the foundation of agriculture. It enables us to grow crops and raise livestock for food.
Crude oil and natural gas
Natural gas and oil (petrol and diesel) are fossil fuels formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. We use them to generate electricity, power vehicles, and manufacture products in factories.
Precious metals, minerals, and rocks
Powering Vehicles
Minerals, such as iron, are used in the construction of buildings. Copper is used in the manufacturing of electrical wires, plumbing pipes, and other products.
Gold and silver are metals used to make jewellery, coins, and electronic parts.
Some of these precious minerals, metals, and rocks are used to make different parts of different gadgets. They play a crucial role in our daily lives.
The Amazon Rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world. It is often referred to as the ‘Lungs of the Earth,’ as it produces large amount of oxygen. This vast and diverse ecosystem is home to many plants and animals.
Livestock: Domestic animals
Ancient: Really old
Copper
Word Zone
Fact Zone
Silver
Gold
Let’s Practise - 1
1. In what ways are plants important to us?
2. Name some primary energy sources and state their uses.
3. State true or false.
a. Natural resources are the gifts of nature that are not useful to us.
b. Air is an invisible and essential natural resource that we need to breathe.
c. Animals play a vital role in our ecosystems, but they do not provide us with food, clothing, and other valuable resources.
d. Minerals are not essential for construction, manufacturing, and technological advancements.
Let’s Learn
Conservation of Natural Resources
Many factors cause wastage and depletion of natural resources. Deforestation, which refers to the cutting down of trees, contributes to climate change and the loss of animal and plant habitats.
Zone
Depletion: Reduction in number
Waste materials from the factories and our homes increase water pollution.
Water Pollution
Air pollution happens when we burn things like coal and oil, crackers, or when cars and factories release gases into the air. Cutting down trees and not taking care of our waste also make the air dirty. We need to find better ways to keep our air clean and healthy!
Do Not Burn Crackers
Now, let us learn some ways to protect the natural resources.
Reduce waste
Minimise the amount of waste we generate by reusing, recycling, and composting.
Save energy
Conserve electricity by switching off lights and using energy-saving devices.
Protection of biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variety of life found on Earth. Conserving the diversity of plant and animal species ensures a healthy ecosystem.
Biodiversity
Word Zone
Composting: Mixing dead leaves, vegetables, or manure that is used to improve garden soil
Compost Life cycle
Composting
Protect forests
Forests play a vital role in biodiversity and climate control. We must prevent deforestation and promote afforestation.
Water conservation
Water is a precious resource. We must conserve water by fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, and using water-saving appliances like dishwashers.
Sustainable living
Live in a way that’s good for the Earth: walk, ride a bicycle, or take the bus instead of driving. Save energy by turning off lights. Use natural resources only as much as we can get them back. Reduce waste by reusing, reducing and recycling.
Vital: Important
Afforestation: The act of planting trees to restore or create forests
Dishwashers: A machine for washing dishes automatically Word Zone
Cycling
Save Electricity
Dishwasher
Policy and legislation
Making and following laws that protect natural resources are important. Banning deforestation and making it mandatory for businesses to reduce their carbon emissions, which cause pollution, can be some of the steps taken towards protecting the natural resources.
Researching to find new sustainable ways of living is essential.
Education and awareness
Raising public awareness about the importance of natural resources and educating people on ways to conserve them can help protect our resources.
Fact Zone
Turning off the tap while brushing can save up to 200 gallons of water per month! Saving water is simple, yet important.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Reduce waste by reusing, recycling, and _____________.
b. Conserving the diversity of plant and animal species ensures a healthy__________.
c. By adopting _________________ practices, we can help minimise our environmental impact.
2. Answer the following questions.
a. What is sustainable living and what steps can you take to live a sustainable life?
b. What are some ways in which we can conserve water?
Word Zone
Mandatory: Compulsory or required
Let’s Sum Up
Natural resources like air, water, land, soil, minerals, plants and animals are a gift of nature.
These resources form the foundation of our environment and have diverse uses.
Air provides essential oxygen for breathing, and animals contribute to ecosystems, offering resources like food and clothing.
Soil is crucial for agriculture, supporting crop growth and livestock rearing.
Natural gas, oil, and minerals serve as primary energy sources and are essential for construction and manufacturing and are used in gadgets.
Water is vital for drinking, irrigation, and industrial processes, and forests play a key role in biodiversity and climate stability.
Conservation efforts include reducing waste, saving energy, protecting biodiversity, preventing deforestation, conserving water, adopting sustainable living practices, enforcing policies, and raising awareness through education.
The consequences of resource wastage and environmental degradation are felt globally, with deforestation and certain festivals contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss.
Life Skills
Select any festival of your choice. Think about some practices during that festival which harm the environment. How can you celebrate that festival in a sustainable way? Suggest any three ways.
Cross-Curricular Connections
History:
How has the use of natural resources changed over time? Find out the uses of natural resources during the time of early humans.
21st Century Skills
Write down names of any three resources around you. Think of three ways in which you can recycle them.
Extend Your Knowledge
We can use natural dyes or colours for dyeing clothes, making rangoli or even dyeing hair. Natural dyes are made from plants such as turmeric, beetroot, spinach leaves, blueberries, etc.
Tips for the Parent
• You can nurture environmental awareness in your children by encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices at home, such as turning off lights when not in use, and reducing water consumption.
• While celebrating festivals, encourage eco-friendly practices like using natural colours during Holi or celebrating a safe Diwali.
Turmeric
10 Water and Air Natural Disasters
My Study Plan
• Natural disasters and their causes
• Common natural disasters: floods, drought, landslides, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, cyclones, and tsunamis
• Safety measures to take during each natural disaster
Let’s Recall
Observe the given pictures and circle the ones where property or people could be damaged due to natural causes.
The images you circled are examples of natural disasters — disasters caused by the forces of nature. Let’s learn more about them.
Thinking Zone
How do weather forecasters predict a natural disaster?
Let’s Learn
Natural Disasters
Many natural occurrences take place around us. While some of these occurrences are remarkable, others can be dangerous. The dangerous occurrences are known as natural disasters.
Natural disasters are natural events that can cause damage to property and loss of life. They can happen anywhere. Some of the natural disasters include floods, droughts, landslides, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes.
Flood
Floods are the most common natural disaster. They occur when there is too much water in an area, either from heavy rainfall, melting snow, or a storm.
Floods can cause damage to property and crops. They can also cause serious health risks, spreading waterborne diseases such as cholera and creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
In 2022, floods were caused by heavy rainfall in parts of South Africa. Over 300 people were killed and thousands were displaced. The floods damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power supply.
Word Zone
Cholera: An infectious disease marked by vomiting, cramps, and diarrhoea Infrastructure: The basic system and facilities such as transport and power supply that enable a country or an organisation work effectively
Flood
Measures of safety
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from floods. These include:
• Staying away from flooded areas and not crossing flooded roads.
• Evacuating the flooded area early and following the instructions of the emergency personnel, in case of an emergency.
• Moving to a higher ground and avoiding open areas that are flooded.
Fact Zone
One of the biggest floods ever recorded occurred in 1931 in China’s Yangtze River. It affected an area as big as England and caused the loss of millions of lives.
Let’s Learn
Cyclone
Cyclones are large, spinning storms that form over warm oceans. They cause strong winds, heavy rainfall, and high waves. Cyclones can be really destructive, causing floods, landslides, and damage to buildings near the coast.
Cyclone Freddy was one of the strongest storms ever recorded in the Indian Ocean in 2023. It caused widespread damage and floods in Madagascar. The cyclone killed hundreds of people and displaced thousands. Cyclone
Word Zone
Evacuating: Moving from a place of danger to a safe place
Destructive: Causing damage
Measures of safety
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from cyclones. These include:
• Staying away from coastal areas during a cyclone warning.
• Evacuating if instructed to do so by the emergency personnel.
• Securing your home and belongings from damage.
Fact Zone
Cyclones spin in different directions depending on where they occur. In the top part of the world (Northern Hemisphere), they spin to the left (counterclockwise). In the bottom part (Southern Hemisphere), they spin to the right (clockwise).
Let’s Learn
Drought
Droughts occur when there is not enough rain for a long time, sometimes for months or even years. Droughts impact farming because crops don’t grow without water, and even animals can’t survive. They can also lead to wildfires and severe water shortages.
In 2023, the Horn of Africa faced its worst drought in a long time. Many people there faced starvation. The drought was caused due to climate change, deforestation, and overgrazing. Drought
Word Zone
Starvation: The state of having no food for a long time
Overgrazing: Too many cows or other animals eating grass in an area
Prevention of drought
We can prevent droughts by planning ahead and being prepared. Let us look at some ways to prevent droughts:
• Water storage and management: We can save water by not wasting it and using it carefully at home, in our community, and at work. We can build dams and reservoirs to store a lot of water and use it in times of disaster.
• Protecting forest: Trees are like nature’s sponges. They keep the soil wet and control rainfall. So, if we look after the trees in our forests, they can help prevent droughts.
