CLASS V // TWAU // THIRD CHAPTER // THE MYSTERY OF FOOD

 

CLASS V // TWAU // THIRD CHAPTER // 

THE MYSTERY OF FOOD

SUMMARY NOTE:-

Importance of Food :-

·      Food is one of our basic needs.
·      It gives us energy to work, helps to grow and builds our body. It also protects us from diseases.

Sources of Food:-

We get food mainly from plants (fruits, vegetables, cereals, pulses, oils, spices) and animals (milk, eggs, meat, fish, honey).

Components of Food:-

 Food has different nutrients:

Ø Carbohydrates – energy-giving (rice, wheat, potato etc.).
Ø Proteins – body-building (pulses, milk, eggs, fish etc.).
Ø Fats – stored energy, warmth (ghee, butter, nuts etc.).
Ø Vitamins & Minerals – protect us from diseases, keep body fit (fruits, vegetables, milk etc.).
Ø Water & Roughage – help in digestion and keep the body clean.

Balanced Diet:-

·      A diet that contains all nutrients in the right amount is called a balanced diet.

·      Eating junk food regula--+rly is harmful.

 Food Habits & Culture:-

Different regions have different food habits depending on climate, soil, and tradition. Example: Rice in south India, wheat in north India.

Food Spoilage:-

Ø Food spoils due to microbes (tiny living organisms).

Ø Microbes grow when there is air, moisture, and suitable temperature.

Ø Eating spoiled food can cause stomach upset and indigestion.

Food Preservation:-

Food Preservation means keeping food safe, fresh, and edible for a longer time without spoiling.

Food Preservation Methods:-

Ø Drying in the Sun – Removing water from food is called dehydration (e.g., chillies, papad).

Ø Pickling – Preserving in salt, oil, or vinegar (e.g., pickles, achar).

Ø Oiling – oil prevents air from entering (e.g., mango pickle).

Ø Refrigeration/Freezing – – Keeping food cold to slow bacterial growth (e.g., milk, vegetables, meat, butter).

Ø Salting – Using salt to prevent spoilage (e.g., salted fish, meat).

Ø Canning & Packaging – Sealing food in airtight containers after heating (e.g., jams, juices).

Ø Sugar Syrup – Preserving fruits in sugar syrup (e.g., murabba, jams).

Good & Bad Microbes:-

Ø Bad microbes → spoil food, cause diseases.

Ø Good microbes → help make curd, idlis, fermented foods, and aid digestion.

Healthy Food Habits:-

Ø Eat seasonal fruits & vegetables (they are fresher and tastier).

Ø Chew food properly → saliva helps digestion.

Ø Different teeth have different uses:

Incisors – cut

Canines – tear

Premolars – crush

Molars – grind

Ø Oral hygiene: Brush, rinse after eating, fewer sweets, visit dentist if needed.

Ø Eat slowly to avoid choking.

Important points:-

Ø India is the largest producer of millets in the world. It is very rich in nutrients.

Ø India is one of the largest banana producers in the world.

Ø India is the largest producer of pulses (dal) in the world.

Ø Oil keeps out air and stops the growth of microbes.

Ø Cold temperature slows down microbes.

Ø Microbes in the air help make idli batter rise.

Ø Sometimes, bad eating habits can also lead to indigestion.

Ø ‘Black pepper’ is a common spice in our homes. In the past, black pepper had become so popular as a spice that Vasco da Gama crossed oceans to collect it from India.

Ø In the Northeast region of India, bamboo is used in making houses and in cooking. Tender bamboo shoots can be turned into tasty curries.

Ø Fruits taste best when they are eaten in their season.

Ø Eating with your hands is common in India, it helps you feel the texture of food, and prepares your stomach for digestion!

Ø Chewing food properly breaks down the food and releases saliva which helps in digestion.

Ø Fermented rice (called pakhala, kanji, etc.) is eaten in many parts of India, it cools the body and is full of good bacteria.

A. FILL IN THE BLANKS:-

1. Protein is called the body-building nutrient.

2. Carbohydrate is called the energy-giving nutrient.

3. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals.

