NCERT Class 5 The World Around Us / EVS • Classic CBSE Track

Chapter 9: Up You Go!

Mountaineering at NIM Uttarkashi, Group Leader Duties, Bachendri Pal & Mountain Equipment | CBSE Session 2026–27

Core Pedagogical Competencies & Concepts
  • Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM) in Uttarkashi trains mountaineers in rock climbing and survival under leader Brigadier Gyan Singh.
  • Responsibilities of a group leader: help others carry luggage, let the group go ahead and walk at the back, find good camping spots, and care for sick members.
  • Mountaineering tools: pitons (metal spikes), carabiners (metal clips), ropes, ice axes, crampons, and rucksacks.
  • Bachendri Pal became the first Indian woman (and 5th in the world) to climb Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) on 23 May 1984.

All Textbook Exercises & In-Text Tasks (22 Questions)

100% Complete Ingestion
Q1 Textbook Exercise
What are the key responsibilities of a group leader in a mountaineering expedition?
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
A group leader has several critical responsibilities:
  • Help group members carry their heavy rucksacks if they are struggling.
  • Let the entire team go ahead and walk last to ensure nobody is left behind.
  • Look for suitable places to rest and pitch tents.
  • Take care of anyone who falls sick and keep team spirits high even when tired.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Assisting team members and walking last 1.5 Marks
Camping site selection and caring for sick members 1.5 Marks
Q2 Textbook Exercise
Who is Bachendri Pal? Describe her historic climb to Mount Everest on 23 May 1984.
[4 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Bachendri Pal was born in Nakuri village, Garhwal (Uttarakhand). She trained at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering and was selected for the 1984 Everest expedition:
  • On the night of 15 May, an avalanche buried her camp in snow; she was rescued by teammates.
  • On 23 May 1984 at 1:07 PM, Bachendri stepped onto the 8,848-metre-high summit of Mount Everest (known as Sagarmatha in Nepal).
  • She spent 43 minutes on the summit, planted the Indian National Tricolour flag, and bowed in prayer, becoming the first Indian woman to conquer Everest.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Background and avalanche survival 1.5 Marks
Summit timestamp (23 May 1984) and national flag hoisting 1.5 Marks
First Indian woman milestone achievement 1 Mark
Q3 Textbook Exercise
Why is high-calorie food (like vitamin C tablets, iron tablets, hot chocolate milk) provided to mountaineers every morning?
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
At high altitudes in snowy mountains:
  • The body burns immense energy carrying heavy rucksacks against steep gravitational inclines and freezing temperatures.
  • Vitamin C boosts immunity against mountain colds, iron tablets stimulate red blood cell and haemoglobin production for better oxygen transport, and hot chocolate milk provides rapid carbohydrates and keeps the core body warm.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Immense energy expenditure in freezing conditions 1.5 Marks
Specific nutritional role of Vitamin C, Iron, and hot chocolate 1.5 Marks
Q4 Textbook Exercise
What is a 'Tyrolean traverse' and what specialized gear (carabiners, pitons, slings) is required to cross an icy mountain river safely?
[4 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
A Tyrolean traverse is a mountaineering method used to cross rapid, icy mountain torrents without stepping into the freezing water:
  • A thick, high-tensile climbing rope is stretched tightly across the river bank and anchored securely to rock walls using forged steel spikes called pitons.
  • The climber wears a sturdy safety harness sling around their waist.
  • A metal spring-loaded clip ring called a carabiner hooks the climber's harness directly to the horizontal rope.
  • The climber pulls themselves hand-over-hand along the suspended rope to cross over to the opposite bank safely.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Definition of rope crossing over turbulent mountain river 1.5 Marks
Function of pitons (anchors), carabiner (locking clip), and harness 2.5 Marks
Q5 Textbook Exercise
What is mountain sickness (altitude sickness)? Why do climbers carry oxygen cylinders to high mountain peaks?
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
As climbers ascend above 3,000 metres:
  • Atmospheric air pressure drops and the concentration of oxygen molecules decreases drastically (thin air).
  • Climbers experience altitude sickness: breathlessness, nausea, intense dizziness, headache, and extreme fatigue.
  • To survive in the 'Death Zone' (above 8,000 metres where oxygen is insufficient to sustain life), climbers carry portable pressurized oxygen cylinders fitted with breathing masks.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Explanation of low air pressure and thin oxygen 1.5 Marks
Symptoms and necessity of supplementary oxygen tanks 1.5 Marks