• Drought preparedness: We can make systems and plans for early warnings. These systems can tell us early if a drought might happen so we can store enough water and other items.
• Drought-special crops: Scientists are working on growing crops that can grow with less water. Some examples of these drought-special crops are pearl millets and finger millets, quinoa, lentils, barley, sweet potatoes, and more.
The Atacama Desert in South America is one of the driest places on Earth and has experienced extreme drought conditions lasting for centuries.
Lentils
Quinoa
Sweet Potatoes
Fact Zone
Word Zone Reservoir: Large lake where water is stored.
Dam
Let’s Practise - 1
1. State whether the following statements are ‘True’ or ‘False’.
a. Natural disasters are events caused by human activities. ________
b. Droughts can lead to water shortages and wildfires. ________
c. Floods can spread waterborne diseases such as cholera. ________
d. Cyclones are small, still storms formed over cold ocean waters. ________
e. Droughts can be prevented by building dams and reservoirs to save water.
2. What are some health risks caused by floods?
3. Describe a safety measure to protect yourself from cyclones.
4. How can protecting forests prevent droughts?
Let’s Learn
Landslide
Landslides, also known as landslips, happen when rocks, soil, and debris slide down a hill. Heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or volcanoes can cause landslides.
Landslides can cause damage to infrastructure, land, and other natural resources. They can even cause loss of lives. Landslides are very common in hilly areas. In India, they often occur during monsoon.
Word Zone
Debris: Scattered pieces of things left after something is destroyed
Landslide
In 2023, heavy rains in Peru caused landslides that killed about 50 people and impacted approximately 8000 by damaging houses.
Measures of safety
We should take some preventive measures during landslides. These include:
• Being aware of landslide-prone areas and avoiding those during heavy rainfall or earthquakes.
• Evacuating immediately if you notice signs of a landslide, such as cracks in the ground or movement of soil.
• Not returning to an area damaged by landslide until it has been declared safe by the authorities.
Did you know that landslides can happen underwater, too? They’re called submarine landslides and can be more dangerous than those on land.
Let’s Learn
Tsunami
Tsunamis are large and powerful waves made by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or underwater landslides. They can travel at a speed of up to 804 kilometres per hour and can cause a lot of flooding and damage when they reach the shore.
Fact Zone
Tsunami
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was extremely dangerous. It was caused by a massive earthquake near Sumatra, Indonesia. The waves went all the way across the ocean, even reaching Africa and causing widespread devastation.
Recently, in 2022, a tsunami caused by a volcanic eruption in Tonga caused a widespread damage to the coastal areas of the Pacific Ocean. Over 1500 people were displaced, and the damage it caused cost billions of dollars.
Measures of safety
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from tsunamis. These include:
• Moving immediately to a higher ground if you are in a coastal area and feel an earthquake.
• Being aware of tsunami warning signs, such as loud sirens or sudden changes in the ocean.
• Not returning to a coastal area until it has been declared safe by the authorities.
Fact Zone
The deadliest tsunami ever recorded occurred in Indonesia in 2004, killing over 230,000 people.
Let’s Learn
Volcanic eruption
Volcanic eruptions happen when hot, melted rock, ash, and gas come out from the earth’s surface. They can cause damage to property, infrastructure, and the environment. Volcanic eruptions can also cause dangerous diseases and loss of life.
Word Zone
Devastation: Destruction, damage
Volcanic Eruption
There are about 1,500 active volcanoes worldwide. However, the number can change due to volcanic activity. Some places, such as Hawaii, have volcanoes that erupt with slow, flowing lava instead of big explosions. People there have learned to live with these gentle giants!
In India, there is one active volcano called Barren Island. It is an island located in the Andaman Sea. It is also the only active volcano in South Asia.
Measures of safety
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from volcanic eruptions. These include:
• Staying away from erupting volcanoes and following the instructions of the emergency personnel.
• Being prepared to evacuate if you live near a volcano.
• Protecting yourself from volcanic ash by wearing a mask and glasses.
Fact Zone
Volcanic eruptions can cause global climate change.
Let’s Learn
Earthquake
Earth is constantly moving. Sometimes, when the Earth’s tectonic plates move against each other, it shakes the ground strongly. These sudden, ground-shaking events are called earthquakes. They can cause damage to buildings, infrastructure, lives, and the environment.
Word Zone
Tectonic plates: These plates are pieces of Earth’s outer shell which move very slowly. When they meet, they can cause earthquakes, mountain formation, and volcanic eruptions. Earthquake
In 2023, Iceland had a lot of earthquakes — over 800 in a single day! These earthquakes were caused by a new crack in the ground, a sign that a volcano might become active.
Earthquake related instruments
Scientists use a tool called the Richter scale to measure how strong an earthquake is. The stronger the earthquake, the higher its number on the Richter scale.
Another instrument used during earthquakes is a seismograph. It listens to the earth’s movement and records this on paper or electronically by creating a picture called a seismogram.
Measures of safety
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself during earthquakes. These include:
• Staying away from buildings that are likely to collapse during an earthquake.
• Dropping down on the floor, taking cover under a table or a chair, and holding on to something tightly during an earthquake.
• Being prepared to evacuate if you live in an area prone to earthquakes.
• Not taking lifts in case of an earthquake. Use stairs.
The
ever recorded occurred in Chile in 1960.
Seismograph
largest earthquake
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Answer the following questions.
a. What causes landslides and what is its impact?
b. Describe the safety measures that can be adopted during a tsunami, especially if you are in a coastal area.
c. How do scientists measure the strength of earthquakes? Write any two safety measures to be taken during an earthquake.
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. Landslides happen when ________, ________, and ________slide down a hill.
b. ____________ occurs when hot melted rock, ash and gas come out of the Earth’s surface.
c. It’s crucial to ____________ immediately if you observe signs of a landslide, such as cracks in the ground or soil movement.
d. Tsunamis are large and powerful waves made by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or underwater ____________.
e. During a volcanic eruption, it’s important to stay away from erupting volcanoes and be prepared to ____________ if you live nearby.
Let’s Sum Up
• Natural disasters include floods, cyclones, droughts, landslides, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions caused by factors such as weather, earthquakes, and volcanic activities.
• Floods, the most common disaster, result from excessive water due to rainfall, melting snow, or storms, causing damage to property and health risks.
• Cyclones, large storms with strong winds and heavy rainfall, can cause damage in coastal areas.
• Droughts are long, dry periods that affect farming, lead to water shortages, and are worsened by climate change and deforestation.
• Landslides, the movement of debris down a slope, are triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
• Tsunamis are large, powerful waves caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or underwater landslides.
• Volcanic eruptions release hot rock, ash, and gas, causing damage to property, infrastructure, and the environment.
• Earthquakes are sudden ground-shaking events resulting from the movement of tectonic plates.
• Safety measures vary for each disaster, emphasising evacuation, early warning systems, and protective measures.
Life Skills
Imagine you’re travelling to a flood-prone area. Create a list of the essential items you would pack as an emergency kit. The emergency kit should help you stay safe.
English:
Write a story about a character who survives a natural disaster. Write about the disaster, how it affected the character, and how they survived it. Take the help of your family members and friends, if required.
Cross-Curricular Connections
21st Century Skills
An emergency drill is a practice run for an emergency situation. Imagine you are in charge of organising an emergency drill in your building for an earthquake. Create a poster indicating the time of the drill, a list of safety measures, and the assembly points where people can gather.
Extend Your Knowledge
A tornado is a spinning column of air that touches both the ground and the clouds. This natural disaster creates the strongest winds on Earth, which can destroy houses and crops.
Tip for the Parent
Encourage your child to create a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and contact information of the emergency personnel.
Water and Air Pollution 11
My Study Plan
Pollution and its types
Causes and effects of air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution and noise pollution
Methods to control different types of pollution
Let’s Recall
Have you ever noticed a misty layer when you wake up on a winter morning?
If you live in a cold area, it is likely to be fog, but if you live in a city or near factories, it is likely to be smog.
What is the difference between fog and smog?
Do you think it is important to learn about pollution? Why? Think about ways pollution affects our lives. Thinking Zone
Let’s Learn
Pollution
Pollution is the mixing of unwanted and harmful substances in the environment that make it dirty. These harmful substances are known as pollutants. Harmful
gases, wastes, plastics, untreated sewage water, etc., are some pollutants. Mostly, human activities cause pollution, but sometimes there are natural causes too.
Pollution is of four main types:
1. Air pollution
2. Water pollution
3. Soil pollution
4. Noise pollution
Let us learn more about each type of pollution.
Air pollution
When harmful substances get mixed with the air, making it dirty and unsafe, it is called air pollution. These harmful substances may be poisonous gases, smoke, soot, and dust. Air pollution has become common in big cities these days.
Causes
Some common causes of air pollution are:
1. Release of harmful gases from vehicles. Besides harmful gases, vehicles also release soot and fine particles.
2. Burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas in factories.
Word Zone
Sewage water: Wastewater from homes and factories flowing through sewers
Fossil fuels: Fuels like coal, oil and natural gas formed under the Earth’s surface
Soot: Fine black powder consisting of carbon formed when something is burnt
Air Pollution
3. Release of smoke and harmful gases from factories and industries into the air.
4. Burning of garbage, dry leaves, and crop wastes.
5. Natural causes of air pollution are forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and sand storms.
Effects
Air pollution affects all living things, including plants and animals, and not just human beings.