4. A diet that has all nutrients in the right amount is called a balanced diet.

5. Milk, eggs and fish are rich in proteins.

6. We should avoid eating too much junk food.

7. The process of eating food and using it for energy, growth, and repair is called nutrition.

8. A diet that has all nutrients in the right amount is called a balanced diet.

9. Removing water from food to preserve is called dehydration.

B. Column Matching :-

1. Carbohydrates           (a) Growth and repair
2. Proteins                      (b) Warmth and energy
3. Fats                              (c) Energy giving
4. Vitamins                      (d) Protection from diseases
Answers: 1-(c), 2-(a), 3-(b), 4-(d)

C. Complete this analogy:-

1.    Carbohydrates : Energy :: Proteins : Body building

2.    Vitamins : Protection :: Minerals : Strong bones and teeth

3.    Fat : More energy :: Roughage : Helps in digestion

4.    Balanced diet : All nutrients :: Junk food : Unhealthy

5.    Food : Nutrients :: Sunlight : Vitamin D

D. MCQs

Q1. Which of the following is an energy-giving food?
(a) Rice  (b) Milk  (c) Egg  (d) Spinach

Answer: (a) rice

Q2. Which nutrient helps in body growth and repair?
(a) Carbohydrates  (b) Proteins  (c) Fats  (d) Minerals

Answer: (b) proteins

Q3. Which of these is a protective food?
(a) Fruits  (b) Butter  (c) Rice  (d) Meat

Answer: (a) fruits

Q4. Which method is NOT used for food preservation?
(a) Drying  (b) Freezing  (c) Boiling  (d) Painting

Answer: (d) painting

Q5. A diet that contains all nutrients in the right amount is called?
(a) Junk food  (b) Protective food  (c) Balanced diet  (d) Energy diet

Answer: (c) balanced diet

E.  Write 'T' for True and 'F' for False statements:-

1. Carbohydrates are called energy-giving foods. (True/False)

Answer: True

2. Fats do not give any energy to our body. (True/False)

Answer: False

3. Balanced diet keeps us healthy and strong. (True/False)

Answer: True

4. Pickling is a method of food preservation. (True/False)

Answer: True

5. All junk foods are healthy for us. (True/False)

Answer: False

F. Differentiate:-

1. Carbohydrates and Proteins:-

Carbohydrates	Proteins
Carbohydrates: Provide energy to the body (e.g., rice, wheat, potatoes).	Proteins: Help in growth and repair of the body (e.g., milk, pulses, eggs).

2. Fats and Vitamins

Fats	Vitamins
Fats: Give more energy than carbohydrates, stored in the body (e.g., butter, oil).	Vitamins: Do not give energy but protect us from diseases (e.g., fruits, vegetables).

3. Balanced Diet and Junk Food

Balanced Diet	Junk Food
Balanced Diet: Contains all nutrients in proper amounts, keeps us healthy.	Junk Food: Lacks essential nutrients, makes us weak and unhealthy if eaten too much.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: Name two energy-giving foods.

Ans: Rice, Potato.

Q2: Which nutrient is called body-building food?

Ans: Proteins.

Q3. Give one example of protective food.

Ans : Orange.

Q4: Why do we need food?

Ans: For energy, growth, and repair of the body and also to get protection from diseases.

B. Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is a balanced diet?

Ans: A diet that contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, water, and roughage in the right amount is called a balanced diet.

Q2: Why should we not eat too much junk food?

Ans: Junk food has less nutrients and too much fat, which can harm our health.

Q3: What are protective foods? Give one example.

Ans: Protective foods are those which protect us from diseases. Example: Fruits and vegetables.

Q4: Why do we need water and roughage in our food?

Ans: They help in digestion and removal of waste from the body.

Q5: What do microbes need to grow ?

Ans: Microbes need moisture, air and the right temperature to grow.

C. Long Answer Questions

Q1: Explain different nutrients present in food and their functions.
Ans:

Ø Carbohydrates give energy.

Ø Proteins help in growth and repair of the body.

Ø Fats provide energy and keep the body warm.

Ø Vitamins and minerals protect from diseases and keep the body fit.

Ø Water and roughage help in digestion and removal of waste.

2. Draw a labelled diagram of different types of teeth.

D. Application/Thinking Questions

Q1: Why do people living in cold regions eat more fats compared to people in hot regions?