Q6 Think and Discuss • Environmental Science & Ecology • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 1] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q7 Find Out and Write • Observational Field Study • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 2] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q8 Scientific Investigation • Ecosystem Relationships • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 3] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q9 Traditional Wisdom & Community Stewardship • Conservation • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 4] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q10 Survey & Data Collection • Experiential Inquiry • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 5] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q11 Health, Diet & Human Biology • Nutritional Science • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 6] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q12 Disaster Preparedness & Climate Resilience • Geography • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 7] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q13 Biodiversity & Habitat Adaptations • Wildlife Protection • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 8] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q14 Think and Discuss • Environmental Science & Ecology • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 9] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q15 Find Out and Write • Observational Field Study • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 10] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q16 Scientific Investigation • Ecosystem Relationships • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 11] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q17 Traditional Wisdom & Community Stewardship • Conservation • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 12] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q18 Survey & Data Collection • Experiential Inquiry • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 13] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q19 Health, Diet & Human Biology • Nutritional Science • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 14] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q20 Disaster Preparedness & Climate Resilience • Geography • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 15] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q21 Biodiversity & Habitat Adaptations • Wildlife Protection • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 16] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
Q22 Think and Discuss • Environmental Science & Ecology • Up You Go!
[Textbook Activity & Question 17] In 'Up You Go!', describe how students can conduct an empirical investigation or discussion on this topic and explain the scientific principles involved.
[3 Marks]
✅ Step-by-Step Solution & Working
Scientific Model Answer & Environmental Analysis:
1. Field Inquiry / Observation: In Up You Go!, students examine real-world ecological relationships, habitat dependencies, and sustainable environmental practices.
2. Scientific Core Principles: Applying primary scientific methods—such as formulating a hypothesis, measuring field parameters, and recording observations in a nature journal—reveals direct linkages between human communities and natural cycles.
3. Stewardship Conclusion: Understanding these concepts cultivates empathy for living organisms and empowers students to implement eco-friendly conservation measures in daily life.
CBSE Step-by-Step Marking Scheme
Observation methodology & identification of ecological concepts 1.0 M
Scientific explanation of natural cause-and-effect processes 1.0 M
Actionable conservation recommendations stated clearly 1.0 M
🌟 NEP 2020 Competency-Based Case Study

Brigadier Gyan Singh's Camp & Dealing with Blizzards

During a harsh winter expedition in the Himalayas, a blizzard hit Camp 4 at 21,000 feet. Temperatures plummeted to -20°C, and two members developed severe hypothermia. As group leader, Sangeeta had to coordinate emergency shelters, warmth, and evacuation.

Analytical Task: What crucial leadership decisions should a mountaineering leader take during extreme weather emergencies to protect team lives?
Evaluation & Model Answer:
A mountaineering leader must prioritize human safety over conquering the summit: 1. Maintain Calm and Morale: Avoid panic, gather all members, and keep everyone talking to prevent hypothermia drowsiness. 2. Secure Immediate Shelter: Anchor two-layer nylon tents firmly using pitons and rocks to resist howling blizzard winds. 3. Immediate First Aid for Hypothermia: Remove wet clothing, wrap victims in dry sleeping bags, share body warmth, and provide hot energy drinks (tea with glucose/chocolate). 4. Timely Retreat Call: A courageous leader knows when to abort an ascent and safely guide members back down to lower base camp before oxygen supplies run out.
Rubric: 2 Marks for emergency shelter and hypothermia response + 3 Marks for leadership qualities and timely retreat decision = 5 Marks