1. Air pollution can cause breathing problems.
2. Air pollution can lead to lung diseases like asthma, lung cancer.
3. Due to air pollution, plants cannot get enough nutrients from the environment and they may even die.
Breathing Problems
Word Zone
Asthma: A disease affecting the lungs
Effect on Plants
Pollution Due to Vehicles
Pollution Due to Factories
Control measures
It is important to prevent air pollution for a healthy environment. Some ways to prevent air pollution include:
1. Walking or cycling over short distances.
2. Using public transportation instead of private vehicles.
3. Treating harmful gases from factories and industries before releasing them.
4. Preventing burning of garbage, dry leaves, crop waste, etc.
5. Reducing the use of electrical appliances and saving electricity.
6. Planting more trees as trees helps reduce carbon dioxide in the air.
7. Reusing and recycling paper and plastic materials.
The level of air pollution is measured in terms of Air Quality Index or AQI. Values of AQI below 100 are considered safe.
Appliances: Devices used in houses such as washing machines, refrigerators, etc.
Plant Trees
Public Transport
Fact Zone
Word Zone
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Air pollution can cause diseases affecting the ________.
b. Besides harmful gases, vehicles also release ____ and ________.
c. Walking for short distances can help ______ air pollution.
d. Factories and industries release ______ and __________ in the air causing pollution.
2. Name the following.
a. Name two natural causes of air pollution: ________, _______.
b. Name two diseases caused by air pollution: _________, ________.
Let’s Learn
Water pollution
When unwanted and harmful substances mix in water sources like rivers, lakes, ponds, seas and oceans, it is called water pollution. Pollutants like harmful chemicals, crude oils, plastics, etc., enter water bodies and contaminate them. Pollution of water can be harmful to aquatic animals as well as human beings.
Let us look at the causes of water pollution.
Contaminate: Make dirty or harmful
Crude oil: Type of liquid fuel that comes out of the ground Word Zone
Water Pollution
Causes
Water pollution can be caused by various factors like:
1. Releasing untreated sewage or wastewater from homes into the water bodies.
2. Releasing wastewater containing harmful chemicals from factories and industries into water bodies.
3. Accidental spilling of crude oil from ships into seas or oceans.
4. Dumping trash and solid wastes like plastic bags or bottles into water bodies.
5. Bathing, washing clothes, and bathing animals in rivers and lakes.
Effects
Water pollution can have many harmful effects on plants and animals living in water. It affects humans as well:
1. Mixing sewage water with sources of drinking water can cause diseases like dysentery, typhoid, cholera, jaundice, etc.
2. Food chain can be impacted as the toxins from water pollution can move from one level to another in the food chain.
3. Oil spilling can lead to the death of many aquatic birds and animals.
4. Dumping plastic waste can harm and even lead to the death of aquatic animals.
Untreated sewage: Sewage which has not been disinfected
Oil Spill: Leakage of crude oil on the surface of a large water body Word Zone
Bathing and Washing Oil Spill
Control measures
Some ways to prevent water pollution are:
1. Keep the rivers, lakes, and other water bodies clean. Avoid throwing garbage and plastics in the water bodies.
2. Treat sewage to remove harmful matter before releasing it into water bodies.
3. Remove harmful substances from industry and factory wastes before releasing them into water bodies.
4. Prevent bathing, washing clothes, and bathing animals in water bodies.
5. Take necessary precautions to prevent oil spills from ships.
6. Reduce the use of plastics.
7. Reuse plastic and recycle plastic waste.
Entangle: Twisted together or caught
Indigestion: Pain in stomach with difficulty in digesting food Word Zone
Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in the oceans. It is known to kill animals sometimes by directly entangling them and also by ingestion. Different types of marine animals ingest small and even bigger plastic waste fragments.
Keep Waterbodies Clean
Recycle Plastic
Fact Zone
1. Answer in one or two words.
a. What should be done to wastewater before releasing it in water bodies?
b. What is the term used for leaking of crude oil in sea or ocean?
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. Dumping of plastics in water bodies can cause death of _________.
b. Mixing of untreated sewage in drinking water sources can cause diseases like ________ and ________.
Let’s Learn
Soil pollution
The contamination of soil with harmful substances is called soil pollution. It is also known as land pollution and occurs when trash and poisonous substances are dumped on the ground.
Let us learn about the causes of soil pollution.
Causes
1. Littering and throwing around trash or garbage. When the waste materials break down, they release harmful chemicals which cause soil pollution.
2. Use of too many chemicals like fertilisers, herbicides, and insecticides on crops while farming. These chemicals can harm the soil.
Soil Pollution
3. Mining of coal and minerals. The wastes left over due to mining activities causes land pollution.
4. Presence of landfills where solid wastes are buried. Poisonous chemicals get released from the landfills which cause soil pollution.
Effects
Soil pollution can have severe effects on both the environment and our health. Some of these effects include:
1. Pollutants released during mining can release harmful chemicals into the soil and affect its quality.
2. Factories and industries release harmful chemicals into the soil. These chemicals can harm the soil, the plants and animals in it.
3. Harmful chemicals from landfills can enter groundwater and pollute it.
4. Excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides reduces soil fertility. It also kills the helpful soil organisms. Thus, crop yield is reduced.
5. Chemical pesticides are also absorbed by plants and affect our health when we consume them.
Thus, soil pollution has many harmful effects on the environment and people and needs to be prevented.
Excessive: Too much, more than necessary
Yield: Amount of crops produced
Groundwater: Stores of water below the surface of the land
Mining: Extraction of coal and minerals from under the land’s surface Word Zone
Littering Mining
Control measures
1. Avoid littering or throwing waste around and use dustbins.
2. Try to use less, use again, and recycle more.
3. Reduce the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
4. Use of compost and manures made from plant wastes helps improve soil fertility.
5. Reduce the use of plastics.
6. Plant more trees to help hold fertile soil on the land and keep it healthy.
Pesticides are poisonous chemicals which are known to cause many diseases and disorders. Farmers are more prone to the harmful effects of pesticides. They can cause sore throat, allergy, skin irritation, vomiting, and even death. Consuming plants containing pesticides also causes certain diseases like asthma, leukaemia and other cancers.
1. State the following.
a. Two human activities that cause soil pollution. .
b. Two effects of soil pollution. . Let’s Practise - 3
Use Dustbins
Plant More Trees
Fact Zone
2. Fill in the blanks.
a. Use of excessive chemical fertilisers and pesticides during farming reduces soil _____.
b. Using compost and manures helps _________ soil fertility.
c. Harmful chemicals from landfills can enter _________ .
Let’s Learn
Noise pollution
Noise pollution is any unpleasant, unwanted, loud sound which can affect the well-being of humans or other animals. It can have bad effects on the health of especially children, elderly people and animals. It is higher in industrial areas, towns, and cities.
Causes
1. Honking of vehicles is one of the major causes of noise pollution. Since the number of vehicles has increased, especially in cities, they have higher levels of noise pollution.
2. Aircraft like aeroplanes and helicopters are also a source of noise pollution.
3. Use of loudspeakers during festivals, public gatherings, marriages and other events also causes noise pollution.
4. Construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures also causes a lot of noise pollution.
5. The use of heavy machines in factories and industries also leads to noise pollution.
Honking of Vehicles
Loud Speakers
Noise Pollution
Effects
1. Noise pollution can cause sleeping problems, especially in elderly and sensitive people.
2. Long-time exposure to loud noise can also cause hearing problems.
3. Noise pollution can cause headaches and an increased pulse rate.
4. Long-time exposure to noise pollution can also cause stress-related diseases, high blood pressure, etc.
Control measures
1. Prevent the use of loudspeakers in and around residential areas, especially near hospitals, schools, etc.
2. Avoid honking vehicles, especially in residential areas and near schools and hospitals.
3. Limit the time of construction activities in residential areas.
4. Plant more trees to reduce noise levels as trees absorb and redirect sound.
Word Zone
Residential: Place having houses and offices
Pulse-rate: Measurement of heart rate
Stress: State of worry or mental tension
Stop Noise Pollution
1. Name the following:
a. Two sources of noise pollution .
b. Two diseases caused due to noise pollution .
2. Fill in the blanks:
a. Noise pollution harms especially ______ and _______.
b. Noise pollution can cause __________ related diseases.
c. Noise pollution can be controlled by ___________ trees. Let’s Practise - 4
Let’s Sum Up
Pollution is the mixing of unwanted and harmful substances in the environment that make it dirty.
The harmful substances that pollute the environment are known as pollutants.
Air pollution is caused by the burning of fossil fuels, smoke from factories, industries, vehicles, burning of crop residues and garbage, volcanic eruptions, forest fires, etc.
Air pollution can cause lung diseases like asthma, and even cancer. It can also affect the growth of plants.