Ans: Because fats provide warmth and stored energy, which is needed more in cold regions.

Q2: What would happen if all the fish in a river disappeared?
Ans: The food chain would break. Birds and animals that eat fish would suffer, and the balance of life in the river would be disturbed.

Q3: Imagine your family does not have a refrigerator. How would you preserve milk, fruits, and vegetables?

Ans: Milk can be boiled daily, fruits can be dried, and vegetables can be pickled or sun-dried.

Q4: How can you avoid choking?
Ans: To avoid choking, prepare food by cutting it into small, manageable pieces, especially for children. Chew food slowly and thoroughly, and avoid distractions like talking, laughing while eating.

Q5: Why do some food items last for weeks and others spoil in just a few days?

Ans: Some food items last longer because they lack moisture, are preserved by methods like drying or are stored in cooler temperatures to slow microbial growth. Foods spoil quickly when they are moist, kept in warm environments, and exposed to air.

Q6: You are going on a field trip for two days. List five food items you will carry. How will you keep them from getting spoiled?
Ans: For a two-day field trip, carry food items like sandwiches, fruits, nuts, granola bars, and bottled water. To prevent spoilage, use an insulated cooler bag with ice packs, pack dry foods in airtight containers to keep out moisture, avoid direct sunlight by keeping the bag in a shaded area, and prioritize eating fresh or cooked foods first.

Q7: What if food cannot be preserved? Imagine a world without food preservation and discuss the consequences.

Ans: Consequences of a world without food preservation:

·      Food would spoil very quickly.

·      People could only eat seasonal and local foods.

·      No global trade of food items.

·      Hunger and famine would increase.

·      Food prices would become very high.

·      Spoiled food would cause health problems.

·      Emergency relief and storage of food would be impossible.

8. 

Ans :-

Roti → Dehydration → Khakhra

Papad → Dried in sun → Dried papads

Mango → Sun drying → Aam papad

Lemon → Pickling → Lemon pickle

Butter → Heating/Clarification → Ghee

Juice → Canning → Canned juice

Chillies → Grinding/Drying → Chilli powder

Fish → Salting/Drying → Dried fish

Practice makes a man perfect.

 

CLASS V // TWAU // SECOND CHAPTER // JOURNEY OF A RIVER

SUMMARY NOTE:-

A riddle on River :-

I have no feet, but I travel far,

Through fields and forests, under moon and star.

I quench your thirst and help plants grow,

From mountain to sea, I quietly flow.

Who am I ?   Answer - River

Godavari : Where It Begins and Flows:-

• Ø Godavari starts in the Western Ghats at Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra).
• Ø It flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
• Ø After 1,465 km, it joins the Bay of Bengal.
• Ø Small rivers like Indravati, Sabari, and Manjira join it, which are called its tributaries.
• Ø It is the second longest river in India after river Ganga.

Importance of the River:-

Ø Provides water for drinking, cooking, washing, irrigation, and factories.

Ø Helps in farming (crops like rice, sugarcane, cotton, etc.).

Ø Supports livelihoods like farming, fishing, and transport.

Ø Has dams (e.g., Polavaram, Sriram Sagar Project) to store water and produce electricity.

Problems Faced:-

Ø Dams: provide water and electricity but cause displacement of people, animals, and forests.

Ø Pollution: waste, plastics, and chemicals harm water, fish, and people’s health.

Ø Floods: heavy rains cause flooding, damage homes, crops, and roads.

Ø Droughts: if rivers run dry, people and animals suffer greatly.

Conservation:-

Ø Avoid wasting water.

Ø Plant trees to prevent floods and soil erosion.

Ø Keep rivers clean (avoid plastics, chemicals, and dirty water).

Ø Reuse water (e.g., leftover clean water for plants).

Important points:-

Ø The Chenab rail bridge in India is the highest railway arch bridge in the world.

Ø The Majuli island in Assam is the world’s largest river island, formed by the Brahmaputra river.

Ø Hirakud dam in Odisha is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, stretching over 25 kilometres.

Ø Ganges river dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is blind and uses sound to find its way in the water.