Air pollution can be prevented by choosing eco-friendly or public means of transport, preventing the burning of crop residues and garbage, planting more trees and recycling.
Water pollution is caused by the release of harmful substances and untreated wastewater in water bodies, oil spills, bathing and washing clothes, bathing animals in water bodies and plastic wastes entering water bodies.
Water pollution can lead to diseases like typhoid, dysentery, cholera, etc., and even cause the death of marine organisms.
Water pollution can be prevented by treating household sewage and wastewater from factories and industries, preventing bathing, washing clothes and bathing animals in sources of water, avoiding dumping wastes in and around water bodies and reducing the use of plastics.
Soil pollution is caused due to littering, plastics, the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, mining activities, and harmful chemicals released in landfills.
Soil pollution can cause the loss of soil fertility, kill useful animals in the soil, reduce crop yield and even affect human health.
Soil pollution can be prevented by avoiding littering, avoiding the use of plastics, reducing or avoiding the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, using compost or manures, and planting more trees to improve soil fertility.
Noise pollution is caused by unwanted and loud noise.
Noise pollution is caused by the honking of vehicles, aircrafts, the use of loudspeakers, and the use of machines in factories, industries, and construction sites.
Noise pollution can cause headaches, increased heart rate, diseases like high blood pressure and other stress-related diseases, and can even affect animals.
Noise pollution can be prevented by reducing the use of loudspeakers, limiting the time for construction activities in residential areas, preventing honking near hospitals and schools and planting more trees.
Life Skills
How will you use the knowledge about the causes of pollution in your daily life? What changes can you make in your lifestyle to reduce pollution? Write down any three changes you can make.
Cross-Curricular Connections
Science:
What is global warming? How does it happen, and why is it a problem? Think about how it affects the Earth, like making it warmer and changing the weather. What can we do to help stop global warming and keep our planet healthy?
21st Century Skills
Imagine you are organising a pollution awareness drive in your society or area. Create a poster mentioning ways to reduce pollution in your society.
Extend Your Knowledge
Sound is measured in decibels. Sound up to 85 decibels is the maximum that human ears can bear.
The sound of a normal conversation is around 60 decibels. On the other hand, loudspeakers can produce a sound of 110 to 120 decibels. Aircraft engines make a sound of about 140 decibels at take-off.
Tip for the Parent
Help your child to find out more about the effects of various types of pollution on animals and other organisms.
Water and Air
Saving the Environment
My Study Plan
Need to save the environment
Types of waste
Different ways to dispose of waste
The three Rs (RRR)
Let’s Recall
Identify these sources of air pollution.
Answer the following questions.
a. What kind(s) of pollution is shown in the given picture?
b. List two pollutants that are visible in the given picture.
c. Give one harmful effect of the given pollution on our environment.
Thinking Zone
Why do we litter? Is it because we dislike cleanliness? What might happen if we ignore to care for our surroundings? How can we ensure the cleanliness of our environment? Discuss with your classmates and teacher.
Let’s Learn
Need to Save the Environment
The environment is a complex system that includes everything around us, like the air, the water, the land, and all the living organisms. All plants and animals depend on each other and the environment.
Our actions can deeply impact the environment in the forms of pollution, deforestation and climate change. Even actions like wasting water, paper, and
Pollution: Pollution occurs when harmful substances or contaminants are introduced into the environment Word Zone
Deforestation: Deforestation is the process of cutting down or clearing large areas of forests or trees permanently
Pollution
food can harm our environment. Many animals and plants have become extinct because of our actions. Protecting and preserving the environment is very important for the well-being of our present and future generations.
We can save our precious environment in many ways. Let’s look at some of them:
1. We can celebrate Van Mahotsav and conduct tree plantation drives in different places.
2. We must avoid plastic bags. We could use cloth or paper bags instead.
3. We must not litter public places. We must throw garbage only inside the dustbins.
4. Keep the water bodies like ponds, lakes, seas and oceans clean.
5. We must switch off lights, fans, and bulbs when not in use to save electricity.
6. Excessive food waste decomposes and results in the production of Methane gas, which harms the environment.
7. Conserve water by promptly fixing leaks, using water-saving appliances and fixtures, and being mindful of water usage in daily activities.
Vanmahotsav Avoid Plastic Do Not Litter
Van Mahotsav (Forest festival): It is an annual tree-planting movement celebrated in India
Fact Zone
Seventy-eight percent of marine mammals are at risk of accidental deaths, such as getting caught in fishing nets. Plastic bags and other plastic garbage end up in the ocean, killing over 1,000,000 sea animals every year.
Let’s Practise-1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The decomposition of food wastes results in the production of _____ gas.
b. Celebrating _______________ involves tree plantation drives and raising awareness about the importance of trees.
c. To help conserve energy, it’s important to switch off lights, fans, and bulbs when they are _______________ in use.
Let’s Learn
Types of Waste
Substances or things that cannot be used or are unwanted are called waste. These are classified as biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.
Types of Waste
Biodegradable waste
This includes food scraps, yard waste (such as leaves and grass clippings), and other biodegradable materials. Microorganisms can easily decompose this type of waste.
Biodegradeable Waste (Leaves)
Non-biodegradable waste
Biodegradeable Waste (Vegetables)
This includes waste materials that do not decompose easily. Plastics, metals, glass, and certain chemicals fall into this category. Electronic waste, such as batteries and parts of computers, is also non-biodegradable waste.
Non-Biodegradeable Waste
Let us see how much time some of the waste takes to decompose.
Non-biodegradable: Any substance that cannot be decomposed by microorganisms easily Word Zone
Biodegradable: Anything that can be decomposed by the action of microorganisms easily
Type of Waste Time Taken to Decompose
Paper Towel 2-4 weeks
Banana Peel 2-5 weeks
Newspaper 6 weeks
Cotton Cloth 1-5 months
Cardboard Box 2 months to 3 years
Wool Sock 1-5 years
Disposable Diaper 450 years
Plastic Bag 10-20 years
Aluminum Can 80-200 years
Plastic Bottle 450 years (or more)
Glass Bottle Approximately 1 million years (it's difficult to decompose)
Styrofoam Unknown (takes hundreds to thousands of years)
It is clear from the above table that some substances are practically nonbiodegradable. Hence, their use should be restricted.
Fact Zone
Archaeologists have discovered landfills that are thousands of years old! In 500 B.C., the city of Athens in Greece had a very rudimentary type of garbage service. Residents were allowed to put out garbage for collection and disposal, but they had to bring it one mile outside the city walls.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Write two examples of:
Biodegradable wastes - __________________________________
Non-Biodegradable waste – ______________________________
Disposal of Waste
Disposal of waste is also called waste management. Waste management is the practice of collecting, treating and disposing of waste for the protection of our environment. There are a few ways to dispose of waste.
Dumping
In some cities, garbage is collected daily and transported to places like dumping grounds. The waste is then dumped and usually levelled before the next dumping takes place. This is, however, a harmful method of waste disposal. This can pollute the nearby water bodies and cause harm to us or the animals and plants in that area.
Landfill
This is the most common method, where waste is buried in specific areas called landfill sites. Properly managed landfills include measures to prevent groundwater pollution and the release of harmful gases.
Dumping
Landfill
Burning
In this method, waste is collected in a place and set on fire. This can lead to air pollution and breathing disorders in animals and human beings. Burning waste at high temperatures is called incineration. Hazardous and medical wastes are generally incinerated. This method of disposal can become a source of energy if carried out with proper precautions. Without proper precautions, this method leads to air pollution.
Composting
Organic waste like food scraps, yard waste, and certain paper products can be composted. Composting is the process of decomposing these materials into nutrient-rich soil, which can be used in gardening and agriculture.
The amazing Vermont Composting Company uses chickens as part of its composting process. The chickens scratch and turn the compost in the food search, adding chicken manure at the same time. It’s a cost-effective process, too – the chickens find so much food in the compost that they don’t need any feeding!
Burning
Composting
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 3
1. State true or false.
a. Dumping waste is a harmless method of waste disposal. _____
b. Landfill sites must not include measures to prevent groundwater pollution and the release of harmful gases. _____
c. Burning waste is a method that does not contribute to air pollution. _____
d. Composting is the process of decomposing waste materials into nutrientrich soil, which can be used in gardening and agriculture. _____
Let’s Learn
The Three Rs (RRR)
The three Rs - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle- are important principles to follow when managing waste and conserving resources.
Reduce
This means using less and being mindful of what we consume. For instance, using reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastic ones, or using both sides
Word Zone
Consume: To use
The Three Rs
of paper before throwing it away. When we reduce what we use, we create less waste.
Reuse
Reusing items means finding new ways to use things instead of throwing them away after one use. For example, donating old clothes or toys instead of throwing them away, or using containers and bags multiple times before getting rid of them.
Recycle
Recycling is about turning used materials into new things instead of just throwing them away. This includes things like recycling paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Recycling is done in factories or recycling units. When we recycle, we help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and save resources by using them again.