A. FILL IN THE BLANKS:-

a)   The Godavari River starts in the Western Ghats at Trimbakeshwar.

b)   The second longest river in India is Godavari.

c)    The total length of the Godavari is 1,465 km.

d)   The Godavari is also called Dakshina Ganga.

e)   Small rivers that join the main river are called tributaries.

f)     The Coringa Mangrove Forests are found where the Godavari meets the sea.

g)   Rivers that flow all year round are called perennial rivers.

h)   Polavaram Dam is one of the famous dams built on the Godavari.

i)      People celebrate Godavari Pushkaram by taking a dip in the Godavari’s holy waters.

j)     A dam stores water in a large water body called a reservoir.

k)    More than 900 dams have been built to store the Godavari’s water.

l)      In 2019, Chennai brought water using special water trains because its reservoirs dried up.

m) The national aquatic animal of India found in rivers like Ganga is the Ganges river dolphin.

n)   The Sri Ram Sagar Project (SRSP) is built across the Godavari River in the Nizamabad district of Telangana.

o)   Pench National Park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

p)   Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

q)   Kawal Tiger Reserve is located in the state of Telangana.

r)     The Polavaram Dam is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

s)    The Chenab rail bridge in India is the highest railway arch bridge in the world.

t)     The Majuli island in Assam is the world’s largest river island, formed by the Brahmaputra river.

u)   Hirakud dam in Odisha is one of the longest earthen dams in the world, stretching over 25 kilometres.

v)    Ganges river dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is blind and uses sound to find its way in the water.

B. Column Matching :-

Column A                                       Column B

(i) Godavari begins at                           (a) Festival celebrated in the river

(ii) Polavaram                                        (b) Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra

(iii) Godavari Pushkaram                       (c) A famous dam on Godavari

(iv) Tributaries                                       (d) Join the main river       

Ans : (i) - (b) , (ii) - (c), (iii) - (a), (iv) - (d)       

C. Complete th, (iv) - (d)is analogy:-

a)   Godavari : Trimbakeshwar :: Ganga : Gangotri

b)   Perennial River : Flows all year :: Seasonal River : Flows only in rainy season

c)    Tributary : Sabari :: Main River : Godavari

d)   Flood : Excess water :: Drought : Lack of water

e)   Farmers : Crops :: Fishermen : Fish

f)     Plastic waste : River pollution :: Fertilisers : Green blanket (algal growth/eutrophication)

D. MCQs

1. The Godavari river originates from:

a) Gangotri    b) Trimbakeshwar    c) Amarkantak   d) Brahmagiri Hills

 Answer: b) Trimbakeshwar

2. The total length of the Godavari river is about:

a) 1,200 km    b) 1,465 km     c) 2,525 km   d) 1,800 km

Answer: b) 1,465 km

3. Rivers that flow throughout the year are called:

a) Seasonal rivers   b) Tributaries   c) Perennial rivers   d) Delta rivers

Answer: c) Perennial rivers

4. The Coringa Mangrove Forests are found at the:

a) Source of Godavari   b) Middle course of Godavari 

c) Delta of Godavari      d) Near Nashik

Answer: c) Delta of Godavari

5. Small rivers that join a main river are called:

a) Streams    b) Branches    c) Tributaries    d) Distributaries

Answer: c) Tributaries

6. The Godavari is also called:

a) Uttara Ganga  b) Dakshina Ganga  c) Sindhu Mata  d) Narmada Devi

Answer: b) Dakshina Ganga

7. Which of the following is a famous dam on the Godavari?

a) Bhakra Nangal       b) Sardar Sarovar

c) Polavaram              d) Hirakud

Answer: c) Polavaram

8. When fertilisers flow into the river, they cause:

a) Clean water               b) Green blanket of plants

c) Less plant growth      d) More fish breathing

Answer: b) Green blanket of plants

9. In 2019, Chennai faced severe water scarcity and brought water using:

a) Tankers   b) Boats   c) Water trains      d) Pipes from Bengaluru

Answer: c) Water trains

10. India’s national aquatic animal is:

a) Hilsa fish     b) Crocodile     c) River dolphin      d) Tortoise

Answer: c) River dolphin

E.  Write 'T' for True and 'F' for False statements:-

a)   The Godavari river is the longest river in India. (False)

(It is the second longest after the Ganga).