Recycling 1 ton of paper saves 17 trees and 7,000 gallons (26497.88 litres) of water. Fact Zone
1. Name the following.
a. Using less and being mindful of consumption to create less waste. _____________
b. The principle encourages finding new ways to use items instead of discarding them after a single use._____________
c. The term that describes the process of turning used materials into new products instead of throwing them away._____________
d. The R involves actions like recycling paper, plastic, glass, and metal to reduce landfill waste and save resources._____________
Donate: To give away to people who need Resources: The things and materials we use Word Zone
Let’s Sum Up
Human activities have caused land, water, air and noise pollution in our environment.
Therefore, we need to save the environment by taking the right actions like saving water and paper and using cloth bags instead of plastic bags, etc.
Waste can be classified as biodegradable (can be decomposed) and nonbiodegradable (cannot be decomposed) by the actions of microorganisms. These wastes need to be disposed of carefully.
Some methods of waste disposal are dumping, burning, burying in landfill sites and composting.
The principle of 3 Rs is important in saving the environment.
The 3 Rs are – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
Life Skills
We have learned what 3Rs are. Now, let's incorporate the 4th R? It is called 'refuse'. Can you refuse the items you don’t need? Make a list of things you don’t need and resolve that you will not buy these. Share this experience with your friends about how you were an environmental warrior!
Maths:
If your city is able to recycle 25 tonnes of paper in a year, based on the information given in the Fact Zone, calculate the number of trees your city will be able to save in a year.
21st Century Skills
Make a compost bin. You can take the help of an adult. Make a list of items that you can add in the same bin. Share it with all your family members.
Cross-Curricular Connections
Extend Your Knowledge
Vermicompost is the product of earthworm digestion and aerobic decomposition using the activities of micro and macro organisms (beetles, bugs) at room temperature.
Vermicompost
Vermicomposting, or worm composting, produces a rich organic soil amendment containing a diversity of plant nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.
Tips for the Parent
• Talk about wet and dry waste to your child. Ask – which one of this waste is biodegradable? Why? Ask the child to help you while you are segregating the waste. Encourage your child to ask questions about the same.
• Ask the child to look through their cupboard for things they can donate. Ask encouraging questions like: Is it in a good condition for donation? If not, then what can we do? Make a list of things that you have not used for the past 6 months. Do we need to buy these or similar kinds of things?
Innovation and Technology
Means of Travel and Communication
My Study Plan
• Different modes of transport
• Various means of communication
• Different forms of mass communication
Let’s Recall
Answer the following questions.
a. Which mode of transport do you use to reach a farther place in less time?
b. Where do you post letters?
c. What is the fastest train service run on electricity in India called?
d. Which mode of communication would you use to share information with people in different countries?
Thinking Zone
If you had to travel to a place far away without using any modern means of transport or communication, how would you plan your journey and stay connected with your family and friends during the trip? What challenges do you think you might face, and how would you overcome them?
Let’s Learn
Modes of Transport
Throughout history, humans have developed effective ways to travel across land, sea, and air, connecting distant places and cultures. Let’s explore some of the major modes of transport that have transformed the way we move around the world.
Roadways
Roads have been there for centuries. Earlier, people used roads for walking or riding animals. These roads were made of dirt, gravel, or stones and were narrow and curvy.
As time passed and technology improved, roads got better. In the 1700s and 1800s, people started making paved roads using materials like tarmac or asphalt. These paved roads were stronger, weather resistant, and could handle heavier vehicles like wagons and carriages. The development of automobiles also caused major changes in roadways. Cars needed smoother and wider roads, so governments everywhere started constructing better roads. This made travelling easier and faster. Today, roadways are the most common mode of transport, connecting towns, cities, and villages.
Roadways
India has one of the world’s highest motorable roads, the Khardung La Pass in Ladakh, reaching an elevation of 5,359 meters (17,582 feet). Fact Zone
Word Zone
Paved: To cover the path with concrete, asphalt, stones, or some other material, mainly to construct a road
Tarmac: Material made by combining tar with sand & crushed rocks used for building roads
Asphalt: A black, sticky substance, often mixed with small stones or sand, that forms a strong surface when it becomes hard
Railways
The invention of the steam engine in the 1800s led to the development of railways. Railways offered several advantages over roadways. They were faster and could carry much more cargo. Additionally, trains were more comfortable as they had more seating space.
Railways quickly became the preferred mode of long-distance travel, and they played a vital role in the development of markets and societies around the world.
The development of electric and diesel engines further made trains faster.
The Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia is the longest railway, globally covering about 5,772 miles.
Airways
In 1903, the Wright brothers made the first powered airplane flight, changing how we travel. Aeroplanes soon became a reality and made flying across continents and oceans possible.
Airways are a fast and easy mode of travel, connecting the world in ways we couldn’t have imagined just a hundred years ago.
Airways has impacted society greatly by allowing fast and convenient travel to distant places. It has also enabled the growth of international trade and tourism.
Airways also connects people across the globe.
Fact Zone
Airways
Railways
The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling millions of passengers each year.
Let’s Learn
Waterways
Centuries ago, people started using boats on rivers and seas, discovering the value of waterways for travel and trade. Over time, better ships and technology emerged. In the 1800s, steam-powered ships made water travel faster. Just like aeroplanes changed the way we fly, these advances transformed waterways. Today, boats and ships connect places globally, just as they did in ancient times, playing a key role in our shared history and facilitating trade, exploration, and connections between people across the world.
Important sea routes:
Over centuries, specific sea routes have emerged connecting different parts of the world. The Silk Road, for example, was an ancient network of trade routes that linked China with the Mediterranean region to allow the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
The Ancient Silk Road:
The Silk Road was a network of interconnected caravan routes that helped in trade and cultural exchange and strengthen the relations between East and West. It also contributed to the development of languages, religions, and art forms along its routes.
Seaway
The Ancient Silk Road
The Modern Silk Road: Today, China has revived the concept of the Silk Road with a new idea called the Silk Road Economic Belt. It wants to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through trade and infrastructure development.
Other important sea routes, like the Spice Route, also connect Europe with India and Southeast Asia. The Transatlantic Route connects Europe with North America, and the Panama Canal is a shortcut route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Sea routes continue to play an important role in global trade and transportation. They are an efficient and cost-effective way to transport goods over long distances.
The Suez Canal, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, is one of the world’s most crucial waterways. It helps in global trade and shortens shipping routes.
Infrastructure: Structures of a country or city like roads, dams, airports, etc.
Panama Canal
The Modern Silk Road
Word Zone
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Read the following statements and state whether they are true or false.
a. Roads were first used for walking and riding animals, later evolving into paved roads for vehicles. ________________________
b. Trains became a preferred way to travel long distances because they were slower than horse-drawn carriages. ________________________
c. The Wright brothers’ first powered flight in 1903 was a crucial moment in air travel history. ________________________
Let’s Practise - 1
d. The Silk Road was a network of land routes connecting China with the Mediterranean region. ________________________
e. Sea routes are still important for global trade and transportation today.
2. Answer the following questions.
a. How did the development of automobiles lead to changes in road construction?
b. What are the benefits of airways?
c. What role did the Silk Road play in connecting different civilisations through trade and cultural exchange?
Let’s Learn
Communication
From ancient cave paintings to modern social media platforms, human beings have always found ways to communicate, share ideas, and connect with one another.
Communication is the process of exchanging information and ideas between individuals or groups. It can occur through various means, including verbal and nonverbal language, written messages, and electronic communication technologies.
Let’s explore major communication technologies that have transformed how we share information and interact with the world.
Personal communication
Personal communication is the exchange of information and ideas between two or more people through face-to-face talking, sending written messages, or using electronic tools.
Over time, humans have created many ways to communicate, starting with verbal language and written symbols and now using advanced technologies.
Postal service
The postal service has been a foundation of personal communication for centuries, enabling the delivery of letters, parcels, and documents over long distances. It has connected families and friends across borders and has also been important for businesses and governments.
The postal service has also faced challenges in recent years due to the rise of electronic communication channels, such as email and messaging apps. However, it remains an essential service for many people and businesses, especially those in rural or remote areas.
Ancient Cave Painting
Telephone
The invention of the telephone in 1876 made real-time voice communication possible over long distances. Telephones quickly became important for personal and business communication. It connected people instantly with each other.
Telephones have changed a lot over time, from early switchboard phones to modern mobile phones. Either way, they remain the most common way for people to connect over long distances.
Internet
The first telephone message ever transmitted was by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. He said, “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.” This marked the beginning of a new era in communication technology.
The internet arrived in the late 1900s, and changed how we share information and talk with others. Now, it’s an important tool for both personal and professional communication, connecting people all around the world instantly. The internet has made a big difference in how we talk, share things, learn, and interact with the world.
Personal communication is an important part of human existence. It connects us with others, helps us learn about the world and become better individuals.
There are different ways to communicate, like talking with friends, chatting with coworkers, or learning from a teacher. Personal communication is the key to building connections and understanding between people.
Telephone
Mobile Phone
Fact Zone
Fact Zone
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, invented the World Wide Web (WWW). He developed the first web browser and server, and the first website (info.cern.ch) went live on August 6, 1991.