b)   The Godavari originates from Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra. (True)

c)    Tributaries are small rivers that join the main river. (True)

d)   The Coringa Mangrove Forests are found near the source of the Godavari. (False)

(They are found at the delta, where it meets the sea).

e)   The Godavari is also called Dakshina Ganga because it flows through northern India. (False)

(It flows through southern India).

f)     A dam stores water in a reservoir. (True)

g)   Fertilisers in river water can cause excessive plant growth, forming a green blanket. (True)

h)   Chennai used special water trains in 2019 due to heavy floods. (False)

i)      (They were used due to water shortage).

j)     The Ganges river dolphin is blind and uses sound to find its way. (True)

F. Differentiate:-

1. Perennial rivers vs. Seasonal rivers :-

Perennial Rivers	Seasonal Rivers
Flow throughout the year (e.g., Godavari, Ganga).	Flow only during rainy season when water is available.

2. Tributaries vs. Distributaries

Tributaries	Distributaries
Small rivers/streams that join a main river (e.g., Manjira, Sabari join Godavari).	Small streams that branch out from the main river and flow into the sea (form a delta).

3. Dam vs. Reservoir

Dam	Reservoir
A large wall built across a river to block and control its flow.	The large water body formed behind the dam where water is stored.

4. Flood vs. Drought

Flood	Drought
Condition when a river overflows its banks due to heavy rains, damaging homes, fields and roads.	Condition when there is little or no rainfall for a long time, causing water scarcity.

5. Clean River vs. Polluted River

Clean River	Polluted River
Water is fresh, supports plants, animals, and human use.	Water mixed with waste, plastics, chemicals; harmful for all living beings.

 6. Delta vs. Source of a River

Delta	Source
Landform where river spreads into streams before entering the sea (e.g., Coringa mangroves in Godavari delta).	Place where the river begins (e.g., Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra for Godavari).

 Very Short Answer Questions

Q1: Where does the Godavari originate?

Ans: Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra.

Q2: What is the length of the Godavari river?

Ans: About 1,465 kilometres.

Q3. Which is the longest river in India?

Ans : The Ganga.

Q4:What are small rivers joining a main river called?

Ans : Tributaries.

Q5 : Name one tributary of the Godavari.

Ans : Manjira / Sabari / Indravati (any one).

Q6 : Where does the Godavari end its journey?

Ans : At the Bay of Bengal (forming a delta).

Q7 : What type of river is the Godavari – perennial or seasonal?

Ans : Perennial river.

Q8 : What is the Godavari also called?

Ans : Dakshina Ganga.

Q9 : Name one dam built on the Godavari.

Ans : Polavaram Dam.

Q10 : Where are the Coringa Mangrove Forests located?

Ans : At the Godavari delta, near the Bay of Bengal.

Q11 : What festival is celebrated by taking a dip in the Godavari?

Ans : Godavari Pushkaram.

Q12 : What problem occurs when fertilisers enter rivers?

Ans : Green blanket of plants (algal bloom) covers water.

Q13 : Which city used water trains in 2019 due to water shortage?

Ans : Chennai

Q14 : Where is Brahmagiri Hill?

Ans : Brahmagiri is in Western Ghats at Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra.

Q15 : What is fish migration?

Ans : Some fish like the hilsa (ilish) travel from the sea into rivers to lay eggs — a natural wonder called fish migration.

Q16 : What are Water ATMs ?

Ans : Water ATMs are special machines that give clean water when we put in a card or coin. These steps help us use water wisely and protect it for the future.

Q17 : What is the role of National Water Mission?

Ans : The National Water Mission works to manage water properly and help people use water wisely across India.

 B. Short Answer Questions

Q1: Why is the Godavari called Dakshina Ganga?

Ans: The Godavari is called Dakshina Ganga because it flows through southern India and is considered sacred, just like the Ganga in the north.

Q2: What are tributaries? Name two tributaries of the Godavari.

Ans: Tributaries are small rivers that join a main river. Two tributaries of the Godavari are Manjira and Sabari.

Q3: What is the difference between perennial and seasonal rivers?

Ans: Perennial rivers flow throughout the year, e.g., Godavari. Seasonal rivers flow only during the rainy season when water is available, e.g Subarnarekha.