Telegraph
The invention of the telegraph in the 1830s transformed long-distance communication. Telegraphs enabled rapid communication between cities and countries, aiding the flow of information and enabling faster decision-making.
Telegraphs were widely used throughout the 1800s and early 1900s, playing a crucial role in military communication, business transactions, and news reporting. However, their use declined with the rise of the telephone and other communication technologies.
Fact Zone
Samuel Morse sent the first telegraph message in 1844, which read, “What hath God wrought!” This marked the beginning of long-distance communication via telegraph.
Fax
The fax machine, introduced in the 1960s, helped transfer documents over telephone lines. Faxes were widely used for businesses until the rise of digital technologies.
While faxes have largely been replaced by digital file-sharing methods, such as email, they remain used in certain industries that require secure and verifiable document transmission.
Word Zone
Fax Machine
Transactions: Occasions when someone buys or sells something, or when money is exchanged or the activity of buying or selling something
Telegraph
The invention of email in the 1970s marked a shift from traditional letter writing to electronic communication. Emails transformed personal and professional communication, enabling the rapid exchange of messages, attachments, and ideas.
Email uses the internet to send and receive messages, allowing for instant communication across the globe. It has become an essential tool for personal and professional communication, connecting individuals, businesses, and organisations worldwide.
Means of travel and communication have undergone a remarkable transformation throughout history. From the invention of the wheel to the arrival of the internet, these changes have enabled people to connect, explore, and share information in ways that were once unimaginable.
Ray Tomlinson sent the first email in 1971, choosing the “@” symbol to signify that the message was sent to a person rather than a machine.
Let’s Learn
Mass communication
Mass communication involves the distribution of information to a large audience through various media channels. It plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, influencing social norms, and promoting cultural awareness. Mass communication has evolved over time, adapting to new technology and needs of the society.
Norms: An accepted way of behaving or doing things that most people agree with Evolved: Having developed through a gradual process Word Zone
Fact Zone
Newspaper and magazine
Newspapers and magazines have long served as primary sources of information, providing news, articles, and stories to a wide audience. They played a crucial role in shaping public opinion, spreading knowledge, and promoting intelligent communication.
Newspaper
Newspapers typically publish on a daily or weekly basis, offering timely updates on current events, sports, business, and other topics, while magazines, often published monthly or weekly, delve into specific areas of interest, such as fashion, cooking, or travel.
The invention of the printing press in the 1400s made it possible to massproduce newspapers and magazines. It led to an increase in the availability of information.
Newspapers and magazines continue to play an important role in informing the public, even though they now face competition from television, the internet, and other media.
Radio
The invention of radio in the early 1900s led to a new era of communication, bringing news, entertainment, and music into homes. It made people feel like they were part of a shared experience. It also helped them learn about different cultures. Radio programming evolved over time, from live broadcasts of plays and musical performances to news reports, educational programs, and popular music shows.
Radio
Delve: To examine something in detail, trying to find information Era: A period of time known for particular events or developments Word Zone
Television
Television emerged as the leading form of mass communication in the late 1900s, transforming how people consumed information and entertainment. Television sets became popular in households, providing visual news, entertainment, and educational programs. Televisions also shaped public opinions and served as a tool for education and social commentary.
Television
The first electronic television was successfully demonstrated on September 7, 1927, by Philo Farnsworth. Farnsworth’s invention laid the foundation for the television technology that has since become an integral part of modern life.
Let’s Practise-2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Communication is the fundamental process of exchanging _______________ between individuals or groups.
b. Television emerged as the dominant form of _______________ in the latter half of the 20th century.
c. ________ utilises the internet to send and receive messages, allowing for instant communication across the globe.
d. _______________ is the foundation of personal communication for centuries, enabling the delivery of letters, parcels, and documents.
2. Answer the following questions.
a. How has the invention of the internet transformed communication in the modern age?
b. Why newspapers and magazines played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and spreading knowledge with a ?
c. Why do you think the postal service, despite facing challenges, remains an essential service for many people and businesses?
Fact Zone
Let’s Sum Up
• Human beings developed ways to travel across land, sea, and air.
• Roads started as simple paths, evolved to paved roads, and now connect cities and villages.
• Railways, powered by steam engines, transformed long-distance travel.
• Airways revolutionised transportation with aeroplanes connecting continents.
• Sea routes, like the Silk Road, connected different parts of the world.
• Communication is the exchange of information and ideas.
• Personal communication includes face-to-face communication, letters, telephone calls, and emails.
• Mass communication reaches a large audience through media like newspapers, radio, television, and the Internet.
• The postal service, telegraph, and telephone played crucial roles in historical communication.
• Fax machines transmitted documents, and email revolutionised electronic communication.
Life Skills
The internet provides a vast amount of information and opportunities for connection, but it also carries possible risks. It’s important to use the internet responsibly, respect the privacy of others, and be thoughtful of the information you share. Make a list of rules you think one should follow while using the internet and share it with others.
English:
Write a special letter to your grandparents to make them feel happy and remember the old times, even though not many people write letters anymore. You can get the help of your parents once you finish writing and send the letter to your grandparents’ house.
Cross-Curricular Connections
21st Century Skills
Imagine you are an inventor living in the year 2050. You have been tasked with creating a new mode of transport that is both environmentally friendly and efficient. Design your mode of transport and present it to the class, explaining how it works and its benefits. With the increasing pollution and global warming, think of greener ways while designing your mode of transport.
Extend Your Knowledge
The world’s first newspaper, ‘Acta Diurna’, was published in Rome around 59 BC. It was a daily Roman news handwritten and presented in public places for citizens to read. ‘Acta Diurna’ is Latin for ‘Daily Acts’.
Tips for the Parent
• Encourage your child to explore the world around them through travel and communication.
• Take them on trips to different places, visit museums and historical sites, and engage them in conversations about current events and global issues.
• Help them develop their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills by asking open-ended questions and encouraging them to express their thoughts and ideas.
The Indian Government
My Study Plan
Central or Union Government
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
Powers and responsibilities of the President of India
Powers and responsibilities of the Prime Minister of India
Components of the State Government
Indian Judiciary
Let’s Recall
Think about a time when you were playing a cricket game in the school. There is an umpire to ensure everyone has a fair and enjoyable time. Similarly, the Indian Government acts like the umpire or the person who ensures that all Indians follow the rules and have a fair and enjoyable time. Consider the leaders and important figures we have in India. Can you write down the names of the leaders shown below?
Thinking Zone
Why do you think it’s important for people to choose their leaders, and how do leaders help run the country?
Let’s Learn
India is made up of 28 states and 8 union territories. The constitution of India lays out how the government works both at the national level and in each state to ensure everything runs smoothly. The constitution of India clearly defines the powers of both the central and state governments.
INDIA
Constitution: A set of rules that outlines how a country is governed Union Territories: Special areas in
The central government takes care of defending the whole country, while each state government looks after the law and order within its borders. Sometimes, the central and state governments work together when there’s a need for collaboration. This way, everyone works together to make sure things are wellmanaged all across the country.
Union Government
The union government, also known as the central government, plays a crucial role in legislating for the entire country. This government takes care of the whole country and has the power to make important decisions and rules that affect everyone. It also oversees important tasks and policies at the national level. The Union Government’s structure is defined by the Constitution of India. The union government is situated in the capital, New Delhi.
Lok Sabha
The Lok Sabha is like a big decision-making room in India where important laws and rules for the entire country are created and discussed. It’s often called the House of the People or the Lower House because regular people, through elections, choose members called MPs (Members of Parliament) to represent them.
In the Lok Sabha, MPs gather to talk about and make new laws. They also work on changing old rules if needed. These discussions happen regularly to ensure that the country’s laws stay fair and up-to-date.
Word Zone
Legislate: To make or pass laws
Union Government of India
Lok Sabha
The Speaker, a special person chosen by all the MPs, helps keep everyone organised during these discussions.
Every five years, people in India who are at least 18 years old can vote in general elections. The country is divided into smaller areas called constituencies. The person who gets the most votes in a constituency becomes an MP in the Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha can have up to 552 MPs, each representing a different part of India.
It’s important to note that the Lok Sabha collaborates with another group called the Rajya Sabha to create laws. They discuss ideas, debate, and vote to ensure that the laws are fair for everyone.
Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha is a permanent group that represents the states and Union Territories in India. It’s an important decision-making body also known as the Council of States or the Upper House.
Unlike the Lok Sabha, the people in the Rajya Sabha aren’t directly elected by everyone. Instead, they are chosen by the people we elect in our states. These members represent the wisdom and experience of each state.
The Rajya Sabha is more stable than the Lok Sabha. Its members serve for six years, and every two years, one-third of them retire. This way, the house doesn’t lose all its members at once.
Word Zone
Constituencies: Smaller areas into which a country is divided for elections
Lok Sabha Speaker- Shri Om Birla
Rajya Sabha
The main job of the Rajya Sabha is to review and suggest changes to the laws made by the Lok Sabha. In addition to elected members, the President can appoint individuals who excel in fields like arts, sciences, or social service to the Rajya Sabha. This adds extra knowledge and skills to their discussions.