Q4: Why do people build their homes near rivers?

Ans: People build homes near rivers because rivers provide water for drinking, farming, washing, fishing, and transport.

Q5: What happens to animals and people when dams are built?

Ans: When dams are built, forests and land get flooded. People and animals living there are forced to leave their homes and shift elsewhere.

Q6: What problems are caused by floods?

Ans: Floods damage crops, homes, and roads, spread diseases, and disturb transport and electricity supply.

Q7: How do fertilisers pollute river water? Ans: Fertilisers washed into rivers make plants grow rapidly, covering the surface with a green blanket. This reduces oxygen in water and kills fish.

Q8: Why is it important to save water?

Ans: Water is limited but essential for drinking, farming, factories, and daily use. Saving water ensures it is available for people, animals, and future generations.

Q9 : Name the states that Godavari flows through.

Ans : It flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

Q10 : Name a dam and a wildlife sanctuary along the length of Godavari.

Ans : Polavaram Dam, Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary

Q11 : Name the states that Godavari flows through.

Ans : It flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

Q12 : Where do people take dip in Godavari and during which event?

Ans : In Nashik people take dip in Godavari, during events like the Godavari Pushkaram.

Q13 : Where is India’s longest river bridge ? How long is it ?

Ans : India has built its longest river bridge, the Bhupen Hazarika Setu, over the Brahmaputra River. It is more than 9 kilometres long.

Q14 : Where does Godavari end ?

Ans : When it reaches the sea, it spreads out into many small streams that form a delta. Its freshwater meets the salty sea there. This place is called the Coringa Mangrove Forests, where its journey ends.

 Q15 : What is Ecotourism ?

Ans : Ecotourism means visiting natural places like forests, rivers or mountains to enjoy their beauty, watch animals or birds, and learn about nature without harming the environment.

Q16 : List three ways in which people are dependent on the river Godavari.

Ans :

Ø It provides water to people in the many towns and villages around it.

Ø It not only helps people drink, cook and wash, but also helps them to grow food, and make things in their factories.

Ø Its water is carried in pipes and canals, and shared to houses, schools and fields.

Q17 : In which occupations are people engaged near the river Godavari?

Ans : People near the river Godavari are engaged in Farming / Agriculture, Fishing, Animal rearing, Sand mining and boat services etc.

Q17 : Which crops do you see growing near the Godavari?

Ans : Near Godavari crops that are growing are ice (paddy) – the most common crop, Sugarcane, Cotton, Pulses and oilseeds, Fruits like bananas, grapes, and mangoes.

Q18 : What do you know about  Namami Gange Programme ?

Ans : The Namami Gange programme is helping clean the Ganga river so that it stays healthy for people, fish and birds.

C. Long Answer Questions

Q1: Describe the journey of the Godavari river from its origin to its end.
Ans:

Ø The Godavari originates at Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra in the Western Ghats.

Ø Along its way, it is joined by many tributaries like Manjira, Sabari, and Indravati, which make it wider.

Ø The river travels about 1,465 kilometres through different states before reaching the Bay of Bengal.

Ø At its mouth, it forms a delta and ends its journey in the Coringa Mangrove Forests.

Q2: Explain how rivers like the Godavari support human life.
Ans:

Ø Rivers provide water for drinking, cooking, washing, and farming.

Ø They help in irrigation for growing crops and supply water to factories.

Ø Many people earn their livelihood through fishing, boating, and agriculture near rivers.

Ø Rivers also hold cultural and religious importance, as people celebrate festivals like Godavari Pushkaram.

Q3: What are the advantages and disadvantages of building dams on rivers?
Ans :

Ø Dams store river water in reservoirs, which can be used for drinking, irrigation, and generating electricity. They also ensure water availability during dry seasons.

Ø However, dams flood forests, farmlands, and villages. People and animals living there are displaced and forced to move. Thus, while dams are useful, they also create social and environmental problems.

Q4: How do human activities pollute rivers, and what are their effects?

Ans :

Ø Waste from houses and factories, plastic wrappers, and chemicals flow into rivers and pollute them.

Ø Fertilisers from farms also enter rivers, causing algal growth or a ‘green blanket’ on water. This reduces oxygen and harms fish and other animals.