The Rajya Sabha should consist of no more than 250 members - 238 members representing the States and Union Territories, and 12 members nominated by the President. The Vice President of India serves as the head of the Rajya Sabha and ensures the smooth functioning of the Rajya Sabha.
The Rajya Sabha stands as a representative body for the States and Union Territories of India, making sure that every part of the country has a voice in the national decision-making process.
The President
The President is the head of state and the supreme commander of the armed forces. The President lives in a special house called the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
of state: Leader of a country
President of India - Smt. Droupadi Murmu Rashtrapati Bhavan
Head
Word Zone
Chairman of Rajya SabhaShri Jagdeep Dhankar
The President makes sure that everything in the country runs smoothly. A few roles of a president are:
• Sign bills that turn into laws.
• Represent India in international forums.
• Start and end the sessions of both Houses of Parliament, i.e,. Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
• Appoint the governors of states, the Chief Justice of India, and other judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, etc.
The President has the power to declare three types of emergencies: national, state, and financial.
While the President’s role is essential, they mostly follow what the Prime Minister and the government suggest. A president is elected for a five-year term, and they have the option to seek re-election for subsequent terms.
Prime Minister
The Prime Minister is the head of the government and holds a prominent leadership position. He is not directly elected by the people but is appointed based on their leadership within the political party that wins the most seats in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, during general elections.
The Prime Minister also heads the Council of Ministers, a group of key ministers who are responsible for various roles.
Prime Minister of India- Shri
Narendra Modi
Cabinet Ministers of India
Together, they work to formulate policies and make important decisions for the country. One of the significant roles of the Prime Minister is to formulate policies that shape the direction of the nation. These policies cover areas such as the economy, foreign affairs, defence, and social issues.
On the international stage, the Prime Minister represents India, engaging in diplomatic relations, participating in global forums and building relationships with leaders from other countries.
During challenging times, the Prime Minister takes charge of crisis management. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic downturn, or health crisis, they lead the government’s response to ensure the well-being of the citizens.
With significant decision-making authority, the Prime Minister plays a key role in shaping the legislative agenda, proposing new laws, and ensuring the effective implementation of government policies. Ultimately, the role of the Prime Minister is centred around public service. He works to improve the lives of the citizens, address their concerns, and contribute to the overall progress and prosperity of the nation.
The Union Government of India functions under the world’s largest written constitution, the Indian Constitution, which balances power between the central government and the states.
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The members of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are collectively known as ___________.
b. The Rajya Sabha is also known as the ________________ or the Upper House.
c. The President serves for a term of ___________ years.
d. The ___________ is the head of state and the supreme commander of the armed forces.
e. Every five years, people in India who are at least __________ years old can vote in general elections.
2. Name the following.
a. Name the two houses of Parliament in India.
b. Name the special person in the Lok Sabha who helps organise discussions.
3. Answer the following.
a. What is the maximum number of Members of Parliament the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha can have?
b. How is the Prime Minister of India appointed?
Let’s Learn
State Government
Just like the central government takes care of the whole country, each state in India has its own government, known as the State Government.
Every state has its own rules and laws decided by its Legislative Assembly, also known as the Vidhan Sabha. This assembly is like a mini-parliament for the state, and its members (called MLAs) are elected by the people of that state to represent their voices.
Legislative Assembly- Kerala
Legislative Council- Uttar Pradesh
Some states have an additional house called the Legislative Council or the Vidhan Parishad. This is like an Upper House.
In each state, there’s a Chief Minister, who is like the leader of the state’s government. They lead the state government and ensure everything runs smoothly.
The Chief Minister has a group of ministers known as the Council of Ministers, each with specific jobs like handling education, health, or finance.
Chief Minister of Punjab- Shri Bhagwant Mann
Vidhan Sabha: State legislative assembly where elected members represent people’s voices Vidhan Parishad: An Upper House in some states for specific discussions and reviews Word Zone
Every state also has a Governor, who is like the head of the state, representing the central government. The Governor ensures that the state follows the rules and laws set by the central government and has certain powers to oversee the state’s administration.
The State Government looks after important things like education, healthcare, law and order, and roads, directly impacting the people in the state. They create rules and policies to manage these areas effectively. For spending money, the State Government plans where to use funds for schools, hospitals, roads, and other things that help the people in their state.
While the State Government manages things within its state, it also works closely with the central government to strike a balance between national laws and statespecific needs. They collaborate on various matters to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In October 2019, a big change happened when the state of Jammu and Kashmir was divided into two separate Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This meant that Jammu and Kashmir no longer had the status of a state. Now, the total number of states in India is 28.
Fact Zone
J&K and Ladakh
Governor of Tamil NaduShri R.N. Ravi
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. Some states have an additional house like an upper house known as _____________.
b. The rules and laws of a state are decided by its _____________, also known as the Vidhan Sabha.
c. The Governor represents the _____________ and ensures that the state follows the rules set by the central government.
2. Answer the following.
a. Who is the leader of the State Government in each state?
b. Name some important areas that State Government look after in a state.
Let’s Learn
Judiciary
The Judiciary in India is divided into 3 bodies.
Structure of Indian Judiciary
The Supreme Court of India
The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in India. It is located in New Delhi, the capital city of India. It acts as the final court of appeal in the country. This means that any legal decision can be appealed to the Supreme Court, and its judgment is final. It also protects the fundamental rights of citizens as guaranteed by the Constitution.
High Courts
Supreme Court of India
In India, each state has a High Court. These courts are the highest judicial bodies at the state level.
They hear appeals from lower courts and also handle significant state-level cases.
Subordinate Courts
These include District Courts and other lower courts.
They are the first level of courts where most legal cases begin. They handle a variety of cases, including civil and criminal matters.
The Supreme Court of India was established on January 26, 1950. It has the power to decide disputes between various governments in the country and hears appeals against the verdicts of the lower courts.
Appeal: A process where a case is brought before a higher court Fundamental: Basic and necessary District: A district refers to an area of a country or city Word Zone
Fact Zone
Let’s Practise - 3
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The ________ is the highest judicial court and the final court of appeal in India.
b. The Supreme Court of India is located in _______, the capital city of India.
c. Each state in India has a _______, which is the highest judicial body at the state level.
d. _______ Courts are the first level of courts where most legal cases in India begin.
e. The Supreme Court protects the fundamental _______ of citizens as guaranteed by the Constitution.
Let’s Sum Up
India comprises 28 states and 8 Union Territories, each governed by its own set of rules.
The Central Government, or Union Government, legislates for the entire country.
Lok Sabha, the Lower House, has up to 552 elected MPs making laws and representing constituencies.
Rajya Sabha, the Upper House, provides thoughtful advice, and its members serve six-year terms.
The President collaborates with the government, signs laws, and engages in international relations, serving a 5-year term.
The Prime Minister, appointed based on Lok Sabha party leadership, formulates policies and represents India globally.
State governments, led by Chief Ministers and Governors, manage education, healthcare, law and order, and collaborate with local governments.
State Legislative Assemblies and Councils create state-specific laws, and Governors ensure compliance with central government rules.
The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in India and acts as the final court of appeal in the country .
High Courts and subordinate courts handle legal matters, ensuring justice at both state and local levels.
Life Skills
Why do you think effective collaboration and communication among leaders at both the central and state levels are essential for the well-being of our country? How can these skills contribute to making fair and beneficial decisions that impact the lives of all citizens?
Cross-Curricular Connections
Maths:
How can mathematics be applied to analyse the representation of constituencies in the Lok Sabha? Calculate the percentage of seats each state contributes and create a bar graph to visually represent the distribution.
21st Century Skills
Create a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the roles and responsibilities of the ministers in your state government.
Extend Your Knowledge
The Vice-President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote and the voting in such election is by secret ballot. The Vice-President is not a member of either House of Parliament or of a House of a Legislature of any state.
Tip for the Parent
• Engage your child in discussions about governance, politics, and the functioning of our country. Encourage them to ask questions and express their opinions. Foster a sense of curiosity and critical thinking to empower them as informed and responsible citizens.
World and Universe
The United Nations
My Study Plan
Objectives of the United Nations
Principles of the United Nations
Major bodies of the United Nations and their functions
Agencies of the United Nations
Let’s Recall
The United Nations helps countries cooperate and solve problems. Who do you think is the current Secretary-General of the United Nations?
United Nations
Thinking Zone
Why do you think it’s important for countries to work together?
Let’s Learn
World War I happened from 1914 to 1918 and caused a lot of global destruction. To prevent future wars, the League of Nations was formed in 1919, but it didn’t work. World War II started in 1939 and lasted till 1945. It was worse, causing sadness and destruction worldwide. It led to the creation of the United Nations to maintain international peace and cooperation among nations.
Formation of the UN
The United Nations (UN) was formed in 1945 after representatives from the U.S., the U.K., the Soviet UN Emblem
Word Zone
Charter: Rulebook or guiding principles document
World Wars
Destruction Due to World Wars
Union, and China met and wrote the UN Charter, which was signed on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco. The UN officially came into existence on October 24, 1945. This day is celebrated as United Nations Day worldwide.
The UN’s main goal is to maintain world peace. Its headquarters is in New York, USA. Trygve Lie from Norway was its first Secretary-General. The UN’s flag is light blue with a symbol representing unity and global peace.
Objectives of the UN
The objectives of the United Nations are centered on promoting peace and security worldwide, with a focus on the following goals:
• Protecting people from war and its consequences.
• Upholding equal rights and justice for all countries.
• Fostering friendly and cooperative relationship between nations.
• Working together to solve international problems.
• Providing a space for nations to communicate and address their issues collectively.
• Encouraging solutions that respect the diversity of race, religion, language, and gender among the global population.
• Advocating for human rights and individual freedoms.
In addition to these goals, the UN also plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and humanitarian aid in times of crisis. Through its various
Humanitarian: Focused on helping people in need Word Zone
Headquarters: The main office or centre of operations for an organisation Sustainable: Something that can continue for a long time
Tackling Climate Change
$ Humanitarian Aid by UN
Trygve Lie
specialised agencies, the UN implements programmes and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for people around the world.
Principles of the UN
Here are some key principles of the UN.
Equal representation
Each member state, regardless of size or strength, has an equal vote in the UN general assembly.
Peaceful resolution
The UN seeks to resolve international conflicts peacefully, avoiding the use of force unless necessary for peace and security.
Non-use of force
Member states are urged to refrain from threatening or using force against any state to prevent conflicts and wars.
Non-intervention
Say No to War
The UN respects the sovereignty of each nation and does not interfere in matters within the domestic jurisdiction of any state.
International cooperation
The UN encourages collaboration among nations to address various global issues and challenges.
Human rights
The organisation is dedicated to promoting and upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without discrimination based on race, sex, language, or religion.
Word Zone
Sovereignty: A country’s independent authority or power
Human Rights
Fact Zone
India became a member of the United Nations (UN) on October 30, 1945. India was one of the founding members of the UN, joining shortly after the organisation’s establishment.
Let’s Practise - 1
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The United Nations was established on October 24, __________, which is now celebrated as United Nations Day.
b. The first person to hold the position of Secretary-General was __________________________ from Norway.
c. The UN’s founding document is known as the _______________.
d. The United Nations headquarters is located in ________________ City.
e. Each member state has _________ vote in the UN general assembly.
2. Answer the following questions.
a. In which year was the UN’s Charter officially signed?
b. Name any two objectives of the United Nations.
c. What is the primary goal of the United Nations?
d. What does the light blue flag of the UN symbolise?
Let’s Learn
Major Bodies of the
UN
The UN consists of several major bodies, each with its specific roles.
General Assembly
Purpose: To discuss important global issues, make decisions collectively, and admit new UN members
Structure: Consist of 193 member states.
Annual meetings with each member country having one vote
Functions: Sets global standards, approves the UN budget, mobilises international efforts for humanitarian issues, and oversees specialised UN agencies
General Assembly
Security Council
Purpose: To maintains world peace and security
Composition: 15 countries, with five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US) having veto power and 10 non-permanent members
Functions: Authorises peacekeeping forces, imposes sanctions, and makes legally binding decisions
Security Council
Word Zone
Veto power: An official power or right to refuse, accept, or allow something
Secretariat
Purpose: To manage day-to-day operations of the UN
Leadership: Led by the Secretary-General
Functions: Handles administrative tasks, writes reports, organises meetings, and conducts research to support decision-making
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
Purpose: To address economic growth, social issues, and environmental protection
Membership: 54 member countries elected by the General Assembly for a 3-year term
Functions: Discusses and plans initiatives to improve people’s lives, and collaborates with organisations, experts, and governments
International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Purpose: To resolve legal disputes between countries and provide legal advice
Structure: 15 judges serving nine-year terms, chosen by countries worldwide
Functions: Hears cases between countries, gives legal advice to the UN and other agencies, and ensures compliance with its decisions
These bodies work together to achieve the UN’s overarching goals of maintaining peace, promoting development, and upholding international law.
UN Secretariat Building
Economic and Social Council
International Court of Justice
Fact Zone
Dr Nagendra Singh from India, served as a judge at the ICJ from 1973 to 1988, and he was the President of the ICJ from 1985 to 1988.
Let’s Practise - 2
1. Write T for true and F for false statements.
a. The General Assembly conducts yearly meetings, with each member country possessing one vote. ( )
b. Six countries have the power to veto decisions within the Security Council. ( )
c. The secretariat manages the day-to-day operations of the UN. ( )
d. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) focuses on issues like economic growth, social issues, and environmental protection. ( )
2. Name the following.
a. The primary judicial branch of the United Nations.
b. The council that can deploy peacekeeping forces.
c. The UN body elected by the General Assembly that works on economic and social issues.
d. The annual meeting of all UN member states.
3. Answer the following.
a. How many countries are currently members of the UN General Assembly?
b. Who leads the Secretariat of the UN?
c. What is the role of the Security Council?
d. What kind of disputes does the International Court of Justice resolve?
Let’s Learn
Agencies of the UN
The United Nations has a number of specialised agencies, each focusing on specific areas of international public policy and human welfare. Here are some of the key agencies:
Name of Agency Role
World Health Organization (WHO)
Addresses global health issues, strives to improve health, ensure access to healthcare, and responds to health emergencies worldwide
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland (Established in 1948).
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
Focuses on the welfare of children globally, including their education, health, and protection from abuse and exploitation
Headquarters: New York, US (Established in 1946).
Word Zone
Exploitation: Taking unfair advantage of someone or something for personal gain
Name of Agency Role
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Promotes education, cultural development, and scientific cooperation among nations.
Headquarters: Paris, France (Established in 1946).
World Bank Group Provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries for programmes that improve economic prospects and quality of life
Headquarters: Washington DC, USA (Formed in 1944 at the Bretton Woods Conference)
International Labour Organization (ILO)
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Promotes rights at work, encourages decent employment opportunities, and enhances social protection
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland (Formed in 1919)
Leads international efforts to combat hunger, improve nutrition, and enhance food security
Headquarters: Rome, Italy (Founded in 1945).
Works to secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty
Headquarters: Washington, D.C., US (Established in 1944)
These agencies often collaborate with each other and with other international bodies to address complex global issues that span multiple sectors.
Achievements of the UN
Achievements of the United Nations (UN) since its establishment in 1945 include:
Peacekeeping missions
The UN has conducted peacekeeping missions globally, contributing to the reduction of conflicts and the maintenance of peace.
Decolonisation
The UN played a crucial role in the decolonisation process, leading to the independence of over 80 countries that were formerly under colonial rule.
World Health Organization (WHO) contributions
The WHO, a UN agency, has been instrumental in eradicating smallpox and reducing the incidence of diseases such as polio, measles, and malaria.
Despite facing ongoing challenges, the UN’s efforts across various domains represent significant strides toward fostering a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world.
Let’s Practise - 3
1. Fill in the blanks.
a. The headquarters of UNESCO is located in _____________________.
b. The World Health Organization focuses on global __________ issues.
c. The United Nations Children’s Fund is commonly known by the acronym ___________________.
2. Write the full form.
a. WHO: ___________________________________________________
b. UNESCO: ________________________________________________
c. ILO: _____________________________________________________
d. IMF: _____________________________________________________
e. FAO: _____________________________________________________
Word Zone
Eradicate: Eliminate or destroy
Let’s Sum Up
The United Nations, a global organisation, fosters international cooperation and peace.
Key UN bodies include the General Assembly, Security Council, Secretariat, ECOSOC, and International Court of Justice.
Agencies like WHO, UNICEF and FAO address health, education, and humanitarian needs in countries around the world.
The UN has significantly contributed to peacekeeping, decolonisation, and disease eradication.
The World Health Organization eradicated smallpox and combats global health crises.
Life Skills
If you were a leader representing your country at the United Nations, which global issue would you prioritise to address, and how would you propose to collaborate with other nations through the UN to find a solution?
Science:
How does WHO contribute to keeping people safe during health challenges such as COVID-19? Discuss the role of science in understanding and managing diseases. How can global cooperation help in protecting everyone’s health?
21st Century Skills
If you were appointed as a ‘Peace Ambassador’ for your school, how would you encourage your classmates to work together, solve problems peacefully, and create a more harmonious environment? How can your actions inspire a sense of unity and understanding among your friends, similar to how countries come together for peace through organisations like the United Nations?
Extend Your Knowledge
The UN cares greatly about our planet and the environment. They have an important agreement called the Paris Agreement. It’s like a promise between many countries to protect the earth. Scientists tell us that the earth is getting warmer, which is not good for plants, animals, and people. The UN listens to these scientists and makes rules (policies) to help prevent the earth from getting too hot.
Tip for the Parent
• Encourage your child to join virtual tours of the UN headquarters or online seminars hosted by the UN bodies for younger students.
• Encourage them to explore and participate in online debates or discussions on significant UN resolutions or conventions.
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