Ø Polluted rivers make water unsafe for drinking and can spread diseases among people.

Q5: What happens when a river floods, and how can we stay safe?

Ans :

Ø When there is too much rainfall, rivers overflow their banks and flood nearby areas. This damages houses, crops, and roads, spreads diseases, and forces people and animals to leave their homes.

Ø To stay safe, people should prepare an emergency kit, move to higher ground, avoid contact with flood water, and follow evacuation orders.

Q6 : How can we save/conserve water at home ?

Ans : We can save water by doing small things every day.

Ø Use water efficiently. Do not waste it.

Ø Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.

Ø Do not waste drinking water.

Ø Fix leaking taps with the help of adults.

Ø Reuse clean water left from washing fruits or vegetables in watering plants.

Ø Remind family and friends to save water too.

D. Application/Thinking Questions

Q1: What would happen if it did not rain for two years?
Ans:

Ø  Rivers and lakes would dry up.

Ø  Groundwater would reduce.

Ø  Crops would fail, animals and humans would suffer from thirst and hunger.

Q2: What would happen if all the fish in a river disappeared?
Ans: The food chain would break. Birds and animals that eat fish would suffer, and the balance of life in the river would be disturbed.

Q3: How does waxy coating leaves help Lotus?
Ans:

Ø The waxy coating on leaves make them waterproof and keeps too much water from getting inside the plant.

Ø This helps the plant stay healthy and not get damaged.

Q4: Large number of living beings live near water bodies. Why?

Ans : A large number of living beings live near water bodies because:

Ø  Water is essential for drinking and survival of all living beings.

Ø  Water bodies provide food (like fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms).

Ø  They give a place for shelter and breeding (frogs, turtles, birds, insects).

Ø  Plants around water bodies grow well and provide shade, fruits, and oxygen.

Ø  Farmers use water bodies for irrigation of crops.

Ø  People use them for washing, transport, fishing, and cultural activities.

Q5: What do you think happens to rainwater in a forest compared to a city?

·        Ans : In a forest:

o   Rainwater falls on trees, plants, and soil.

o   It slowly seeps into the ground, recharging groundwater.

o   Forest soil absorbs water easily because it is loose and full of roots.

o   This prevents flooding and keeps wells, ponds, and streams full.

·        In a city:

o   Most of the land is covered with cement, roads, and buildings.

o   Rainwater cannot seep into the ground easily.

o   It flows quickly on the surface, causing waterlogging or floods.

o   Groundwater does not recharge properly, which later leads to water shortage.

So, rainwater in forests helps in recharging and storing water, while in cities it often gets wasted and causes problems.

 Q6: Can you design a house or school that conserves water wisely? What would it include?

Ans : Yes, I can design a house/school that conserves water wisely. It would include the following features:

Ø Rainwater Harvesting System

o   Pipes on the roof to collect rainwater.

o   Storage tank to save rainwater for daily use.

Ø Recharge Pits/Soak Pits

o   Special pits in the ground where extra rainwater can seep in.

o   This helps in recharging groundwater.

Ø Reuse of Water

o   Water used for washing vegetables can be used for watering plants.

o   Leftover clean water can be used for cleaning floors.

Ø Water-Saving Devices

o   Taps with sensors or taps that close automatically.

o   Flush systems that use less water.

Ø Green Areas

o   Planting more trees and grass around to hold water.

o   Gardens that use drip irrigation to save water.

Ø Awareness Boards & Rules

o   Posters like “Save Water, Save Life” to remind everyone.

o   Rules to switch off taps properly after use.

Q7: What would happen if it did not rain in your region for two years?

Ans: If it did not rain in my region for two years:

Ø Rivers, ponds, and lakes would dry up.

Ø Groundwater would go down because there is no recharge.

Ø Crops would fail, and there would be shortage of food.

Ø People and animals would face water scarcity.

Ø Trees and plants would dry, causing loss of greenery and shade.

Ø It would lead to a drought-like situation.

Ø Life would become very difficult without enough water.

Q8 : How do trees help to protect flood ?

Ans : No trees means water runs off the land faster and causes flooding. Trees slow down rain water and help the soil soak up water.

  

Discipline is the key to success.